Derek Gleeson has always loved racing. Ever since he was a kid, he would watch his favorite drivers compete in Formula 1, NASCAR, and IndyCar. He dreamed of one day becoming a professional racer himself, but he knew it was not an easy or cheap path to follow.
That’s why he turned to Sim racing, a form of motorsport that uses realistic computer simulations to emulate real-world racing. Sim racing allows anyone with a computer, a steering wheel, and pedals to race against other drivers from all over the world, without the risk or expense of driving a real car.
“I think Sim racing is the best way to learn and improve your skills as a racer,” Gleeson said. “You can practice anytime, anywhere, and with any car or track you want. You can also get feedback from other drivers and coaches who can help you get faster and more consistent.”
Gleeson started Sim Racing when he was 15 years old, using applications such as Iracing.com and Assetto Corsa. He quickly became addicted to the thrill and challenge of virtual racing and joined several online leagues and communities in San Diego where he met other Sim racers who shared his passion.
He also invested in upgrading his equipment, buying a more powerful computer, a larger monitor, a better steering wheel and pedals, and even a motion simulator that mimics the forces and sensations of driving a real car.
“I wanted to make my Sim racing experience as realistic and immersive as possible,” Derek Gleeson said. “I think it makes a big difference in how you perform and how much you enjoy it.”
Gleeson’s dedication and talent paid off when he got the opportunity to participate in a local road racing event at Willow Springs International Raceway, just miles from San Diego. He entered the event as part of a Sim racing team that was sponsored by a local car dealership from San Diego.
He drove a Mazda MX-5 Miata, a popular car among amateur racers for its affordability and reliability. He competed against 20 other drivers in his class, some of whom had years of experience in real-world racing.
Gleeson surprised everyone by finishing 5th in his first-ever road race. He was only 0.5 seconds behind the 4th place finisher, and ahead of several veteran drivers.
“It was an amazing feeling to race on a real track with real cars,” Gleeson said. “It was very different from Sim racing, but I think my Sim racing skills helped me a lot. I was able to adapt quickly to the car and the track, and I felt confident and comfortable behind the wheel.”
Derek Gleeson attributed his success to his Sim racing background, which he said gave him an edge over some of his competitors.
“I think Sim racing is the future of motorsport,” Gleeson said. “It’s more accessible, more affordable, and more fun than traditional racing. It also prepares you for the real thing, if you ever get the chance to do it.”
Gleeson hopes to get more chances to race on real tracks in the future. He is looking to build a local racing team with other Sim racers who are based in San Diego. He wants to support and mentor young racers who are interested in pursuing their dreams of becoming professional racers, especially local racers from San Diego
“San Diego is a hotbed for up-and-coming young racers,” Gleeson said. “There are so many talented Sim racers here who deserve a chance to show what they can do on real tracks. I want to help them achieve their goals and have fun along the way.”
Gleeson’s story is an inspiration for anyone who loves racing, whether it’s virtual or real. He proves that with passion, dedication, and hard work, anything is possible.
“I’m just a guy who loves racing,” Derek Gleeson said. “I don’t care if it’s on a computer or on a track. I just want to go fast and have fun.”
Media Contact
Company Name: Gleeson Racing
Contact Person: Derek Gleeson
Email: Send Email
Address:600 W Broadway
City: San Diego
State: CA
Country: United States
Website: https://www.willowspringsraceway.com/