GREENBRIER, Ark. (KTHV) – Race car fans show up for the atmosphere, the competition, and the cars! Nearly every weekend, thousands of people cheer on drivers at dirt race tracks across the country. But, many of them don't know that a local Arkansas company is supplying much of that excitement.
"We have been in business for 31 years," GRT Racing owner Joe Garrison said proudly. His love of watching the sport started in 1982 and sparked an idea to build his own car. "It was kind of a self-taught deal. We didn't really know it was going to develop into a business like this."
"I wasn't too sure at first. It's dusty. It's dirty." Joe's wife, Katie smiled. She's been with Joe for eight years, and it wasn't long before she had a change of heart. "Once I kind of got going with him, I just loved it as much as he did."
The duo mainly sells to a network of race car dealers across the country who then sell to their customers.
Around 150 are built each year from the ground up. Built by a team of about 15 people, each car takes about 10 to 14 days to complete.
Seventy percent of the parts used are also made at the 12,000 sq. ft. shop. Each car weighs about 2,000 pounds and can reach speeds of up to 160 miles per hour.
"You can't just hire somebody off the street to come in here," explained Joe. "You have to have somebody that has a little knowledge of racing."
"It is unreal how much the business has grown and how much technology has changed with the cars," Katie added.
For example, there's now a cage for the fuel-box at the back of the car. About 10 years ago, the box used to be exposed. The additional safety and customization is something NASCAR Racer Ken Schrader appreciates. This week, Schrader picked up his new car from GRT Racing.
"I'm proud to have him in one of our cars," exclaimed Joe.
At the I-30 Speedway in Little Rock, GRT has several house cars they race.
"You don't just physically jump up and down, but inside in your heart you are just cheering your guys on," laughed Joe.
It's an accomplishment and a sense of pride, made in a place the Garrisons' call home.
"Love Arkansas. I don't know any other place I'd rather be," concluded Joe.
If you have a Made in Arkansas idea, let us know. Send an email to news@thv11.com.
