EXGEL Driver Exchange Program: US Trophy Series Representatives Selected!

The EXGEL Driver Exchange Program, a unique initiative fostering cultural exchange and development for young karting talent, has selected its US Trophy Series representatives! After a highly competitive selection process based on skills and characteristics presented during the season and outside of the series, our scout, Alessandro Bressan, has chosen three exceptional drivers (See the announcement on Instagram or Facebook as well). These racers will get the incredible opportunity to showcase their skills in Japan on an international kart racing level:

Mini MAX

Arizona native Jaxon Porter brings his six years of racing experience to the Mini MAX category as he heads to Japan with the EXGEL Driver Exchange Program.

Preparation is key for Jaxon. He prioritizes hydration, dedicates time to studying and practicing, and even visualizes the course layout. He complements this with real-world experience by always walking the track before race day and honing his hand-eye coordination on a racing simulator.

His racing record speaks for itself. Jaxon boasts titles like Kid Kart Champion, Super Showdown Champion, multiple Micro Championships, 2022 Rotax Micro Champion, and multiple wins in Restricted 600 Micro sprint races. He’s also a two-time Challenge of the Americas Champion and has secured numerous podium finishes and Hard Charger awards in Mini MAX.

Jaxon’s passion for motorsports extends beyond this program. He aims to continuously improve, compete across diverse racing formats, and ultimately showcase his skills behind the wheel of an Indy car.

The Japan driver exchange is an invaluable opportunity for Jaxon. He is eager to race among Japan’s talented drivers, share his knowledge, and learn from his peers. Jaxon represents the high level of professional competition present in the US. Additionally, his sponsor, Hy-Vee, with their interest in foreign food support, is enthusiastic about seeing Jaxon race in Japan.

Get ready, Japan! Jaxon Porter is bringing his talent and dedication to the track!

(alternate winner: Nico Kotowski)

Junior MAX

We are excited to announce that Arizona’s Nixx Eggleston, a four-year racing veteran in the Junior MAX category, is heading to Japan thanks to the EXGEL Driver Exchange Program and the US Trophy Series.

Nixx prioritizes preparation by ensuring he is well-hydrated and well-rested for every race day. His dedication to these details reflects his commitment to excellence on the track.

Nixx’s racing career is already impressive. He has competed in the RMC Grand Finals for ROTAX, racing against the world’s best drivers in Bahrain. He has also secured a ROTAX West Championship title. Nixx describes himself as a controlled driver, a trait that will undoubtedly serve him well in Japan.

Nixx’s ambitions extend beyond this program. He aspires to compete in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans and to race as a GT3 driver. The EXGEL Driver Exchange Program presents an exciting opportunity for Nixx to learn and grow. He is eager to gain knowledge from the talented drivers he will meet in Japan.

With his dedication and focus, Nixx Eggleston is a driver to watch! Join us in wishing him the best of luck in Japan!

(alternate winner: Gage Korn)

Senior MAX

We are thrilled to announce that Griffin Dowler has been selected as the US Trophy Series representative in Senior MAX for the prestigious EXGEL Driver Exchange Program in Japan.

A native of Canada, Griffin brings 16 years of racing experience to the track, characterized by a smooth and sportsmanlike driving style. His meticulous preparation begins two weeks before each race, focusing on mobility-based workouts to maintain strength while enhancing flexibility and reducing the risk of injuries and fatigue.

Griffin’s racing accolades are impressive, including four appearances at the RMC Grand Finals, a Portuguese national championship, over 15 national titles in Canada, and multiple international victories. Off the track, Griffin enjoys skydiving, hockey, and working out, and he values the way karting bonds his family together – His biggest motorsports idol is his dad, who had a highly decorated career in motorsport and introduced Griffin and his two older brothers to the sport. His dad not only guided them to great success but also fostered a strong family bond through their shared passion for racing.

Griffin’s ultimate goal is to become a Rotax world champion, a dream he has pursued since the age of seven. He sees the EXGEL Driver Exchange Program as a pivotal opportunity to hone his skills against a new set of competitors and to build valuable connections within the global karting community. This experience, he believes, will bring him one step closer to achieving his championship aspirations.

Join us in congratulating Griffin Dowler on this incredible achievement and supporting him as he represents the US Trophy Series in Japan.

(alternate winner: Wesley Gundler)

A BIG congratulations to all the winners and alternates!

The selection process was highly competitive, and a huge thank you goes out to all the nominees who were considered during this process: Gage Grant, Ashton Woon, Davin Roberts, Darren Kidd, Frederique Lemieux, and Chris Harrower.

Looking Ahead:

Jaxon, Nixx, and Griffin are invited to the legendary Suzuka Circuit (South Course) in Japan on August 11, 2024, to compete in a special MAX Champ round. Following the race event in Japan, three drivers selected by Ukyo Sasahara will be coming to the USA to compete in the Race Rotax US Trophy Final held at New Castle Motorsports Park on August 22-24, 2024.

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