CUMMING, Ga. — Turner Racing has announced the addition of Mission Foods as a title sponsor of its Progressive American Flat Track team, alongside American Honda and Progressive Insurance.
The sponsors will support riders Dalton Gauthier, Morgen Mischler and Chase Saathoff, the 2021 Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award winner.
Gauthier – who returns to AFT Singles duty following two seasons aboard twins – is among the most recognizable names in the sport and widely considered one of its elite talents as well.
He said, “I’m very excited to be back in AFT Singles, especially with all the right equipment and people around me to go win races and contend for a championship. It feels amazing to be partnered with the Honda factory racing guys. Honda is such a prestigious brand, it’s really a dream come true to come to the team and get to work with these guys. They want nothing but to win, and I love that.”
After finishing third in the championship a year ago, Mischler is excited to step up to factory support in ’22.
“I’m looking forward to taking full advantage of the opportunity,” Mischler said. “I’m not keen on expectations, but my goal is to put the bike up front where it belongs.”
Saathoff, 16, will make his highly anticipated professional debut after previously being identified as one of the future stars of the sport
“Riding for factory Honda is an opportunity of a lifetime,” he said. “I am so very fortunate to start off my professional career on such an awesome team. My goals for my rookie season are to make some Mains and maybe even get on the podium.”
Bryan Bigelow returns as racing manager and he’ll be joined by three-time Grand National champion Kenny Coolbeth, who’ll serve in a dual role as both rider coach and race day technician.
“Bryan’s role has been an integral part of our program and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without him leading our team,” said team owner Mike Turner. “And the addition of Kenny Coolbeth is huge. As a former champion and team owner, Kenny brings a wealth of information and experience.”