When you think about fast cars, your mind might jump to NASCAR, Formula 1, or even drag racing. But for Wisconsin native Blake Brown, the thrill lies in Super Late Model stock cars—a high-octane, fender-to-fender racing division that’s as gritty as it is competitive.
Recently, Blake joined Jen Myers from Kunes Auto & RV for a special “Kunes Car Convo” ride-along in the all-electric 2024 Chevy Equinox EV. They swapped stories about racing, family, and the surprising challenges of a sport that pushes drivers—and their cars—to the limit.
Growing Up at the Track
Blake’s love for racing started young—really young. At just 13 years old, he was already behind the wheel of a Bandolero race car, a go-kart–meets–stock car hybrid designed for entry-level racers.
His early start wasn’t random. Racing runs deep in his family. Blake’s grandfather not only raced in his younger years but also owned a professional race team and Madison International Speedway in Stoughton, Wisconsin. Summers often meant hanging out at the track, riding go-karts on the oval, and absorbing the atmosphere of competition.
“It’s funny,” Blake recalls, “you need a ride to the track because you can’t drive on the road yet—but once you’re there, you can drive a race car.”
Climbing the Racing Ladder
From Bandoleros, Blake moved to legend cars, traveling across the country for big races in Florida, Las Vegas, and beyond. By his mid-teens, he was piloting Super Late Models—the top-tier stock cars for short-track racing—on paved ovals across the Midwest.
Like many racers, Blake had to balance his passion with real life. College and travel logistics pulled him away for a few years, and he wasn’t sure if he’d return to the sport. But in 2019, a former competitor reached out, offering him the chance to drive his car. That opportunity turned into a lasting partnership with car owner and crew chief Jeff Olsson, who now prepares the race cars while Blake focuses on driving.
“I’m super lucky,” Blake says. “I get to just show up and race, and they handle the rest.”
Racing: More Than Just Turning Left
If you’ve ever thought racing was just “driving fast in circles,” Blake will set you straight. The physical demands are intense:
- Speeds up to 150 mph on short ovals
- Cockpit temperatures reaching 135°F near the engine
- Heavy racing gear that traps heat
- Inches between competitors at top speed
Drivers battle not just the track and their opponents, but also fatigue, heat exhaustion, and the constant risk of contact—often literally “banging doors” mid-race.
“You’re trying not to spin out, not to crash, and beat the guy next to you—all while the car wants to do its own thing.”
The Role of Family in Racing
Family has always been central to Blake’s racing story. His mom, Jeanie, works for Kunes Auto Group, and his uncle Greg is also part of the Kunes family. His wife didn’t grow up racing, but it turns out her grandfather was a big name in the sport, competing against legends like Richard Petty.
Now, Blake and his wife are raising their two-year-old son, who already has his own Power Wheels race cars and a fascination with watching dad’s races on YouTube.
“Honestly, my best racing memories are happening right now, just having him at the track with us.”
Inside the 2024 Chevy Equinox EV
While the Equinox EV isn’t built for short-track competition, Blake was impressed by its quiet yet quick acceleration. Jen even joked that its silence made it easy to drive faster than you realize—something a pro racer might need to watch out for.
The conversation naturally shifted between race-day chaos and the calm, high-tech comfort of the EV, highlighting how different—but equally thrilling—these two driving worlds can be.
Looking Ahead: Big Races on the Horizon
Blake’s 2024 season includes regular Friday night events at Grundy County Speedway, plus two marquee events:
- ASA Midwest Tour at Grundy – August 16, 2024
- Bentonhousen Memorial 100 – September, a historic race dating back to the 1970s
These events attract large crowds, top talent from across the Midwest, and bigger payouts, making them season highlights.
Why Blake Races
When asked what he’ll cherish most about racing, Blake doesn’t hesitate: it’s the driving itself—constantly improving, analyzing GoPro footage after every race, and pushing himself to be better.
“It’s my passion. Always has been. I’m just lucky I get to do it with great people and great fans.”
Follow Blake Brown Racing
Want to keep up with Blake’s races, behind-the-scenes photos, and on-board footage? Follow him at Blake Brown Racing on Facebook.