PRPC Connections - Getting to know...

Randy W.

By Lori L.

Have you ever met someone whose life story is so captivating that hours pass like minutes? I most definitely have. His name is Randy W. ,and to say he has lived an interesting life would be a

gross understatement. After playing two rounds of nine-hole golf with him—paired with hours of engaging conversation and countless iced teas (him) and Diet Cokes (me)—I realized I was listening to one of the most incredible life stories I’ve ever heard. Most of you have seen Randy’s talent on the pickleball court and his deep love for the game. If you’ve had the privilege of partnering with him, you know he treats everyone as an equal. Many of us witnessed his stellar sportsmanship and coaching ability during the last tournament, where he came from behind to win with his partner, Linda. His words to her—“We never give up, and we never quit!”—perfectly capture how he lives his life. Randy is a true survivor and a champion in every sense of the word. Extraordinary. Exceptional. (And no, he didn’t pay me to say that.)

A Life of Passion and Resilience

Randy was born in Bakersfield and soon moved to Shell Beach, where his passion for racing began. By age 16, he was driving dirt track race cars. By 1973, he was fully immersed in the racing world, building a legacy at Santa Maria Speedway. His main event wins began in 1976 and continued through 1982, catching the attention of racing legends who began asking, “Who is this guy?” But life had other plans. In 1983, at age 28, Randy was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The prognosis, surgeries, and chemotherapy nearly took his life—but ultimately, he beat the disease. Reflecting on that time, Randy said something remarkable: “Getting cancer was the best thing that could have happened to me. It completely changed the direction of my life.” After 10 months of recovery—gaining back weight and strength—Randy turned his focus to what mattered most: family. Against all odds, he became the father of two daughters, Katie and Kelsie—true miracles. Today, he enjoys life as a proud grandfather to Jax, Kyle, Hallie, Ellie, and Zoey.

Racing, Reinvented

With his family growing, Randy felt the pull back to racing. Not knowing exactly how it would happen, he trusted it would. At the same time, he earned his real estate license and began buying and flipping properties. One day, while inspecting a home in Bakersfield, he noticed a covered object that looked suspiciously familiar—a race car. After speaking with the owner, he discovered the man needed a house for his newlywed children. Randy had a house—and needed a race car. Problem solved. One double escrow later, Randy had his car. Gentlemen, start your engines. In 1986, Randy took that car to Riverside International Speedway for a test run. Unfortunately, a devastating crash left both him and his dream in pieces. But sometimes things fall apart so better things can come together—and that’s exactly what happened next. Encouraged by his racing community, Randy returned to his roots at Santa Maria Speedway. With the support of partners Perry Carney and Gary Claudio, and backing from the American Cancer Society, Randy’s comeback began. Driving the #1 Domino’s Pizza car during the height of the “Avoid the Noid” campaign in 1988–1989, Randy thrilled crowds and won races. More importantly, his story as a cancer survivor inspired countless others. His journey even led him to appear on The Home Show with Dr. Art Ulene, where testicular cancer awareness—and self-examination—were discussed openly at a time when the topic was rarely addressed. It’s likely that lives were saved because of that moment.

Legacy Beyond the Track

After years of racing, Randy co-owned a Sprint Midget team with the late Bob Bjurman, achieving national recognition. Yet, as impressive as his racing accomplishments are, what stood out most to me was not the victories—but the friendships and life lessons. Live each day like it’s your last. Dare to dream. Every single day. I have one other amazing event to share. In 1989, Randy was offered a NASCAR test—and ultimately, a full-time driving opportunity. A remarkable achievement by any standard. But Randy chose family.

A Life Fully Lived

Randy has since dedicated himself to coaching and officiating youth sports, supporting his daughters and their communities. His love for life is evident in everything he does—from sports to hobbies to friendships. He loves his family first and foremost, but also enjoys the Dodgers, NASCAR, golf, fishing, dirt track racing, pickleball, hockey, football, his ’67 Chevelle, the Eagles, dancing—and so much more. The list goes on and on. What it all comes down to is this: Randy lives his life to the fullest every single day—with a smile and a kind word for everyone he meets.

Final Thoughts

We are all dying—but are we all truly living? If you want to get to know Randy better, or if you’re looking for encouragement, coaching, or mentorship in any sport, just ask. He’s always willing to help. Randy is not only a remarkable individual, but also a wonderful friend, neighbor, and valued member of our Paso Robles pickleball community. “We may lose and we may win, though we will never be here again.”

It has been my honor to write this Community Connector spotlight on Randy W.