The Lebanon area and southwest Missouri racing community is mourning the sudden loss of 25-year-old Nicholas Bradshaw, a beloved local driver whose presence at the track was constant as the roar of the engines. Known for his infectious passion and unwavering commitment to racing, Bradshaw became an inspiration for many, proving that love for the sport can overcome even the toughest obstacles. His journey from fan to racer captured the spirit of small-town motorsports, where determination and community support go hand in hand.

Despite being born with dwarfism, Bradshaw never let limitations define him. With the help of close friends and mentors, he adapted his car to fit his needs, adjusting pedals, the steering wheel, and other features so he could not only race but also compete at a high level. Bradshaw’s passing came after he suffered a heart attack at the Lebanon I-44 Speedway, a place that had become his second home, and he later died in a Springfield hospital. In a symbolic and emotional moment, another driver piloted Bradshaw’s No. 23 car to victory, a gesture that many believed Nicholas himself would have wanted.

Rico Abreu, a professional dirt track and stock car racing driver and a friend of Bradshaw, posted on X, “I’m devastated to hear of the passing of my friend Nicholas. I first met Nicholas a few years ago at Lake Ozark Speedway and in time I became a fan of him and his racing. I’m sending prayers to him & his loved ones. I always enjoyed seeing Nicholas at the races. May the lord guide him to comfort. #23Strong Rico.” This came just hours before Abreu announced a landmark move for the 2026 season, joining Tony Stewart Racing and bringing his entire team under the TSR banner.

Currently leading the High Limit standings with nine wins, 30 top-10s, and 40 features, Abreu added, “For me, it’s just the chance to race for championships and crown jewels with one of the most successful teams in the modern history of the sport. It’s about having all the resources and to get the job done behind the wheel.” The move also brings crew chief Ricky Warner, car chief Zack Middlebrookes, and tire specialist Brad Forbrook into TSR, while Abreu retains his iconic No. 24, combining his momentum with Stewart’s legacy to challenge rivals like Kyle Larson and elevate the team’s championship potential.

But the loss of his friend has affected him deeply. His story wasn’t just about getting behind the wheel; it was about chasing victories. And he did just that, earning multiple wins this year and celebrating each one with unmatched emotion, reminding everyone that triumph is measured in heart.

Heartfelt messages pour in from the NASCAR community

Aaron Douglas, a promoter with Lebanon I-44 Speedway, shared the impact of Bradshaw’s presence on the racing world. “I’ve been around Nick, and in the racing world, if you go even to Midway Speedway, you’ve got Nick and Sparky sitting behind the flag stand every Friday night. Anywhere there was racing. Nick was there. He just loved the racing world, period. He was competitive in what he did, he was able to do it and he was able to be proud of what he did. I don’t know if words can describe the heaviness that I feel.” While Bradshaw wasn’t able to participate in traditional sports like baseball or basketball, he found a way to shine on the racetrack.

Douglas recalled the ingenuity and support that made it possible: “He was always a top-notch fan of Lebanon Yellow Jackets. He got help from Michael Jurgensen, a good friend of his and a race team and built a Charger and fixed the pedal so it could reach him and fixed his dash and steering wheel and everything for he could actually be part not just of a team but of a family and go out there and show what he could really do in life.” Bradshaw’s drive and determination turned obstacles into opportunities, proving his passion extended beyond mere participation.

Announcer Shane Eidson reflected on the community’s response: “What happened here on Saturday night, it was a tragedy, but the response from [people on] Saturday night, just on Saturday night alone, we had a big, huge prayer to everybody. It was silent. Everybody was in prayer. We had worship music and for those that live in the area, we had rain and it only rained here at the racetrack. It didn’t rain in the town.”

Returning to the track, Eidson said, “I pulled up this afternoon. I was in tears. My best friend Ryan had to give me a hug because the last time I was here, it was a tragedy, but you know, I’m going through all this, and all I can think about is the accomplishments that Nick had in his life. He found sponsorships. He worked on the racecar. He hauled his own race car. He did a lot of things that most people probably didn’t think Nick did, but he did it.”

Fans expressed their grievances on social media, writing, “Nicholas was such a great guy he’s going to be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of meeting him,” while also consoling Abreu on the loss of a dear friend, “Thx Rico, you are a good friend. I’m sure Nicholas was a great guy. Sorry to hear you lost your buddy. TC dude.”  Though Nicholas Bradshaw is gone, his passion, determination, and spirit will continue to inspire every corner of the racing world.