RPW Exclusive: The Story Of Mike Jackson’s Legacy Gets Another Chapter Friday At Outlaw Speedway

Column By: BOBBY CHALMERS / RPW – CAMPBELL, NY – Never underestimate anyone who has a goal.

If they want to achieve it bad enough, they’ll find a way.

That’s exactly what Campbell, NY’s Hannah Jackson has been doing to honor her father. This year, she’s going all out.

After Jackson, a former racer and promoter of Outlaw Speedway (back in 2015 when it was known as Black Rock Speedway), passed away in 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer, his daughter felt a need. That need was to never let anyone forget what type of man “Rooster” was.

Correction…that need was to never let a single person forget how amazing of a man her “father” was.

So, she went to work, and the Mike Jackson Memorial night at the Dundee, NY track became reality.

Now, for its fifth annual event on April 18th, Jackson is pulling out all the stops. The main event for the American Racer Sportsman will pay $2,219 to the winner with over $1,000 for second.

In fact, she’s been able to secure over $15,000 for the payout, lap money and added bonuses.

As I said before, never underestimate anyone when they have a goal they wish to achieve. Hannah has that drive, and it shows.

“My father was the hardest-working man I ever knew,” Jackson said. “When it came to racing, he would do anything to make sure he was on the track for any race he could get to. He had that kind of drive and determination which was awesome to see.”

Jackson also got to see the true type of person her father was, the tough-as-nails competitor, but also the guy with a heart of gold.

“He would give anyone a helping hand that needed it,” she said. “He didn’t care who it was. You need help, he was there. On the other hand, though, he had no problem telling anyone when they’d made a dumbass mistake. Even when he’d greet you with his middle finger, that’s how you knew he liked you.”

The type of person Rooster was is why Hannah’s been working so hard to build this race into something special at Outlaw. This year, in addition to the massive race purse, there will be a revenge draw, giveaways (including a set of headers from Joe Beyea), heat race and last chance bonuses and lots of other awards. There’s one for the Hard Charger and even the Mike Jackson Legacy Award.

Jackson left a legacy, indeed.

“My dad was something special,” she said. “Only his love for his family was ahead of racing. Every time he got behind the wheel, you could see the enjoyment and excitement in his eyes, or in his smile. He made this sport larger than life for all of us.”

This coming Friday night, April 18th, Jackson will present the fifth annual event in her father’s honor. She’s put a lot into this as well as many who have helped her along the way.

“I am extremely grateful to EVERYONE that has stepped up to help make this event possible,” she said.  “Every single person that’s come on board to help our family honor my dad is the best.  I will forever be grateful for their help, their love and their support in making this race a reality each year.”

However, the work is not done.

The family is still looking for partners for a few things they have in mind for the event. Anyone interested should email Hannah at hannahlynn0817@gmail.com.

So, head out to Outlaw Speedway this Friday and enjoy a night honoring “Rooster.” It will be an event you don’t want to miss!