Tony Stewart Drag Racing Odyssey: Tony Stewart, the 52-year-old racing legend, may have retired from NASCAR in 2016, but he’s still speeding ahead, this time behind the wheel of a dragster. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series and IndyCar champion, a feat no other driver has accomplished. He’s gearing up for the NHRA Finals in Pomona, CA, from November 912 at the Auto Club Raceway.
Stewart, who owns Tony Stewart Racing (TSR), an NHRA team co-founded with his wife, fellow racing star Leah Pruitt, has ventured into drag racing himself. In 2022, he made his debut as an NHRA driver and this year, he’s been regularly racing a Top Alcohol dragster. When asked how long he plans to keep driving, Stewart explained his shift from NASCAR to drag racing has given his career a new lease on life.
“From the NASCAR side, I retired at the right time. The good thing about drag racing is that the runs are short, and the most you’re gonna make in a day is 4 runs, so physically, it’s not as taxing on your body. The taxing part is the acceleration and deceleration when the parachutes come out. That’s the hardest part on your body,” Stewart said.
He continued, emphasizing how NHRA’s shorter and more intense races might add years to his racing career. In drag racing, a traditional quarter-mile run in a Top Alcohol dragster lasts a little over 5 seconds, with speeds reaching nearly 300 MPH. While the G-forces are significant during the start and stop of the race, it doesn’t endure for the extended durations of a typical NASCAR race, lasting over three hours.
Stewart cited the examples of legendary drivers like Chris Karamesines, who drove into his early 90s, and John Force, who continues racing well into his early 70s, as inspirations for his own racing longevity.
When asked if he could envision himself behind the wheel as a driver in his 70s, Stewart joked, “I just hope I live another 20 years. At the rate I’ve been going, I feel like I’m a video game on extended play.”
For more insights from Stewart, watch the full interview, and be sure to catch him on the track in mid-November at the NHRA Finals.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is Tony Stewart’s net worth 2023?
Tony Stewart, a prominent name in American racing, has had an impressive career filled with notable achievements. His net worth of $105 million in 2023 is a testament to his success as a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of the esteemed Stewart-Haas Racing team.
What tracks does Tony Stewart own?
In addition to his racing career, Stewart has ownership stakes in two other racetracks – Paducah (Ky.) International Raceway and Macon (Ill.) Speedway. He also serves as a series owner.
Who is Tony Stewart married to?
Leah Pruett, a renowned NHRA Top Fuel dragster, will be stepping out of the seat next season to start a family with her husband, NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart. In her absence, Stewart will be taking over her position. This exciting development marks a new chapter in the couple’s life, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
What racing series did Tony Stewart start?
The Camping World SRX Series, also known as Superstar Racing Experience, is a stock car racing series that originated in the United States. It was founded by a group of individuals including Tony Stewart, Ray Evernham, Sandy Montag, and George Pyne.