The Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast w/ Luke & Jed

The GRAND FINALE!!!!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0500

It's a celebration not a funeral! The guys host the annual Poddy Awards, which are always entertaining. They talk about favorite moments, and it wouldn't be a complete finale without one last game of Sportsman Drag Racers, Olympic Athlete, or Adult Film Star, one of the most entertaining of all time!

How to “Fix” Sportsman Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed give us all a huge announcement, they of course cover the racing that occurred in the last week. The feature of the show, are the guys "half baked" ways to "fix" our sport! A very entertaining episode!

Crowning the Champions!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

All NHRA Championships are officially decided, Pomona was exciting in a few classes without a doubt. Kevin Brannon is killing it in the late season bracket racing, and Luke takes the win on the championship betting challenge. All of this and more!

Pomona Drama Imminent!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

The NHRA battles are officially passed the point of heating up, they are HOT! Some championships have been crowned, with some still to be determined at Pomona. WDRA makes a "stand" at Darlington, but is there more to it? Tune in for all this and more!

NHRA Heavy, Sportsman E.T. Champs, and Championships taking shape!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed recap NHRA ET sportsman champions. NHRA Lucas Oil Championships are also beginning to really take shape. Tune in now to hear all about this weeks happenings in Sportsman Drag Racing.

Great Win for Champ, NHRA ET Championship Field Set, and More Donnie Hagar!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Great American Bracket Race $500k results, NHRA ET Championship Field is set, Donnie Hagar is still winning, tune in to hear about all this and more!

Mike Smith Memorial, Top End Throttle Stop...in Super Stock? GABR Predictions

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:06:46 -0400

Huge episode with a lot to unpack. NHRA championship pictures are becoming clearer, with racing drawing quickly to a close. Mike Smith Memorial results from Montgomery, and of course GABR $500k predictions.

IHRA World Champions, Class Racers Revival and “That’s true… That might be true… That’s ridiculous”

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 23:15:26 -0400

Quick recap from the IHRA World Finals, the Class Racer Revival, and Luke plays a new exciting game and way to cover the NHRA points implications, “That’s true… That might be true… That’s ridiculous” is a great way to dive into what stories may play out as we round out the 2023 NHRA season.

Can Dragsters even win anymore? Fall Fling Recap, NHRA, and Bottom Bulb action at Summit Motorsports Park!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Big episode, Luke and Jed recap the Fall Fling at Bristol, which of course was dominated by door cars! Luke catches us up on various NHRA points chases, and a great Bottom Bulb race at Summit Motorsports Park. All of that and more! Tune in now!

Young Guns, Mild NHRA Points Shakeups, and Winning: Easier Today or the Past?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0400

The Young Gun vs Old Guy argument continues, Luke covers some mild NHRA points shakeups. How doesn't like some discussion about when was the easier time to win...now or years past? The guys dive into that!

OG Million Recap...No Box Door Cars!!...say no more!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Huge episode on tap, obviously its impossible to cover up the lead here. Donnie Hagar! Everyone knows the story, the guys recap his win and all things OG Million. NHRA points are really coming down to the wire, and there are some changes and recaps to be had on that front as well. Tune in for a surely entertaining episode.

Scotty's Interview Review AND The OG Million Preview w/Britt Cummings

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Huge episode! The guys recap the Summer Fling at Columbus and take a deep dive into Scotty's success and of course that interview. Britt Cummings joins as well, to preview his Great American $500k and give his thoughts on the million and Summer Fling.

BTE Labor Day $250k AND The BIG GO Recap!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Huge episode! We have Indy results and stories, and of course Jed recaps the BTE Labor Day $250k. Tune in to hear all the action!

NHRA Battles Shaping Up and Light Bracket Action

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:59:09 -0400

Jed joined Luke on the eve of the Labor Day $250k for this week's Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast. In it, we packed a ton of discussion about both the past week and a monstrous Labor Day weekend on the horizon:

Brad Burton and Tyler Caheely made big strides toward a Super Stock national championship: are they on a collision course to battle for the title?
A new title contender in Super Comp?
Could a 16-second pickup truck be the weapon of choice in Stock Eliminator?
A we ready to crown the next bottom bulb king?
Bold predictions (sure to go wrong): Luke and Jed call our shots for the Labor Day $250k, and every sportsman winner at the Big Go!

NHRA TD Points Leader Clint Geise Interview, and a huge weekend for Zac Fulcher!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Huge episode on tap! Luke gets to sit down and interview TD National Points leader Clint Geise, he covers Clints history in the sport, and how he's put together this amazing hot streak. Also, discusses highlights from racing all over the country, including a huge $50k win and runner up for Zac Fulcher! Tune in now!

Jed is mildly annoyed...oh and some NHRA and Bracket Results!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Tune in to hear some Jed frustration, and the guys cover some NHRA Topeka action and its points implications.

World Super Pro $50k Along with NHRA and Working Man Results

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

The guys discuss the OG Mid-Michigan $50k and its most popular winner ever, Steve Mikus. They also go down some NHRA points results and the points changes that go with those results, and of course they go over highlights from the Working Man $10 grands and the Nightfire Nationals.

Justin Lamb, Track Shakeups and Rumors, and Major Event Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed talk about Justin Lambs very impressive streak, they also discuss tracks that are closing, some off the NHRA tour, some back on the tour, and of course they quickly recap some of the major events of the last couple weeks.

Jegs Speedweek, Final Mile High Nationals, ECF and more!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed discuss results from a few races around the country, mainly highlighting Jegs Speedweek and the points implications that went along with those results. The final Mile High Nationals at Bandimere and the feel good stories from there. Of course, Luke spent last week at the Eastern Conference Finals, and highlights the main points from that event.

Are EV's the Future of Bracket Racing?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed cover a somewhat short week of results including the LODRS at Numidia, the Steve Collier show at Muncie, and the $100k Triple Threat at VMP. Then of course, the EV discussion, somewhat controversial amongst competitors, the guys weigh in on their take.

FAST Dragsters TTF, and a massive WFC

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Huge episode on tap. Luke and Jed recap the weekends biggest events the SFG 1.1 million and the WFC. Tons to talk about on both of those races, and of course to drum up a little discussion the return of the EV discussion! Tune in for their take on the subject!

Guest co-host for the week: Matt Dadas (recording from SFG 1.1 Million @ US 131)

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke is joined by special guest Matt Dadas to recap some of the major results from the previous week and to preview the SFG 1.1 Million at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. They discussed the NHRA National event, as well as "The Hoot" at Dragway 42. They also predict SFG and WFC winners! Tune in now!

TB Twin $50's, Chris Bear, LODRS Bandimere, WFC Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed, discuss TB Promotions Twin $50k's and their rise in the promotion business. They discuss Chris Bears hot streak, Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at Bandimere and round the show out by previewing what could easily be the biggest WFC ever.

Recap of Bristol National, Ultimate 64, Summer Door Car Shootout and Sean Serra Memorial!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:13:16 -0400

Busy week in sportsman drag racing. Lots to recap, Luke and Jed begin with the NHRA Bristol National and some of the points changes and implications. They also cover the Ultimate 64 and the Sean Serra Memorial. Of course a huge Summer Door Car Shootout recap, as well. Tune in for all things Sportsman Drag Racing!

5 Big Questions for the Second Half of 2023 with Willie Burnett

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Willie Burnett joins the show this week to weigh in on Lukes 5 big questions for the second half of 2023. They also cover a few results and of course preview the Summer Door Car Shootout at I-57 Dragway.

