Ashley Force
Drag racing // Yorba Linda, California, United States
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Breaking barriers as the first woman to win an NHRA Funny Car event, Ashley Force Hood carved her legacy in motorsport’s most famous family while inspiring female racers everywhere.
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It’s all just your experiences with racing. We all have our own little reasons. I’m terrified of sharks. Then there are people who by choice swim with sharks.
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FULL BIO: Ashley Force
Ashley Force Hood broke barriers in drag racing as the first woman to win an NHRA Funny Car event, carving her own legacy within motorsport’s most famous family dynasty while inspiring a generation of female racers.
EARLY YEARS
Born on November 29, 1982, to 16-time NHRA champion John Force, Ashley grew up immersed in motorsports culture alongside her sisters Courtney, Brittany, and half-sister Adria. Her Southern California childhood reflected an early fascination with mechanics, choosing auto shop and welding classes over traditional electives during her years at Esperanza High School in Anaheim. This hands-on approach to vehicles foreshadowed her racing career, with Ashley herself noting she chose auto shop over home economics because “auto would be more fun.” Despite growing up in the shadow of her father’s relentless racing pursuits, her path to driving wasn’t predetermined, but rather evolved from the blend of motorsport tradition and genuine mechanical curiosity that surrounded her formative years.
EARLY SUCCESS
Rather than immediately stepping into the spotlight of Funny Cars, Force Hood took a methodical approach to her racing career, serving a critical two-year apprenticeship behind the wheel of a Super Comp dragster to build her foundation. After making three starts in Top Alcohol Dragster racing without advancing beyond the second round, she made her professional leap into NHRA Funny Car competition in 2007. Her rookie season proved she belonged in the elite ranks when she became the first woman to advance to a Funny Car final, earning her the prestigious NHRA POWERade Rookie of the Year title in the Funny Car division. This impressive debut came during an emotionally challenging season that saw the loss of teammate Eric Medlen and her father’s near-fatal crash in Texas, showcasing not only her driving talent but her remarkable resilience.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2007: Became first woman to reach an NHRA Funny Car final round[1].
- 2007: Named NHRA POWERade Rookie of the Year in the Funny Car division[2].
- 2008: Made history as the first woman to win an NHRA Funny Car event, defeating her father John Force in the final round at the NHRA Summit Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway[3].
- 2009-2010: Secured back-to-back U.S. Nationals victories[4].
- Career: Accumulated four professional Funny Car victories and sixteen final round appearances[1].
REPUTATION
Force Hood’s impact on motorsports transcends her groundbreaking victories. While her technical achievements opened doors, it was her approach that truly transformed perceptions—she raced with grace under pressure, proving women belonged in Funny Cars not as novelties but as legitimate contenders. Her victory over her legendary father created one of drag racing’s most iconic moments, a passing-of-the-torch scenario that signaled a new era for the sport. What distinguishes Ashley in racing history isn’t merely breaking gender barriers but how she did it—with a disarming smile and unwavering focus that made high-octane competition look accessible. Armed with both raw talent and a communications degree from California State University, Fullerton, she articulated her journey in ways that connected with fans beyond traditional racing demographics. Even after stepping away from competition, her influence continues through her leadership role as a vice president at John Force Racing, where she helps shape the future of the sport and mentors emerging female racers who aim to follow her pioneering path.
FUTURE GOALS/PLANS
While Ashley retired from competitive racing after announcing her pregnancy in 2011, her continued involvement in motorsports remains focused on her executive role within the family business and her commitment to family life. As of 2025, there are no announced plans for a return to competition, with her priorities firmly established in her leadership position at John Force Racing where she continues to influence the sport’s development and champion opportunities for women in racing.
References:
NHRA Career Profile: Ashley Force Hood
Women in Motorsport: Breaking Barriers
The Force Dynasty: A Racing Legacy
Milestone Moments: NHRA’s Historic Victories
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