Behind the Scenes: Trophy Hunting with Kaulig Racing
In the competitive world of NASCAR’s Xfinity Series, one team stands out with their bold motto: "Trophy Hunting." Kaulig Racing, founded by entrepreneur Matt Kaulig, has transformed from a small operation with four Legend cars into one of the most competitive teams in NASCAR’s second-tier series.
The Birth of a Racing Dynasty
Matt Kaulig, founder of LeafFilter Gutter Protection, didn’t start as a racing enthusiast. "I’m not a racer," he admits. "If my car breaks down, there’s no way I can fix it." Yet in 2015, what began as a marketing opportunity evolved into a full-fledged racing team.
"Just like any other business, we’re trying to get better. I still am of the mindset that I do this for fun," says Kaulig.
The Dream Team
Kaulig Racing’s 2024 roster showcases a unique blend of talent:
- AJ Allmendinger: The veteran road course specialist with nearly two decades of NASCAR experience
- Shane van Gisbergen (SVG): The Supercars champion from Australia/New Zealand
- Josh Williams: The old-school racer with a hands-on approach
| Driver | Notable Achievements | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| AJ Allmendinger | 11 road course wins | Road Course Expert |
| Shane van Gisbergen | Multiple wins in 2024 | Road/Street Courses |
| Josh Williams | Front-runner at Talladega | Superspeedways |
The 2024 Season Challenge
The team’s journey through 2024 has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. While experiencing mechanical issues and occasional setbacks, they’ve showcased their strength particularly on road courses, with SVG securing multiple victories including a memorable win at Chicago’s street circuit.
"Expectations are always high, but the reality of things sometimes they’re not as good as they need to be. We got to continuously dig in, keep fighting, and try to turn the curve," reflects team president Chris Rice.
Building for the Future
Beyond current success, Kaulig Racing invests in developing young talent. Josh Williams operates a Legends car program, teaching aspiring drivers the fundamentals of racing and mechanical knowledge – a throwback to racing’s roots that sets Kaulig apart from other teams.
The Trophy Hunting Mindset
What distinguishes Kaulig Racing isn’t just their on-track performance but their unwavering commitment to victory. They’ve created a culture where winning isn’t just hoped for – it’s expected. The team’s approach combines:
- Relentless pursuit of improvement
- Focus on driver development
- Investment in technology
- Strong family-like team culture
The journey of Kaulig Racing exemplifies how passion, dedication, and the right mix of talent can create a formidable force in NASCAR. As they continue their trophy hunting mission, their story serves as inspiration for anyone pursuing excellence in motorsports.
