From Pit Lane to Purpose: How VETMotorsports (Peter Cline) is Rewiring the Veteran Experience Through Racing

Tonight Break/Fix is honored to feature Peter Cline, the Executive Director and Founder of VETMotorsports, discussing the nonprofit’s mission of engaging veterans in motorsports as a form of non-clinical therapy. Pete shares his personal journey from racing motorcycles to founding VETMotorsports in 2013, aiming to offer veterans a sense of camaraderie, purpose, and adrenaline that they might miss after military service. The organization involves veterans in pit crew roles and behind-the-wheel experiences, providing a pathway for those interested in motorsports as a vocation. The discussion also addresses the practicalities of working with the veteran community, the importance of trust, and the need for more structured pathways into motorsports careers. Pete highlights the role of donations and volunteer efforts in sustaining the nonprofit and the various ways people can get involved. Finally, the conversation touches on the mental health benefits of motorsports and the importance of seeking help for those struggling with suicidal thoughts, emphasizing that motorsports can offer a therapeutic outlet. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 Meet Peter Cline and Vet Motorsports 01:13 Peter's Racing Journey and Injuries 02:30 Inspiration Behind Vet Motorsports 05:27 First Professional Race and Fundraising 06:55 Challenges and Growth of Vet Motorsports 09:58 Pike's Peak Experience with Ducati 14:03 Connecting Veterans with Motorsports 21:13 Programs Offered by Vet Motorsports 24:10 Land Speed Record and Pit Crew Opportunities 24:46 Autocross Events and SCCA Foundation Support 25:50 Hand Control Car and Racing Licenses 26:16 Paths for Veterans: Pit Crew and Behind the Wheel 27:13 Volunteer Opportunities and Street Team 28:39 Getting Involved with Vet Motorsports 30:33 National Events and Partnerships 36:47 Motorsports as a Vocation for Veterans 40:33 Mental Health and Support Resources 43:46 Thank You and Acknowledgements 46:29 Conclusion and Contact Information ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/ Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/