NASCAR: Five Great Short Track Drivers Who Never ‘Made It’

Mike Chase is one of the top short track drivers of all-time from the state of California. Based on his success, he is arguably the best.

The Redding, California native first made his name racing in the various open competition events up and down the west coast in the 70s and 80s. Chase won countless events with the majority of his success coming at his home track, Shasta Speedway. Chase won the Nor-Cal 150 six times including four in a row while also winning the Western 150 twice.

When NASCAR formed the Southwest Tour Series in 1986, Chase was a regular front-runner. In 83 starts, Chase won 19 times and took the series championship in 1988. Chase also raced in what is now known as the K&N West Series and won 10 races along with the 1994 series crown. While Chase started 13 Cup races and 15 truck series events he never had an opportunity to display his talent in competitive equipment.