The Central Ohio Power Wheels Drag Racing series has been captivating audiences with its electrifying action, as young racers aged 3-9 years old compete for class championships. This year, two standout drivers, Lana Gaither and Adelle Robinson, have emerged victorious, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination on the track.

Inspiring Victories, Heartwarming Stories

12 Volt Stock: Lana Gaither's Storybook Season

Lana Gaither, hailing from Tip City, Ohio, has etched her name in the history books as the 2024 Hot Shot's Secret National Champion in the 12 Volt Stock class. Her remarkable improvement from the previous season was on full display, as she dominated the competition, securing multiple wins, including an impressive streak of three to four consecutive victories.Lana's journey, however, extends beyond the racetrack. In 2022, as she prepared for her racing debut, her family was also navigating the heartbreak of the early delivery and tragic stillbirth of her brother, Lucas. The family has also endured multiple miscarriages, a painful experience they honor by displaying the Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support, Inc. logo on all three of Lana's cars. Through their racing, the Gaither family continues to find solace and a way to celebrate the memory of their beloved Lucas, while offering prayers and support to others who have faced similar hardships.The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Rad Candy Company and Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support, Inc. for their sponsorship, as well as to the countless family members who have contributed to Lana's success through their tireless efforts in building, testing, and supporting her journey to the track.

12 Volt Modified: Adelle Robinson's Unstoppable Reign

In the 12 Volt Modified class, Adelle Robinson has cemented her status as the 2024 National Champion. Adelle, who was previously featured in a spotlight article on Drag Champ, had set her sights on winning her first 12-volt modified championship – and she delivered.Adelle's Hot Shot's Secret/Drag Champ 1993 Lamborghini has been her weapon of choice in this class for most of her racing career. This season, the strategic combination of motor setups from 550 Trail Master and Holmes Hobbies Motors proved to be the key to her success, as she won all but two races in the class.While Adelle's car may not have been the fastest most of the season, her consistency and lightning-fast reflexes at the starting line made her a formidable opponent. Her father, Mel Robinson, who runs the Central Ohio Power Wheels Drag Racing series, often encouraged her to focus on getting a good jump, knowing her competition had slightly faster cars. Adelle's skill and her father's expert setup kept her in the Winner's Circle throughout the season, as she proudly represented Team Hot Shot's Secret and Team Ohio Grudge.Adelle and her father extend their heartfelt gratitude to their extensive list of sponsors, including Hot Shot's Secret, Ohio Grudge Racing, Drag Champ, Browning Heating and Cooling, Gallegos Vinyl & Engraving, Chicks on Slicks, CKC Garage, K's Kustoms, Hoover's Power Wheels, Jolly Pirate Donuts, Fast Kids Club, Rocket Track Glue, Holmes Hobbies, No Prep Outlaw Mafia, and Busted Knuckle Car Club, for their unwavering support.

24 Volt Modified: Adelle Robinson's Dominance Continues

Adelle Robinson's impressive performance in the 2024 season extended to the 24 Volt Modified class, where she emerged as the National Champion. Adelle's versatility was on full display as she raced two different cars to claim the title, including the CKC Garage Black Sheep Corvette and her trusty Yoda Corvette.Despite some initial setup challenges with the Black Sheep Corvette, Adelle was able to put it in the winner's circle, along with several victories in her Yoda Corvette, including at the prestigious Power Wheels Nationals. Adelle entered the Nationals tied with Gideon Wells for the top spot, but her incredible performance on the starting line and her brother Aryn's expertise in the A/R gearboxes proved to be the winning combination, securing her third 24-Volt National Championship and second consecutive title.Adelle's success can be attributed to the support of her sponsors, including Hot Shot's Secret, Ohio Grudge Racing, Drag Champ, Browning Heating and Cooling, Gallegos Vinyl & Engraving, Chicks on Slicks, CKC Garage, K's Kustoms, Hoover's Power Wheels, Jolly Pirate Donuts, Fast Kids Club, Rocket Track Glue, Holmes Hobbies, No Prep Outlaw Mafia, and Busted Knuckle Car Club. A special shoutout goes to John G. Jones from CKC Garage, who built the Black Sheep Corvette, a car that Adelle loved to race and that earned several car show trophies this year.

Rising Stars and Milestones

The Central Ohio Power Wheels Drag Racing series has been a breeding ground for young talent, and this year was no exception. Hunter Beursken, driving the blue Mustang, was named Rookie of the Year, showcasing his impressive skills and potential. Additionally, Hunter's brother, Kyle Beursken, was recognized as the Fastest Ford, racing a black Mustang in the 24 Volt Modified class.Adelle Robinson also reached a remarkable milestone, becoming the first racer to achieve 50 wins in just 4 1/2 years, a feat that had never been accomplished before. The previous record holder, Tommy Robinson, had 38 wins to his name.

A Growing Sport with Widespread Support

The Central Ohio Power Wheels Drag Racing series has experienced exponential growth, with races now taking place in various states, including Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas. There are even plans to start a series in South Dakota in 2025, along with events in Illinois and Kentucky.Mel Robinson, the driving force behind the series, extends his heartfelt gratitude to the individuals and organizations that have played a pivotal role in the sport's development. This includes Rod Zolman, Bill and Vickie Hoskinson, who were instrumental in getting Power Wheels Drag Racing off the ground, as well as Shannon from Hook Performance Photography, whose exceptional work has been crucial in the sport's growth.Mel also expresses his deep appreciation for the support of the tracks that have welcomed the series, including Pacemakers Outlaw Motorsports, KD Dragway, Dragway 42, Kil-Kare Raceway, National Trails Raceway, and The Northside Church of Christ. Additionally, he is grateful for the ongoing media support from Drag Champ and Chicks on Slicks.Most importantly, Mel extends his sincere thanks to the parents who bring their children to race, as their unwavering support and dedication have been the driving force behind the series' success.