Driver Information

Christopher Hartman returns to midget racing in 2026 not only as a driver but as a car owner, with a clear mission: prove experience still rules on the dirt. A lifelong Hoosier raised in Indiana's racing culture, Chris started go-karts at age 10 growing up in Rockville, IN, he collected many wins and the Indiana State Dirt Championships before stepping away from competition to pursue playing golf in college and focusing on education. After attending the Chili Bowl for many years with his father, John Hartman, the fire was relit in 2025 - at that time, he returned home and asked his wife if he could get back in a race car again for his 50th birthday. Jessica, his wife, said yes and has since been his biggest supporter. She travels to every event and makes sure the boys are fed. He secured a ride in February 2025 with Josh Hodge Racing to run a few NOS Energy National Midget series races. Recently, Chris and his wife returned to the midwest full-time.

In early 2025, he attended the Cory Kruseman 3-day Sprint Car School in Ventura, CA. After successfully competing in 8 national midget races in 2025, he attended his first indoor dirt track race in DeQuoin, IL to prepare for the 2026 Chili Bowl in Tulsa. Ultimately, he was able to transfer forward 3 times during Saturday's alphabet soup at the Chili Bowl.

This season, Chris will compete in POWERi, NOS Energy National, and the Midwest Thunder series alongside partner Josh Hodge and his son, Chase Hodge. Josh, Chris, and Chase have formed a team for 2026 and all three will race together this season under Josh Hodge Racing. Chris and Chase are pursuing Midwest Thunder Rookie of the Year in 2026. This old guy is determined to have fun, be safe, and run competitively throughout 2026 and beyond.