Maryland International Raceway’s junior dragster program delivered a championship performance at the NHRA Right Trailers Eastern Conference Finals, securing the team title at Bristol Dragway in Tennessee.
Team MIR brought 50 young drivers to compete against more than 550 participants from across the country. Strong individual results, highlighted by multiple deep runs and key wins from Southern Maryland-area racers, propelled the team to victory with 41 points — well ahead of the next-closest competitors who finished with 27 points each.
Valarie Wright of Dinwiddie, Va., captured the championship in the 16-17 age group, while Reagan Ketterman from Laurel, Del., finished as runner-up in the 12-year-old class. Deep runs by Abby Norment and Tyler Lusby added crucial points that helped clinch the overall team championship for MIR.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Budds Creek-based track, which has long been recognized as a powerhouse in junior drag racing. “We’ve always said that MIR has the best Jr. dragster drivers in the country and now we have the Diamond Wally to back it up,” track officials proudly stated.
The event featured intense competition across all age groups. In the 16-17 final, Wright got a strong .016 reaction time start and ran a clean pass to defeat Allison Bolle. Ketterman pushed hard in the 12-year-old bracket, falling just short in a close final against Case Brady.
Special awards recognized outstanding performances within the MIR program. Valarie Wright earned the President Award and a $500 check as best overall driver. Rowan “The Robot” Parlett took home the Sharpshooter award for best reaction times, while Maverick received honors for best finish line driving. Bobby Dudley was named recipient of the Babe Ruth Parent award for superior dialing.
Sponsors played a key role in making the trip possible, enabling the large team presence and special challenges that added excitement to the weekend. Officials extended thanks to all participating families for their support and dedication.
Additional results from the Eastern Conference Finals showcased the depth of junior talent nationwide. Luka Markham won the 15-year-old class, while other age-group champions included Carter Hayes (6-9), Abram Grado (10), Austin Bucher (11), Case Brady (12), Rydin Cook (13), Shane Conner (14) and Wright (16-17). Maryland International Raceway’s team dominance stood out among strong competition from tracks like Cecil County Dragway and others.
The NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League provides young drivers with valuable experience in a safe, competitive environment. For MIR, the Eastern Conference Finals victory reinforces its status as a leader in developing future motorsports talent from Southern Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Track representatives look forward to building on this success in future seasons. “Special thanks to all the families that helped and participated and we look forward to doing it again next year,” they said.
