Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By David Swarts

Veteran road racer Tom Kipp has begun training with Motor Racing Outreach to become a chaplain for the 2003 Formula USA National Road Race Series season.

“It’s good practical experience preparing for full-time ministry,” said Kipp Friday at the Formula USA NRRS event at Portland International Raceway, his first race event serving as a chaplain. “I’m in my second year working toward my Bible and Theology degree and I eventually hope to be a full-time minister. I guess you could say I’m in the middle of a 3-5 year transition from full-time racer to full-time minister.

“It’s odd in some respect, after 20 years at the track as a racer, coming to the track with the specific reason to win races. Those feeling are deep, but it’s good because I can relate to everyone in the paddock.”

Currently training with Tim Griffin, West Coast Regional Director of the MRO, Kipp said he hoped the 2003 schedules of Formula USA and the AMA Superbike series do not conflict much. (The two series had no conflicting dates in 2002.) Although his racing plans for 2003 are not set, Kipp said he plans to race with the AMA while serving as chaplain for F-USA.

“I definitely want to ride. I’m stronger than ever, I’m healthy, my heart is still in it and I feel I can still win races,” said Kipp.