Michael began his off-road life in a Class 2 buggy,  racing from 1969 until he stopped competing in 1991.

Michael’s greatest contribution to the industry is his patronage and advocacy. He sponsored many race teams, including Walker Evans Racing, Butch and Pat Dean Racing, Brian Collins Racing, John Gaughan Racing, and Evan Evans Racing.  Michael’s son Brendan is a successful NASCAR driver, with more than 140 top ten finishes and ten wins, in the Xfinity and Truck Series.