Stetson Bryant, a talented and determined young go-kart racer, first discovered his love for the sport in 2022 at just five years old. That Christmas, his nana and papa gifted him his very first yard kart, sparking a passion that would quickly grow into a defining part of his life. From the moment he climbed in, Stetson instinctively handled the kart, showing the raw talent that would take him on an incredible journey with plenty of support from his family.

“It was enjoyment for me, for one, because I want him to do anything he wants to do,” said Stetson’s father and crew chief, Matt Bryant.

Racing runs in Stetson’s blood. His papa raced, and several uncles and cousins spent their lives competing on the track. Growing up around Kiamichi Mountain Speedway, where generations of his family raced, Stetson was surrounded by the sights, sounds, and culture of motorsports and Oklahoma karting from the start. That early exposure shaped his competitive spirit and gave him the confidence to challenge more experienced drivers, always pushing himself to improve.

Stetson’s father, Matt Bryant, became his crew chief and biggest supporter. Together, they developed a strong team built on trust and collaboration.

“I couldn’t do it without him, and he couldn’t do it without me,” Stetson says, reflecting the close bond they share.

Equipment upgrades over time allowed Stetson to feel and control his kart even better, sharpening his instincts and racecraft. Despite occasional early scares—like flipping his yard kart—he embraced speed and learned quickly, transitioning to more advanced karts and tougher competition.

Yet racing for Stetson has never been just about winning. Through his involvement in events like “Team Haley Bug,” he has used his skills and platform to make a difference in the lives of others. Team Haley Bug was formed to support a young girl named Haley who was battling cancer, and Stetson raced in her honor. The experience deeply impacted him, showing him the power of bringing joy to kids facing challenges far greater than any race track could offer.

“Yeah, just knowing that there’s kids that can’t do that, and they watch me, root for me. It kind of makes you want to do better and try to win for them and all that,” said Stetson.

From there, Stetson and his family expanded their outreach, supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Northwest Arkansas Children’s Hospital events, and community car shows. They donate parts like wing panels to organizations such as Doors for Dreams, always with the goal of brightening a child’s day. For Stetson, knowing that kids who can’t race themselves are watching him compete—sometimes live-streaming his events—drives him to push harder, not for trophies, but for the smiles he can bring.

His kart’s design reflects his values and personal inspirations. The purple in his wrap honors his late grandmother, a woman he describes as a “Jesus warrior,” while blue accents and a fading ribbon symbolize ongoing support for children like his young friend Eli. Each year, Stetson’s team selects a child to spotlight and encourage, giving updates and rallying community support.

Though he’s only ten, Stetson dreams big. He talks about possibly playing in the NBA one day, but if that doesn’t work out, racing will always be his path. His family stands ready to support whichever road he chooses, knowing his natural talent and work ethic can take him far. Those who have seen him race believe he has the ability to compete at the highest levels, should he decide to pursue motorsports professionally.

For Stetson Bryant, the thrill of racing is matched only by the joy of giving back. Whether he’s overtaking opponents on the track or sharing his kart with a child at a charity event, his passion is driven by more than speed—it’s fueled by love for his family, respect for his roots, and a commitment to bringing happiness to others. In every lap he runs, both his competitive spirit and generous heart are on full display, making him not only a rising star in racing but also an inspiration far beyond the finish line.