In a significant career milestone, 18-year-old Ryder Laplante from Calera, Oklahoma, is set to embark on an ambitious journey in the world of sprint car racing. After transitioning from Micro Sprints over the past few years, Laplante has committed to chasing the 2025 American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) National Tour schedule. This marks his first season following a national sprint car tour and represents a major step forward in his pursuit of a professional racing career.

From Micro Sprints to National Tours: Ryder Laplante's Journey

In the heart of autumn, as the leaves turned golden, Ryder Laplante stood at the threshold of a new chapter in his racing career. The young driver, who has been honing his skills since winning the Restricted A-Class division of the National Open Wheel 600cc Micro Sprint Series in 2018, has now set his sights on the prestigious ASCS National Tour. Laplante’s transition from Micro Sprints to the more challenging 360 Sprint Cars has been gradual but steady. He made his debut in 305 Sprint Cars in 2022 and ventured into 410 Sprint Cars the following year before settling on the 360 division for 2025.

Laplante’s decision to focus on the 360 Sprint Cars comes after careful consideration. He found that moving from a 410 to a 360 felt like a natural progression, giving him a competitive edge early in the season. His standout performance at Rush County Speedway in May, where he advanced from seventh to third place, showcased his potential. “I’ve learned a lot from my time in different types of cars,” Laplante reflected. “The experience has prepared me well for this next phase.”

The upcoming season will also introduce Laplante to the unique challenges of the ASCS race format, where qualifying results play a crucial role in determining success. “You have to be smart and fast,” he emphasized. “Qualifying is everything.” Laplante will kick off his rookie season on the ASCS National Tour with a race at Salina Highbanks Speedway in Salina, Oklahoma, on April 12th.

This move is not just a stepping stone; it’s part of a larger dream. Laplante aims to establish himself in the open-wheel racing world, travel the globe, and ultimately make a living from his passion. “I want to do the best I can with ASCS and see where it takes me,” he said, setting his sights on the future.

For aspiring racers and fans alike, Laplante’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and adaptability. His story highlights how embracing new challenges can lead to remarkable growth and opportunities. As he prepares for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on this rising star to see how far he can go in the competitive world of sprint car racing.