IndyCar driver, owner and entrepreneur Sam Schmidt, and fourth generation stock car driver Kaeden Ballos join will Marotti on “The Pits Are Open” show this week on SPEED SPORT 1.
Sam Schmidt is a former IndyCar driver, championship-winning team owner, entrepreneur and disability advocate. Schmidt competed in three Indianapolis 500s and won at Las Vegas in 1999 before a 2000 testing accident left him quadriplegic. He responded by founding Sam Schmidt Motorsports, which became a dominant force in Indy Lights, winning seven championships, and later evolved through Schmidt Peterson Motorsports into today’s Arrow McLaren organization.
Beyond racing, Schmidt founded what is now DRIVEN Neuro, advancing rehabilitation, technology and research for people with spinal cord injuries. His career is defined by resilience, leadership, innovation and an ability to transform adversity into impact.
Sam has recently published a great book called No Finish Line. We highly recommend this Sam’s story of grit, determination and accomplishment!
Kaeden Ballos is an 18-year-old fourth-generation stock car driver from Concord, North Carolina, now competing in Late Models with a focused, professional approach to racing and brand engagement. Known for disciplined prep from shop work and simulators to strength and cognitive training.
He pairs on-track development with STEM outreach and media savvy. A former INEX Summer Shootout Outlaws champion, Kaeden balances racing with academics while building toward a full season in the CARS Tour and delivering strong partner visibility both on and off camera.
Catch this week’s episode of “The Pits Are Open” Thursday, at 6pm ET on SPEED SPORT 1.
