A Local Encounter with a Rising Star
The quiet town of Newtown, Connecticut, became the backdrop for an unexpected gathering of racing enthusiasts on June 28, as Teddy Hodgdon, a 23‑year‑old competitor in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, arrived to meet supporters outside the RE/MAX Right Choice office on South Main Street.
The event, organized by sponsors The Landau Team and RE/MAX Right Choice and catered by Full Bloom Catering, offered fans a rare opportunity to meet Hodgdon, his family, and the crew behind his bright white and orange NASCAR‑modified Fury. Attendees lined up for autographs, exchanged stories, and snapped photos with the car that has become a familiar sight on the tour’s support races.
Hodgdon’s love for speed traces back to age seven, when he first stepped onto a local track under the watchful eyes of his father, Ted Hodgdon, a former competitor who inspired his son’s passion. His mother, Kathy Hodgdon, grew up amid the roar of Daytona Beach events, further embedding racing culture into the family’s daily life.
During the Newtown visit, Hodgdon reflected on his rapid ascent, from capturing the Legends Cars Semi‑Pro World Championship and the SK Light title at Stafford in 2019 to earning a podium finish at the World Series at New Smyrna Speedway. He also discussed his recent debut on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and his current standing as a contender for the series’ Rookie of the Year award.
Beyond the track, Hodgdon emphasized the collaborative nature of racing, noting the dedicated roles of his mechanic, tire specialist, and setup engineer. He described late‑night sessions in the shop with his father, where mechanical tweaks and public‑speaking practice intertwine, forging both technical skill and confidence.
The driver’s family has made considerable sacrifices to fund his career, a fact he acknowledges when offering advice to aspiring athletes: take your dreams seriously, because the next opportunity may arrive when least expected. His message resonated with the crowd, many of whom left inspired by his blend of humility and determination.
Looking Ahead
As the event drew to a close, Hodgdon expressed gratitude toward the local community, the Landau Team, and RE/MAX Right Choice for their support. He hinted at upcoming races, promising more time on the track and continued efforts to refine his craft, all while maintaining the close bond with his family that has shaped his journey.