MEGAN SMITH TO MAKE IHRA TOP ALCOHOL DRAGSTER DEBUT AT DARANA MOTORSPORTS PARK – DUNN

WILLIAMSTON, S.C. (Nov. 4, 2025) - Third-generation drag racer Megan Smith will continue one of drag racing’s most recognized family traditions when she makes her International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) debut in Top Alcohol Dragster competition at Darana Motorsports Park – Dunn (formerly GALOT Motorsports Park) in Dunn, North Carolina.

Smith, the daughter of John “Bodie” Smith and Rhonda Hartman-Smith, will drive the Hartman Enterprises A/Fuel Dragster tuned and operated out of the family’s shop in Williamston, South Carolina. The program, Hartman Smith Racing, is managed entirely by the Smith family, continuing a legacy that has spanned three generations in professional drag racing.

“The IHRA has always been a part of our family’s story,” Megan Smith said. “My parents both got their start there, and it feels special to have the opportunity to continue that history. It’s really meaningful for all of us to be able to represent our partners like Red Line Oil and Goodson Tools in front of IHRA fans.”

The Hartman-Smith family’s connection to IHRA runs deep. Megan’s father won Top Fuel Rookie of the Year honors and scored a victory in nostalgia Funny Car competition, while her mother earned three national event wins and was also named Top Fuel Rookie of the Year. Her grandfather Paul Smith reached 11 IHRA finals, winning three, while her late grandfather Virgil Hartman was a respected Top Fuel owner and tuner.

Photos by KZ Photography

Although Smith has logged several seasons in A/Fuel competition, this marks her first official IHRA appearance. She said the move is both a homecoming and an opportunity to grow. “We’re a small, family-run operation, and everything we do is a team effort,” she said. “This next chapter is about gaining experience, continuing to learn, and building toward what’s ahead.”

The team will debut at Galot Motorsports Park with support from a close-knit group of crew members and friends who have long supported the Smith and Hartman families. John will also compete this weekend, driving the Paul Smith Racing Nitro Funny Car. Additional IHRA race appearances are being considered for 2026 as the team evaluates its schedule and future sponsorship opportunities.

For Smith, the chance to represent her family on an IHRA starting line carries emotional weight. “It’s an honor to represent my family name and the people who’ve made this journey possible,” she said. “I’m ready to get out there and make some runs.”