14-Year-Old Georgia Driver Leads Early Laps Before Mechanical Issue Ends Promising Run

MOBILE, AL — Fourteen-year-old rising star Colton Kelly delivered an impressive performance in his Pro Late Model debut Saturday night at Mobile International Speedway, showing race-winning speed before a mechanical issue cut his night short.

Kelly, a native of Villa Rica, Georgia, arrived at the track with confidence and immediately proved he belonged among the experienced Pro Late Model competitors. Driving the No. 18 Pave America Ford, Kelly was fastest in practice, setting the tone early for what looked to be a breakout performance.

After qualifying fifth, the invert placed Kelly on the pole position for the start of the race. The young driver wasted no time taking advantage of the opportunity, jumping out front and showcasing the poise and car control that have quickly made him one of the most promising young drivers in grassroots racing.

Kelly appeared poised for a breakout debut until a broken axle ended his night while leading the race. After starting on the pole due to the invert, the 14-year-old driver led the first 18 laps of the 50-lap feature before the mechanical issue forced the team to retire the car.

Despite the disappointing finish, Kelly’s performance demonstrated the speed and potential he brings to the Pro Late Model division.

“We had a really fast car,” Kelly said following the race. “Being fastest in practice and leading laps in my first Pro Late Model race was a great experience. It’s not the way we wanted the night to end, but the team gave me an awesome car and we learned a lot. I’m excited for the next race.”

Kelly’s debut highlighted his ability to quickly adapt to the powerful Pro Late Model platform while competing against more experienced drivers.

The young driver will return to the track on April 11, continuing to build momentum as he expands his racing program. In 2026, Kelly plans to compete in both the Pro Truck and Pro Late Model divisions, gaining valuable seat time while continuing his progression through the ranks of stock car racing.

With speed already evident in his first outing, Kelly’s future in the Pro Late Model division appears bright.

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About Colton Kelly

Colton Kelly is a 14-year-old race car driver from Villa Rica, Georgia, who has quickly established himself as one of the most accomplished young drivers in grassroots motorsports. Kelly built his foundation in Quarter Midget racing, where he recorded over 100 career victories and 10 Georgia Quarter Midget Track Championships, along with multiple wins in the NASCAR Youth Series.

Known for his maturity behind the wheel and strong work ethic off the track, Kelly is now advancing into full-size stock cars, competing in the Pro Truck and Pro Late Model divisions at Mobile International Speedway. His goal is to continue developing his skills as he works toward a future career in NASCAR.

Learn more at:
https://coltonkellyracing.com/

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About Pave America

Pave America is one of the nation’s leading providers of commercial paving and pavement maintenance services. With a growing network of paving contractors across the United States, Pave America specializes in asphalt paving, concrete services, sealcoating, and pavement management solutions for commercial properties.

Through its partnership with Colton Kelly Racing, Pave America proudly supports the development of the next generation of motorsports talent.

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