Cole Denton Prepares for Back-to-Back West Coast Challenges
MADERA, Calif. / LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Mississippi’s Cole Denton is gearing up for one of the biggest stretches of his young racing career, taking on two marquee West Coast events in back-to-back weekends.
This weekend, the 15-year-old standout will return to Madera Speedway in central California to compete with Naake Motorsports in the Short Track Shootout Pro Late Model feature — a $10,000-to-win showcase featuring many of the best Late Model drivers on the West Coast. Denton will once again drive the No. 54 Friends of Jaclyn Foundation Ford, carrying the message of hope and awareness for children battling pediatric cancer.
“This weekend at Madera is a big opportunity,” said Denton. “The Short Track Shootout is one of the toughest Pro Late Model races in the country, and to do it with Naake Motorsports and the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation on the car makes it even more special. I’m excited to get back to a track where we’ve already had success and see what we can do.”
Denton is no stranger to Madera Speedway — he captured the Jr. Late Model win there in August and earned a top-five finish in his Pro Late Model debut that same weekend. The momentum continued in September at Kern County Raceway Park, where he recorded two more top-five finishes in a double-feature event. With four Pro Late Model starts under his belt, Denton now looks to take the next step in his young career by contending for the win in Saturday’s $10K Shootout.
Next, Denton will head to Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s Bullring for the INEX Asphalt Nationals, driving his familiar No. 46 77 Speed Shop Legend Car on October 23–25. With 19 wins and 27 podiums in 29 starts this season, Denton has become one of the most consistent and competitive young drivers in the country.
“Cole impressed everyone at Madera with a level of natural talent that’s rare in this sport. He’s already proven he belongs among standout young drivers like Jesse Love and Tyler Reif,” said Kenny Shepherd, Madera Speedway Promoter.
“We’re proud to have Cole represent Naake Motorsports and the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation at one of the biggest short-track events of the year,” added Mike Naake, owner of Naake Motorsports. “His drive, maturity, and passion for the sport makes him a perfect fit for our program.”
Beyond his on-track efforts, Denton’s partnership with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation (FOJ) continues to raise awareness for children fighting pediatric cancer. FOJ pairs children with sports teams that align with their individual interests. These adoptions are for life, forming lasting bonds of friendship, love, and support that extend far beyond the playing field or racetrack.
Fans can follow Cole’s journey through both weekends at ColeDentonRacing.com and on his official social media channels.
About Cole Denton
Cole Denton, 15, from Pascagoula, Mississippi, is one of the brightest young talents in grassroots motorsports. In 2025, Denton collected 1 win and 3 top 5s in 3 starts in the Late Model and an astounding 19 wins in 29 Legend Car starts, including 27 podium finishes. With four Pro Late Model starts producing three top-five finishes and one Jr. Late Model victory, Cole continues to prove his ability to adapt and succeed at every level. Off the track, he is recognized for his professionalism, humility, and commitment to the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, using his platform to inspire and support children battling pediatric cancer.
About Naake Motorsports
Naake Motorsports, based in Roseville, California, is one of the premier short-track racing organizations on the West Coast. Led by veteran racer Mike Naake, the team provides professional-level equipment, driver development, and elite support across multiple series, including the CARS Tour West, NASCAR ARCA West Series, TransAm TA2 West Series, and the NASCAR Weekly Series at All-American Speedway. Naake Motorsports is known for helping rising stars reach the next level of their careers.
About Madera Speedway
Located in Madera, California, Madera Speedway is one of the most competitive and fan-friendly short tracks in the country. Known for its high-banked asphalt oval and national television exposure through MAVTV’s “Short Track TV,” the track has become a proving ground for up-and-coming drivers in Pro Late Models, Jr. Late Models, and other divisions. Under the leadership of Kenny Shepherd, Madera Speedway has developed a national reputation for showcasing grassroots racing at its best.
About the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation
The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation (FOJ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers. Since 2005, FOJ has completed over 1,300 adoptions, pairing children with sports teams from youth to professional levels based on their personal interests. These adoptions are for life, creating lifelong bonds that provide love, support, and encouragement to every child and their family.