This month’s “fan in the stands” spotlight is on James Ward, a dedicated drag racing enthusiast recognized for his Elijah Morton crew shirt. At 72, James hails from Wendell, North Carolina, and has been a loyal fan since 1967, often seen at events like PDRA, NHRA, and Pro Mods. His admiration for the sport began with his encounter with Rickie Smith, sparking a passion for the horsepower and the community that thrives around drag racing.

In a conversation about his favorite figures in the sport, James selected three personalities: Eddie Hill, the pioneer of the 4-second quarter mile; Bob Glidden, a ten-time NHRA world champion; and Roy Hill, whom he describes as a colorful storyteller with whom he enjoys spending time. He cites the Pro Mod class as his favorite due to its thrilling speed.

James frequently visits tracks across the Carolinas, cherishing the family atmosphere and friendships he’s built within the racing community. He highlights his enjoyment of being in the pits and staging lanes, where he can observe crew dynamics and interact with drivers and crew members. Outside of racing, James values his time with family, including his wife, two adult children, and four grandchildren, and stays updated with drag racing news through various publications. His dedication to the sport and its community epitomizes the spirit of fans in the stands.



Source: dragillustrated.com