These 12 Questions-style fan profiles are one of the rewards offered as a tier on my Patreon page. You can catch up on the other profiles so far this season here.
Name: Shaun Gilmer
Location: Pleasant Grove, Ala. — just outside of Birmingham.
Twitter name: allofthepeople
Age: 31
1. How long have you been a NASCAR fan?
As long as I can remember. I grew up around it.
2. How many races have you attended?
More than I can count. I have been going anywhere from a couple to a half-dozen race weekends a year for most of my life — for both work and play.
3. Who is your No. 1 favorite driver?
All time: Davey Allison. Now: Kyle Larson.
4. What made you a fan of those drivers?
Actually, they are both connected. I was raised and still live around Hueytown, Ala. Knowing someone from my very own backyard could make it big in something inspired me.
My grandmother, who raised me, always loved Bobby Allison — so it all just came naturally. Ironically, I now work for him (as the new media manager for Bobby Allison Racing), so you could say things have come full circle.
After Davey’s passing, I stuck with the Texaco Havoline branding (as a fan) and ended up with the Ganassi No. 42 car and never left.
5. Who is your most disliked driver?
I have too many friends in the sport, so I’d rather not say. Ha! They are a top active driver though.
6. Why don’t you like that person?
The past and current behavior they have shown toward me and others.
7. What is your favorite track?
Past NASCAR affiliated track: Birmingham International Raceway. Current: Talladega.
8. What is one thing you would change if you were in charge of NASCAR?
I would find a way to better make the traditionalist fans understand that the sport has to evolve to survive.
9. What is one thing you would keep the same if you were in charge of NASCAR?
Make sure the fan access never changes.
10. How often do you yell at the TV during a race?
Ha! A couple of times per race, at least.
11. Do you have any advice for other fans?
Give change a chance. “The way it was” would not keep us in business. Be open-minded.
12. What else do you want the NASCAR world to know about you?
One of the things I am most proud of is being given the Key to the City of Hueytown as a child for trying to help build an Alabama Gang Museum. I still hope one day we can.
