While most teenagers are just learning to drive, rising Enka High School sophomore Hudson Canipe is already competing- and winning- against experienced adult drivers in the Carolina Pro Late Model Series.

Hudson began practicing at age 6 and started racing competitively at 8, quickly showing a natural talent behind the wheel. By age 10, he had captured the U.S. Legends INEX Bandolero National Championship after winning 20 of 28 races, along with championships at Charlotte Motor Speedway and Atlanta Motor Speedway.

“He won about his third race, and it just progressed from there,” said Hudson’s father, Michael. “You’ve got to be 100 percent focused. That’s a talent you can’t teach. Your mind has to process everything that’s happening at those speeds. He’s always had a talent for it.”

Now 15, Hudson races full-bodied stock cars capable of topping 130 mph while balancing the demands of high school and varsity basketball. His family maintains and prepares the race car themselves, making racing a true team effort. After taking time to focus on basketball over the past two years, Hudson has returned to competition in 2026 with two victories in the Carolina Pro Late Model Series and a fourth-place finish in the Super Truck Series.

“I enjoy driving cars and just driving anything, really,” Hudson said. “I have fun doing it, and it’s fun to have success in it. To know you’re good, you can be fast, and be up front, that’s really why I do it.”

Hudson says success on the track comes from intense focus, quick decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Racing remains a dream for the future, though he’s also focused on academics and keeping his options open.

His next race is Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Hickory Motor Speedway.