Whenever a new racing talent decides to make the transition from the grandstand to the driver’s seat, there is usually something special that has ignited the spark.  Curiosity got the better of Steve Foster when he decided that an endurance event at nearby Peterborough Speedway would be the perfect environment to satisfy his competitive thirst.  The Ennismore, Ontario resident fastened the seatbelts and by the first turn of the first lap in his first event, the father of 3 was hooked.

With a resume that now includes nearly a decade behind the wheel, the 49 year-old – who earns his living as a self-employed general contractor – loves the challenge, the learning experience and pure adrenaline rush that comes with being on the track.  His biggest thrill is just strapping on the helmet and taking the next green flag.  Foster, who admits he’d love to race at the legendary NASCAR track at Martinsville, Virginia says his long term goal is to gain an even better understanding of what his equipment is capable of doing and eventually, wind-up in the winner’s circle.

“You can learn so much by just running with, being around and talking to the other drivers,” said Foster.  “Even though they’re all determined to beat you on the track, its amazing how much information they’ll share to help make your car better.  It’s all about growing the sport and giving the fans a better show for their entertainment dollar.”

After retiring the Dodge Intrepid piece that helped him get his start – paving the way to the 2005 Limited Late Model rookie of the year award at Kawartha Speedway – Foster would debut a brand new McColl Racing Enterprises/Stefko powered ride to begin the 2012 campaign at Peterborough Speedway.  The updated ride propelled him to an 8^th place finish in the final point standings, but the driver says he’s looking for more this year.

“Every racer wants to do better than they did the season before, but it doesn’t always work that way,” said Foster, who enjoys fishing, hunting and camping in his time away from the track.  “The new car took some getting used to, but week-by-week, I became more comfortable with its handling characteristics and the difference between it and the older one.  Even though it’s early in the year, I like the way things have been going so far.  If we’re able to continue the season the way we’ve started it, the crew and I will be very happy.”

Like most runners, Steve Foster knows that there will always be 2 sides to the racing coin.  He’s grateful that his #71 machine hasn’t been severely damaged in a wreck and thankful for the support, hard work and dedication he gets from his crew members Tom Podd, Shawn Wood, Jim Pitre and Tony Timmermans.  Among his biggest supporters, Foster also appreciates having his family cheering his every move; on and off the track.

“My wife Paula and daughters Bryanna, Natalie and Britney are there rooting for me all the time,” said the driver.  “Bryanna has been racing go karts for about 3 years now and can’t wait to get her hands on a stock car.  Its still a few years away, but she has a strong competitive spirit and could give me a run for my money.”

Foster Motorsports and the #71 Vanguard Self Storage Late Model team at Peterborough Speedway would like to thank sponsors Ennismore Automotive and Repair, Tony Timmermans Electric, Flannigan’s Butcher Shop: Lakefield, Enviro Energy, Shaun Milne Signs, National Car & Truck Rental, Cadigan’s Camp, Watchguard Securities, DART Heating and Air Conditioning, Dan Kyle Excavating, Overdrive Automotive, 98 Coin Laundry and Peterborough Auto Recyclers for supporting their program during the 2013 season.