Posted by AnnieMac Webmaster on
Here at AnnieMac Home Mortgage, we believe in giving back to our communities and being the best versions of ourselves in and outside of work. Mortgage Loan Originator, Tom Fox, is a prime example this mentality.
When he isn't making homebuyers,’ dreams come true, Tom is racing his drag car for various charities and the thrill of adrenaline. Tom's racing career is already astonishing, as he is ranked #13 in the nation, and we're so proud to have him as a member of #AnnieMacNation.
Racing History
Tom’s racing career started when he was very young. His father was involved in drag racing in the late 60s/early 70s with his brother. After having some success as a drag racer, he decided to end his career to focus on raising his family. This did not discourage Tom from wanting to be a drag racer once he was old enough to compete.
After college, Tom received his racing license in 2013 and started racing his own car. He had natural skill at the sport and decided to become a competitive racer. Tom now races his own car while his dad is the crew chief.
Tom’s Top Speed: 274 miles per hour!
Racing and Charity
Tom truly loves the sport of drag racing but what makes this hobby so special to him is that he gets to raise awareness for AnnieMac Home Mortgage and various charitable organizations. Tom has raised money for children with disabilities and the Leukemia Foundation. During his upcoming race in October, he plans to focus on Breast Cancer Awareness and AnnieMac’s favorite foundation: Freedom Service Dogs of America.
Tom’s passion for children goes beyond just raising money for a charity. Tom has hosted events where he allows children with disabilities to sit in his racecar under one condition: “If you want to sit in my racecar, you have to make me one promise. You have to do your very best in school.” Tom went on to say, “The racecar becomes this motivational vessel to succeeding in school and in life. It has created something that makes a large impact.”
Tom has raised over $306,000 for charity and hopes to bypass that amount in the future.
Racing and AnnieMac
Tom always wanted to share the message of AnnieMac Home Mortgage, and he promotes us with pride. Tom’s racecar is decked out in an AnnieMac overlay, promoting Cash2Keys, a program Tom is thrilled to offer to his clients. Tom also looks forward to showcasing Freedom Service Dogs on his racecar to continue to extend awareness of their fantastic mission!
Here are some pictures of Tom’s racecar with the AnnieMac overlay:
The Inspiration Behind Racing
Tom stated that there is a strong sense of accomplishment when he finishes a race, and he loves that he gets to compete with his family as his pit crew. After a crash in 2013, Tom questioned himself and his abilities. But, after he got back in the race car, he realized, “You need to focus on what is in front of you and challenge yourself to be better. By doing this, you will accomplish so many things. Focus on being present and focus on what is in front of you. Sometimes life changes course and direction, and that is alright.”
Mortgages and Racing: Their Similarities
After discussing Tom’s racing career in depth, we asked if he saw any similarities between drag racing and the mortgage industry. Tom did not disappoint with his answer: “I have a passion for helping people and helping people achieve their dream of homeownership. I get a rush when I help people find their homes, just like when I get a rush before, during, and after a race. I believe you should work hard and play harder in all aspects of your life.”
Tom’s Advice for Entering the Mortgage Industry:
“It is not easy, but if you work hard, learn, and grow, the desire to do MORE will become a lifestyle. Surround yourself with the right people, be fearless and open your mind to an ever-changing and evolving industry.”
We thank Tom for taking the time to discuss his professional career and his success in drag racing. We wish Tom great success during this year's racing season, stay tuned for a recap of this season's performance!
Racing Runs in the Extended AnnieMac Family
Hannah Hershberger, a creative writer on the AnnieMac marketing team, also has a connection to car racing: her grandmother, Shirley Hershberger, was one of the first female stock car racers to break into the sport in the 1940s. It was extremely uncommon for women to participate in many sporting competitions, let alone racing stock cars.
As Tom mentioned, if you believe you can do it, there is nothing that can stop you. Like Tom, Shirley worked full-time as a school secretary, a career requiring patience, skill, and determination. These skills were extremely beneficial when becoming one of the first female stock car racers.
Looking for ways to get involved in Tom’s racing career? Consider donating to Freedom Service Dogs of America or the Breast Cancer Research Organization.