SFG Superbowl, Spring Stampede, Bernie Mann, and some NHRA

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Bracket heavy show, with some results and commentary from the SFG Superbowl, Spring Stampede in Texas, the Bernie Mann Memorial No Delay Nationals. The guys discuss an unfortunate on track incident at Earlville, and some limited NHRA results. Lots on tap coming up in the next weeks stay tuned!

2023 Dream Team Challenge and Rizzoli Continues Stock Hot Streak!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 26 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

The guys discuss the Great American Dream Team Challenge at Holly Springs at length. NHRA Route 66 Nationals and the Dallas Divisional was also covered as well as an update on points implications on the NHRA side.

Rex Simmermaker on WinLight Bets and the pending marriage between drag racing and sports wagering

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Luke is joined by Rex Simmermaker of WinLight Bets, as they discuss the changing climate of sports betting and gambling in general, and the opportunities afforded to sportsman drag racing as a result. Rex details the new WinLight Bets App, his vision in founding the organization, and where it could lead. Is real time (and real money) wagering on the horizon? If/when that does happen, what are the chances that wagering impacts the validity of competition? Where does the money come from, and where does it (or could it) go?

Prior to bringing Rex on the show, Luke shares initial reaction to the Spring Fling’s incredible 3-minute sellout of the Fall Fling event, and previews what promises to be a huge show next week.

Lane Dicken Captures Richest Payday in Beech Bend History & How the Live Feed Impacts Competition

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 12 May 2023 03:00:00 -0400

TB Promotions $100k recap, and a deep dive into how the various life feeds may or may not be affecting us as competitors! Tune in for this awesome episode!

Sherman Adcock may not be human after all… and the bracket scene begins to ramp up

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 05 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In this weeks episode the guys cover some Spring Fling Galot results, the Charlotte 4-wides and of course preview the TB Promotions $100k that is coming up this weekend at Bowling Green.

The Rich Get Richer: Adcock, Rizzoli, Helms continue to roll

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0400

NHRA heavy episode with a bunch of divisional results and updated points chases in most of the NHRA Sportsman classes.

NHRA Vegas 4-wides

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Somewhat light content today, the guys discuss the NHRA Vegas 4-wides and some results from the LODRS at Cecil County.

All Things Fling & AB’s continued dominance

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 03:45:00 -0400

West coast domination? Luke and Jed discuss all things Spring Fling Million. They also dive into Anthony Bertozzi's recent dominance. Tune in to hear their take!

Inside the Fling: A deep dive into the 2022 Spring Fling Million.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In honor of this year's Spring Fling Million, Luke & Jed were joined by Peter Biondo to dive deep into the competitive elements of the most-prestigious race of the year: The Moser Engineering Spring Fling Million.

This bonus episode includes over 2 hours of strategic commentary and race insight from Luke, Jed, and Peter. Listen in as the guys go round-by-round from Round 6 to the Final round.

The video version of this production is available for free, complete with live stream clips, live timing data, and commentary video.

Watch at thisisbracketracing.com/recap

Spring Fling Million Preview, Final Events at Houston & Phoenix, and The Best Characters in Racing Final Four

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Luke, racing at Pomona during the show, and Jed, recap some NHRA results, and then start into the 2023 truncated version of the March Madness Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast edition.

Gulfport Footbrake 150, SGMP Divisional, Carolina Dragway $20k's and intro to Tourney Time 2023

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 07:21:09 -0400

Jed goes solo for episode 315. He goes deep into the Footbrake 150, and covers some pro parenting tips! Also, the SGMP Division 2 LODRS, and Carolina Dragway $20k's. Jed also introduces some possible "entries" for this years March Madness Tournament parody. Tune in!

Gator Nat’s Recap (our fortune telling prowess remains intact!) Joined by Tyler Bohannon and Brian Whitworth

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are still on a roll with their picks...kinda. Tune in to see how they did. Also, we cover the WTR race at Montgomery. Tyler Bohannon and Brian Whitworth also join us to discuss their racing ventures and of course TB Promotions at Bowling Green.

Welcome to the Mystic podcast, where Luke & Jed can tell the future!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed have started the season with some killer predictions. They cover Baby Gator results, the Top Bulb 150 at Gulfport and the West Coast Bracket Races event at Tucson. A relatively action packed weekend for March! Tune in now to hear the guys take on the weekends happenings.

NHRA Lucas Oil Series stories from Phoenix & Belle Rose, another racing legend passes

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed both bid farewell to another racing legend that has passed. They also recap 3 of the latest LODRS races, tune in for another entertaining, informative episode!

Bold Predictions for 2023

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed make their annual bold...or maybe not so bold predictions for the 2023 season.

RIP Frank Aragona, a Cajun poker run, and tree scrambling?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:32:41 -0500

No Jed, Luke is solo this week. There is some significant news worth touching on & it feels time sensitive.

So we’re going to hit it here, but this show will be brief.

Ask Us Anything

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Luke & Jed take listener submitted questions, weighing in with their thoughts and opinions on the topics that are important to you!

Is Super Stock about to get sloppy? Changes to the NHRA points program, the Fall Fling 48 All-Star Field, and Big Buck Bracket Racing in 2023

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

The guys discuss changes to the NHRA rule book and points series calculations/claims. They also discuss the Fling brands 48 racer invitational, that continues to shape up to be very interesting.

The 2022 Poddies Part 2!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

2022 in Review! Luke & Jed discuss the Story of the Year, Best Single Round, the goat...and the GOAT of 2022!

The 2022 Poddies!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

2022 in Review! Luke & Jed discuss the Best Win, WTF Moment of the Season, and some of the most memorable moments of 2022.

The OG Gets a New Home, The Columbus Dozen, and the Long Awaited Return of: US Olympic Athlete, Adult Film Star, Sportsman Drag Racer

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 03:30:00 -0500

Another big live recorded episode, the guys discuss the new location for the OG million, The Fling brand's Columbus dozen, and the rest of the Florida racing results. Of course, as always highly anticipated, the return of US Olympic Athlete, Adult Film Star, or Sportsman Drag Racer.

PRI, The Fling’s Nasty Dozen and Winter Series Results

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:45:04 -0500

A few short days removed from PRI, the crew got together. They discuss the very intriguing Nasty Dozen that will be chose by The Flings brand, and the format that they have developed, and of course we cover what winter results have been occurring.

The Face of Sportsman Drag Racing in Your state (part 2)

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

A continuation of last weeks "Face of racing in your state". The guys also throw in some results from of the limited bracket racing results in North Carolina and Florida.

The Face of Sportsman Drag Racing in Your state

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

A conversation between Luke and his son Gary spurred this topic, who is the face of the sport in EACH state. They go state by state and have a spirited discussion on the topic, tune in to hear who they think represents each state!

The Man, the Myth, the LEGEND: Bob Locke

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

The guys get to interview the man behind one of, if not the greatest sportsman racing feats of 2022, Bob Locke. Tune in for an outstanding story of faith, and hope that led to the 2022 Super Gas World Championship. A couple of bracket races with their results also, including a $40k top bulb win off the foot, and Jeff Serra winning on the west coast.

Bob Locke, Peter the Great, & Pete the Great… An Epic ending to the 2022 season

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Live for 300! Pomona: Bob Locke Cooter Lance Abbott Peter the great Pete the great Plus-listener submissions: AMA!

High Drama in Sin City!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Big NHRA championship implications, as the season rounds out with its final two races. The guys discuss these high pressure, high stakes situations. There was a little bit of bracket racing to talk about as well.

