Brad Neat

Driver, No. 41 Tantus Tobacco Chevrolet
 
Born: November 26, 1979
Hometown: Dunnville, Ky.
Residence: Dunnville, Ky.

This season marks another step forward in the quickly accelerating career of Brad Neat.  He has teamed with Bobby Labonte Racing to drive the No. 41 Tantus Tobacco Late Model Chevrolet in Lucas Oil Dirt Series competition. Neat joins teammate Earl Pearson Jr. in his quest to bring Bobby Labonte Racing a third Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series championship in 2010. 

Growing up in Dunnville, Ky., Neat began his racing career at the local Central Kentucky short tracks.  Neat honed his skills at the Bluegrass (Ky.) Speedway and Ponderosa (Ky.) Speedway driving in the street stock division. 

Neat graduated to his first full season of dirt late model competition in 1999. Now at 30 years of age, Neat has tallied more than 30 victories, including wins at Eldora (Ohio) Speedway and Kentucky Lake Motor Speedway.  He also won the 2002 track championship at Bluegrass Speedway.

Neat was a five-time winner in 2009, including two wins on the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series tour. He finished this past season seventh in that series’ championship standings. 

Prior to this season, Neat drove for his family’s racing operation.  His talent and determination caught the eye of team owner Bobby Labonte, who expanded his organization into a two-car race team for the 2010 season.  Labonte hired Neat to drive the No. 41 Tantus Tobacco Chevrolet alongside teammate Earl Pearson Jr., a five-time Lucas Oil Dirt Series champion.  

“I’m thrilled to be joining Bobby Labonte Racing,” said Neat. “They have top-notch equipment and great people working there – everything a driver looks for in an organization.  Bobby (Labonte) does everything first class.  I know that each time I get behind the wheel, I’ll be in a car capable of winning.

“Obviously, it will be great to have a teammate like Earl (Pearson, Jr.) on my side.  His experience and abilities will be a huge resource and a help to me as I grow as a driver.” 

With all the elements in place for a banner season, Neat looks to build on his impressive resume in 2010.