A few weeks back we brought you the story of Ford and Mustangs Racing for Kids. The program is set up to train and encourage the next generation of drag racers. It’s a kind of community outreach as well taking kids off the streets and putting them in the seat is the mission of the program.

Recently at the NMRA in Norwalk, we had the chance to hang with the crew and a few of the students in the program. Molly Straight , a current student, chatted with us and expressed how the program is helping to make her dreams a reality and helping many others to find their direction in life.  

 Molly came to the attention of the Ford and Mustangs Racing for Kids program after appearing on the local news.  The news reported that a student drove their car to school like any other normal day, only to find when school let out it had been stolen. The car stolen was a project ride that had been built for street and drag racing.  Molly, her dad, and brother had spent countless hours of  blood, sweat, and tears on this project build.

Saddened by Molly’s experience she was invited into the program by founder, Steve Hoffman after viewing the story on the news. After chatting with Hoffman and other students Molly accepted the invitation and entered into the program. Over the next two years Ford and Mustangs Racing for Kids became Molly’s extended family, people she’d rely on for support later.

Late last year of 2013 Molly’s father, Benjamin Straight,  passed away unexpectedly from heart disease. A tragedy for the family and Molly.  Benjamin was a mentor and best friend not only to Molly,  but to so many in the car community.

Since her father’s passing Molly’s racing family has rallied around her providing love and encouragement. We happily report that Molly is staying on track and making her daddy proud. She is enrolled in college and still pursuing her dream of drag racing in the program.  With every pass Molly makes down the strip of life she knows her daddy is with her. Cheering her on from the heavens above.