In the United States there are a number of multi-generational racing families with the Petty family probably being the most recognizable and so it is with our south of the border neighbors. In sunny Mexico there is one family that has become just as synonymous with racing and NASCAR and that is the Contreras family.
First you have Enrique Contreras Sr. he was a premier Formula car and chassis builder for over 38 years. His son Enrique Contreras Jr. won 8 national titles in formula 2 and 3 on his way to 68 top level series victories. Next there is Enrique III's uncle Carlos Contreras the first Mexican driver to run in a national NASCAR Series, those being the Camping World Truck Series for Richard Petty and the Nationwide Series for Fitz-Bradshaw.
It has been apparent early on that the same family racing traditions are certainly at work in the 18 year old competitor. Enrique III started in go karts at the age of 5, then moved on to legends having great success. Next it was the NASCAR Mexico V-6 Stock Division where in his very first race “Kike” bested all other competitors in the season inaugural event at Aguascalientes a 7/8 mile oval reminiscent of Iowa Speedway. During the 2010 season Enrique raced in 5 NASCAR Corona Series races earning his certification for NASCAR Mexico's “Cup”. He finished 3rd in season V6 point standings.
With the 2011 season upon us Enrique III has announced his intention to be one of 10 declared candidates for NASCAR Mexico's “Novato de Ano” that is Rookie of the Year for us north of the border folks. The NASCAR Mexico Series is the fastest growing of all NASCAR Touring Series in North America. In addition to the 14 race Corona Series “Kike” will also compete at the famed Magic Valley Speedway Idaho in the Whelen All American Series for Veteran driver and now track promoter Eddy McKean. He also plans races in SRL and RMCS Super Late Models and the K&N Pro Series East/West in North Carolina, Colorado National, Irwindale and Roseville Ca. Currently Enrique III is a full time student and is involved with the development of his new NCS team and various Mexico City charities.
