Jr. Street Makes Historic Debut at World Wide Technology Raceway

This past weekend, during the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Divisional Event at World Wide Technology Raceway, a meaningful new chapter was added to the 75th Anniversary celebration of NHRA competition. The Jr. Street class made its official debut, marking the next evolution of youth participation within the NHRA and reinforcing the organization’s long-standing commitment to developing the future of motorsports.

The Jr. Street program was contested in a single-day format on Saturday, providing competitors with a complete and rewarding race-day experience. Participants were afforded valuable on-track time through three sessions of time trials, allowing drivers to become comfortable in a competitive environment. The event concluded with three rounds of eliminations, ultimately crowning the first official Jr. Street winner in Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series North Central Division history. That honor went to Jacob Phillips of Granite City, Illinois, who earned the inaugural Diamond Wally in the category.

Jr Street Winner: Jacob Phillips 08, Mustang

While Phillips’ victory will forever be etched in the record books, the true success of the weekend extended far beyond the final round. Each of the Jr. Street competitors played a significant role in launching this historic program and demonstrated the promise and potential of the class:

• Jacob Phillips – Granite City, IL

• Tyler Kuehnel – Granite City, IL

• Gary Bogacki – Carbondale, IL

• Colten Sandin – Wilmington, IL

• Braxton Pettus – Arnold, MO

• Caden Duell – St. Louis, MO

• Lillian Busken – Troy, MO

• Jaxon Legate – Granite City, IL

  
  

The achievements of these young drivers would not have been possible without the dedication and support of their families, friends, and peers. Their collective efforts exemplify the spirit of grassroots racing and underscore the importance of fostering an environment where youth can learn, grow, and compete responsibly.

Jr Steet Final Round: Jaxon Legate 18, GMC Sierra and Jacob Phillips 02 Mustang

With its low barrier to entry, Jr. Street represents an ideal on ramp for families looking to engage with NHRA competition. The class provides participants with the opportunity to build fundamental vehicle operation skills while racing in a structured, safe, and competitive bracket format alongside peers in similar vehicles. It is a program designed not only to cultivate racers, but also to instill confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship.

The next Jr. Street event is scheduled for June 20 at the Cavalcade of Stars Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Doubleheader at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The event is open to all Jr. Street competitors, with free entry for drivers and only general admission required for the parent or co-rider. Interest in the class has already been substantial, with numerous families reaching out for information as excitement continues to build.

Jr Street Winner: Jacob Phillips

Congratulations are extended to all competitors, and especially to event winner Jacob Phillips, who can now proudly claim the distinction of capturing the first Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Jr. Street Wally in the North Central Division. More importantly, every participant can take pride in having been part of the inaugural event an experience that will remain truly priceless as the Jr. Street program continues to grow in the 2026 season and beyond.

For additional information about the Jr. Street program, including class rules, vehicle requirements, eligibility, and upcoming opportunities, interested families are encouraged to visit www.nhra.com/jr-street. The page offers a comprehensive overview of this exciting initiative and serves as a valuable resource for those looking to become involved in the next generation of NHRA competition.