GOOD NEWS: 499 Days. That’s how long it had been since I last sat behind the wheel of a Top Fuel dragster. Nearly a year and a half of anticipation, reflection, and evolution — both as a racer and a mom. But on Monday, all of that paused when I tightened my belts, hit the throttle, and launched back into the world I know so well. And honestly? I didn’t care that we were testing in brutal conditions — 98.6º ambient, 146º track temp. It felt right.

499 Days.
That’s how long it had been since I last sat behind the wheel of a Top Fuel dragster. Nearly a year and a half of anticipation, reflection, and evolution — both as a racer and a mom. But on Monday, all of that paused when I tightened my belts, hit the throttle, and launched back into the world I know so well. And honestly? I didn’t care that we were testing in brutal conditions — 98.6º ambient, 146º track temp. It felt right.

This test wasn’t just a spur-of-the-moment decision. We’d been planning it for months. I drove Tony’s car — his setup, his fit. With just a few adjustments (a swapped insert, belt tweaks), I slid in. Familiar, yet new. We made three solid runs, each one better than the last. Knocked out several parts tests and, more importantly, proved to myself that “racer Leah” and “mamma Leah” aren’t separate identities. They’re one and the same — stronger together.

Maintaining my NHRA license isn’t just about paperwork or staying eligible. It’s a symbol — of commitment, passion, and never letting go of the fire inside. This return run reminded me: no matter how much time passes, the thrill, the focus, and the joy are still there. And now, it’s back to our regular @tsrnitro racing program.