Crowning the NHRA Summit Series Champs, Lucas Oil Series Gets some clarity, & Where should the Million go?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Tons in this episode! NHRA ET Summit National champions crowned! NHRA National Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series points are down to 2 races. Where is the OG Million headed next? All this and more, tune in now!

'22 OG Million Recap!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed talk about their reflections about the OG Million, they discuss the winners, and some of the less than ideal situations that occurred, and how they were handled. Interesting episode, be sure to tune in!

Driver Series Update and Official OG Million Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 21:53:16 -0400

Ashley joins Luke and Jed to recap the TIBR Drivers Series, and its current standings with very few races left to be completed. Then the guys do their annual OG Million preview, this year doing a snake draft, each drafting a team, and awarding points throughout the weekend. We'll see who comes out on top.

Alabama Two Step, NHRA, and Misc. Bracket Results

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed recap the Alabama Two Step at Montgomery, along with some other misc. bracket results and a quick catchup on NHRA points changes over the weekend.

Full On NHRA Nerdout!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 Jed and I break down the national points chase in all 7 "true" sportsman categories (Comp, S/Stock, Stock, Super Comp, Super Gas, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman) in depth. We discuss the current leaders, and the contenders, and even place a percentage chance on each of them actually winning the '22 championship.

Fall Fling Bristol, SFG Super Bowl Darlington, JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

After another week off, Luke and Jed had a bunch to catch up on, the Fall Fling at Bristol just ended and they'll recap that, Last weekend there was the SFG Super Bowl and Jegs Summer Door Car Shootout. And of course we have some NHRA results spread across the country to highlight as well.

NHRA at Earlville, The Columbus Fling, and The Great American USA $100k

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed, recap the Columbus Fling, by Peter Biondo and crew, the Great American USA $100k, by Britt Cummings and Gaylon Rolison, and finally the NHRA Divisional at Earlville, Iowa. They also briefly cover some of the new WDRA/IHRA happenings.

Labor Day $250k and Indy Recaps...Intro of the WDRA

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 22:03:55 -0400

Luke and Jed are back after a week off. They recap a bunch of racing around the country, most importantly of course, is the Labor Day $250k and of course the "Big Go" at Indy. There have been some big announcements on the IHRA vs the world front with the WDRA being announced this week. Tune in to hear the guys take on how things are progressing.

Positive vibes only! Lots of good news!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Lots of good news this week! A couple tracks that are remaining open/reopening! Brainerd NHRA National event recap, and of course Muncie's May 12's. Up next are a couple BUSY weeks, stay tuned.

IHRA Sale official? Finally Some Bottom Bulb Action!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:10:06 -0400

The IHRA has officially changed hands. There was an NHRA National Event at Topeka...we'll give you one guess who won Super Comp. Jed finally gets to talk about some bottom bulb racing!

Big Bucks Bracket Weekend in review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:09:18 -0400

Big Bucks bracket weekend: 2 of the most prestigious, longest running events on the big buck schedule, and a third event that paid more than either of them!

More IHRA News, Keystone, US131, NHRA Topeka and Seattle.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Will IHRA make the show weekly for the rest of the year? Not a ton of bracket news, NHRA at Topeka, Seattle.

Weekend in Review by a Solo Jed

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Jed does a solo recap of the weekend with some results from the TB promotions Twin 50's, VMP's Triple Threat, NHRA at Sonoma, along with some other IHRA news and miscellaneous discussion.

Are we all going to be No Prep Kings? ECF Drama?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

We took a week off...and the train has jumped the tracks! Luke and Jed have a TON to talk about this week, IHRA issues? traction compound shortage, a little bit of race results, and a really long, good rant from Jed on an NHRA decision at the ECF.

Huge WFC! Interesting SFG 500!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

The guys weigh in on a huge WFC and a crazy purse change at the SFG 500.

Drafting the Champions w/ Kevin McKenna

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:18:54 -0400

Luke is joined by Kevin McKenna for a mid season NHRA review. The also weigh in on the tragic loss of Bill Bader Sr.

Does Big Money Racing Need a Gaming Commission?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Relatively short week in the results department, Beacon, Galot, Numidia along with Bristol's NHRA national, and a divisional in Denver. After that, the guys get into a really interesting discussion brought to the table by Chris Cadle, tune in to hear the guys thoughts on a type of Gaming Commission for big money bracket racing. Jed also previews the 16th annual WFC.

Ryan Butler makes 7 Finals in One Weekend?!?!?!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 10:35:04 -0400

Tons of results from all over, NHRA, Brackets. Ryan Butler has a great weekend. Keith Mayers solidifies Super Street chances. Tune in to hear all of the details in between!

Andy Schmall and Cory Gulitti are really good at racing!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 10:08:21 -0400

Scotty's back, Hunter's back, Wesley's....back!? Andy Schmall and Cory Gulitti seem to have this game figured out. Luke crowns a super street champion in June! The guys discuss a new D4 NHRA director, and a ton of other fun stuff! Tune in now!

Scotty the Great!?!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 16:01:18 -0400

Last week, Luke and Jed talked about Peter, and his legacy...this week, Scotty nearly runs the table. These guys just don't disappoint. They discuss some miscellaneous results. They discuss Taylor Bowling's rise to greatness off the bottom bulb as well. Tune in for a great show!

Peter the Great!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 27 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed have a lot to unpack this week. They discuss the unfortunate passing of two of the sports legends. Peter Biondo's $20k win, the Dream Team challenge, points runs are shaping up at on the LODRS, and another excessive braking DQ? Tune in to hear about all of these things and more!

John DiBartolomeo Tribute

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 26 May 2022 21:32:50 -0400

Friend of the podcast, multi-time guest, all around advocate for our sport, John DiBartolomeo passed away May 23rd, this special tribute episode is a replay of episode 157, its a pretty special episode and these types of tributes, can be comforting, hearing our respected guests voice who has since passed, but can also be a bit hard to listen to as well. We hope you all enjoy hearing this one again, as much as we did.

Who's going to win the Dream Team Challenge?!?!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 19 May 2022 22:20:13 -0400

The guys go over results from the TB $50k, NHRA National at VMP, and the Great Bend LODRS. Then as is the norm, this time of year, they preview the Dream Team Challenge coming up this weekend. They analyze some of the teams, and of course make some picks. Tune in to hear their thoughts!

Track Talk!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 12 May 2022 22:06:36 -0400

After seeing a ton of social media posts with folks listing all the tracks that they have attended and or won races while attending. Luke and Jed take it one step farther, they detail their favorites, their least favorites, as well as some a few categories that prove very interesting. Tune hear to hear about their Track Talk!

Gary Williams Best Ever?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 05 May 2022 23:42:33 -0400

Spring Fling Galot, Charlotte 4-wides, and the Bottom Bulb Explosion, also a bit of a Spring Fling mistake that gained some attention. And the age old question, is Gary Williams the best ever? Tune in to find out!

Final NHRA National, NHRA Divisional's D1, D2, and some Big $$ Bracket Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 22:54:08 -0400

No more Houston… No more Atlanta… No more Phoenix. Joliet? What does this all mean? We'll discuss, but in the final Houston National we have Emmon's family domination. Luke breaks down some very early season points scenarios. In the week before the race that he is co-promoting, Jonathan Maugans wins SP hitting the bottom bulb at the Rudd Racing Engines Six Shooter Shootout promoted by Paige Hamlin. Tune in to hear all of the weeks happenings!

