Denton Native Chase Gerer Shifts Gears to Professional Racing Career

For Chase Gerer, the thrill of racing is more than just a hobby – it's a lifelong passion that has propelled him from the grandstands to the driver's seat. Growing up in Denton, Montana, Gerer would often watch BGM racing at the Central Montana Fairgrounds, dreaming of the day he could sit behind the wheel of his own car. That dream became a reality at the age of 15, when Gerer began his BGM racing career at the Fairgrounds in Lewistown.

Gerer's introduction to racing was humble, to say the least. He purchased a 1977 Chevy Caprice for $1,000, which he and his dad lovingly restored into a racing vehicle. Over the course of 11 years, Gerer honed his skills, racking up an impressive array of accolades, including the 2023 BGM championship, 10 A-Main wins, and 26 A-Main podiums. His dedication and perseverance ultimately led to the retirement of his trusty chassis, numbered '24,' in 2023.

Fast-forward to 2026, and Gerer has shifted gears, competing at the professional level in the Amsoil Championship Off-Road Series. The transition has been nothing short of remarkable, with Gerer recently securing his first pro-level podium at Elk River, Minnesota, on the weekend of July 11 and 12. When asked about this achievement, Gerer exclaimed, 'This was 14 years in the making. I love to do it because it makes all the community that helped me pursue this proud, but I never thought I would get to this point in my racing career.'

For Gerer, the rush of speed and adrenaline is undeniable. 'Who doesn't like to go 90 mph over jumps?' he quips. 'It is definitely the most fun you can have on four wheels.' As he navigates the demands of professional racing, Gerer is keenly aware of the sacrifices involved. Despite his passion for the sport, he acknowledges that racing cannot be a full-time career, given the financial constraints. To make ends meet, Gerer works as a strategic planning advisor at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota.

Gerer's next challenge lies ahead, with the Polaris World Championships scheduled for Labor Day weekend in Crandon, Wisconsin. This highly anticipated event, often referred to as the 'Super Bowl' of short-course off-road racing, promises to be an exhilarating experience for both drivers and spectators alike. As Gerer prepares to face off against the best in the sport, he remains focused on his goals, driven by an unrelenting passion for racing and a deep appreciation for the community that has supported him every step of the way.

The world of off-road racing is a complex and captivating one, filled with high-speed action, treacherous terrain, and a community of dedicated enthusiasts. As Gerer continues to make his mark on the professional circuit, his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams. With his sights set on the future, Gerer is poised to take the racing world by storm, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps and experience the thrill of the ride for themselves.

The history of off-road racing is steeped in tradition, with its roots dating back to the early 20th century. Over the years, the sport has evolved significantly, with advances in technology, safety features, and course design. Today, off-road racing encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from desert racing to short-course racing, each with its unique challenges and requirements. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it's likely that we'll see even more talented drivers like Gerer emerge, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and redefining the limits of speed and agility.