Trent Mask was here with Drew the last time we met. Not only are Trent and Drew friends, but Trent is Drew’s manager. I picked up on the dynamic and somewhat multifaceted relationship between these two almost instantly.
When I asked about it (off the record), I was met with something that couldn’t quite be defined as hostility. It was more shock, denial, and a high degree of protectiveness for one another.
Looking back, I can understand why I got the reaction I did. Which is also why today’s article is even more special.
To say I was surprised when I got a phone call from Drew would be an understatement. When he asked if I was interested in an article that maybe focused more behind the scenes of the new division, along with a personal touch, I was intrigued.
Then I sat down and spoke to Trent. I have to say he certainly knows how to grace a magazine cover, but more than that, he just might be Drew’s better half.
What resulted was nothing short of eye opening and in many ways revolutionary. I think once you read the introduction I asked Trent to write (in lieu of my introduction, which I still managed to sneak in here—What can I say? I’m a writer with a need to write), it will be perfectly clear to you why I think what I do.
Not only does this developing division have indie drivers and no rules, but it also has a lot of heart. I’m thinking that line between the pros and the indies is a line people are going to be stepping over on their way to sit in the stands.
And now, readers and drivers, allow me to hand this article over to the man who puts the rev in REVolution.
Trent Mask for GEARSHARK
I’m not what anyone would consider a profound guy. I’m not a journalist for a magazine or a professional writer. Maybe that’s why Emily asked me to write an intro, because my words are those of just a man. A man who finds himself in a unique position, being able to speak to a lot of people who I consider to be a lot like me.
Truth be told, I’m not here, though, to speak to the masses. I’m here for one man. I’m here to be a spark, a single source of heat to possibly ignite a fire and change the way we treat one other. It’s a selfish cause, really, because it’s Drew I think of. It’s Drew I’m really asking you to treat kindly. But maybe if you discover giving one man who deserves acceptance easy, it will be easy to give across the board.
It isn’t an easy thing to look in the mirror and see a face you essentially hide behind. It’s not easy to want to be liked—even loved—for who you really are. Have you ever felt like an outcast in the center of a room? Have you ever felt alone but been in a crowd of people?
I have. I don’t want that for Drew. For anyone.
Don’t judge others because they sin differently than you. If you haven’t walked in someone else’s shoes, don’t pretend to understand.
Racing is a sport, but it brings people together. Let it. Let it be the thing that binds us. Let it be the thing that represents something greater.
All I’m really asking is that you keep an open mind as you read ahead. I’m asking that you let people live the way their heart asks them to.
Be part of the revolution.
GS: You have to know you aren’t our usual interview here at GearShark.
TM: Sometimes it’s nice to take the more scenic route.
GS: Does that mean you don’t like speed?
TM: There are people who don’t like speed?
GS: No one who reads this magazine.
TM: There are people who don’t read GearShark?
<Have I mentioned this one is just as charming as Drew?> GS: So what’s it like behind the scenes of a budding racing phenomenon?
TM: Exciting. There’s a lot that goes into racing besides driving a car.
GS: Like what? Give me an example.
TM: Endorsement deals, sponsorships, making sure a car is ready to perform.
GS: What about dealing with the drivers? Is Drew a handful?
TM: Only when he doesn’t get his French fries.
<For the record, this one smiles a lot, and his front tooth is slightly crooked.> GS: French fries are his favorite, then?
TM: Definitely. And he’s most definitely not a morning person.
GS: Have any other secrets on Drew you can dish?
TM: I’m in love with him.
GS: Does Drew know how you feel?
<Note: Drew is sitting right beside Trent for this interview. He’s listening, and his reaction is not one of surprise. In fact, I’d say he rather likes hearing Trent is in love.> DF: I know. I feel the same way about him.
GS: So you’re in love with Trent?
DF: Yes, I’m in love with Trent.
GS: Are you two in a relationship exclusively?
TM: Yes, we have been for several weeks.
GS: So when I asked you about your relationship at our last meeting, were you together then?
TM: We were still trying to figure it out.
GS: Was the attraction there from the beginning? Have you always been gay?
TM: We were best friends first. I think the chemistry we have together is what made us so easily friends. I’ve always felt stronger for him than I have anyone else, but I denied the way I felt, uh romantically, for a long time. I thought being friends would be enough. <pauses> But it wasn’t.