Born: December 14, 1979
Hometown: Russell Springs, Ky.
Residence: Thomasville, N.C.
For the last five years, Mark Hopper has guided Brad Neat’s efforts in dirt track competition. Now at Bobby Labonte Racing, the duo is ready to tackle their third full season of Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series racing. Hopper will rely on over 10 years of dirt racing experience as he establishes the No. 41 team as one of the sport’s top operations.
Hopper’s family introduced him to racing at age 17. His cousins competed in late model races at the local Kentucky dirt tracks, where Hopper was always on hand to help. Hopper learned the ropes quickly and was eager to join a full-time operation.
Hopper remained a part of the local dirt track scene throughout his teenage years. In 2005, he paired with Brad Neat as the crew chief of Neat’s family-owned team. The tandem raced at dirt tracks in the Kentucky area, as well as select national touring events.
Hopper and Neat raced their first full-season of Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series competition in 2009. Hopper led Neat to a seventh-place finish in the championship standings, including two wins.
In 2010, Bobby Labonte Racing added a second car to its organization and recruited Neat and Hopper for the team. The tandem had a solid season including another win on the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series. They finished 12th in championship points and are looking for a better finish in 2011.