MELANIE JOHNSON Becomes First Drag Racer to Receive Shift Up Now Funding

March 18, 2026

• MELANIE JOHNSON becomes first drag racer funded by Shift Up Now Foundation, joining 15 female drivers receiving over $300,000 in 2026 grants, extending the program into NHRA ranks for first time during Women’s History Month.
• Second-generation racer JOHNSON secured debut regional win at Norwalk in 2025, posted multiple semifinal runs at U.S. Nationals and Texas Fall Nationals while establishing herself as Top Alcohol Dragster contender with McPhillips Racing.
• Beyond competition, JOHNSON serves on Women in Motorsports North America Southern California Chapter committee, creating networking pathways and professional development opportunities aligned with diversity advocacy across racing disciplines.
• Partnership adds to JOHNSON’s supporter network including NGK Spark Plugs, Lucas Oil, ARP, and Alan Johnson Performance Engineering, strengthening resources as team pursues championship-level performance in deep Top Alcohol Dragster field.

denso nhra sonoma nationals, lucas oil drag racing series, mcphillips racing, top alcohol dragster