The NHRA's 75th Anniversary celebration is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent and legacy of its racers. Among the many accolades, the Top 25 Alcohol Drivers list stands out as a testament to the skill and dedication of these individuals.
This list, carefully curated by a panel of experts, including journalists and former racers, is a journey through the history of NHRA's most grueling Sportsman categories. It's a celebration of the drivers who have not only mastered the art of racing but have also overcome adversity and left an indelible mark on the sport.
The Impact of Adversity
One of the most inspiring stories on this list is that of Shawn Cowie. Cowie's resilience in the face of a devastating motorcycle accident is a testament to his character. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, he rebuilt his life, his racing program, and emerged as a back-to-back world champion. His consistency, with a Top 10 finish every year since his return, is a remarkable achievement.
Dominance in the Prime Years
Cy Chesterman's dominance in Top Alcohol Funny Car racing during his prime years is a reminder of the golden era of this category. Chesterman's 16 national event wins, including an impressive five in Brainerd, showcase his skill and consistency. His success as a businessman, owning Coca-Cola bottling plants, adds another layer to his story, proving that racing and business acumen can go hand in hand.
Longevity and Legacy
Vern Moats, a late Division 5 Hall of Famer, was a pioneer in the sport. His presence from the very beginning, when alcohol-burning Funny Cars were introduced, is a testament to his passion and dedication. Moats' longevity and impact on the category are undeniable, especially considering the challenges of competing in Division 5, which covers a vast geographic area with significant elevation changes. His 15 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series championships and 56 career divisional victories are a record that speaks for itself.
Iron Sharpens Iron
Bob Newberry's success in the highly competitive Division 1, where he went head-to-head with Frank Manzo, is a testament to his skill and determination. Newberry's two world championships and 44 wins are a remarkable achievement, especially considering the tough competition he faced. His ability to adapt and innovate, as seen in his 5.6-second run in Houston, showcases his engineering prowess.
A Multifaceted Racer
Shane Westerfield's inclusion on this list is a testament to his versatility and success across multiple racing disciplines. Beyond his achievements in NHRA alcohol racing, with 18 national event wins, Westerfield has also dominated in Blown Gas Flatbottom drag boats and the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Racing Series. His victory over Frank Manzo in Dallas in 2013 is a highlight, proving that he could compete with the best.
This list of Top 25 Alcohol Drivers is a celebration of the sport's rich history and the incredible individuals who have dedicated their lives to it. Their stories, filled with adversity, dominance, longevity, and versatility, inspire and remind us of the human element that makes racing so captivating. It's a reminder that behind every win and every record, there's a story of passion, dedication, and an unyielding spirit.
