Name: Anthony James (A.J.) Diemel
Birth date: 8/20/81
Wife: Meghan
Children: Ella Maelyn Diemel
Parents: Donnie and Karen Diemel
Pit Crew: Buck Diemel, Mike and Toni Diemel, Stan Giese, Matt Krull, and of course, Mom and Dad.
Favorite Race Track: Dakota State Fair Speedway, Huron, SD
Favorite Race Memory: 2009 Punky Manor win…we just couldn’t seem to catch a break at Red Cedar Speedway for many years, and all at once it came together for that win.
Why I got into racing: My grandpa Pappy Diemel raced in the 50s forward, and my dad raced as well. When my dad stopped racing, he started helping family friend Terry Anvelink in the pits. Over the years of spending weekends with the Anvelinks, my interest in racing my own cars grew, and eventually, after helping Nick Anvelink in his modified, I ventured out to try it myself. Instead of getting a road car for my 16th birthday like some kids, I got a racecar. (Thanks Mom and Dad!)
Best part of racing: I was able to make my hobby a full-time business. Not too many people can say that. It took a lot of hard work and continues to, but I can’t imagine doing anything else now.