California native Gary Peterson founded AFS Racing, Inc. in order to promote Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc.’s brand name and pursue the various sponsorship and driver offers received during the inaugural Indy Pro Series season in 2002. Gary began racing in the deserts of California. He moved into open-wheel racing and competed in the Toyota Atlantic series events for nearly a decade. He tested and obtained an IRL license, then entered the 1997 Indy 500 with PDM racing; however, engine shortages prevented his start.

He debuted in the inaugural Indy Pro Series of 2002, racing full time in the series through the 2004 season along side team mates Arie Luyendyk Jr. and G.J. Mennen. He continued racing the series until he was involved in an accident, which side-lined his driving career. Gary has transitioned into a team owner role and continues to focus on mentoring up-and-coming talented drivers such as Alex Lloyd and Raphael Matos.