Matthew Laprade Doubles Down at Houston Motorsports Park — Victory in the Modified, Runner-Up in the Pro-Truck
Houston, TX — November 11, 2025 — Thirteen-year-old Matthew Laprade from New Smyrna Beach, Florida, delivered an impressive performance at Houston Motorsports Park over the weekend, claiming victory in the Modified feature and a strong second-place finish in the Pro-Truck during the track’s Championship Night.
Racing in both headline divisions, Laprade showed exceptional skill and composure. Driving his family-owned #18 Modified, with veteran John Heil serving as crew chief, Laprade started second in the 50-lap feature and took the lead early after a tight battle with Grant Thompson. From there, he hit his marks perfectly and never looked back, taking the checkered flag and a $4,000 payday against a highly competitive field.
In the Pro-Truck division, Laprade carried that same momentum, starting third and running door-to-door with the leaders for most of the 50-lap event before bringing his #10 Truck home second to race winner Jared Maupin.
“This was an unbelievable weekend,” said Laprade. “To get a win in our family car and back it up with a second in the truck means so much. John Heil gave me a great setup, and my family and crew put in so much work to make this possible. I can’t thank everyone enough for believing in me.”
The strong outing comes just weeks after Laprade’s standout Modifieds of Mayhem debut at Montgomery Motor Speedway, where he earned the pole position and finished third in his first series start. With multiple podiums now under his belt, the young Floridian continues to prove he’s one of the brightest rising talents in short-track racing.
Laprade competes under the Right Foot Down Motorsports banner in Pro-Trucks while campaigning his family-owned Modified, building valuable experience and showcasing maturity far beyond his 13 years.
Next up, Matthew will head to Florence Motor Speedway this weekend to compete in the prestigious South Carolina 250 with Tom Usry Racing, continuing his busy late-season schedule as he takes on some of the best short-track racers in the Southeast.
About Matthew Laprade
Matthew Laprade is a 13-year-old race car driver from New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Beginning in quarter midgets, he quickly advanced through the ranks, earning multiple wins and championships before stepping into full-size race cars. In 2025, he competes in both Pro-Truck and Asphalt Modified divisions across the Southeast and Texas. Known for his smooth driving style, focus, and professionalism, Matthew represents the next generation of racers, combining raw talent with a strong family foundation.
