Clinical Racing Conquers The 2025 Mint 400 Securing Class Win

The Mint 400 is known as the toughest off-road race in America, a true test of endurance, skill, and mechanical reliability. This year, Clinical Racing proved they were up to the challenge, battling through the punishing Nevada desert to claim a hard-earned Class 2000 victory. The team’s journey to the top of the podium was years in the making, culminating in a dramatic and rewarding race that solidified their place among the best in off-road racing.

“We had one goal in mind when we raced the Mint 400—to win,” said Steven Olsewski, driver and team leader for Clinical Racing. “From the moment we committed to this race, everything we did was focused on making sure we had the strongest, fastest, and most reliable truck possible. The team spent the three weeks leading up to the race completely reworking the rear of the truck to withstand the brutal conditions of the Mint 400. We installed a whole new rear cage, leaf spring setup, and shock mounts. Thanks to Mat Tessier at Hoodrat MFG, who had everything 3D drawn and cut, installation went quickly and smoothly.”

"Realistically, the only expectation I had was just to cross the finish line," Mat Tessier said. "We put in so much work fully building the back half of the truck that we had less than 0 time to test the truck."

Despite months of preparation, the unpredictable nature of off-road racing meant Clinical Racing still faced major hurdles on race day. With limited test time on the truck before the event, the first lap became an extended shakedown, forcing the team to learn on the fly how their upgrades would hold up under race conditions.

“The toughest part was going into the race not knowing exactly how the truck would handle after all the changes we made,” Olsewski explained. “We didn’t have the luxury of multiple test sessions. Our first real test was the first lap of the Mint 400, so we had to adapt quickly.”

"For me, the most challenging part of the race was the start of the race and the first lap with Steven driving," Tessier said. "I had no way to tell if the untested truck was even holding together after the green flag dropped, so my stress level was through the roof, but once Steven came in on the first lap for a driver change, I had a chance to look over the truck, and everything was solid."

Just as the team was finding their rhythm, disaster nearly struck. Twenty miles into the second lap, the power steering pump failed, threatening to end their race early. However, the team’s resilience and quick thinking paid off.

“We met Mat at the first pit, got the power steering pump swapped out, and were back racing again,” said Olsewski. “Moments like that define a race. If we weren’t prepared, or if our crew wasn’t as quick and skilled as they were, that could have been the end of our day. Instead, we got back on course and kept pushing.”

Clinical Racing’s victory was not just about speed—it was a testament to teamwork, determination, and the relentless effort of a dedicated group of individuals. Every member of the team played a crucial role in preparing the truck for the grueling Mint 400, ensuring that every detail was fine-tuned for peak performance.

Mat Tessier was instrumental in rebuilding the rear of the truck, using his expert welding and fabrication skills to make the upgrades race-ready. Kyle Barber worked tirelessly throughout the entire build process, helping reassemble the truck from front to back. Jay Guerrero took on any task necessary while also capturing behind-the-scenes moments of the team’s journey. Sean Carnahan ensured the truck’s electrical system was flawless, contributing both to its reliability and fabrication. Mark Tessier also played a key role in reassembly, making sure every component was dialed in before race day. Together, their collective efforts turned a vision into a winning machine.

“Racing isn’t an individual effort—it takes a whole team,” Olsewski emphasized. “Every person played a crucial role in making this victory possible. From the late nights in the shop to the high-pressure moments in the pits, we couldn’t have done it without this team.”

After battling through dust, deep ruts, and mechanical challenges, Clinical Racing finally saw their goal within reach. As they crossed the finish line, the realization of what they had accomplished sank in.

“It was a dream come true,” Olsewski reflected. “Three years ago, we came to the Mint 400 and only made it 27 miles. Now, we not only finished but won our class. It’s something we all worked toward, and in that moment, every late night and long hour leading up to the race felt worth it.”

"Being able to finish and win the Mint 400 has far exceeded our expectations," Tessier said. "It really feels good to know we made the right choice to rebuild the truck."

The win wasn’t just about personal achievement—it signified the growth of Clinical Racing as a team and set the stage for even bigger goals ahead.

“This victory means everything,” Olsewski added. “It shows that when you set a goal and commit to it, no matter the obstacles, you can accomplish what you set out to do.”

The road to victory wouldn’t have been possible without the support of key sponsors and industry partners who helped equip Clinical Racing with the best possible gear. BlueDEF played a crucial role in keeping the team running, supplying the best DEF on the market to fuel their diesel-powered tow rigs, RV, and chase trucks.

Mickey Thompson Tires provided the rugged traction needed to withstand the punishing terrain of the Mint 400. Atlas Suspension delivered new leaf springs that were essential for the redesigned rear suspension. Rigid Industries supplied 360-Series Laser lights, which turned night into day, allowing the team to set their fastest lap under the cover of darkness.

Additional support came from Oscars Brewing Company, Rugged Radios, HPR, JE Reel, FK Rod Ends, Hoodrat MFG, M Whips, PNDA Off-Road, and Derale Performance. Each of these partners played a role in ensuring the truck, team, and equipment were at peak performance.

With a Mint 400 class victory now under their belts, Clinical Racing is eager to keep the momentum going. “This is just the beginning,” said Olsewski. “We’re planning to be back in the desert before the end of the year for another race, and we’ll also be making appearances at some industry events. This win has only fueled our drive to keep pushing forward.”

"This win solidifies that Team Clinical Racing can absolutely achieve anything we set our minds to," Tessier said. "We are a very small team, but I'd rather have a small crew of absolutely solid teammates over a large team filled with average joes. I couldn't be happier with the events of this Mint 400 win, and I know we are all ready for the next challenge!"

For Clinical Racing, the 2025 Mint 400 wasn’t just a race—it was a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

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