On Saturday afternoon, Bell Kemenah Racing was introduced to the world through Christopher Bell’s Twitter feed.
The full-time NASCAR Cup Series driver announced the creation of his new open-wheel team, along with mechanic and driver lineups for the upcoming season. BKR will be led by Bell’s father-in-law, Brian Kemenah, who will serve as co-team owner and crew chief. Eric Manfrass will be the second mechanic.
Ohio mechanic Kemenah has enjoyed a successful career as a winged sprint car crew chief. His achievements have primarily come with his brother, Chad Kemenah, and Tim Shaffer. Kemenah won All Star Circuit of Champions titles with both Chad Kemenah and Shaffer. He also prepared the car Shaffer drove to victory in the 2011 Knoxville Nationals.
Meanwhile, Manfrass’ background lies with the traveling sprint car circuit. He has worked with numerous drivers including Shane Stewart and Tyler Walker.
Introducing Bell Kemenah Racing, led by veteran mechanics Brian Kemenah and Eric Manfrass. We’re excited to have @jadanbowling01 , @WatchGavanRace and Cullen Hutchison behind the wheel! pic.twitter.com/4lCT3B4REt
— Christopher Bell (@CBellRacing) January 21, 2023
BKR’s open-wheel livery will be piloted by Jadan Bowling, Gavan Boschele and Cullen Hutchison.
Previous to joining BKR, Bowling competed in the U.S. Legends Car series for the Three Sixteen Motorsports LLC team. He has earned several dirt track and one asphalt win in the No. 01 Legends Car, according to his Instagram page.
North Carolina native Boschele made waves during his run with the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series at his home track of Millbridge Speedway. The 14-year-old scored the win over Zach Daum and Nick Drake last May. Boschele also won a Golden Driller in the Stock Non-wing class during December’s Tulsa Shootout inside the SageNet Center.
Bell has been instrumental in Boschele’s progression through the ranks since Boschele started racing micro sprints three years ago, according to a tweet from the young driver. He will make his debut in the BKR sprint car next week at Volusia Speedway.
Hutchison first made headlines in 2020 for his success in the regional karting world. A native of Butler, Pa., Hutchison earned 28 feature victories in 54 starts across Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.
His father, Todd Hutchison, is a former winged sprint car racing crew chief.