Speed to Precision, Mike Thielens Passion for flying firearms and Racing

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Mike-Thielen-Glacier-Gun-Club
Mike Thielen Glacier Gun Club / Wild Fern Photography

Mike Thielen is a man of many talents. NHRA race car driver and recently among the selected competitors selected for the 2023 World series of Pro Mod Drag Racing. Thielen knows the importance of focus, dedication, and hard work. But beyond the racetrack, Thielen is also an entrepreneur and a firearms enthusiast, with a passion for the shooting that rivals his love for racing. 

One of Thielen’s most notable ventures is Glacier Gun Club which he co-founded and currently co-owns with his brother Andy Thielen and is located inside one of their other businesses, T Brothers Liquor Lodge. Nestled in a discreet location of Olympia,Washington. The private gun club is a retreat for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The club’s atmosphere is defined by its luxurious leather chairs, dark wood accents, and the rich aroma of hand-rolled cigars. The members-only lounge exudes an air of exclusivity, personalized lockers, and private shooting ranges. The walls are adorned with the club’s collection of rare and limited-edition firearms art meticulously displayed. The ambiance is further enhanced by the sounds of brass casings hitting the floor, and the low murmur of conversations between fellow gun enthusiasts. With impeccable service and attention to detail, the private gun club is the ultimate VIP experience for the discerning individual.

But for Mike, the real gift is the opportunity to share this journey with his brother. The long hours, the sleepless nights, the endless meetings – all of it is worth it when he looks over at his brother and sees the same sense of pride and excitement reflected back at him. They make a great team, complementing each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and their shared vision and determination have helped turn Glacier Gun Club into one the most unique shooting experiences in the country.

Mike-Thielen-and-Andy-Thielen-as-kids
Mike Thielen and Andy Thielen as kids / PC Joy Thielen

At the end of the day, Mike knows that the success of Glacier Gun Club is just a byproduct of something much deeper and more meaningful: the bond he shares with his brother. Whether they’re strategizing for the future or celebrating a hard-won victory, they know they’re in it together, and that’s a feeling that money simply can’t buy.

For Thielen, the connection between his love of racing, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his passion for firearms is all about pushing boundaries, taking risks, and striving to be the best. Whether he’s behind the wheel of his race car, flying helicopters or firing his favorite pistol, he’s always pushing himself to be better, to do more, and to inspire others to do the same.

Mike Thielen loves the NHRA community not just because of his passion for racing, but also because of their supportive stance towards firearms. According to a survey conducted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), NHRA fans are among the most likely to own firearms, with 62% of them reporting owning at least one firearm. Additionally, a study conducted by the Violence Policy Center found that NHRA fans have one of the lowest rates of firearm-related deaths in the country. Theilen believes that the NHRA community’s support for responsible gun ownership and their emphasis on education and training are crucial in ensuring that firearms are used safely and responsibly. For Thielen, being part of a community that values firearms as tools for personal protection, self-defense, and sporting activities is important, and he hopes to continue to inspire others to be responsible gun owners and enthusiasts. Mike enjoys partnering with sponsors who are creating excellence in the tactical firearms category.

Mike Thielen grew up as a street racer dominating the asphalt in his local area. Over the years, he has successfully raced in many different platforms, from Good Guys A/Gas to Pinks All Out, A/A Supercharged to Future Street Outlaws and NHRA Top Sportsman to grudge style races, all up and down the west coast. Now, Mike is excited to enter a second year in the NHRA Pro Mod category and grateful to be partnered with the three-time pro mod world champion Mike Janis Racing team.

Mike-Thielen-Glacier-Aviation
Mike Thielen Glacier Aviation / Wild Fern Photography

Thielen has always been passionate about racing, but his passion doesn’t stop there. He is also a commercial helicopter pilot and a true entrepreneur who worked hard and started a few businesses of his own. He and his wife, Lori, live, work and play together and she has been by his side every step of the way. They still make their home in Olympia and both work at Glacier Aviation, which they started as a small helicopter tour company in 1995 and have grown into one of the leading flight schools in the country for career helicopter pilots in addition to being a  full service fixed-base operation at their local airport.

Mike Thielen’s commitment to serving his community stems from his experience as a former firefighter and entrepreneur. He has also formed a strong alliance with local fire and police departments. As the owner of Glacier Aviation, a full fixed-base operation (FBO), he not only trains aspiring pilots but also provides support to various agencies, including EMS, law enforcement, and firefighting. He houses several EMS helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft in two locations and provides them with fuel and other support. Moreover, he has flown with SWAT and other law enforcement and fire agencies. Thielen’s dedication to serving his community and working with different agencies has earned him respect and recognition from his peers. His alliance with local fire and police departments reflects his commitment to public service and his belief in working together to keep his community safe.

Mike Thielen is creating unique opportunities to connect the NHRA audience with the tactical community through his brand at Glacier Motorsports. The NHRA also boasts a large and diverse audience, with over 1.2 million attendees annually and a TV audience of over 20 million viewers. The NHRA also attracts a wide range of age groups, with 33% of attendees being between the ages of 18 and 34, and 46% being between the ages of 35 and 54.

Mike-Thielen
Mike Thielen
Lori-Thielen
Lori Thielen

If you would like to learn about partnering with Glacier Motorsports please visit Glaciermotorsports.com

Mike Thielen and his businesses have been featured on DRAG ILLUSTRATED, FOX NEWS, ABC NEWS, CBS NEWS, NBC NEWS, The Seattle Times, The Olympian and STREET OUTLAWS Discovery Channel,showcasing his expertise and passion to millions of viewers. Join Mike on his journey to success and make your brand a part of the excitement today.

Please visit Glacier Motor Sports and Mike Thielen on Instagram.


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