As the NASCAR Canada Series returns to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP) for the season-opening Clarington 200 on May 17 and 18, Gary Klutt is one of the drivers who carries a deep connection to this track.
Driving the #59 Dodge, Klutt is no stranger to CTMP. It was here, a decade ago, during his first full season, that he had a perfect debut in the 2015 season opener by securing pole position and following it up with a race win. That weekend would go on to define a breakout year, earning him 5th overall in the standings and the title of Jostens Rookie of the Year. In 2024, he once again started strong with a pole at CTMP.
As Gary Klutt gears up for the 2025 season, there’s a new dimension to his role in the series: in addition to racing, he’ll serve as a TV analyst for REV TV, bringing a driver’s insight to fans across Canada.
A Racing Journey Rooted in Family
Growing up in Halton Hills, Ontario, motorsport was part of Gary’s DNA. After attending a Grand Prix as a young child, his dad asked him if he’d like to try go-kart racing. It didn’t take long for the six-year-old to say yes and start racing on the weekends. Now, they’re at the track as a family, with Peter Klutt, his dad, and younger brother, Ryan Klutt, all competing in NASCAR Canada.
He considers himself very fortunate to be part of a racing family. “To have a shop in the backyard and to be able to work and wander to the race car on any given day keeps racing always in the forefront of my mind” stated Gary. “And to be able to race with my brother and my dad? That’s pretty cool.”
His father’s advice also left a lasting mark: the importance of being well-rounded. “You can be the fastest guy and never race without sponsorship, or great at finding sponsorship but slow. You have to be able to win and be happy but also to lose and be happy. That’s what leads to a good life.”
Smooth and Focused
Describing his driving style as smooth, he approaches every race weekend with a blend of mental and physical preparation. He focuses on quality sleep and visualization. While superstition once played a role in his pre-race routine, these days he prefers calm over ritual and has learned to stay patient.
His goals for 2025 are clear: to win all four races he’ll be competing in. He’ll be racing at four road courses, both CTMP events, Calabogie, and the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières.
From Track to TV
This season, Gary Klutt takes on an exciting new challenge as he wears two hats: race car driver and broadcast analyst for REV TV. Having hosted a podcast before, he’s already developed a sharp eye for the broader racing landscape.
“The podcast really helped me practice the preparation side, building a storyline in your head and doing your homework,” explained Klutt. “That’s the approach I’ll bring to the broadcasts. “I want to bring the audience something meaningful and insightful.”
Looking Ahead
Gary Klutt returns this season with a high level of excitement around both racing and broadcasting. His mindset is set on winning, but also on helping bring the series to another level.
“There’s a great level of excitement around the series right now,” he says. “It’s the top tier of racing in Canada, and the group of drivers is seriously competitive.”