The next generation of drag racers are among us. 2019 alone has already seen up and coming stars in the Mello Yello Drag Racing series like 23 year old Austin Prock, and Jordan Vandegriff, age 24. The 2020 season won’t let you down with the introduction of third generation pro stock racer Mason McGaha. Want to get to know this soon to be 18 year old before he climbs behind the wheel of his very own Harlow Sammons Racing Chevrolet Camaro? Look no further!
What are you most looking forward to when it comes to racing pro stock?
I am looking forward to racing against people that I grew up watching such as Greg Anderson, Jason Line, and Jeg Coughlin.
Outside of racing, we know your favorite team to watch is the NY Yankees? You are born and raised in Texas, how did it come about that you like the Yankees?
My dad liked Darryl Strawberry when he played for the Yankees and then grew a watching the team. When I began liking baseball, I started watching the Yankees with him.
Why do you love racing?
I really don’t know my life without drag racing. I’ve grown up at the racetrack. It’s in my blood. I’ll be a third generation racer, racing alongside my dad as my grandfather crew chiefs.
What is your favorite racetrack?
I like all of the Bruton Smith facilities. (Las Vegas, Charlotte, Bristol, Sonoma) In addition to those, I’ve always liked going to Gainesville.
Who is the most influential person in your life? Why?
The most influential person in my life is my dad. He has taught me everything I know from all of the time we have spent together where we’re racing or working at the shop.
What do you think is going to be the most challenging thing about driving a pro stock car?
The hardest part will be working through the mistakes that I will make. I will have to adjust and continue to learn from them.
What do you think is going to be the easiest?
The easiest thing will be driving for a team that is already established. The only rookie will be me!
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Calm. Cool. Collected.
What is your racing ritual before your dad runs? Do you think you will develop one of your own when you drive?
My dad always does a breathing technique to try to get his heart rate up before he makes a run. I don’t have a certain ritual, but I’m very superstitious. If my sister Berkley goes and watches first round and we win, I tell her she has to go next round or we are going to lose.
Mason McGaha stands beside Father Chris McGaha’s 2017 Harlow Sammons Racing Chevrolet at the 2019 Phoenix national event.
What do you think most people would find the most fascinating about you?
I hope people see how down to earth and easy going I am. I’m not bothered by much!
Mason will begin learning the ropes from NHRA National Pro Stock Champion Chris McGaha some time this summer. His grandfather, Lester McGaha will have a hands on role in the progress. For the latest on Mason McGaha and the Harlow Sammons Team go to Facebook.com/MasonMcGahaPS