2025 VMB SCHOLARSHIP NOMINEES
The VMB Driver Development Scholarships program, established in 2014, has successfully assisted numerous drivers in transitioning from karting to professional auto racing.
“We consistently receive a high volume of applications from a deeply talented pool of drivers,” stated a VMB representative. ‘This year’s applicant pool maintains this exceptional standard.”
Nine drivers were initially selected as semi-finalists, and seven are advancing to the final scholarship program. Jason Maples a 2024 finalist was invited again due to his karting achievements, but will not be participating this year. Maples is currently focusing on Micro 600 dirt track racing in 2025. Gabby Guidera, the 2022 Mini Rok Champion, is also temporarily stepping away from racing this season, with a planned return in 2026.
All nine semi-finalists are accomplished drivers with the potential for significant success as they transition to car racing throughout North America. The seven drivers who will vie for the 2025 VMB Scholarship are:
YASHOM KAPOOR
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Yashom Kapoor has been karting for a decade, beginning his competitive career in 2014 at Michiana Raceway Park in South Bend. After winning the championship there in 2015 and achieving a third-place finish in Yamaha cadet in 2016, he transitioned to racing at Route 66 and other Midwest series.
In 2019, following a move to California, Yashom progressed to junior karts at Prairie City, securing a third-place finish in his debut race.
This past season, he achieved second place in both the ROK Sonoma and Prairie City Spring Series Championships, accumulating four victories. Additionally, he secured a third-place finish at ROK Pacific, with notable second and third-place finishes across the weekend.
Currently pursuing Data Science at UC Berkeley, Yashom has developed a strong interest in the data analytics aspect of racing.
ERIK DOAN
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Erik Doan, a 14-year-old from Elk Grove, CA, is a rising star in kart racing. He began sim racing at 8 and transitioned to karting at 10. With SpeedSense Motorsports, Erik has achieved impressive results, including 6th at ROK Vegas, 2nd in the pre-main, and fastest lap in the main.
He consistently finishes in the top positions in major races like Challenge of the Americas and USPKS. Erik excels academically and is a dedicated athlete.
In 2025, he’ll compete in top-tier events, aiming to transition to car racing and a career in sportscar racing.
MAX ALTMAN
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Max Altman is a 16-year-old racing driver who began his competitive career in 2016 with electric indoor kart racing. He quickly progressed and transitioned to traditional karting in 2019, starting in the mini class. After two seasons in the mini class, he moved up to the junior class where he achieved significant success, including podium finishes and victories. In 2023, he advanced to national competition, securing his first national podiums and a national win.
Max’s impressive track record includes two championships, the Junior Driver of the Year award, and multiple hard charger awards. He is now focused on transitioning to car racing, aiming to build a successful professional racing career.
CASEY MOYER
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Casey Moyer, a 16-year-old from Brentwood, CA, has been racing karts since age 5. He’s competed nationally and internationally, including the 2019 ROK Cup SuperFinal in Italy.
With numerous podiums and championships, Casey transitioned to car racing at 14, earning his SCCA Competition License in 2024. He aims for a professional racing career.
Beyond racing, Casey is an honor student, a talented musician, and a varsity athlete.
Committed to giving back, he’s a Make-A-Wish ambassador and supports the PCA Juniors program.
DANE IDELSON
2025 VMB NOMINEE
16-year-old Dane Idelson is a rising star in motorsports, pursuing his Formula One dream. This California native began driving at four and racing at five, gaining invaluable experience.
He’s the 2022 LAKC Karting Champion, winning in his first year in the Senior’s Division with consistent podium finishes. This victory showcases his talent and competitive drive.
Dane’s potential is further recognized by his selection as a Richard Mille Young Talent Academy Finalist. He was also a finalist in the 2021 Lucas Oil Scholarship Shootout and the 2024 VMB Driver Development Scholarship. Featured on “No Days Off,” “Jay Leno’s Garage,” and X Games, his journey is gaining attention.
RIDGELEY WELSH
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Ridgeley Welsh, a karting driver with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), began racing at age 10. Despite the challenges of ASD, Ridgeley has turned his focus into a competitive advantage on the track, striving for professional racing success.
Beyond his competitive drive, Ridgeley is known for his excellent sportsmanship. He was recognized by his peers as the Senior 100cc driver with the most sportsmanship.
- 2024 All Star Karting Summer Series Champion – Senior 100cc
- 2024 ROK Sonoma Triple Crown Series Champion – Senior 100cc
- 2024 ROK Sonoma Season Champion – Senior 100cc
- 2024 NorCal Fan Pick – Senior Driver with Most Sportsmanship
ANTHONY WHITE
2025 VMB NOMINEE
Anthony White is a 15-year-old racing driver with seven seasons of experience. He has secured three championships, 20 wins, and 48 podium finishes.
Currently in his second year of high school, Anthony is competing in shifter karts and pursuing a career in car racing, ultimately aiming to become a Formula One driver.
Inspired by his father, a former professional racer, Anthony began his racing journey at age eight.
When not racing, he enjoys playing sports, spending time with family, and sim racing.
VMB Drivers have won countless races, and multiple championships since 2014 and have also been able to secure the following awards/scholarships via their VMB seasons:
- Invitations to the Mazda Road to 24 Shootout.
- Invitations to the Mazda Road to Indy Shootout
- Invitations to the Team USA Shootout
- Chosen as Team USA Scholarship Finalists
- Invitations to the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship
- Secured the Team USA Scholarship (William Ferguson)
- Secured the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship (Jaden Conwright)
- Secured the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship (Courtney Crone)
- Secured the Project Podium Scholarship (Courtney Crone)
- Secured the Gorsline Company Scholarship For Young Racers (Courtney Crone)
- Secured F1 Academy Ride (Courtney Crone)
SSI Partners with 2025 VMB Scholarship Selection Process
SSI is a karting school and race team with a top-of-the-line mobile racing simulator.
The SSI team will be providing simulation services and driver selection input for the program. More info about SSI…
VMB NOMINEES
There have been some VERY talented young drivers who have attended our shootout, and many have gone on to incredible success in motorsports. Here are links to those that have been selected each year.