Many of those who have known Macomb-native John Dimmitt for years would probably describe him as laid-back and soft-spoken, with an easy smile and gentle soul. The crowd that follows and participates in United Midwest Promotion (MWP) might know a different John Dimmitt. To them, he is a fierce competitor, a man who wants to win at car racing, not only for the prize money, but for the fun that comes with it.
John has lived in Macomb most of his life, has two children and is married to Loren, owner and manager of White Pines Farm (horse boarding, training, lessons, etc.). Many know John through his business, Dimmitt Transfer, Inc., a local trucking company specializing in hauling hazardous freight. John has pretty much turned over the driving to his employees and is focusing his energy toward his passion for racing cars.
Dimmitt, or #21, is no stranger to racing. For two years in the late 1990s, he drove a four-cylinder modified car. Later, he drove a stock car, and as recently as last year, raced a modified, built as a high-horsepower racing machine characterized by an open-wheel design, a lightweight tube chassis and, typically, a roof. They are primarily raced on dirt or paved oval tracks, and feature wide tires, minimal body work and significant engine setbacks, making them among the fastest short-track.
John has a full-racing schedule ahead of him this summer, pretty much ratcheting his racing career up full-time. As I write this article, John is at the I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park in Pevely, MO. He and his crew left March 19, hauling the nearly all new modified car bearings for Number 21. The car was recently finished at his shop – the body completed Jan. 29 and the sponsors added to the car's wrap.
His car, which uses 112 octane fuel, has a steel frame, aluminum body and a wide range of safety features. A five-point harness secures him, with two shoulder straps, two lap belts and one crotch strap, providing superior stability and protection in high impact scenarios as modified cars can reach speeds in excess of 80 MPH.
Another safety feature is the HANS device, which prevents the head from moving significantly forward, protecting against basilar skull fractures and severe neck injuries. The HANS device became widely mandated in major racing series following the death of Dale Earnhardt in 2001.
Dimmitt also wears a Nomex fire suit, along with gloves, boots/shoes and helmet hood that can all withstand intense heat. The helmet has tear-away goggles on the shield, and of course, the car itself has roll-bars and a cage.
John Dimmitt Racing has a pit crew of four, one being John's son, Tyler. The other three members include Joe Graves, Jason Bainter and Todd Woolam, and of course, John.
While John Dimmitt Racing isn't exactly a Macomb business, he is bringing attention to Macomb through his sponsorship program. He currently has 17 sponsors and is inviting more. Besides the sponsors appearing on the car and listed in newspaper articles and on his Facebook page (John Dimmitt Racing), nearly all of his races will be televised. The app, FloSports, also is available to watch modified racing.
For some summertime entertainment, take a drive to one of his races. He'll be as close as Quincy, Canton and Peoria, and John reminds those who come to bring ear protection because the cars are loud.
John's 25-year-old son, Tyler, is no doubt watching his dad hone his racing skills and 'having a blast;' however, he is not yet interested in this level of racing. Maybe someday, he says.
