ERICA ENDERS & LEAH PRUETT Prove Jr. Drag Racing Pipeline Works for Women
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February 6, 2026
GRRL! SUMMARY:
- The 2026 NHRA Jr. Drag Racing League schedule proves the pipeline works – just look at Pro Stock world champion ERICA ENDERS and Top Fuel standout LEAH PRUETT, who both cut their teeth in these half-scale dragsters before dominating the professional ranks.
- JASMINE SALINAS joins the impressive roster of women who’ve used Jr. Drag Racing as their launching pad into Top Fuel competition. The eight-car shootouts at national events give these young racers the same stage as the pros, complete with FS1 television coverage and diamond anniversary Wallys for winners.
- With conference finals at Texas Motorplex and Bristol Dragway anchoring the season, we’re watching the future of women’s drag racing develop in real time. These 5-17 year olds running 85 mph in half-scale Top Fuel cars aren’t just playing around – they’re following the exact path that created our current female champions.
UPCOMING:
- Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals – April 9-12, Pomona
- Western Conference Finals – June 12-13, Texas Motorplex
- Eastern Conference Finals – July 16-18, Bristol Dragway
LINKS TO RACER'S PROFILE PAGES:
GRRL! summary based upon reporting by Official Release originally appearing on speedwaymedia.com
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