LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — A full circle story developed during the Aug. 8 Throwback Classic at Hickory Motor Speedway as a young driver and his team scored a victory that brought together the present, past and future.
Driving the No. 1 Pro Late Model for Low Country Motorsports, rising star T.J. DeCaire swept the CARS Tour Pro Late Model portion of the event in only his second national race of the season.
With his throwback paint scheme honoring legendary late model racer Mike Garvey, DeCaire was the fast qualifier and never looked back, leading all 100 laps.
The win continues an impressive start to DeCaire’s limited 2026 CARS Tour schedule. In only two Pro Late Model starts this season — both with Low Country Motorsports — DeCaire has recorded a runner-up finish at North Wilkesboro Speedway and a victory at Hickory, giving him an average finish of 1.5.
The victory carried additional significance for DeCaire, whose No. 1 machine featured a throwback paint scheme honoring Garvey, who has become a personal mentor to DeCaire and assists the family with its super late model program.
“It’s really impressive what we’ve been able to accomplish in only two starts together,” said DeCaire. “To qualify third at Wilkesboro and finish second, and then follow that up with the weekend we had at Hickory, really speaks to how well-prepared Low Country Motorsports brings these Hamke race cars to the track. I’m grateful to be in this position and to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m excited to continue building on the success we’ve had together as we look toward the future.”
DeCaire and Low Country Motorsports’ victory on Saturday also marked a significant milestone for team owner’s A.J. Frank and Mikey Kile, who earned their first victory as car owners.
“I couldn’t be more proud of T.J. and everyone who has had a hand in getting this team to victory lane,” said Frank. “We have all the pieces in place, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. I earned my first CARS Tour win as a driver at Hickory, and to come back nearly 15 years later and earn my first win as a car owner at the same track is pretty special.”
