Kelton Little knows how to pick a winner.
Standing on Evergreen Speedway’s frontstretch during the autograph session before Saturday’s races, the 11-year-old from Everett didn’t hesitate when asked who would win the mini-stock division feature race.
“Him, the red 01 car” Kelton said, pointing to former champion Mark Weedin, who was standing next to his car.
Kelton, who is battling cancer, was a guest of the speedway’s mini-stock division on Saturday. He was presented with a trophy and an autographed driver’s helmet, and Kelton also took a ride in the pace car.
After Weedin made good on his prediction, Kelton also got to climb to the top step of victory stage with the four-time winner.
“Kelton, you’re awesome,” Weedin said, holding his winner’s trophy. “This one is for you.”
He became interested in NASCAR and auto racing as a child after watching the movie “Days of Thunder.” Alanna and Richard Little said that Kelton would ask to watch it over and over, and he could quote lines from the movie.
Kelton’s favorite NASCAR driver is Dale Earnhardt Jr., and he was sporting a No. 88 National Guard hat on Saturday.
Kelton was made an honorary member of the Washington National Guard earlier this year, adding a special connection to Earnhardt, who counts the National Guard as one of his primary sponsors.
Asked if Earnhardt would win NASCAR Sprint Cup race in Sonoma, Kelton once again didn’t hesitate: “Yes.”
When it was pointed out that Earnhardt had never won on a road course before, Kelton’s reply was just as quick: “He will now.”
A Web site, www.keltonlittle.com, has been set up to give people a chance to learn more about Kelton, and make donations to help offset the cost of his treatment.
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