We are so excited to reintroduce our content series, Monterey Pro V Pro, where we pair two pros from two different worlds together in Monterey County, California.
This series highlights the dedication it takes to rise to the top in any field and celebrates the professionals who have made a commitment to turn their passions into careers.
In this episode we pair pro race car driver, Mason Filippi with pro soccer player, Pierce Gallaway from Monterey Bay F.C. We’re bringing them together for one exhilarating day in Monterey County! This is Monterey Pro V Pro.
ABOUT THE PROS
Mason Filippi is the driver of the #98 Hyundai Elantra N TCR for Bryan Herta Autosport in the Michelin Pilot Challenge. Mason’s journey started when he was young. He fell in love with dirt bikes and then eventually switched to kart racing at 11 years old. By the time he turned 14, he had already found his way to the competitive world of Spec Miata racing. In 2015, Mason won his very first major race at WeatherTeach Raceway Laguna Seca during the SCCA Spec Miata. As time went on, Mason eventually became a factory driver for Hyundai in IMSA. He is the defending TCR race winner of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge at Laguna Seca. Mason is now in his sixth season driving for Bryan Herta Autosport and Hyundai. Catch him at The Motul Course de Monterey Powered by Hyundai N which takes place May 10th to May 12th at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
Pierce Gallaway, Midfielder for Monterey Bay F.C., was born and raised right here in Carmel, CA. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Willamette University in Oregon before he played one season as a graduate student at Old Dominion University. He joined Monterey Bay F.C. 2, which is Monterey Bay F.C.’s development team in 2023 and became part of the Salinas-based, U-23 club’s inaugural season in USL League Two. Pierce helped to lead the team to the NorCal Division title and was the first player to make the jump from the pre-professional team to the first team when he signed his contract on February 22, 2024.
Pro Race Car Driver V Pro Soccer Player
During the ‘Monterey Pro V Pro’ shoot, Mason and Pierce pushed each other out of their comfort zones. Their day kicked off at Cardinale Stadium, the home turf of Monterey Bay F.C. Pierce took Mason under his wing, imparting invaluable professional soccer tips. Despite his nerves, Mason embraced the challenge, enthusiastically diving into the various drills. To cap off the day, he was surprised with his very own Monterey Bay F.C. gear and even made a few goals!
Later in the day, the adrenaline surged as Mason and Pierce hit the track at WeatherTech Raceway. Pierce suited up and took Mason for a ride around the track, experiencing the thrill firsthand.
Mason then introduced Pierce to his personal warm-up routine, weaving through cones to improve his track times. Pierce, eager to showcase his competitive spirit, also took the wheel, attempting to beat his own record with each lap.
It's safe to say they had a great time, experiencing each other’s unique worlds, while swapping stories, sharing tips and discussing their favorite spots in Monterey County.
Check out WeatherTech Raceway’s full schedule of 2024 season events and tickets available HERE and find the full Monterey Bay F.C. game schedule HERE.
Watch the full video HERE.