Keeping Kids on the Track and off the streets is exactly what, ”Ford and Mustang Racing for Kids”, is doing. Established in 2006 by Steve Hoffman, the program is set up to provide training in drag racing to boys and girls ranging in age 16-25.  Since ‘06 the program given seat time to around 80 kids.  

Hoffman, a thirty year drag racing veteran, runs the program from his backyard garage and Milan Dragway in Michigan.  Teaching the kids garage skills and track skills. The program over the years has seen more females than males signing up.  90% are female students. A trend seen overall in the sport, with an increase in females taking interest in drag racing in recent years.

Once a student is in the program, they receive a car for two years to learn and train in. The one requirement is they must build the ride and prepare it for the track,  all parts including the car are donated. This past weekend your author had the chance to hang with the Hoffman family and the girls in the program, at the NMRA event in Norwalk, OH. These gearhead chics shared with myself and Stang Tv that the program has saved their lives in many ways.  With the majority of these kids coming from a challenged background, this is just what they need to give them a turbo boost towards a brighter future.

Steve Hoffman with Don Garlits

Many in the industry are getting involved and paying it forward. From Ford Motor Company to the current Board of Directors comprised of Steve Hoffman, Chris Holbrook, Dave Hadyniak, Mike Mcmanman, Brian Wolfe, and Tom Hoffman. Along with many private donations the program is thriving and making dreams come true for these future racers.

Look for these rookie racers of Ford and Mustang Racing for Kids “Ashley Thomas, Rose Wehr, Molly Straight, and the newest Sabrina Holbrook” to be showing their skills on the strip at upcoming events. We look forward to keeping you posted on the progress of these gearheard girls.  For more info on the program or to make a donation stop by the Facebook page at Ford and Mustang Racing for Kids.