Mieshael Henry made history in 2023 as the first Black woman drag racer in California, piloting a 1968 Pontiac Firebird named “ILLICIT” for D&M Racing LLC—a family-operated team founded by her father, Michael Henry Jr., in 2002.

EARLY YEARS

Growing up in San Francisco, California, Mieshael was surrounded by the roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber from day one. Her father, Michael Henry Jr., founded D&M Racing LLC with a singular mission: to build a professional drag racing team that would inspire people from their community and offer a different narrative than what was typically shown. While other kids were learning to ride bikes, Mieshael was learning torque ratios and track strategy. Racing wasn’t just the family business—it was the family language.

OTHER INTERESTS

Beyond the quarter-mile, Mieshael has channeled her passion for inspiring the next generation into writing. She authored a children’s book aimed at encouraging young people—especially kids who look like her—to chase their dreams in motorsports and beyond. Her work extends across social media, where she’s built a strong presence sharing her racing journey, connecting with fans, and breaking down barriers one post at a time.

EARLY SUCCESS

Mieshael earned her drag racing license on September 14, 2023, and wasted no time proving she belonged behind the wheel. With guidance from her father, who has over a decade of experience in the drag racing world, she quickly mastered the techniques required to handle ILLICIT’s 1,200 horsepower, 615 cubic inch nitrous motor. After getting licensed, she raced at Sacramento Raceway before it closed down and competed at Famoso Raceway in Bakersfield. Her rookie season wasn’t about easing in—it was about making noise.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

• 2023: Made history as the first Black woman drag racer in California[1].
• 2023: Joined D&M Racing LLC as driver of the team’s 1968 Pontiac Firebird “ILLICIT”[2].
• 2024: Named to Drag Illustrated’s “30 Under 30” list, recognized as a rising star redefining what it means to be a trailblazer in drag racing[3].
• 2024: Featured by KTVU Channel 2 News in March during Women’s History Month, highlighting her story as an African American woman in drag racing[4].
• 2025: Competed in father-daughter grudge race against Michael Henry at Raceworz Sonoma[5].

INSPIRATIONS

Her father, Michael Henry Jr., is her biggest influence and mentor. His vision for D&M Racing wasn’t just about winning races—it was about representation, inspiration, and showing their community what’s possible. Learning from someone who’s been in the game for over a decade gave Mieshael both the technical skills and the mindset required to compete at a high level. The father-daughter dynamic adds another layer to her story: they’re not just teammates, they’re competitors, as evidenced by their grudge race at Raceworz Sonoma in 2025.

REPUTATION

Mieshael is known as “The Baddest in the Bay”—a title she’s earned not just through speed, but through presence. As one of the few African American women in drag racing, she’s breaking down walls in a sport that hasn’t always made room for people who look like her. She’s described as a trailblazer who’s redefining the sport, and her story has resonated far beyond the track. Whether she’s doing interviews at SEMA, speaking about her experiences as a Black female racer, or sharing her journey on social media, Mieshael carries herself with confidence and purpose. She’s making a name for herself not by fitting in, but by standing out.

FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

Mieshael has her sights set on becoming the first NHRA African American woman Pro Stock driver. It’s an ambitious goal, but given her track record of breaking barriers, it’s hardly far-fetched. She’s already made history once—and she’s clearly not done yet.

REFERENCES

[1][2][4] Mieshael Henry Makes History as the First Black Woman Drag Racer in California
D&M Racing LLC Official Website
[3] DI 30 Under 30 2024: Mieshael Henry | Drag Illustrated
[5] Mieshael Henry Vs. Michael Henry (Father Daughter Grudge Race) Raceworz 2025 Sonoma
The Baddest in the Bay! Mieshael Henry Talks Drag Racing & Inspiring Kids with New Book
Mieshael Henry and Team D&M Racing LLC Interview
New Driver – D&M LLC