A New Chapter for Chase Briscoe: Embracing Change and Challenge
In the world of NASCAR, the dynamic between a driver and their crew chief plays a crucial role in achieving success on the track. For Chase Briscoe, his recent transition to Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and the introduction of crew chief James Small represents not just a new team, but also substantial personal growth. This partnership is already shaping up to be one filled with promise—both in terms of performance and lifestyle changes.
The Lunch That Spurred Change
It all began at a simple lunch shortly after Briscoe officially joined JGR in June. The conversation that took place during that meal was anything but ordinary. Briscoe recalls, “I think James and I went to lunch, and he ordered this super-healthy bowl, and I ordered this fried stuff.” It was in this moment that Briscoe realized working with Small would require a significant shift in his habits. Smiling, he added, “He was like, ‘That’s going to change.’”
This candid exchange set the tone for what would become a transformative relationship. Small, who comes from Australia, brings with him a passion not only for racing but also for fitness—a value that he was keen to instill in his new driver.
All-in on Fitness and Nutrition
In any team sport, the physical condition of an athlete can greatly impact performance. Small’s commitment to fitness and healthy living was clear from the start. “James is super into fitness; he and his wife are diehard,” Briscoe said. With racing requiring split-second decisions and intense concentration, a driver’s physical health directly influences their ability to perform at peak levels.
Small’s approach wasn’t just about fitness; it extended into nutrition as well. Briscoe candidly admitted that his eating habits were far from ideal. “I truthfully don’t ever eat fruits or vegetables. I eat all fried food, and I don’t work out.” This laid the groundwork for Small’s mission: a complete overhaul of Briscoe’s lifestyle. “If I’m putting 100% on my end, I want to know that you’re 100% bought in, too,” Small emphasized during their discussions.
A Team Approach: Trainer and Nutritionist
The solution to this new regimen came in the form of a unique arrangement—Small’s wife, Kat Sims, stepped in as Briscoe’s trainer and nutritionist. This addition created a cohesive unit that would not only focus on Briscoe’s performance but also ensure that he was held accountable. Briscoe noted the advantages of this setup, saying, “It’s been good for me, truthfully, to have his wife do it because it holds me way more accountable.”
The challenge lay in the accountability factor. With Kat both training and nutritional planning for Briscoe, any slip-ups in his regimen were readily apparent to Small. This immediate feedback loop kept Briscoe focused and motivated. “If I don’t do it, he instantly knows,” he said, acknowledging the importance of maintaining high standards.
Progress and Setbacks
Every journey has its challenges, and Briscoe’s path to improved fitness is no exception. “I’d be lying if I said I was perfect at it. I could do way, way better,” he admitted. After initially losing almost ten pounds in a few weeks, he hit a plateau that can be frustrating for any athlete. However, Briscoe understands the long-term benefits of this new lifestyle adjustment, recognizing that it’s about more than just numbers on a scale.
The transformation is going well for Briscoe, who noted, “That’s just such a big part of [Small’s] life that he wanted me to be the same.” This shared commitment to health and performance is just one of the ways Briscoe and Small are building strong foundations for their partnership.
A Historic Beginning
Their partnership started off with a bang at the Dayton 500, where Briscoe and Small collaborated to secure the pole position for the iconic race. This achievement marked several milestones: it was the first pole for both Briscoe and Small in the Daytona 500, as well as a significant achievement for Toyota and Joe Gibbs Racing, which hadn’t claimed a pole in this event since 1998.
This early success is emblematic of what is to come for Briscoe as he navigates his first full season with JGR. It represents a commitment to excellence and an unwavering determination to make the most of this opportunity. Engaging with new practices, both in fitness and racing strategy, demonstrates his readiness to take full advantage of this pivotal moment in his career. Each race will serve as a test of his physical condition and his ability to work harmoniously with Small.
