Many see college as the next step in life, not only to access more opportunities but also to gain a deeper understanding of a specific field. Ross Chastain came to FGCU to further support his family’s watermelon farming business, but ended up leaving with a seat in NASCAR.
Growing up in Alva, Florida, Chastain surrounded himself with his family’s watermelon farming business. At that time, racing was an afterthought, as he was focused on what would best help the farm. This drive led him to FGCU to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business to better prepare his family farm for the future.
However, after winning the Limited Late Model division Championship at New Smyrna Speedway in 2011, Chastain and his family discussed entering a one-race NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP)…