“I don't get it, I could handle anything before no problem.”

CORONA—At 37 years old, Jonah Peles finally decided to chase his dream of becoming a professional race car driver. However, he quickly encountered a roadblock he hadn’t anticipated: he wasn’t 20 anymore.

“I’ve always loved racing,” Jonah said, recalling his childhood spent watching the X Games. “I figured, I could do that. I haven't done anything athletic in over a decade,  but crazier things have happened, right?”

As Jason began training at his local track, he realized that he should have gone to the doctor for that sciatica pain. “I don't get it, I could handle anything before no problem,” Jonah admitted. “My back is killing me. I must need an ergonomic seat or something.”

Jason remains determined, but the path forward looks steep. “I knew it wouldn’t be easy,” he said. “Teams and sponsors are more interested in younger drivers but they must know that I bring life experience.”

His mentor, 92-year-old veteran racer Tom Edwards, offered his perspective. "I respect Jonah’s passion," Tom said. "But motorsport is brutal. It’s not just about skill, which he lacks; it’s about endurance, reflexes, and resilience—and I saw him pull a muscle just opening a beer. It’s tough to break into this sport at 37, especially when you’re in such poor physical condition."

Despite the hurdles, Jonah isn’t giving up. “I’m not quitting, I'm headed for Formula 1.” he said with a smile. “If anyone needs me, I'll be on my inversion table.”