Indianapolis, December 13, 2025
Hoosier Racing Tire has unveiled its 2026 class of Hoosier Heroes during the PRI Show in Indianapolis. This initiative celebrates racers who exemplify passion and success, engaging the community in the selection process. Over 400 nominations were submitted, resulting in 25 finalists and over 17,000 votes to determine the final honorees. The program also recognizes Frank Kimmel as the 2026 Hoosier Hero Legend for his significant contributions to motorsports. This initiative fosters local talent recognition and community involvement in the racing culture.
Hoosier Racing Tire Honors 2026 Class of Hoosier Heroes
Celebrating Racing Success and Community Spirit in Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana – Hoosier Racing Tire made a significant announcement during the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show by unveiling its 2026 class of Hoosier Heroes. This program, initiated in 2022, serves to recognize individuals who embody Hoosier’s core values of passion, pride, and success in the racing arena. The efforts spotlight local talent and inspire the community while demonstrating the power of grassroots engagement in promoting the motorsports industry.
Over the summer, fans actively participated in the selection process by nominating over 400 racers. A dedicated panel of industry professionals and media members then trimmed the nominations down to 25 finalists. From there, a combined voting effort between fans, industry representatives, and media resulted in over 17,000 votes cast to determine the final class. This engaging approach not only highlights the vibrant racing culture in Indianapolis but also emphasizes the importance of community involvement in celebrating local heroes.
Meet the 2026 Hoosier Heroes
The 2026 Hoosier Heroes are a diverse group of racers spanning various racing categories, showcasing their skills and dedication to the sport:
- Victoria Beaner – Pro Jr. Dragster, Micro Sprint, Pro Late Model
- Emily Billings – INEX Bandolero
- Vito Cancilla – Pro Late Model, Super Late Model, CARS Tour
- Joey Coulter – SMART Modified Tour, WHELEN Modified Tour
- Callum and Ryan Crowe – Sidecar, Isle of Man TT
- Jimmy Dale – Drag Racing
- Morgan Grosz – WISSOTA Late Model
- Andy Jankowiak – ARCA, Modifieds
- Ryan Kisner – MWEDT/Pro, Pro-AM
- Chris Morris – IMCA Modified
- Mitch Thomas – UMP Modified, Late Model
- Westin Workman – GR Cup North America
Additionally, the program honors Frank Kimmel as the 2026 Hoosier Hero Legend for his incredible contributions to motorsports. Kimmel holds the remarkable record for the most wins in ARCA history, boasting 80 victories and 10 championship titles. His legacy is a testament to the hard work and determination prevalent in the Indianapolis racing community.
A Closer Look at the Hoosier Hero Campaign
The Hoosier Hero campaign will extend its reach through a 12-part series spotlighting each member of the 2026 class. This series will be accessible on various platforms, including iOS, Android-connected devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and online. By showcasing these racers, the series aims to inspire future generations and maintain the excitement around local motorsports while encouraging visitor engagement in the Indianapolis area.
Economic and Community Impact
The Hoosier Heroes program reflects the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in Indianapolis, where local businesses and community engagement flourish. Organizations like Hoosier Racing Tire play a crucial role in fostering economic growth through supportive initiatives that celebrate local talent. Their commitment aligns perfectly with the state’s efforts to maintain a business-friendly environment, which is essential for sustaining community progress and attracting new talent.
As the racing industry continues to evolve, recognizing the achievements of resilient racers, such as the 2026 Hoosier Heroes, helps keep the community united and motivated. Such efforts also pave the way for upcoming small businesses and entrepreneurs in Indiana, making a powerful statement about the potential for future growth and success.
Key Takeaways and Encouragement
The unveiling of the 2026 Hoosier Heroes demonstrates the remarkable talent within Indianapolis and the importance of community support for such initiatives. Recognizing local achievers in the racing industry underscores the value of engagement and inspires others to pursue their passions, contributing to positive economic growth. Residents are encouraged to cheer on these racers and support local businesses, fostering an environment ripe for achievement and prosperity in Indianapolis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Hoosier Hero program?
The Hoosier Hero program, established in 2022, honors individuals who exemplify Hoosier’s values of passion, pride, and success in the racing industry.
How are Hoosier Heroes selected?
The selection process begins with fans nominating racers, followed by a panel of industry professionals and media narrowing the field to finalists. A combined fan, industry, and media vote determines the final class.
Who are the 2026 Hoosier Heroes?
The 2026 Hoosier Heroes include Victoria Beaner, Emily Billings, Vito Cancilla, Joey Coulter, Callum and Ryan Crowe, Jimmy Dale, Morgan Grosz, Andy Jankowiak, Ryan Kisner, Chris Morris, Mitch Thomas, and Westin Workman.
Who is the 2026 Hoosier Hero Legend?
Frank Kimmel was named the 2026 Hoosier Hero Legend, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to motorsports, including 80 wins and 10 championship titles in ARCA.
Where can I watch the Hoosier Hero campaign series?
The Hoosier Hero campaign will feature a 12-part series on Racer+, available on iOS, Android-connected devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and online at racerplus.com.
Key Features of the 2026 Hoosier Hero Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Launch | Established in 2022 to honor individuals who exemplify Hoosier’s values in the racing industry. |
| Selection Process | Fans nominate racers, followed by a panel narrowing the field to finalists, and a combined vote determines the final class. |
| 2026 Hoosier Heroes | Victoria Beaner, Emily Billings, Vito Cancilla, Joey Coulter, Callum and Ryan Crowe, Jimmy Dale, Morgan Grosz, Andy Jankowiak, Ryan Kisner, Chris Morris, Mitch Thomas, and Westin Workman. |
| Hoosier Hero Legend | Frank Kimmel, recognized for his extraordinary contributions to motorsports, including 80 wins and 10 championship titles in ARCA. |
| Campaign Series | A 12-part series on Racer+, available on iOS, Android-connected devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and online. |
Now Happening on X
- @Hot1009indy (December 8, 2025, 9:21 AM) IMPD reports a man was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side, followed by a woman dying in a shooting on the near south side a few hours later. View on X
- @PraiseIndy (December 8, 2025, 9:42 AM) IMPD confirms a man was fatally shot on Indy’s near east side and a woman died in a separate shooting on the near south side hours later. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 11, 2025, 4:42 PM) A death investigation is underway after IMPD found a body with trauma inside a home on Indianapolis’ east side. View on X
- @JesseWellsNews (December 11, 2025, 3:43 PM) IMPD states street racing on slick winter roads led to a deadly hit-and-run crash on Indy’s west side, killing an innocent driver; the responsible driver has been arrested. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (December 12, 2025, 7:21 AM) New details emerge from IMPD’s death investigation at an east side home where police found a dead man and an injured woman. View on X
- @ScottWTHR (December 12, 2025, 3:05 PM) Suspect arrested after a man was found dead and a woman hospitalized following an incident on Indy’s east side, amid a snowy and frigid weekend forecast. View on X
- @wrtv (December 12, 2025, 9:07 AM) A man is in custody after a deadly incident on Indianapolis’ east side left one dead and a woman hospitalized. View on X
- @RickFOP86 (December 12, 2025, 9:13 AM) IMPD tracked and arrested a suspect in Greene County in connection with the death of an elderly man and critical injury of an elderly woman found in an east side home. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 12, 2025, 7:21 AM) IMPD is investigating a death at an east side home where a man was found dead and a woman injured. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
