Philip Keller Takes His #9 Race Car To Westside School

On Tuesday, March 15, the first graders in Mrs. Topp's class got an exciting end to their school day.

Philip "Mr. Incredible" Keller brought his number 9 IMCA Sport Mod Racecar to West Side Elementary School, Sidney, to show it off to his youngest son, Cale's, classmates. He came along with his wife, Shana, and mother, Nina. Philip lifted the giddy 6 and 7-year-olds into the cab, answered their questions, handed out stickers, and started the vehicle up for them, to screams of delight. I asked him why he decided to bring the car that day. He said, "I had the day off." Philip lets his sons help him pick out the wrap, a large vinyl graphic or decal, for his car which has granted him some fun, kid-friendly themes. The wrap he had in 2017 was Lego themed. The wrap in 2019, The Incredibles themed, earned him his nickname. This year's Spiderman theme was Cale's Idea. Philip said, "Spiderman is his (Cale's) favorite." I asked Shana about the wraps and she said, "It makes it fun for the kids when they come to the races."

Philip was track champion at Williston Basin Speedway in 2018 and 2019, but car troubles robbed him of the title the last two years. Philip and his brother still race and now, Philip's oldest son, Jace, tears up the track in the Jr. slingshot races. Philip's first race of the year will be on May 7 at Williston Basin Speedway. The race will be part of Williston's Band Day Festival. Gate prices for Williston Basin Speedway are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and military personnel, and $5 for kids 8-12. Kids 7 and under are free.