The Michigan racing community is in mourning following the sudden death of Scottie Ulman, a 26-year-old short-track racing driver from Tawas City. Ulman, who was known for his competitive spirit and versatility across multiple forms of motorsports, died on August 7, 2026 . His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow racers, track officials, and fans who remember him as a fierce competitor and a beloved member of the racing family. From the dirt ovals of Whittemore Speedway to the asphalt of Birch Run and the grueling snowmobile endurance races of the Upper Peninsula, Ulman left his mark on every track he touched. Here’s what we know about his life, his racing career, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Scottie Ulman, 26, of Tawas City, Michigan, died on August 7, 2026 . He was a well-known short-track racing driver who competed in Modifieds, Limited Late Models, and snowmobile endurance races . He was the 2020 street stock champion and had numerous wins in the “Lead Sled” division . Ulman was a regular competitor at Whittemore Speedway, Birch Run Speedway, and Corrigan Oil Speedway, and also raced in the International 500 Snowmobile Race alongside his older brother, Steven Ulman.
A Rising Star on Michigan’s Short Tracks
Scottie Ulman was a familiar face at racetracks across Michigan. Hailing from Tawas City, he began racing in 2014 and quickly established himself as a driver to watch . He was the 2020 street stock champion and collected numerous wins in the “Lead Sled” division . Over the years, he moved up to Modifieds and Limited Late Models, demonstrating his versatility and skill behind the wheel .
His 2025 season highlights include:
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Whittemore Speedway: Finished 7th in a Limited Late Model race (August 30, 2025) and 4th in a feature event (August 2, 2025)
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Birch Run Speedway: Competed in the Wheeler Trucking Friday Night Thunder Series, finishing 12th in the A Feature (August 19, 2022)
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Corrigan Oil Speedway: Raced in the Modifieds division (September 7, 2025)
In July 2026, he captured a 4th place finish in the Modifieds A Feature at Whittemore Speedway, showing he was still competing at a high level in his final weeks . He also finished 4th in points in the Limited Late Models division at Birch Run Speedway during the 2025 season .
Beyond Asphalt: Snowmobile Racing and the “Brothers Ulman”
Ulman’s passion for racing extended beyond traditional stock cars. He was also an endurance snowmobile racer who competed in one of the most grueling races in the world: the International 500 Snowmobile Race (I-500) in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan . He teamed up with his older brother, Steven Ulman, to form the “Brothers Ulman” racing duo, driving for David Simko’s World Class Racing team aboard a Polaris snow machine .
The I-500 is known for its brutal conditions and demanding course, testing both the machines and the endurance of the racers. For Scottie, it was just another challenge to conquer. His brother Steven was a regular partner in these adventures, and together, they built a reputation as a formidable team .
A Multi-Sport Athlete
Before his racing career took off, Scottie was also a talented hockey player. He played for the Tawas Blackhawks as a senior, wearing jersey #32 and playing center and right wing . At 6’1″ and 166 pounds, he was a physical presence on the ice. His athletic profile included a 225-pound bench press, 15 reps of 185 pounds, a 300-pound squat, and a 300-pound deadlift, showcasing the strength and dedication he brought to all his athletic pursuits .
He also played varsity football for Tawas Area High School in 2017, wearing jersey #14 and playing running back and strong safety . After graduating from Tawas Area High School in 2018, he planned to pursue hockey at the junior or college level .
Community Tributes: “You Will Forever Be Remembered”
The racing community has rallied together to honor Ulman’s memory. Hoos Racing, a prominent racing group, shared a tribute on social media: “Very sad news. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Ulman family. Godspeed Scottie” . M.I.R.A. Racing also expressed their condolences, stating: “You will forever be remembered by your MIRA family” .
One family friend, Shelainia McClaine, shared a heartfelt message: “This just breaks mine and my family’s heart. My kids grew up with the Ulman boys on and off the race track. I hope Scottie is at peace. Please keep the Family in your thoughts and prayers” .
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Scottie Ulman?
Scottie Ulman was a 26-year-old short-track racing driver from Tawas City, Michigan. He was the 2020 street stock champion and a regular competitor in Modifieds and Limited Late Models at tracks like Whittemore Speedway, Birch Run Speedway, and Corrigan Oil Speedway . He also raced snowmobiles in the I-500 endurance race alongside his brother, Steven .
What happened to Scottie Ulman?
Scottie Ulman died on August 7, 2026. The specific cause of his death has not been publicly released. His passing was announced by racing organizations and family friends on social media .
When did Scottie Ulman start racing?
Scottie Ulman began racing in 2014 . He competed for over a decade, earning a reputation as a versatile and competitive driver across multiple divisions.
What were Scottie Ulman’s racing accomplishments?
Ulman was the 2020 street stock champion and had numerous wins in the “Lead Sled” division. He consistently placed in the top five at various tracks, including a 4th place finish in the Modifieds A Feature at Whittemore Speedway in July 2026 .
Did Scottie Ulman race snowmobiles?
Yes, Scottie Ulman competed in the International 500 Snowmobile Race in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. He raced alongside his older brother, Steven Ulman, for David Simko’s World Class Racing team .
Conclusion
Scottie Ulman lived his life at full throttle. Whether he was behind the wheel of a Modified at Whittemore Speedway, racing across the frozen landscape of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, or lacing up his skates for the Tawas Blackhawks, he approached everything with passion and determination. His sudden passing at just 26 years old has left a void in the racing community that will be difficult to fill. As his MIRA Racing family said, he will “forever be remembered” by those who had the privilege of knowing him and watching him compete. Godspeed, Scottie.