Capital City $100k, and Vegas Million Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 20:49:59 -0400

Kind of a strange show this week, Jed will join us first with a Capital City $100k recap, after that Luke and Jed come back together to discuss, and cover the highlights from the Spring Fling Million.

Big Jed's Time In the Limelight!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:28:34 -0400

Big Jed's Big Moment! All things Jed all the time. Luke gets the opportunity to really dive deep into Jed's history in the sport. All the way to his start in the 80's! This is a fun episode, Jed wasn't really looking forward to, but fun none-the less. Tune in now!

Results, Final Four Wrap Up, Spring Fling Million Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0400

The guys recap a few miscellaneous results from the 4-wides at Vegas, a bit of big money racing, and they preview both the Capital City Classic in Montgomery, and the Spring Fling Million in Vegas. Of course, with the NCAA finale in the books, they finish out the Sportsman racing ideas bracket.

Jonathan Maugans and NCAA Bracket update!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed get to catch up with Jonathan Maugans, they talked lots of bottom bulb racing, and introduced us to the Bottom Bulb Explosion which will be contested at Mid-America Dragway April 29-May 1. Near and dear to Luke's basketball loving heart, he keeps us up to date on the NCAA Sportsman Racing "ideas" bracket.

Bracket Racing Bracket Time...Good Racing Ideas Vs. Bad Racing Ideas

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed cover some limited results from the last couple weeks, mainly SFG Bradenton, Tucson Southwest Showdown, The Footbrake 150 at Gulfport, and the rain ridden Gatornationals. The real fun however comes in the yearly Sportsman Racing Bracket showdown, this year will be good drag racing inventions/ideas, vs bad ideas. Tune in, its a fun one!

Great American Guaranteed Million Tyler Bohannon

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed had the opportunity to get to know Tyler Bohannon, the 2021 SDPC Race Shop Great American Guaranteed Million winner. Where, when, and how his racing career started were covered of course, but also how did that incredible day play out, were there nerves? worried about the huge, life changing money? Listen in to find out!

Early Season NHRA, and some Mississippi Big Buck Bracket Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0500

While Luke is mid early season western swing, he is hot and heavy into the NHRA scene already, with some race results from Wild Horse Pass Motorsports park. Coverage of the Baby Gators and the Top Bulb 150 at Gulfport, included as well.

NHRA Sportsman Kicks off for 2022

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 22:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed are back together to kickoff some of the first major racing of 2022. Luke reports from the west coast, where he will be spending a couple months with the NHRA series along with the Spring Fling Million. They also cover some results from the King of the Coast and Southern Big Bucks Shootout, both of which that had really strong crowds. Tune in now to hear their take on all of it!

2022 Top 25!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 22:00:00 -0500

It's time for our yearly...well somewhat yearly, TOP 25! Always sure to spark some conversation, maybe even some controversy, these Top 25's are a great way to preview the upcoming 2022 big money bracket racing season. Tune in to see if you or your favorite racer made the list!

Peter Biondo and Dan Fletcher Weigh In!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed are joined by Dan Fletcher and Peter Biondo, talk about a start studded cast, to discuss the current/future state of the sport. They discuss, costs, travel, race structures, a wide reaching discussion on all points of sportsman drag racing!

Luke’s Big Announcement, TIBR Drivers Series and Electric Cars!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 22:00:00 -0500

Huge announcement out of the Luke Bogacki Motorsports camp for the 2022 season! Jed weighs in on a couple of footbrake race rule changes that are trying to keep the spirit of the "footbrake" racing where they belong. Finally, Ashley Thompson joins the guys to discuss this years This Is Bracket Racing Driver Series, with its awesome nationwide competition and huge payouts!

2021 NHRA Super Stock Champion Greg Stanfield

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0500

Luke goes solo this week, and gets the opportunity to sit down and discuss Greg Stanfield's NHRA Super Stock Championship season. They talk about a storied history in the sport, and the 27 years between his 4th world championship and this 5th championship. A great interview with a legend in the sport. Tune in now!

NHRA Super Comp Champion Christopher Dodd

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed get the chance to sit down and hear Christopher Dodd's story. Christopher won the NHRA Super Comp Championship in both 2020, AND 2021, one of only 4 racers in NHRA history to do that. Chris covers his history, and how his racing started. They also compared the two championship seasons, and how they differed.

Great American Stars and Stripes New Years Spectacular...and a Special Treat!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0500

In this week's Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast, Luke and Jed recapped another major early season event: the Great American Stars & Stripes New Years Spectacular from Belle Rose, LA. In addition, they weighed in the boomerang relocation of the OG Million, and some randomly interesting stories in the world of sportsman drag racing.

Our Three Best Years of Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 22:00:00 -0500

After listening to a local sports talk radio show, Jed brings to the show a really cool concept. Choose your 3 best years of racing EVER. Luke and Jed both go down memory lane to pick out their 3 favorite/best/most impactful years of racing out of their storied careers. An incredibly interesting show, tune in now!

Huge New Years Nationals in Bradenton!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed talk heavily about the New Years Nationals in Bradenton, a huge car count, Jr's at a big money race, a "Pre-Stage" battle trying to get thrown out?!?!?! Huh? Tune in for an entertaining and action packed show!

2021 NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion Jerry Emmons

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0500

2021 NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion Jerry Emmons joins Luke and Jed, to discuss his incredible 2021 season. After years and years of being a top finisher, but that having the championship allude him, Jerry discusses why it stayed just out of reach for so long. Jerry reflects on this season, and how some of his late fathers words would come to him in rough times. An incredibly insightful conversation, you will not want to miss. Tune in now!!

SFG Bradenton and a Jed Rant Alert!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0500

You won't want to miss this one! A huge episode, where we really dig right into the big issues! SFG results, oversold race quotas, Tulsa on blast, Return of the 5-day? Like we said...DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!!

2021 Top Sportsman Champion: Jimmy Lewis

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0500

Throughout the winter, we here at the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast, hope to bring you the listener a ton of awesome content, we have some really awesome topics/interviews/discussions lined up. Starting here in episode 255, Luke gets to catch up with Jimmy Lewis, the 2021 NHRA Top Sportsman Champion! A wide ranging conversation, from Jimmy's past, to his current car and the in's and outs of Top Sportsman racing, not to mention the ABSOLUTELY crazy travel logistics that it took to win this one! Tune in for a great interview. FYI: The audio gets a bit sketchy a couple times due to cell phone service

254: Throw Back...Replay of a Vintage Story Time

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 22:00:00 -0500

With the NHRA & IHRA tours set to kick off in the coming weeks, the 2017 racing season is almost upon us. The guys figure to have months of racing action to talk about soon, so this week they took a departure from the norm to tell some funny and entertaining racing stories. After Luke talks about an opponent bouncing off the wall, then returning to face him the following round, Jed shares his secret to passing tech at his first national event. In addition, they summoned two of the best storytellers they know: 2-time Million Dollar Race winner Gary Williams shares multiple stories from on-track parachute removal to what we believe is a record for most riders in a competition vehicle; and footbrake legend Rodney Finchum weaves a tale that includes rain, fraud protection, multiple emergency vehicles, and an event win. Enjoy!

253: The "Poddy's" 2021 Edition

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 02:00:00 -0500

We are back after a week off, with this year version of the Poddy awards. Best Win of the year, best social media account to follow, and of course, the goat...and GOAT of the 2021 season! Tune in now to hear

Great American Guaranteed Million Recap!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:19:51 -0500

After a week off, we're back! Luke and Jed hit on 8...well kind of 9 talking points about the Great American Guaranteed Million. Its a wide ranging discussion that involves flying timing cones, wrecked T1000's and even an $80k win! Capped off with a conclusion of NHRA points talks and a couple bad beats. Make sure to stay tuned all the way to the end for a bit of humor!

