Derek James Sobel's Biography

 

Parents:  Tammy and Raymond Sobel

Siblings:  Older Sisters Angelica and Cheyenne

Older Brother Raymond Jr.

 

Date of Birth: October 13, 1998

Derek attends Vineyards Elementary School in Naples Florida. His favorite subject is math. He enjoys watching and playing football, but is dedicated and passionate about racing NASCAR and INDY cars. His favorite NASCAR Driver is Kyle Busch, and Formula 1 Driver Michael Schumaker.
It is this passion with racing that started Derek on his own path as a driver at six years of age. He started in the Indy Kid Kart 50cc and raced in the regional's. After his first three months struggling to learn the ropes, Derek raced undefeated for 10 consecutive months. At age seven Derek raced in the W.K.A. Florida State Championship (FKCS) taking First Place in five out of six races.
Derek raced in the WKA National Manufactured Cup Series, first race being held in Jacksonville, Florida where Derek qualified 26 out of 58 cars and finished 13th place (this had never before been done by an 8 year old). "In the next two years at age 8 and 9 Derek became the only driver in the history of the WKA to win three WKA, FKCS Championships in three different classes in one year. First place in HPV Jr. Sportsman, First place in Yamaha Jr. Sportsman, and 2nd place in Cadet. He has been competing in the Florida Winter Tour. This event includes drivers from 23 different countries, 24 states in the U.S. and 6 Canadian Provinces. Derek was one of the youngest drivers for his classes. Derek has a great potential and racing skills that will be evident in the next season to follow. At the age of 10 Derek attempted to hold Top 5 positions in the WKA Manufacturer's Cup Series, the FWT Series, the Rotex Challenge Series, and the Stars of Karting Indy Series. At 11,Derek entered into the NASCAR Racing World by driving the Bandolero Bandit. Derek will be under the watchful eyes of one of the Roush Team members, and Carl Edwards car mechanics at Lowes Motor Speedway this year. Derek will also have the great privilege of being with the NASCAR Camping World Team of Mario Gosselin who will be developing Derek in an ASA late model car.  Derek’s parents are dedicated to Derek’s education whether it be in the public school system, home schooling or on the road tutoring.

 

At 12 years old Derek becomes a factory driver for Eric Jones of Arrow Karting and Pits with NASCAR driver A. J. Allmendinger.

 

 

 

Derek’ long term objective is to drive Open-wheel in the Formula 1 series or NASCAR.