The motorsports community is grieving the loss of one of its most respected figures—Mike Chase of Redding, California, who passed away on April 18, 2025, at the age of 73 after a long and courageous battle with illness. A trailblazer in the world of stock car racing, Chase was more than just a competitor—he was a mentor, a pioneer, and a cherished figure in the racing world, particularly on the West Coast.
Mike Chase’s journey into the spotlight began in an era when West Coast drivers faced significant challenges breaking into the national NASCAR scene. Despite these odds, Chase’s talent and tenacity helped him overcome regional barriers, ultimately earning him the distinction of being a two-time NASCAR champion—a remarkable achievement that solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s elite.
In 2010, his storied career and groundbreaking accomplishments were formally recognized with his induction into the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor that highlighted his influence in elevating the profile of West Coast drivers in a sport long dominated by its Southeastern roots.
What set Mike Chase apart, however, wasn’t just his success on the track—it was his character off of it. Known widely for his humility, kindness, and generous spirit, Chase served as a mentor to countless younger drivers. He was a man who believed in lifting others as he climbed, taking time to nurture talent, share hard-earned wisdom, and encourage perseverance in a sport known for its intensity and pressure.
Those who knew him in Redding, CA, often recall not just his racing achievements, but his deep involvement in the local community. Whether at the track or in his hometown, Mike was a presence people looked up to—a role model whose impact transcended racing. He understood that legacy wasn’t measured by trophies alone, but by the lives he touched, the careers he helped shape, and the spirit of sportsmanship he embodied every day.
Beyond mentoring, Mike’s contributions to motorsports included working in team management, offering strategic insights, and helping to develop the infrastructure that would allow future generations of racers to thrive. His dedication to the craft and his advocacy for fellow drivers made him not only a competitor but a cornerstone of the racing community.
As we say goodbye to Mike Chase, we honor a life that was full of courage, generosity, and an unrelenting passion for racing. His legacy will live on not only in record books and Hall of Fame plaques, but in the hearts of those he mentored, inspired, and befriended.
Mike Chase may have taken his final checkered flag, but his story continues in the lives and careers he helped shape. The West Coast—and the racing world at large—has lost a true champion.
Would you like this written for a newspaper tribute, memorial program, or website publication?
