December 16, 2019 | By Lee Spencer

Kunz finalizes Super 8 lineup for Chili Bowl Nationals

Keith Kunz Motorsports has unveiled its Chili Bowl Nationals roster for 2020.

Doubtless there were a few surprises along the way. And although Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell have moved on to compete with their own teams, the organization will not lack for star power, particularly with Zeb Wise joining the effort.

Kunz appeared delighted to add Wise to the fold.

“To snag a kid like Zeb is huge for us,” Kunz said. “He’s been one of our biggest challenges over the past two years, so bringing him to the Chili Bowl on our side will be a game-changer.

“His talent is so obviously clear, I can’t wait to see how he performs in our equipment.”

The 17-year-old Angola, Indiana, native will pilot the No. 71 KKM midget at Tulsa Expo Raceway next month. Driving for Clauson-Marshall Racing, he won three USAC events in 2019 including the BC39 at the Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in September. He finished ninth in the B Feature 2 in his Chili Bowl debut.

“Keith and I have been in touch for the past few weeks while this deal has come together and I think we are both really excited,” Wise said. “It’s obviously a new ride for me. I’ve never ran with Keith before, but the whole world knows the KKM crew is one of the best.

“With me going sprint car racing next year and parting ways with Clauson-Marshall, this was a perfect opportunity to pounce on for Chili Bowl. I’d like to thank Richard, Jennifer, Tim, Rizzy and everyone at CMR for everything they’ve done for me. Hopefully, Keith and I can go out and have a successful run at such an iconic event.”

Kunz is going for his sixth-consecutive Golden Driller. Rico Abreu, who started the run with back-to-back titles in 2016 and 2017, returns to the team along with Tucker Klassmeyer and Holley Hollan. Cannon McIntosh, Presley Truesdon and Buddy Kofoid will also pilot midgets for KKM.

The company added the final piece of the puzzle on Sunday with the announcement of Tom Harris from Manchester, England, driving the No. 97K.

“We’re excited to have Tom with us for Chili Bowl,” Kunz said. “He definitely adds a unique touch to our group. This deal kind of came together last minute, but we’ve seen his speed in Tulsa before and I know he’ll be a threat in our equipment next month.”