Mark Cole #39

Super Street Stock

Car: '79 Monte Carlo
Age: 37
Hometown: Hampstead

Crew Chief: Doug Cole

     Mark Cole began his racing career four years ago when he strapped into a car and raced in Coastal Plains Raceway’s (CPR) top class. The Hampstead native drove a Monte Carlo back then and was a middle of the pack car. Cole claims his ‘learning curve is slower than others’ but when you start out in the highest class it is almost guaranteed that you will struggle. But, in only his fourth season, Cole raced his way to a top-five finish in the final point standings; not bad at all.

     “We definitely did a lot better,” he said. “(We) had people helping out and a little more experience.”

     After ‘jumping in with the fast stuff’ Cole has most certainly improved but he still is not quite where he wants to be. In 2006, Cole scored four top-five finishes and ten top 10’s. In 2007, he is hoping to get a podium finish in a few races.

     “(We are) taking little baby steps,” Cole said, of his progress on the track. “But we would be extremely happy with a top three (finish).”

     Beyond 2007, the 37-year-old driver is confident he will be at CPR.

    “(We will be) running this class as long as they keep the track open,” he said. “We just need a little luck.”

     It seems as though luck found him in 2006 so hopefully it will follow him in the future.