Korsmo returns with the Legends

CEDAR RAPIDS - Kevin Korsmo was just on a break.

A good cause, good opportunity and good team made a good reason to come back.

Korsmo leads the Legends division points standings at Hawkeye Downs Speedway, racing his first  full season since winning the sportsmen class season championship in 2005. He owns a 10-point lead, entering Friday races that begin at 7:30 p.m.

"I also said I was never retired," Korsmo said with a laugh. "I just told my wife I took a hiatus."

Korsmo has raced occasionally over the last couple years, but spent his time off the track on race nights as an analyst on radio broadcasts. Now he's back behind the wheel and driving a car for Dr. Al Diercks, helping sponsor the Lil Racer Car Club at the track.

"That's where the money goes that we win," Korsmo said about the kids club organized by Mitch Swinton. "I thought it would be a great opportunity if I get back ina  car.

"Enjoy getting my feet wet again and helping the Lil Racer Car Club and Friday night races."

The 48-year-old has raced different classes, including sportsmen and late models. He's still learning how they handle, but he has enjoyed the more laid back approach. The cars don't need adjustments between heat and feature races, allowing him to sit in the stands to watch other races. Legends still provide a tough challenge.

"I'll tell you what, anybody that doesn't think those little Legends cars are not a real race car are wrong," Korsmo said. "Those things are the real deal. Honestly, if you can learn to drive one of these competitively I think you can drive anything.

Korsmo scored a feature victory on opening night. He was fourth last Friday, finishing third the previous week. Korsmo said the speedy cars have made up for his lack of experience in them.

"I just haven't had enough seat time to get the best out of it yet," Korsmo said. "The car's getting the best out of me. I'm not getting the best out of the car."

Another reason Korsmo sacrificed full-time racing was to free up time to follow the activities of his twin sons, Kacey and Kamron. Now, they are 13. He remains involved, and they follow him as well.

"They enjoy it," Korsmo said. "They run from the ball park out to try to catch the feature. I do have my kids pressuring me to let them run Legends next year."

Diercks, and his brother, Dennis, have been key promoters of Legends racing at Hawkeye Downs. Their work has helped Korsmo compete without the weekly time commitment. Korsmo said if it was not for their efforts and their work on the cars, he would not be able to balance driving at the track and supporting his sons' activities.

"I trust the Dierckses have good equipment," Korsmo said. "It's an honor to race for them."

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