By Cody Heacox
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to this week’s edition of Bowman Gray Q&A. I had the opportunity to talk to a guy everyone likes to call K-Train better known as Kevin Gilbert driver of the Law Offices of John Barrow Street Stock Series.
1. What got you interested in racing?
My Dad raced local dirt tracks his whole life. He was my first racing hero. I wanted to show him I could do it just like he did. As far as BG I fell in love with it from the first time I came through the gate.
2. What holds your love/attention for racing?
I can’t tell you just one thing other than the dream to me is still alive. Even though I’m an underdog and black sheep I have never let it deter me from doing what I love to do.
3. You’ve raced at the stadium for a little over 20 years, of all of your competitors who would you say you enjoy/enjoyed racing with? and who can you go to easily and get pointers from?
So many drivers I have enjoyed racing with over the years. I guess in the past I would have to say the Stimpson boys. I have raced with all of them over the years. Not only have they helped me over the years but they are the nicest people I have ever met. They have always been good to me over the years. As far as present drivers go I have always had fun racing with Brian Wall, the Creed boys, and Blake Shupe. I know these guys will run hard but will race you clean. But given the chance in an equal car I’d love to race against John John Holleman again door to door like we did at Caraway a few years back. As far as taking pointers I just take those from John Whaley. He is a racing legend in my eyes with over 100 wins, 7 time track champion, and regional champ. He has taught me so much in such a short amount of time. I have really been fortunate to acquire his friendship and advice.
4. All those who know you know you have had history at the Madhouse from being suspended and DQ to being arrested after fighting, With that being said. What makes you come back and race there?
Heart and determination. Most would have given up but I wanna win now just like I did 20 years ago. I wanna prove to myself more than anyone that it can be done by a poor boy from Davie County using used parts and working with less money than most over there.
5. What’s your most memorable moment at the track?
Winning last year’s season opener. Even though I got dqed when most got the wink and nod it was still awesome. It just has made me work harder at finding more speed.
6. What is it about BGS that is different from other tracks you’ve been to?
The 10,000 fans every Saturday night. That’s what makes that place so awesome.
7. What’s in the future for KTRAIN?
Keep digging. As long as I can I will. Lol. I have had a couple offers to test some cars in some different venues so who knows. My car will be ready regardless next April for BG.
8. Last question, it’s something I like to ask drivers. “If you could race against any legendary driver (BGS or NASCAR) who would it be?”
I’d have to say the King of Southern Modifieds aka Jr. Miller. He was always a favorite of mine.
I’d like to thank K-Train for taking the time and doing an interview with me and also want to wish him and his team the best of luck for the remainder of the season. Make sure you’re at the Madhouse for the final long distance race of the season for the Sportsman Series – get ready for the Colors Edge Sportsman 100 presented by the Triad’s 105.7 Man Up.
Also on the schedule are twin 25s for the Modified Series, a 20-lapper for the Street Stock Series, and racing for Stadium Stock Series.
And stick around to see the season’s final OmniSource Chain Race!
Adult admission is just $10, for children 6-11 it’s $2, and children 5 and under are free. The ticket gates open at six and the first race is at 8.
