by Zach Hiser MARCNews.org
Fishers, Indiana – There’s something about Purdue University and racing that seems to just go hand-in-hand. Of course, when motorsports fans think about the college in northwest Indiana, they think about 2008 Daytona 500 winner, Ryan Newman. Moving forward though, short track fans will be linking Purdue University to the Turn One CRA Pro Series Presented by Chevrolet Performance and Sam Johnson, the latest Mechanical Engineering student to pursue a degree from Purdue, and a career in auto racing.
Johnson’s first year in Template Late Model racing featured spot starts with the CRA Pro Series and at Berlin Raceway. His first start came with CRA at Anderson Speedway, a race in which Johnson started 8th and finished 8th. Then, again with CRA, Johnson earned the Hard Charger at Owosso Speedway during the Big O’ Classic 100, going from 17th to 7th. His final CRA start of the year came again at Owosso during the Masters of the Pros 200, where he again moved up from 19th to finish 15th.
In 2026, Johnson has eyes on a full campaign with the Turn One CRA Pro Series. Johnson’s team has signed on with the Platinum Program with CRA, solidifying their intentions to compete at all 10 races this season. Johnson says he’s looking for strong finishes and feels fortunate for the chance to race with Champion Racing Association.
“I know how lucky I am to be racing with CRA,” Johnson said. “Goals for this year include staying consistent to earn strong top finishes and hopefully that first win. [With] an amazing team behind me, the Vandoorn Racing Development team, Crew Chief Alan Edsall, and my family.”
The upcoming schedule for the Turn One CRA Pro Series has caught the eye of several drivers who are highly anticipating the start of the season. Johnson echoes their excitement.
“I’m especially excited to race at Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP),” Johnson said. “It’s a historical track close to home that I’ve never raced and have always aspired to race at one day. I’m also excited to see Berlin Raceway on the schedule. The challenge of this track can really define you as a driver.”
While focused on racing this summer, Johnson will also be working full-time as part of an engineering internship.
“As a full-time Purdue University Mechanical Engineering Student at West Lafayette, IN campus, I will also be working a full-time summer engineering internship while racing a full schedule,” Johnson explained. “It will be a very exciting and busy summer. I can’t wait to jump back into my car and get started.”
The 2026 season for the Turn One CRA Pro Series begins on Saturday, April 18, at Toledo Speedway for the House of Meats 100. Advanced tickets are available at ToledoSpeedway.com. For more information on the Turn One CRA Pro Series, visit CRA-Racing.com.