The NHRA opened its 2026 season with a historic weekend at Famoso Dragstrip, where the first 75th Anniversary Diamond Wally trophies ever awarded by NHRA — in any category — were presented following completion of Race No. 1 and Race No. 2.
After the weather delayed the start of racing Saturday, competitors returned Sunday morning to finish Race No. 1 before moving into Race No. 2 later in the day. Once on track, racing unfolded smoothly as young drivers showcased consistency, focus, and competitive maturity throughout the weekend.
Race #1 Results:
6-9 Year Old champion: Connor Monise
10-12 Year Old champion: McKenzie Nelson
13-14 Year Old champion: Dylan Nelson
15-17 Year Old champion: Isabella Pires
Junior Comp champion: Emersyn Pires
Race #2 Results:
6-9 Year Old champion: Conner Casner
10-12 Year Old champion: Abram Grado
13-14 Year Old champion: Parker Howe
15-17 Year Old champion: Allison Bolle
Junior Comp champion: Logan Oliveira
In addition to earning the historic Diamond Wally trophies, each winner also received a certificate from Ted Wiens Complete Auto Service for one pail of Torco methanol, adding to the significance of the milestone event.
With the first Diamond Wallys of NHRA’s 75th Anniversary now officially awarded, the 2026 NHRA Junior Championship Series began with a landmark moment — one that will be remembered as the point where NHRA history started with its youngest racers at Famoso Dragstrip.