All Champions All the Time

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0400

Luke and Ashley recap the This is Bracket Racing Drivers Series. Jed joins Luke to cover the Summit E.T. National champions, as well as confirmed locks on NHRA Sportsman champions.

250: Troy Williams on the Million

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:50:28 -0400

After last weeks million drama, Troy Williams asked to come on the show to give his perspective, honest, and to the point. Luke, Jed, and Troy also preview and make picks for the NHRA ET Championships. Luke details some NHRA points changes after Rockingham, and finish out with some more bad beats. A long, interesting, must listen episode.

249: The Million is Underway in a BIG Way!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We thought it was going to be a slow week...we were wrong, very wrong. We have had lots or racers "break the internet" often in good ways, this week we have social media going crazy for not such a good reason. Listen in to hear Luke and Jed's take on the situation at the Million, a few more NHRA class points chase pictures becoming more clear, and IHRA crowns their World Champions.

Best Halloween Costume Ever!!! Oh and Some Racing Talk!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed have a huge episode on tap. A ton of racing, all over the country, big bracket racing turnouts, along with Luke racing in Ohio. Of course this time of year, an episode wouldn't be complete without an in depth update on NHRA points implications. Tune in for another sportsman racing filled episode!

247: Real Housewives of...Comp Eliminator?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 22:52:57 -0400

Luke and Jed put together a huge show, with a ton of entertaining discussion. From Fall Fling results with similar names, to Luke being in OHIO...to Comp Eliminator Drama, you name it you'll find it. A great show on tap, be sure to tune in!

246: Greatest Bracket Racer of all time?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed catch up on the latest huge bracket race winners. They discuss Derby City $100k results, Jim Harrington Bracket Nationals, and of course a catch up on NHRA points situations. Couple all of the racing with a hilarious #MANSCAPED ad and shoutouts, and you'll be sure to stay entertained.

245: Broken Record?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jeff Serra and Nick Hastings...heard those names? Nah...us either. On this weeks show, Luke and Jed cover the last few weeks big stories and interesting happenings, which include two of the most consistent HUGE money winners of all time. Tickets are being punched to the NHRA E.T. World Finals as well, with Divisions finishing up their E.T. Finals, we begin to detail those racers heading to Vegas. Tune in for a huge show!

244: Big Stories from Indy and the Labor day $250k

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:25:18 -0400

Huge episode this week, Luke and Jed have a ton to talk about this week. A ton of racing over the Labor Day weekend at Indy, Norwalk, Division 6 E.T. Finals, and of course Bristol. They recap the highlights from all of those events. They also throw in some "bad beats" that were just heart breaking. Tune in for a jam packed show!

243: JEGS All-Stars Preview w/ Kevin McKenna & TIBR Driver Series Update w/ Ashley Thompson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke is joined by National Dragster senior editor Kevin McKenna to preview the annual JEGS All-Stars, held in conjunction with this weekend’s NHRA U.S. Nationals (for a complete list of All-Stars participants, check out Kevin’s column on NHRA.com: https://www.nhra.com/news/2021/jegs-allstars-preview-introduction-talent-heavy-indy-fields). Following that spirited conversation, Ashley Thompson joins the show to provide an update on the ThisIsBracketRacing.com/driverseries standings as racers from across the continent head into the home stretch in search of $10,000+ top prizes in both the Top Bulb & Bottom Bulb categories.

242: Good Golly Garrett Griffith!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are back together this week, leading off with an impressive run from the young Kentucky native, Garret Griffith. With the BTE Labor Day $250k and the Summer Door Car Shootout, coming up very soon, the guys talk about those races and the hardships and upsides that come from promoting races. The second half of the show is NHRA heavy with highlights from the divisional and national scene.

241: The McCarty kids, Caraline and Tripp

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jed gets to take the reins this week and sit down with Hazlehurst, Georgias own Caraline and Tripp McCarty. Tune in to find out the behind the scenes story. They discuss their day to day, who's best racing, bike wrecks and more. Oh and they'll let us know why they are sitting in a truck in the Hazlehurst, GA Tractor Supply parking lot!

Bracket racer turned racetrack owner: "Funny Car" Chris Northup

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke welcomes big dollar bracket racing extraordinaire, and now perhaps the youngest race track owner in the industry: Gleason Raceway Park's own Christopher Northup. Funny Car Chris tells us how a kid from the big city of Boise, Idaho came to own a small race track in rural Gleason, TN, and details their HUGE opening night (last weekend, their spectator count exceeded the town's population)! Chris shares his vision for the race track, where bracket racing fits in, and much more...

239: Serra Still Red Hot, Foley Jr. Wins Big and some NHRA Action

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

The guys return from vacation with a lot of great racing to talk about from all over the country. Some repeat names among the top tier bracket races, Jeff Serra staying hot and Doug Foley Jr. winning huge money! NHRA in Pomona, Topeka, and Sonoma ramps up points chases! Tune in to hear Luke and Jed's take on the past weeks events!

238: Remembering Kyle Seipel

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This weeks episode is dedicated solely to our friend Kyle Seipel, throughout this episode you will hear from some of Kyles close friends that were willing to give up some of their favorite stories involving Kyle. Some of the stories are recent, some are from Kyle's younger days, but surely these stories will be a pleasure to listen to for anyone that knew of kyle, be it personally or through his racing adventures.

237: ECF Winners, NHRA results, and Some Big Money Bracket Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed cover racing from all over, among that coverage Luke goes mini-nerd out on some really close NHRA points battles that are shaping up. The Eastern Conference Finals had some great performances, as well as some various big money racing around the country. Tune in for a great show!

236: We finally got Adam Davis on the show!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jed was finally able to convince Adam Davis to come on the show, and it did not disappoint! You'll get to hear a lot about his mentality going into a round, what he does during the week, and lots of other cool AD behind the scenes info. Tune in to hear the little heard from Adam Davis!

235: WFC Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are together this week after what was a very successful weekend for both. Jed, after another very successful WFC, recaps some of the results and stories from his weekend. Luke, fresh off a Super Gas divisional win at Summit Motorsports Park, discusses some of the results and stories from the NHRA side. They also discuss the SFG 500k postponement. Tune in for another entertaining show!

234: Replay of Kyle Seipel Interviews

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we assembled two episodes, Episode 71 and Episode 124. Kyle Seipel was a guest on both of those episodes, 71 alongside his friend and business partner Peter Biondo, and in 124 he was by himself. As Luke mentions in his intro, sometimes these are hard to listen to, but its still Kyles voice, and the stories will still bring a smile to your face.

233: NHRA Mid-Season Review with Kevin McKenna

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed come together to start the episode for a couple minutes to honor Kyle Seipel. Luke then catches up with our return guest Kevin McKenna, Sr. Editor of NHRA National Dragster, to review the NHRA season as we find ourselves mid-season in lots of exciting points battles. Tune in now to hear their take on this seasons progress.

232: What track has produced the best racers historically?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are back together this week, they cover some NHRA highlights from around the US, as well as a few big money races in Indiana, Virginia, and South Carolina. Then we make an attempt at making a few racers really happy and the rest of the country mad at us! Tune in to find out why!

