By Sophia Martinez, Social Media Manager at Cody Rose Racing
At Cody Rose Racing, we believe that every successful race begins with a blend of passion, expertise, and teamwork. Our crew chief, Maxwell “Max” Harper, embodies these qualities and more. We sat down with Max to give our fans a closer look at the genius behind our race strategies and the heart of our pit crew.
Sophia Martinez: Max, thank you for taking the time to chat with us. Let’s start from the beginning. Can you share a bit about your background and how you got into racing?
Max Harper: Absolutely, Sophia. I grew up in Daytona Beach, Florida, where racing is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. My dad was a professional race car driver, so I spent a lot of my childhood at the Daytona International Speedway. Watching him race and being around the track sparked my interest in the mechanical and strategic aspects of racing. I pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Florida, but my heart was always set on the racing world.
Sophia Martinez: That’s incredible! How did you transition from being a fan and a student to becoming a crew chief?
Max Harper: After college, I started as a data analyst for a mid-tier racing team. It was a perfect fit because I love diving into data and figuring out how to optimize performance. My ability to translate data into actionable strategies caught the attention of the team, and I was quickly promoted to crew chief. It’s been a whirlwind journey, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Sophia Martinez: Your technical expertise is well-known, particularly your skills in car setup and data analysis. Can you tell us more about how you approach these aspects of your role?
Max Harper: Sure thing. Car setup is like solving a complex puzzle. Each track has its own characteristics, and weather conditions can change everything. I focus on adjusting the car to maximize its performance for those specific nuances. Data analysis plays a huge role in this. We gather telemetry and race data, and I analyze it to pinpoint areas for improvement. It’s all about making informed decisions that can give us the edge on race day.
Sophia Martinez: Speaking of race day, you’re also known for your in-race decision-making and pre-race planning. How do you prepare for and handle the high-stakes environment during a race?
Max Harper: Preparation is key. Before a race, I construct detailed plans that account for various scenarios—everything from weather changes to potential mechanical issues. During the race, it’s about staying calm and making split-second decisions. Whether it’s adjusting our pit stop strategy or changing tires based on track conditions, every decision can impact the outcome. I thrive in that high-pressure environment and try to keep the team focused and coordinated.
Sophia Martinez: Your leadership and communication skills are highly regarded. How do you keep the team motivated and ensure effective communication?
Max Harper: Motivation comes from fostering a sense of unity and purpose. I make sure everyone knows their role and how crucial they are to our success. Clear communication is essential, especially when conveying complex strategies. I break things down so everyone understands, which helps us stay on the same page and execute our plans effectively.
Sophia Martinez: You’ve worked with some high-profile drivers in the past. How do you manage the expectations and stress that come with elite racing environments?
Max Harper: Managing elite drivers is about building trust and respect. They need to know that I have their best interests at heart and that my strategies are backed by solid data and experience. It’s a high-stress environment, but I stay calm under pressure and adapt as needed. My goal is to create a supportive atmosphere where the driver can focus on what they do best—racing.
Sophia Martinez: Speaking of drivers, let’s talk about Cody Rose. How has your experience been working with him, and what can fans expect from the upcoming season?
Max Harper: Working with Cody has been fantastic. He’s a talented driver with a deep understanding of the car and a fierce competitive spirit. Our synergy is strong, which is crucial for making quick decisions during races. Fans can expect an exciting season as we compete in both the ARCA Menards Series and the ZMax Cars Tour Late Model Series. We’re bringing a lot of energy and innovation to the track, and we’re ready to give it our all.
Sophia Martinez: Lastly, what drives your dedication and passion for racing?
Max Harper: My dedication comes from a deep love for the sport. Racing is in my blood, and every race is an opportunity to push the limits and achieve excellence. My work ethic is driven by a relentless pursuit of improvement, not just for myself, but for the entire team. Seeing our hard work pay off on the track is incredibly rewarding.