At GR Motorsports, dedication propels us forward. Every team member is committed to pushing boundaries, conquering challenges, and achieving greatness—both on and off the track. We're more than a team; we're a unified, relentless force, driven by our shared passion for dirt racing.
Garland Risner - Team Owner
Garland has immersed himself in racing since the early 1980s, beginning with go-karts and swiftly ascending through the ranks to midget racing. Although a career shift led him away from the sport and into street rods and suspension development for several years, a fortuitous series of events has brought GR Motorsports into existence. The team now boasts a level of experience and expertise comparable to only a select few of the nation's top racing teams.
Sue Risner - Team Owner
Sue is the true force behind the scenes at GR Motorsports, wielding her influence as the unsung powerhouse. As the wife of Garland, Sue's strategic mind and tireless dedication to keep the gears turning smoothly. Her integral role in decision-making and day-to-day operations makes her an indispensable part of the team, shaping the success of GR Motorsports behind the scenes.
Lonnie Lopez - Lead Crew Chief
Lonnie brings a wealth of experience and an impressive racing legacy. A distinguished BCRA Hall of Fame member, Lonnie has been an integral part of dirt oval racing since 1996, managing teams and racing across various states, including CA, AZ, UT, CO, OR, and WA. As both a driver and a car owner, he clinched numerous championships from 1998 to 2003 and owner championships in 2007-2011 and 2015 in BCRA. Lonnie's expertise extends to crew chief roles, where he secured the Western States USAC Midget Championship in 2012. With over 100 wins and 11 championships in his career, Lonnie Lopez is a driving force behind our team's success.
Eddie Alberti - Co Crew Chief
Eddie brings extensive experience to the team, having competed on dirt tracks since 1999 in Micro Midgets, Mini Sprints, and Lightening Sprints. With victories as both a car owner and driver, Eddie has established himself as a seasoned racer. Serving as Crew Chief for Micro, Mini Sprints, full Midgets, and Sprint Cars, he has honed his skills across numerous dirt tracks in California and throughout the western United States. Eddie is our dedicated specialist in shock and chassis setup, contributing valuable expertise to our pursuit of racing excellence
Allen Ennis - Technical Director
Allen brings a wealth of racing expertise and strategic acumen to the team. Allen commenced his racing journey at the age of 42, competing in Mini Stocks and Modifieds, where he secured multiple Main Event victories and three championships. With extensive experience in managing racing teams alongside his son, Chris, Allen has been a fixture in the racing community for many years. Currently overseeing teams participating in ASCS 360 and 305 Sprint Cars, both in Winged and Non-winged configurations, Allen's background and knowledge contribute significantly to the success of our team."
John Murdie - Driver #21G
Originally from Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, John Murdie is set to steer the #21G car at the 2024 Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, OK, marking his second year at the prestigious event. John is the eldest of four siblings to Trevor and Julies, himself the son of a 30-year veteran of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). With siblings Tamara, Jayden, and Scott, John's early exposure to racing, courtesy of his father, ignited his passion for the sport. Beginning his racing journey at 22 in 2008, he currently pilots a non-winged sprint car (Australian Style V6). Beyond the track, John engages in Australian Football (AFL), rugby, soccer, and American football. An enthusiastic golfer and fisherman, he also finds joy in camping when not pursuing victory on the racing circuit. Having moved to the United States, he credits his transition to the support of his employer Mader.
A.J. Johnson - Driver #22S
A.J. Johnson, residing in Oskaloosa, IA, operates a small construction business named A.J.’s Contracting. He shares his life with his wife, Mallory, and their two children, Maxyn and Henley. A.J. has been involved in racing since the age of 10, currently competing in both wing and non-wing sprint cars. In 2023, he participated in weekly races in Knoxville, IA, in the Pro Series Sprints, securing Rookie of the Year and finishing 5th in points. The plan for the 2024 race season is to continue in this class and incorporate occasional non-wing races. Outside the shop, A.J. finds solace in nature, engaging in activities such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, hunting, or working outdoors at home. We are excited to announced that A.J. will be at the controls of the #22S car for the 2024 Chili Bowl Nationals
Jack France - Driver #22G
​Hailing from Cleckheaton, WYK, England, Jack France will be behind the wheel of the #22G car at the 2024 Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, OK. Jack's racing journey began at the age of 7, navigating go-karts at an indoor kart center to grasp the fundamentals. At 8, he acquired his kart, venturing into outdoor club meetings and remaining in kart racing until the age of 19. Accumulating 5 championships across various kart classes, Jack transitioned to Brisca F1 Stock cars in 2015. Notably, he clinched victory in 14 heat races and secured the pole position for the 2023 World Finals after winning the World Semi-Final.
Chase Young - Driver #21R
Born in 1991 in Des Moines, IA, Chase Young began his racing journey with 2-cycle go-karts in 2002, securing victory at a local dirt track and clinching an IKF national championship in 2013. Transitioning to sprint car racing in the 305 division at Knoxville Raceway in 2016, he won multiple races and contended for the 2023 points championship, finishing 2nd. In 2024, as a rookie driver at the Chili Bowl, he's thrilled for his first midget driving experience. Post-Chili Bowl, he'll compete in his hometown's Battle At The Barn go-kart event. Beyond racing, Chase cherishes family time with his biggest fan, 3-year-old daughter Reese. Also, as the owner/operator of Pinnacle Powdercoat, he eagerly anticipates the opportunities the new year holds.
