As we head into the 2024 off-road racing season, one name stands out among the champions – Bryan Crofts. A seasoned off-road racer with a career spanning over two decades, Crofts has not only tasted success but has etched his name in the books of off-road racing history.Image
The Rig
4th Gen Single Seat IFS Car
The Build
Motor: LS7 Tall Deck (Approx. 830HP)
Transmission: Higher Performance Turbo 400
Axles: Curries 9"
Lockers: ARB Air Lockers Front/Rear
20+ Years of Experience
With over two decades of experience in the automotive industry, Bryan Crofts is not just a racer; he's a seasoned professional. His journey began at the age of 18 in 2001, fresh out of high school. Since then, he has not only immersed himself in the world of off-road racing but also contributed to the industry's growth and development.
Crofts has worked with multiple automotive manufacturers and driver training companies. In 2006, he played a crucial role in Research & Development for Genright Off-road and ARB Authorized Dealer, Schaffer’s Off-road.
Beyond the Track
In a testament to his diverse skills and commitment, Bryan Crofts pursued a career in public safety. He joined the Fire Academy, earning a degree in Fire Science and acquiring certificates for EMT, Hazmat Tech, and Heavy Equipment Operator.
For nine years, he served as a Deputy Sheriff and Jail Training Officer in San Francisco, CA, showcasing his dedication to public service.
Although his path into off-road racing may seem unorthodox, his experience has undoubtedly played a significant role in the longevity of his off-road career.
Racing Across Disciplines
Bryan Crofts is not confined to one type of racing. Throughout his career, he has competed in a wide variety of on and off-road racing categories, including BMW’s, dirt bikes, Class 11, UTV’s, Class 1, 4500 Cars, and 4400 Cars. His versatility and skill have allowed him to create lasting friendships and achieve podium finishes across different racing disciplines.
Triumphs of the 2023 Season
The 2023 season was undoubtedly a triumph for Bryan Crofts. His relentless dedication and hard work paid off with multiple podium finishes. To cap off an already stellar year, he secured the Ultra4 USA West Coast Championship, the Ultra4 USA National Championship, and clinched a remarkable 1st place finish with Ford Performance in the Mid Stock class at the 56th Score International Baja 1000. The success of 2023 sets the stage for an exciting 2024 season, as Crofts looks to carry the momentum forward.
Bryan Crofts, his wife and their daughter call Queen Creek, AZ home. Married to fellow off-road racer Bailey Campbell, the couple shares a passion for the thrill of off-road racing. Their partnership both on and off the track adds a unique dynamic to the off-road racing community. Despite his roots in Arizona, he traverses both the East and West coasts for Ultra4 Racing, Baja 1000, Ride & Drives, and any other exciting opportunities that find their way into his schedule. You may even spot him on a trail near you in his heavily modified Jeep Wrangler LJ or on the street in his stunning yellow 1977 Chevy C-10.
In conclusion, Bryan Crofts is not just an off-road racer; he's a multifaceted individual whose passion for racing is matched only by his commitment to family, public service, and the automotive industry. As the off-road community eagerly anticipates the 2024 season, Bryan Crofts remains a name to watch.
Other profiles
Up Next:
Levi Shirley
Levi Shirley, a Western Kansas native, has etched his name into the history books of off-road racing. From the early days of circle track racing to dominating the off-road scene, Levi's journey may be unorthodox but it is nothing short of extraordinary.
Up Next:
Jason Scherer
With over two decades of racing experience under his belt and three Ultra4 King of the Hammers trophies on his shelf, few names resonate as strongly as Jason Scherer.
Up Next:
Brad Lovell
If you're a fan of off-road racing, you've undoubtedly heard the name of the Hall of Fame off-road racer, Brad Lovell. Growing up surrounded by the rugged landscapes of Colorado, he developed a keen sense of adventure from a young age. Today, you can find him racing alongside his son, Byam, on the Ford Performance Racing Team.
Up Next:
Ernesto & Taisa
Go to college, get a job, save money, quit that job, go travel… for modern-day adventure seekers, it’s the new life plan. Ernesto and Taisa met in Venezuela, finished up school, and built successful careers; but everyday life felt lacking.
Up Next:
Scott Brady
At the heart of overland adventure is the gravitational pull of the unknown. Those who feel it, thrive in the bumpy, dusty pursuit of one unexplored route that leads to another, and another. His impressive 4×4 resume of conquered continents, polar extremes, and circumnavigations would suggest that Scott Brady has done it all; seen it all. But he’d swiftly disagree.
Up Next:
Doug Pettis
It all started with a Jeep – for American off-roading and Doug Pettis. The machines gifted from the Greatest Generation have allowed subsequent tinkerers to leave their mark before passing them on down the line. For Doug it was all about performance, pushing the limit, finding tougher terrain. What makes his story special though, is that this Jeeper ended up President of ARB North America. Yes, he finally bought a fridge freezer.
Up Next:
Kurt Williams
In 1995 a group of Land Cruisers amble across Moab terrain and unknowingly spark a fire within a young boy scout. Watching from behind mountain bike handlebars, he would soon learn to drive and chasing his passion for this legendary machine would take him across Baja finish lines and five continents before the age of 40.
Up Next:
Jim Oostdyk
We’re standing in a unique place at a unique time. American off-roading is a young adult, overlanding a teenager and those who swaddled and cradled them still walk among us. Interest in 4×4 is booming and, while we keep eyes on the road ahead, we pause now to recognize those who cut the trail.
Up Next:
Bailey Cole
In the adrenaline-fueled world of off-road racing, one name that resonates with power, precision, and passion is Bailey Cole. At just 25 years old, Cole has carved a remarkable path through the challenging terrains of rock racing, desert racing, and rock crawling, leaving a trail of victories and podium finishes in his wake.
Up Next:
Loren Healy
In the high-octane world of off-road racing, one name stands out as a true legend—Loren Healy. Hailing from Farmington, New Mexico, Healy has not only left an indelible mark on the off-road racing scene but has also earned the title of "the winningest driver of all time in the Ultra4 Series."
Up Next:
Shannon Campbell
In the heart of the off-road racing community, the name Shannon Campbell roars. Beyond his reputation as a skilled racer, Campbell is a family man whose passion for off-road adventure has transcended generations. Described by those who know him as the nicest guy you'll ever meet, Shannon Campbell possesses an uncanny ability to transform from a polite, humble individual into a fearless off-road warrior the moment he takes the wheel.
Up Next:
Wayland Campbell
Wayland Campbell stands out as a true maverick in the demanding world of off-road racing. Growing up surrounded by the roar of engines and the dust of off-road trails, Wayland inherited a legacy of racing, some will say it's embedded into his DNA. Born into a family deeply entrenched in off-road racing, Wayland is the son of legendary racer Shannon Campbell and brother to fellow off-road racer Bailey Campbell. Every season, you can rely on this trio fiercely competing for the coveted number one spot.
Up Next:
Bailey Campbell
Bailey Campbell is a pioneer in the off-road community, setting the standard as not only the first woman to compete in the 4400 Ultra4 King of the Hammers but also the first to finish in the Top 5. As the daughter of the legendary racer Shannon Campbell, and brother to Wayland Campbell, off-road racing is deeply embedded in her family's DNA. Her family's racing lineage serves as the bedrock of her racing journey, fueling her determination to push the limits and etch her name alongside the greats.