Hoots Riverside Taproom Inc

06/01/2024

12/13/2023

OK, so you probably recognize former NASCAR Cup race winner Ken Schrader on the right.

Very few of you know who the other guy is.

This, my friends, is Joe Renfro, a 17-year-old from Wyoming. I did a story on Joe in Speedway Illustrated a few months ago. Joe was born without arms, and his left leg is two feet shorter than his right.

Despite these challenges, Joe races dirt cars in Colorado. Joe wanted to follow in the footsteps of his dad, brothers and stepbrothers and race. So his dad, Jim, an oilfield worker, welded extensions to the gas and brake pedals of a ‘94 Mustang so that Joe could operate them with his left leg (which doesn’t have a joint - it’s one bone from his hip to his ankle). Joe can start the ignition with his right foot, and put it in gear (it’s an automatic), and he steers with his right foot on the wheel.

So why is he pictured here with Ken Schrader?

Because this fine young man is the winner of this year’s Ken Schrader Real Racer of the Year award, which is given annually to the oval-track racer who overcomes the greatest challenges to start or continue racing.

Today was one of the most moving, fulfilling days of my life. I had never met Joe, his dad, his mom, three of his grandparents, and three of his brothers/stepbrothers before today. And that my story could help bring this young man’s accomplishments to light is an honor that can never be surpassed.

After the ceremony, Joe sat near me just smiling and gently shaking his head. I said to him, “Isn’t it amazing that one email started the ball rolling on the story that led to this?”

“It’s mind-blowing,” he said.

Thanks, Joe Renfro, for becoming part of my life. You’re an inspiration to all, and I’m sooooooo blessed to have been the one to tell the racing world what an awesome dude you are.

01/10/2020

Had a blast

04/06/2014

LMS if you think our slogan should be "Hoot's, it's always a sausage fest"

03/18/2014

02/03/2014

12/29/2013

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and heres wishing you all a great & safe New Years!

12/14/2013

CHRISTMAS PARTY DECEMBER 20 get your JOLLY ON & HAVE A HOOTIN' TIME!

12/05/2013

Whisky bent wenches,and harry potter. My,kinda party.