08/31/2026
RACING FAMILY TRADITION: ANDY HUDGINS
Earlier this year one of our employees informed me that Andy was retiring from karting at the end of the year. Later that evening Andy confirmed it to my dismay. Andy, Connor, their dad and entire family have rarely missed a race in nearly 3 years of our ownership. Even when his daughter was born, Andy took the time to reach out to let me know he wouldn't be there. (I still think naming her Stanetta was a good idea BTW).
One of the reasons my brother and I purchased the track was so that families could continue racing, friendships could develop/grow, kids could play, family heritage and tradition could carry on like it has in our family. Andy never once yelled at me, cursed me or even argued with a call. Even when I implemented a minimum weight rule in RYWB which hurt him more than anyone, he didn't complain, he understood. He got it. He knew why.
I have said a thousand times that I don't have favorites. I couldn't tell you where Andy lives, how many siblings he has or even how old he is, but I'd be lying if i didn't admit race nights won't be quite the same.
Andy let me know during practice Saturday that it was his last ride as he's moving on to racecars. He'll be around supporting his brother, but he was done driving karts.
The Hudgins family certainly aren't the only family that make Bear Creek great, but you bet your ass whether you realize it or not, Bear Creek will miss Andy and the Hudgins team being there every week.
Thank you, Andy, for embodying Bear Creek, choosing us and confirming that my brother and I were right in our decision.
Good luck with the racecars my friend. We'll swing by to catch you in action sometime.
Stan Lawrence.