December 13, 2024

Indianapolis, IN – An important and impactful award, made in memory of the late Jeff Sandlin, is on full display at the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show this week in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Jeff Sandlin Legacy Award was formed to raise awareness on the impact vendors have on the sport, and it was rightfully presented to Chris Weiss of Five Star Bodies, another prominent vendor in the scene.

The award was constructed following the passing of Strange Oval’s Jeff Sandlin, and was presented to Weiss as part of Snowball Derby festivities last week in Pensacola, Florida.

Sandlin wasn’t a stereotypical vendor, as he was a well-known and beloved figure in the short track atmosphere. Sandlin’s warm personality and eagerness to help racers make this award an impactful one for Wiess to win.

“It’s extremely special,” said Wiess. “We’re standing here at PRI, just look at how many vendors there are and how many people could have won it. I’m very humbled.”

“There’s been quite a few people that came by and congratulated me and said how neat it is that there’s an award for the industry vendors now.”

The added storyline of Kaden Honeycutt’s Snowball Derby win also made the award special for Wiess, as Sandlin’s deep ties to Larry Blount and Jett Motorsports add some unique history to this year’s particular rendition of the award.

Wiess also went on to reiterate how crucial it is that vendors get some recognition for their contributions to racing.

“People just need to realize that us vendors, when we’re [at the track], we’re taking time away from our families. And with everything we have to do at home to support them, I just hope this continues to grow.”

For 2024 PRI Trade Show attendees, the Jeff Sandlin Legacy Award can be found at the Five Star Bodies booth (no. 2425) for the duration of the weekend.

---

Cover photo: Reid Scott