History – Mike Naake started racing late models in the early 1980’s along with serving as a crew member on a NASCAR Winston West Series team. He went on to provide race team management/arrive and drive services for late models, NASCAR Pro West Series and NASCAR Truck series. He later acquired his own NASCAR K&N and Late Model teams and continued to provide arrive and drive services. He later shifted to specialize in working with young racers through his driver advancement program.
"Naake Motorsports (NM), newly formed for the 2025 season, builds upon a rich history of success and dedication to driver development. Known for helping young racers learn to win both on and off the track, NM has long been a trusted name in motorsports. As a major player in the 51 FIFTY Jr. Late Model Series, NM achieved remarkable success, capturing three championships: 2017 and 2018 with Jesse Love and 2019 with Joey Iest. This legacy of excellence continues to drive our commitment to developing the next generation of champions while providing pathways for racers to achieve their goals."
In 2019 then, Naake-Klauer Motorsports created the first Jr Late Model Camp that was held at Madera Speedway. The camp was created to allow young, talented drivers to experience what it's like to get behind the wheel of a full-bodied stock car. The camp experience was also designed to provide a wealth of knowledge through seminars that covered interview skills, marketing and sponsorship, chassis setups, safety, and other off-track skills to succeed in today's sport. But most importantly, drivers are selected on merit, and the camp is free of charge, giving all applicants an equal opportunity. The camp attendees will compete for the chance to drive a Naake-Klauer Motorsports-prepared junior late model during the 51FIFTY Championship Weekend at Madera in October at no cost to the driver.
The camp concept was created through the combined efforts of Madera Speedway's Kenny Shepherd, Naake-Klauer Motorsports' owners Mike Naake and Tom Klauer, and Race Face Brand Development founder Rod Wortham.
"In 2025, Naake Motorsports will compete in a variety of premier series on the West Coast, offering diverse opportunities for drivers at every stage of their careers. Young drivers can showcase their skills and develop their talent in Limited Pro Late Models, while veteran racers can take on the challenges of the TransAm West Series and the NASCAR ARCA West Series. With a focus on creating pathways for growth and success, Naake Motorsports provides the perfect platform for drivers to excel both on and off the track."
Mike Naake
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Mike Naake
info@naake.com