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Winston-Salem, NC – January 21, 2026 — Kevin Powell Speed Motorsports (KPSM) is proud to announce the addition of veteran racer Doug “Hippie” Strother as Crew Chief for the organization’s zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock program. One of the most respected and recognizable figures in short track racing, Strother brings more than four decades of experience, leadership, and proven performance to the team as it prepares for a full-time season with driver Brandon Pierce.
Strother joins KPSM following a successful five-year run with Tyrrell Racing, where he played a key role in developing front-running equipment and helping guide Mini Tyrrell to multiple CARS Tour victories. Most recently, Tyrrell captured the prestigious Race for the Seat Ram Truck Series Driver Competition, further reinforcing Strother’s reputation for building competitive teams and contending for wins.
With 44 years in the sport spanning both short track and national competition, Strother’s résumé includes work with legendary NASCAR organizations. Over the course of his career, he has served as a crew chief in NASCAR’s national divisions, worked alongside standout drivers including Ernie Irvan, Jeff Burton, Butch Miller, and the Busch family, and earned widespread respect as both a fabricator and master car builder.
“I’m extremely impressed with the shop, it’s a top-notch, first-class facility,” said Strother. “You don’t make a move like this unless you believe in what a team is building, and I believe KPSM has the resources, people, and commitment it takes to win. Our early goal is to establish consistency with strong finishes, and then position ourselves to compete for top fives, victories, and ultimately a championship.”
Team owner Kevin Powell sees the hire as a defining moment for the organization’s Late Model program.
“We could not be more excited or thankful to welcome Hippie to the KP Speed family,” said Powell. “In racing, reputation matters and Doug Strother has earned the respect of this entire industry through hard work, knowledge, and results. Just as important, he’s the kind of person people love working with. His leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue building this program the right way. Pairing Hippie with a veteran driver like Brandon Pierce gives us a combination we truly believe can compete at the highest level. The future of our Late Model program has never looked brighter.”
Pierce, one of the most experienced competitors in the history of the CARS Tour and second on the all-time starts list, is equally energized about the partnership.
“I’m very excited to have Doug as my crew chief,” said Pierce. “He’s incredibly smart, brings a ton of knowledge and success, and knows what it takes to run up front. Doug is a great fit for this team and for me personally. I’m ready to get to the racetrack, get to work, and I truly believe we’re going to accomplish some big things together.”
The addition of Strother signals a major step forward for KP Speed Motorsports as the organization continues expanding its competitive footprint. With a veteran crew chief, an accomplished driver, and the resources to contend, KPSM enters the season with momentum, confidence, and clear championship aspirations.
