Colton Brenthel Makes His Race Debut 🏁

The Parker 400 will be one we remember forever.

This race wasn’t just another weekend in the desert — it marked Colton’s first-ever desert race, and somehow, incredibly, it ended with a 1st place finish.

What makes this even more meaningful is how he got there.

Before Colton could ever line up at the start, there was one non-negotiable prerequisite: straight A’s. He set the goal, put in the work, and earned his opportunity. Racing is a privilege, and he proved that when preparation meets opportunity, anything is possible.

The Vehicle Choice

Like any parent and race team, we explored every option — SXS, Class 10, and more. The plan was originally to navigate a few races together, but one thing became very clear very quickly.

At the end of the day, this decision came down to resilience, safety, and reliability.

We chose a 6100 / Spec truck because of its ability to take abuse, protect the driver, and finish races. These trucks are built to endure the desert, and with them already being part of our daily operation — along with a crew that knows how to service and support them inside and out — it was the right platform for Colton to learn the desert the right way.

Colton raced in the Sportsman Class, allowing him to gain experience and confidence in a competitive but controlled environment while learning the demands of desert racing in a full-size truck.

Training

Training officially began Wednesday in Johnson Valley — and by most standards, it was almost nothing.

5 miles of testing.
13 total minutes in the truck.

That was it.

A lot of people thought it was a terrible idea. But Colton has raced moto, spent time in WORCS, and driven extensively in the desert recreationally. What he hadn’t done was race a full-size truck in competition — and sometimes, belief and fundamentals matter more than seat time.

Race Day

The plan was simple: run smart and conservative.

Colton would start the race and handle the first 125 miles, then we’d swap at the pit and I’d bring it home.

The plan worked — maybe a little better than expected.

Colton drove an unbelievable race:

• No flats

• All body panels intact

• Never exited the truck

• Passed two competitors within the first 50 miles

• Let attrition do the rest

By the time he rolled into the pit, he was already in control. When the dust settled, Colton captured 1st place in the Sportsman Class — in his very first desert race.

Why This Matters

This result shows what’s possible when kids are given the right tools, the right expectations, and the right support system. With discipline, preparation, and opportunity, a kid absolutely can do this.

As a team — and as a family — this one hits close to home.

Thank You

None of this happens without an incredible group of people behind it.

Thank you to the entire Brenthel Crew, our partners, and everyone who continues to believe in what we do — on and off the racecourse.

This is just the beginning.

— Brenthel Industries