Mason Dixon Dragway – Whoever came up with the idea to create a Junior Dragster class was certainly a genius. The purpose was to involve kids in drag racing to build a good foundation for the sport. From the outside looking in, it looks like it is not only the beginning of introducing the kids to real drag racing, it is also the beginning of the bond created in the racing community. On this day this was on full display. A growing respect and camaraderie not only between the racers, but between the parents and families, too. One fine example of this is 13-year-old Mason Blumenauer and his family.

Mason is currently running in the 8.90 class and has been racing Junior Dragsters for three years now. How does it feel to win a race at this age? According to Mason, “Amazing. I was so excited to be going down that track. It wasn’t the most pretty win, but…ya know.” The thrill of the win and excitement was evident in his voice and smile. Job #1 for him is to drive the car, but he also takes care of the tires and other odds and ends on the car with his dad performing most of the duties of a crew chief. Most racers can point to a friend or family member that got them started in the sport. When asked if he always wanted to be a racer, Mason responded, “My grandparents got me into it. They bought me a car. I went and tested and ever since I fell in love [with racing], I guess.” I asked him if there were any racers he wanted to be like. His answer was impressive: “I want to be myself. I want to be my own racer.” I also asked if he could see himself doing this as long as he can. His answer was simple and to the point: “Yep.”

This was his second win of his career to go along with one runner-up finish. They got this car new last year, built by Mike Bos in Bristol, Tennessee and custom-designed specifically for Mason. It’s powered by a Pure Power 3.25” bore engine and competes in the 8.90 class. Next year he’ll be stepping up to the 7.90 class. Equally as impressive as Mason’s driving ability in capturing this win, is the fact that he designed the paint color and graphics of this beautiful car himself. Mason’s dad would add, “He’s proud of it and we’re super proud of him. He works hard and practices a lot. It’s tough racing, you’re going to lose a whole lot more than you win. He comes out and fights hard every time.” The whole family is looking forward to that day when he can get into a big car in a few more years and compete at the next level.