231: Rock Haas and TIBR Driver Series Update with Ashley Thompson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 10:32:51 -0400

Luke catches up with some of the past weeks racing, and then gets to sit down with long time NHRA standout Rock Haas. They discuss Rock's "Rocking Super Class Shootout", and the advent of these races that are are occuring with NHRA type competition without being under the NHRA umbrella. In the second part of the show Luke catches up with TIBR Driver Series brainchild Ashley Thompson and discusses the series progress, and some big news.

230: Don Oneal- Di's Story

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, we go Luke-less, Jed has the opportunity to talk with Don Oneal. Racing takes a bit of a backseat in this episode to the much more impactful, inspiring, and touching story of the life Don and Diane Oneal lived together.

229: Dream Team Shootout Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 28 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed spend a fair amount of time recapping the Dream Team Shootout as well as results from Holly Springs, and other large races around the country. Luke discusses some of the red hot sportsman drivers to keep an eye out for. Finally Jed finishes us off with a #manscaped ad, that is most definitely worth listening to.

228: Is Nick Hastings the greatest ever?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 20 May 2021 13:30:23 -0400

Luke and Jed are back together this week. They go into a lengthy discussion about the reign on big money racing that Nick Hastings currently holds on the sport, as well as comparisons and opinions on the "greatest ever" discussion. Luke discusses early season NHRA success, and results. As always some entertaining #manscaped reads and general racing discussion from the past few weeks.

227: Racer, Promoter, Race Reporter- Paige Hamlin

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 14 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jed gets to sit down with up and coming promoter, among many other things, Paige Hamlin. Paige discusses her start in the sport from a very young age, she talks about how she has gotten into the different aspects of the sport in which she participates today. A woman of many talents, this is a great interview, be sure to tune in.

226: Tyler Crossnoe on the role of the promoter in today's world of big dollar bracket racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 07 May 2021 10:52:48 -0400

At just 28 years of age, Tyler Crossnoe is a man of many titles: he is the Vice President at Virginia Motorsports Park, the Director of the PDRA, and the proprietor of the Outlaw Street Car Reunion. Tyler joins Luke to discuss the role of the promoter in today's world of bracket racing, the state of our sport, and its future. In their multi-faceted conversation the two touch on the history of big dollar bracket racing, the biggest challenge facing tracks promoting their own bracket events in 2021, and the stresses that go along with track management (that we'd never even consider as racers).

225: Bracket Racing Today Vs. Previous Era's

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Would today's most prominent bracket racers have been more successful or less successful in a previous era? What skill set has the biggest impact on success in today's big dollar bracket world, and how has it changed? Jed and I discuss and debate these topics on this week's podcast. In addition, we share some thoughts on the recent major announcements from the two richest events on the 2021 calendar. Listen on ThisIsBracketRacing or wherever you typically find podcasts: Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Google Play, Stitcher and more.

223: Two Huge Winners Todd Arnold and Soggy Dunn

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jed gets the opportunity to sit down with two of the biggest winners of the 2021 season, the SFG $500k winner Todd Arnold and the Loose Rocker $75k winner Soggy Dunn. Both have incredibly unique stories, and it was really interesting to hear how their weekends played out.

222: 2021 is Ramping Up!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed cover some results and happenings from the Houston LODRS, London, KY, VMP, SFG500 (mid-race at recording time), and the Class Racer Revival. The guys finish off with a big product partnership, and of course finish off the "Race Car Names" bracket.

222: Dan Fletcher on the state of sportsman racing in 2021

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke sits down with the winningest driver in NHRA Sportsman Drag Racing history, Dan Fletcher. Their wide-ranging discussion includes Fletch's perspective on how much the sport (and his spot within it) has changed over the last 25+ years, the Fletcher family racing legacy, his biggest triumphs, and his future plans. In addition, Ashley Thompson provides a brief update on the 2021 ThisIsBracketRacing Driver Series (racers at Greer Dragway and Beech Bend Raceway begin earning points this weekend).

221: Bo Butner, Spring Fling Million, and Best Race Car Name Final 4

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

An action packed episode that surely won't disappoint. Luke and Jed discuss Spring Fling million happenings, they get to talk to the big winner, Bo Butner about his awesome day! Then of course, an update on the "Best Race Car Name Final Four" Be sure to tune in, we have awesome content coming from all angles this week!

220: All Drag Cars Should have Names!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

The guys recap the high points of a really busy early spring bracket and NHRA season. Highlighting stand out winners and performances. The real fun comes in the second half of the show. Returning after a COVID hiatus, the March Madness bracket with a drag racing flare. Drag Car names! Its too good to miss folks, be sure to tune in!

www.thisisbracketracing.com/podcast

219: NHRA Sportsman Preview (Part 2) with Big Jed

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed preview a portion, (S/Comp, S/Gas, S/Street and ET Series) of the NHRA upcoming season. Recapping last years champion, and pick some contenders for the upcoming season. They make some bold predictions, discuss new happenings, and make some insider picks.

218: NHRA Sportsman Preview (Part 1) with Clay Millican

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Clay Millican joins Luke to preview a portion, (Comp, S/Stock, Stock, TD, and TS) of the NHRA upcoming season. Recapping last years champion, and pick some contenders for the upcoming season. They make some bold predictions, discuss new happenings, and make some insider picks. Tune in Clay always brings a great energy, and has really kept his finger on the pulse of sportsman racing.

217: We Have Actual Racing to Talk About!!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 20:35:36 -0500

Luke and Jed are back together with ACTUAL racing results and stories to talk about! Starting off with the Southern Big Buck Nationals (Baton Rouge), moving on to West Coast Bracket Racing's huge event at Tuscon, and then onto the Top Bulb 150 at Gulfport. A couple of NHRA events with the Baby Gators and Belle Rose, and finishing off with some results from Wes Buck's World Doorslammer Nationals. Tune in for a packed episode!

216: Back when I was a little punk kid with a big afro-Scotty Richardson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Somehow, Scotty hasn't ever been on the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast with Luke and Jed, that changes today. Scotty Richardson on the Spring Fling Million, the one thing he hasn't done in racing, the "Young Gun" that impresses him most, and more!

215: John DiBartolomeo Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

In this weeks interview, Jed goes without Luke to have a great sit down discussion with John DiBartolomeo. Topics range from John's history in the sport, to big money racing's effect on local tracks. Jed and John are all over the board in this wide ranging conversation. Be sure to tune in!

www.thisisbracketracing.com/podcast

214: What bracket racers & promoters can learn from wider reaching events - with Wes Buck

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

On the heels of last episode's discussion about the financial aspect of sportsman racing, Luke sits down with Wes Buck. Buck, best known as the founder and editorial director at Drag Illustrated made a huge splash in 2020 as the promoter of the World Doorslammer Nationals. He discusses the motivation and the challenges that go into promoting an event of that magnitude, and the two explore how some of his experience and success could translate to the world of big dollar bracket racing.

213: Sportsman Racer, Olympian, or Adult Film Star?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

May have taken the official plunge off the rails with this episode, after many trips seemingly off the rails, I think we found the limits this time! Luke and Jed have a really in depth and interesting conversation, "Can you actually race for a living?" As awesome as that segment is, it doesn't hold a candle for what was to follow. Sportsman racer, Olympian, or Adult Film Star? Jed has to decide when given 16 different names. We think you all will find this incredibly entertaining, be sure to tune in!

212: Drag Champ Gary Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 23:34:04 -0500

Gary Don Free makes a return to the show, Drag Champ has grown in incredible ways since the last time Gary was on the show last nearly 100 episodes ago. Jed gets to talk about Drag Champ, its progress, and staff.

