Portland, Texas native Matt Merrell began his racing career later in life than most of his peers, strapping into his first racecar after graduating high school in 2004 at age 18. Though he may have lacked prior experience, it didn’t take long for those around him to realize the serious drive Merrell possessed. That same year, he claimed Rookie of the Year honors in the Texas Dwarf Car Association and was the South and State Points Champion.

Keeping stride with his quick success, Merrell made moves with his career at a rapid pace as well. Racing in the Texas Asphalt Modified Series in 2005, he scored three wins and was named Rookie of the Year. He again moved to a new racing series the next season, racing to another Rookie of the Year title, three wins and a runner up finish in overall points in the USRA Super Late Model Series.

The next big steps for Merrell’s racing career included a move to the USAR Pro Cup and ARCA RE/MAX Series’. Driving the No. 32 Win-Tron Racing entry in both series, Merrell began to impress almost immediately, once again adapting quickly to his new surroundings. Since his ARCA debut in May 2007, Merrell has logged 13 starts in the series with one pole, five top-fives and seven top-10s, including two career-best runner-up finishes in 2009.

The 24-year-old hot shoe has a winning attitude and adaptable racing style that has propelled him up the racing ladder over the last six years. Matt is looking to build on his successes and race the full season in 2010.