Off-Road Racer Podcast Episode 76: Trey Gibbs
Dual Threat — Short Course to Desert and Everything in Between
The Next Generation Has Arrived
On this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with Trey Gibbs, a driver who embodies the next wave of off-road talent. At just 22 years old, he’s already proven himself across short course and desert racing, with the kind of speed, adaptability, and media awareness that makes him a standout in today’s evolving racing landscape.
What started as a fun project with his dad quickly turned into something much bigger — a full-fledged career that’s still just getting started.
Humble Beginnings to Winning Championships
Trey didn’t come from a polished racing program or factory team — he came from weekends spent in the pits, soaking it all in and eventually convincing his dad to let him race. After printing out a pitch packet at 11 years old, Trey was off to the races (literally), with his first event ending in a spectacular barrel roll and a whole lot of learning.
From there, it was a steep climb through the ranks of the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series, going from rookie of the year to second in points to short course champion — all before the age of 20.
Short Course Instincts, Desert Lessons
Now, Trey is actively bridging the gap between short course and desert — a rare and challenging move that not many young drivers pull off. He shares what it’s been like to adjust his mindset from the aggressive, high-intensity style of short course to the calculated, brutal pacing required in long-format desert races.
His story at the Baja 400 says it all: qualifying P1 in a field stacked with desert veterans, only to DNF on race day after nerves and inexperience caught up to him. It wasn’t the finish he wanted, but the lesson was loud and clear — in desert racing, pressure and patience go hand in hand.
The Modern Racer
Trey also opens up about the reality of being a modern off-road athlete. It’s no longer just about being fast — it’s about being visible. Building a brand, managing social media, telling your story… it’s all part of the job now. And Trey isn’t shying away from it.
He talks about the importance of content, why he’s putting more energy into his personal media presence, and how it plays a role in the longevity of a racing career. Like many racers from this new generation, he understands that eyeballs matter — and he’s figuring out how to earn them without losing focus on what happens behind the wheel.
What Comes Next
Trey Gibbs is part of a new class of racers pushing this sport forward — names like Christopher Polvoorde, Jack Olliges, and others that are redefining what it means to come up through the ranks. They’re fast, polished, and just as comfortable on camera as they are in the cockpit.
This episode is about more than race results — it’s about mindset, growth, and learning what it takes to build something real. Whether you’re a racer, a builder, or just a fan of the sport, this conversation is a glimpse into the future of off-road.