211: Jody Lang 2020 NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Luke continues the winter interview series with 2020 NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion, Jody Lang. After a pair of points runner up finishes and a slew of top 10's Jody finally was able to seal the deal in 2020. Luke gets to talk about Jody's championship run in this weeks episode! Be sure to tune in.

210: The Bug Debates

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Folks, we have a very entertaining episode on tap for today. Luke and Jed discuss a series of Facebook posts made by Bug McCarty, and give them some analysis. The show takes a fun turn in the second half, with the guys ranking the top 5....errr or 7, active sportsman cars they would love to drive.

Tip: Hang in for todays shoutouts...its worth it!

209: Pre-Season Top 25

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed are back for the new year! After a few weeks off, Luke and Jed recap a few of the recent races including the SFG Christmas Bash at Bradenton and the New Years Nationals at Palm Beach International Raceway. After that the guys go down the ever popular "Top 25" list path. This is the 2021 pre-season top 25. Tune in to hear where your favorites land on the list!

208: Charlie Lockhart Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Jed sits down with Charlie Lockhart in a really interesting discussion, ranging from Charlie's start in racing, to his favorite pizza topping! Charlie gets to weigh in on a lot of subjects, like what does footbraking need more of...and of course what does it need less of. Tune in for an awesome conversation!

207: Jeff Serra Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Luke gets the opportunity to sit down with Jeff Serra to talk about his unbelievable season, specifically his monumental win at Memphis in October. Jeff talks about the trials and tribulations of the Great American Guaranteed Million and how his season has played out.

TIBR Webinar Special Episode

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 19:30:35 -0500

Luke Bogacki and Justin Lamb recorded their live This is Bracket Racing Elite webinar from 12/1/2020. This is Bracket Racing Elite open enrollment ends Friday 12/4!

206: The "Poddy's"

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

This weeks episode, one of the most fun of the year, has become affectionately known as "The Poddy's" (our "awards" show). Luke and Jed will break down all the happenings from 2020 and hand out their "awards", ok so we don't actually have any awards to hand out...but it makes for really great podcast content! Tune in to hear this years "Best Appearing Driver" and the GOAT...or goat were according to Luke and Jed!

205: Thomas Gall (GallstarTV) Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Here at the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast with Luke and Jed, we really have a favorite time of year, and thats "interview season", while no racing is happening in most of the country, we begin catching up with racers, and their stories. We kick this years interviews off with Thomas Gall, originator of GallstarTV, a bracket racing youtube channel (5:55). Luke gets to delve into Gall's background, how the channel came to fruitition and where its heading in the future. A really interesting episode be sure to tune in!

GallstarTV

204: NHRA Season Conclusion

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

As the season comes to an end across most of the U.S. Luke and Jed do a complete NHRA National Sportsman Champion break down (9:47). They clean up some loose ends on the big money bracket scene (1:04:10) and round out the show with some random tidbits mostly concerning 2021 events (1:27:00). Tune in for an especially thorough breakdown of the NHRA season conclusion.

BTE

TIBR Elite

203: Rabbit's Million

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Luke leads off by honoring the NHRA Summit E.T. World Champions, and breaking down the remaining NHRA Lucas Oil points chases in Stock, Top Dragster, and Super Gas. Jed sits down with recent Million Dollar Race Winner Kevin Brannon (18:32) to discuss the biggest win of his illustrious career, and how it seemed overshadowed to some extent by the bizarre end-of-race sequence that he and Gary Williams will never forget. The inaugural ThisIsBracketRacing Driver Series has reached its conclusion, crowning Lane Cavar (Top Bulb) and Kip Poole (Bottom Bulb) as 2020 champions! Ashley Thompson closes the show (1:27:12) in a conversation with Poole in which they recap his title season and his racing background. This episode is brought to you by This is Bracket Racing Elite and BTE.

202: OG Million Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Huge show on tap! The guys deep, deep, DEEEP, into the OG million, it's winner, and crazy last couple rounds. They analyze the event from every possible angle. They also revisit their prior predictions, were any correct?

201: NHRA analysis and OG Million predictions

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke is joined by NHRA National Dragster Senior Editor Kevin McKenna to recap NHRA points to this point and look at possible scenarios going forward with 5 events points eligible events remaining. As the OG million is underway as this episode goes live, Luke and Kevin discuss it's history and make some predictions.

200: GABR Guaranteed Million Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Episode 200 is here! Luke and Jed recap the SDPC Race Shop Great American Guaranteed Million. Lots of million talk, accompanied by some NHRA results and of course some of the outstanding performances.

199: Fling Wrap ups

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 08 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed get together to re-cap the Fall Fling and Spring Fling Million. They also discuss some NHRA division finals results from D7. Finally they preview the GABR Million as both will be attending/competing.

198: NHRA Division Finals and Historical Big Money Coming Up

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed discuss results from Div. 1, 3, and 5 Division Finals. The big elephant in the room though, is the upcoming historical run of big money races. The guys make some BOLD predictions! Tune in to hear their take!

197: Gary Williams and Lane Cavar

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In this weeks episode, Luke catches up with Gary Williams, they discuss his latest $100k victory and talk about the upcoming massive money trail. Rounding out the episode, TIBR's Ashley Thompson, gives an update on the TIBR Driver Series, and interviews current Top bulb points leader Lane Cavar.

196: Indy, $100k BTE Footbrake Recaps

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Starting off Luke and Jed recap the two biggest stories from the Labor Day weekend, NHRA at Indy, and of course the history making BTE $100k Footbrake race at Bristol. The train begins to come off the rails in the second half, in a very entertaining Top 5, where they ACTUALLY cover the Top 5 trunk lid sayings (our apologies for not covering that a few episodes ago, when we said we would. Tune in for an incredibly entertaining episode.

195: Indy Preview and TIBR Driver Series

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke catches up with Kevin McKenna previewing "The Big Go". In a very strange year for NHRA....and well everything, Indy will be very interesting. To round out the show Ashley Thompson from This is Bracket Racing Elite, joins Luke to further discuss The Driver Series, that is hitting limited tracks this season in its debut. Tune in to hear about the awesome series!

194: BTE $100k Preview with Guest Michael Beard

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Jed is joined in this weeks episode by perennial footbrake stand out and Loose Rocker co-promoter, Michael Beard. With this episodes predominant focus on footbrake racing, Michael discusses his latest Lil' Footbrake Triple 10's results and stand out performances. Jed transitions to preview the history making inaugural BTE $100k. The guys discuss footbrake history and the significance of the upcoming race.

193: Ten stories that will play out in 2020 and a new Top 5

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 15:11:53 -0400

Luke and Jed discussed ten stories that we think will dominate the Sportsman Drag Racing discussion as we wind down 2020. In addition, they roll out another popular "Top 5" segment... This week: Our top five "post-race messages." These are mostly from a previous era: sayings on the back of race cars meant to bid a defeated opponent well (example: "Game Over"). As always, you can listen and subscribe wherever you normally access your favorite podcasts:

192: Toby Baptiste Interview and TIBR Driver Series Rollout

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:48:35 -0400

Luke gets the chance to catch up with Renegade Race Fuels founder Toby Baptiste. Toby's story is very inspirational and we are sure you will enjoy it. Towards the end of the show, Ashley Thompson from This is Bracket Racing Elite, joins Luke to roll out the new Drivers Series, which is sure to be a big hit. Listen in for more details!

191: Future of Bracket Racing and Top 5 Racing Songs

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 07 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are back together this week. The guys discuss (not for the first time) the future of our sport, where things are going, and how they will get there. In the second half of the show, they got into some fun stuff, this weeks Top 5 list. For this week, top 5 racing songs! Great episode on tap!

