In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to California team driver, Lucas Wedsted!
1. How did you get started in RC? Was it racing right away, or did you bash vehicles before you found out about the RC race scene?
My dad and I went to the Hangtown National motocross event when I was about 8 years old. As we were walking around the track and watching races, we saw a Traxxas tent. They had a little oval track with kids driving Rustlers and Slashes. We both thought it was very cool and decided to buy a Traxxas Rustler to bash around in our yard. My dad later on found a local RC track in Sacramento called LSR Speedway. As soon as we put the car on the track, we’ve been hooked on it ever since.
2. When life interferes and you can’t wheel your RC car, how do you quench your thirst for RC? Do you work on your car, listen to a RC podcast, watch some racing videos, read RC magazines or books, etc?
When I’m not at the track and sitting at home missing the track, I’ll either go on Facebook and scroll through RC pages or watch livestreams or read RC posts. Plus my dad does a good job about walking in ever once in a while saying “dude I can’t wait to go to the track this weekend!”
3. What is one tip you have for new drivers getting into RC racing that you would like to share?
One great tip I would give to new people when looking to get started in RC is always go ask around about the cars, the track, electronics, and just about anything. Also going into the hobby shop and asking questions is a great idea.
4. Name one JConcepts product that you feel is overlooked by many but you find it very useful. It could be a tool, tread pattern, wing, etc.
A JConcepts product that I feel is overlooked has to be the Carpet | Astro High-Clearance 7″ Rear Wing. At my local track not a lot of people run it on their cars. I’ve tested it and used them whenever I had the chance. For me it helped get a little more grip out of the car and it kept the car more stable.
5. Name one thing people might be surprised to know about you.
One thing people should know about me is that I see this sport as a way of having fun with other people and family. I started this sport as a family and I still race with my family and that’s how it will always be. I know my responsibilities as a sponsored driver, however this will always be something I can do with my dad and my sister.