The youth movement is strong within the SCCA’s ranks. Yesterday we talked about Formula Atlantic racer Ryan Norman, who recently graduated from high school and just claimed his first SCCA National Championship Runoffs victory and the 2016 Atlantic Championship Series title. Today we take a look at Neil Verhagen, of Mooresville, North Carolina.
Last month at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Verhagen became the youngest Runoffs champ ever, winning Formula F. At 15 years, 242 days, Verhagen is more than a full year younger than IndyCar star Graham Rahal was when in 2005 he captured a Runoffs win at the same track. Verhagen also claimed the SCCA Super Sweep Award, winning a U.S. Majors Tour Conference, the national point championship, a key regular season race, and, finally, the Runoffs.
During the Runoffs event, Verhagen set sail from the green flag, showing poise beyond in years. And to prove the victory was no fluke, the young man went out this past weekend and claimed the 2016 F1600 Formula F Championship Series title, a series that is part of the SCCA Pro Racing program.
“It’s been a great year for the K-Hill boys,” Verhagen said about his team. “I have to thank them so much for giving me the best car in each race.”
Another young SCCA racer to keep an eye on, we wish Verhagen the very best in the future.
Photo: Formula F racer Neil Verhagen