BRISTOL, Tenn. (June 18, 2016) – Jack Beckman has a fond memory of Bristol Dragway that he will carry forever.
He still hasn’t won an NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals trophy and only advanced to the final round in 2011, but the 2012 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Funny Car world champion, will always cherish his time on the track two years ago.
“My dad was here and we did the track walk together that Sunday morning,” he said of walking with Bob Beckman in the pre-race ritual held before every Mello Yello event.
“That was neat. He’s 79 now and was a hot rodder. Now, he lives vicariously through me. He comes to several races and his next one will be at Denver. Getting to do the track walk with him on Father’s Day was pretty special.
“It would be different to do it with my two kids, then it would be like their tribute to me; doing it with my dad was my tribute to him.”
It also would be a special moment for Beckman and his Infinite Hero Dodge Charger R/T team, led by crew chief Jimmy Prock and funded by Terry Chandler, to win the NHRA Wally trophy on Sunday. It would be his first of the year after winning seven times last year.
Beckman qualified ninth and will race 16-time world champion John Force in the first round when racing begins at noon (ET).
And thanks to the NHRA All Access plan at NHRA.com, Beckman’s son, Jason, and daughter, Layla, will be watching with mom Jenna from their home in Southern California.
“They’ll be watching and that’s the best way for them to keep up with me when I’m racing.
“Being away from home is tough, but I still get to go home at least two days a week even during this four-race swing.
“A lot of people make a big deal about the drivers being on the road away from their families. It’s not easy on Father’s Days and special occasions. I’ve missed a lot of firsts with my kids.
“It’s not just the drivers, it’s the crew members. They have kids at home too. And they’re on the road more than drivers because they have to drive the rigs to and from.”
If Beckman ends his day in the winner’s circle, it’s certain that his dad will be mentioned along with those of his teammates.
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