Jarrett Butcher: A Strong Case for the 2024 ECIPST Championship
#54 Jarrett Butcher celebrating the ECI Pro Stock Tour season opener at Speedway 660, New Brunswick
May 27th, 2024
The East Coast International Pro Stock Tour (ECIPST) has seen many talented drivers over the years, but only 9 have won at least one PST Championship title. With multiple factors pointing in favour of #54 Jarrett Butcher, he is poised to make a strong run for the championship, as he will look to cement his name in the history books as the tour’s 10th. In this article we will look at why Jarrett Butcher has a strong case to be considered the top contender for this year's title.
Strong Start to the Season:
In a series that has the potential to come down to a very small points gap, every race counts. For the second consecutive year, Butcher has begun the PST season with a victory, setting a positive tone and providing a boost of confidence for Butcher and his team.
Consistency and Performance:
Last year, Butcher proved himself to be a driver capable of winning on the track, having a break out season with not just his first win on the tour, but his first 3 - the most of any driver on the 2023 series schedule. Backed by 8 top-5s across 11 starts, his ability to consistently finish at, or near the top will be crucial in his bid for championship glory. His performances last year, backed-up with his strong start to 2024 highlight his capability to handle the pressure and deliver results.
Experience and Growth:
Over the years, Butcher has grown as a driver, learning from each race and continuously improving his skills. His experience in various racing environments and against strong competitors from all around North America has prepared him for the challenges of a championship season. This growth and maturity make him better equipped to handle the rigors of the tour and perform at his peak throughout the season.
Absence of (Full Time) Craig Slaunwhite:
Craig Slaunwhite decided not to race full-time this season, after running full-time from 2008-2023. While Slaunwhite was always a racer to watch, he really stepped it up over the final 3 years of his full-time tenure. While John Flemming holds the PST Championship Title Count record with 5, Slaunwhite is tied for the 2nd most, with 3 - a distinction shared with Wayne Smith, Shawn Tucker, and Shawn Turple. What sets Slaunwhite apart, is that he won all 3 championships in a row, a feat that has never been achieved in PST history.
To be clear, Slaunwhite not competing for the championship does not devalue the victory if Butcher achieves it, nor is it meant to imply that Butcher could not defeat Slaunwhite for the title. It is however worthy of note that the reigning three-time champion will not be racing full-time this season.
Consistent Crew and Full Team Support:
One of the critical elements in Butcher’s favor is the consistency and reliability of his crew. This does not imply anything about the past, however with brother Cole Butcher racing full-time in/living in the USA, it allows for a more stable presence around Jarrett. This season, he has the best of Butcher Racing with him every race, providing unwavering support and expertise. A strong, cohesive team can make a significant difference. Their ability to execute strategies, manage pit stops efficiently, and provide support is invaluable to Butcher’s championship aspirations. After showing lots of potential for several years, and clearly having his breakout season last year, it isn’t difficult to imagine that he improves further this year, taking lessons from his break-out season and refining them, as well as continuing to strengthen chemistry with his team.
There are many great racers who will be making appearances, or racing full-time this year, and a handful of drivers could come away with their hands on the 2024 trophy. This article simply serves as an opinion piece about a scenario that appears to be lining up with a good chance of transpiring.