190: James Kunkel Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We are going Luke-less this week. Producer Mark joins Jed to help out a little bit with co-hosting. They cover some of the limited racing that happened last weekend, including a pretty good showing for our own producer Mark at the Cars Protection Plus Top bulb 660. The real star of the show however was James Kunkel, who pulled off an incredible feat, doubling up in Super Comp at the double divisional in Topeka, KS. Tune in to find out why his accomplishment was extraordinarily special.

189: Various Results and Top 5 excuses for not going racing.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In this weeks episode Luke and Jed recap some of the last weeks racing, but most importantly this weeks TOP 5 LIST! Top 5 "excuses" for not going racing, very entertaining.

WBW Moroso 5-day

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Mon, 20 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Kevin McKenna joins Luke once again for this week's "Way Back Wednesday" Bonus episode. Together, they take a deep dive into 30+ years of the prestigious Moroso 5-Day!

188: Willie Burnett Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 09:49:57 -0400

Luke gets to sit down with Willie Burnett, a very entertaining episode with wide ranging topics of conversation. From state of bracket racing talk, to state of the world talk!

187: Steve Sisko, SFG 1.1 million recap and WFC!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke & Jed recap the richest event in drag racing history, the SFG 1.1 Million and even catch up with racings latest millionaire: Steve Sisko! In addition, Jed looks back on the biggest World Footbrake Challenge in the event's illustrious 14-year history. They also hit on the California Gold Rush, look ahead to the resumption of the NHRA Mello Yello tour this weekend, and speculate on the future of the sports' premier series.

As always, please support our advertisers: IHRA and ThisIsBracketRacing.com

WFC Preview, with Ryan Gleghorn and guest Jamie Holston

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode Jed previews the WFC with guest co-host Ryan Gleghorn, then the guys interview, perennial stand out Jamie Holston following his $15k win.

WBW 2003

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

This week, Luke and Kevin McKenna dial the Way Back Machine back 17 years to 2003: Greg Anderson's first Pro Stock Championship, John Labbous's career defining Million, Steve Bartman, and the release of iTunes!

WBW 2004

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke and Kevin McKenna are back with Way Back Wednesday, circa 2004!

185: Jeff Miles Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke gets the opportunity to sit down with Jeff Miles. Tune in to hear their conversation!

Spring Fling Recap, “Cheating” in Louisville, and Top 5 Racer Nicknames!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke & Jed lead off with a summary of the Galot Spring Fling and news from the first huge weekend of big dollar bracket racing in the pandemic-delayed season. They spend a lot of the show detailing a strange and alarming situation from the Derby City $50k before touching on weekend results and stories from the C.P. Promotions $50k event in Texas, the IHRA Sportsman Spectacular at Dragway 42, and the NHRA Division 6 event in Seattle. Then the duo closed with what has become a fun staple: their individual “Top 5.” This week’s Top 5: our favorite racer nicknames!

WBW 2002

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Kevin McKenna joins Luke once again to throw it back to 2002! They discuss all the news that is (was) news in and around the sport of drag racing from 18 years past!

WBW 2001

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In this edition of "Throwback Thursday," Luke and Kevin McKenna revisit 2001. Obviously the dominating story of the year came on September 11. The duo discusses where they were on that fateful day, the impacts on their lives, and (on a more trivial scale) the effect of 9/11 on the sport of drag racing. As usual, they break down the biggest stories in the year of sportsman racing: from the NHRA professional ranks, to the Lucas Oil Series, the IHRA and big dollar bracket action.

183: Cheating...again? Big Race Results!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

A little different episode on tap for this weeks regular episode. Luke goes solo on this one! Jed's "on assignment" at the Spring Fling at Galot, so Luke took the reigns to discuss the happenings in the world of sportsman drag racing. Luke gets the chance to delve into some hot button topics, cheating devices..again, "performance enhancing drugs" and of course some results from the past week. Tune in for an awesome show!

181: Henry Roberson Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 22:01:56 -0400

Luke gets the chance to sit down with Henry Roberson. Henry has made a name for himself with his Facebook Live videos racing on the west coast! Tune in for an awesome interview!

182: The Times we are Living in, and Some Actual Racing!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Luke opens this week’s episode with a brief, heartfelt monologue on the sad and troubling times in our country… Then he and Jed completely flip the script for one of the more humorous and enjoyable episodes we’ve had in a while. On the docket: some (gasp) actual race coverage from the SFG event in Iowa! Also, big news from NHRA and Summit Raceway Park. Then, the good stuff… The guys dive deep into their latest top 5 breakdown: the best race car names in history. Follow that with an impromptu trivia time, and and epic list of shoutouts... Let’s just say that it’s worth sticking around 'til the end!

WBW-2010

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 01:53:24 -0400

Today, Luke & Kevin dial the (not so) Way Back Machine to 2010: Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress, the final season of Oprah, Don Prudhomme’s retirement, and bracket domination from John Labbous, Jr. and Gary Williams.

Story Time with Kris Whitfield

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 23:10:28 -0400

Luke gets to sit down with Kris Whitfield in this weeks storytime.

180: Normalcy, Michael Jordan and Famous Track Employees!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 22 May 2020 00:16:15 -0400

We have a HUGE episode for your listening pleasure! Luke and Jed, discuss current moves to open areas of the country, are we headed for some normalcy? They discuss the Michael Jordan documentary, and finish up with an ever popular Top 5 segment about favorite famous track employees, that we all have run across around the country!

Way Back Wednesday to 2008

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 14 May 2020 23:47:24 -0400

Luke is back with Kevin McKenna for Way Back Wednesday. This week, the duo looks back on the year of the Michael Phelps Olympics, David Tyree's helmet catch, Dan Fletcher's Competition Eliminator domination, Alan Johnson's split with DSR, and Scotty Richardson's WFC repeat: it's 2008 in the world of drag racing.

179: 2019 Champions-Sportsman Motorcycle Jim Werre and Super Comp Champion Ray Ray Miller

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 May 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Jed has the opportunity to finish out our 2019 Championship Interview Series with NHRA Sportsman Motorcycle Champion Jim Werre and NHRA Super Comp Champion Ray Ray Miller. Two great interviews with some really interesting guys. Both take us through their racing history and where they came from all the way up to outlining their championship runs!

Dan Fletcher Story Time with Justin Lamb

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 08 May 2020 13:17:26 -0400

Justin Lamb, co-instructor on This is Bracket Racing Elite, gets to catch up with Dan Fletcher, in a pretty cool discussion/story time. There are some sketchy audio sections, due to a bad internet/zoom connection, I tried to edit most of it out. Enjoy!

TBT 2007

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 07 May 2020 23:02:01 -0400

Luke goes down memory lane this week, he and Kevin McKenna talk about 2007. Tune in to hear this weeks throw back Thursday!

178: Brian Lohnes on the revised NHRA national event schedule and more

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 May 2020 12:58:36 -0400

This week, he welcomed NHRA Lead Announcer Brian Lohnes to tell Luke why he's wrong about his prediction that there wouldn't be a traditional NHRA national in 2020. In addition to providing some optimism for the proposed NHRA season, Brian weighed in with thoughts about some on-track activity as tracks in some areas of the country begin to open up. The duo closed with both grease monkey and nerdy bookworm fun as well - a little something for everyone!

Throw back Thursday-2006 With Luke and Kevin McKenna

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 22:06:29 -0400

On this week's Throwback Thursday, Luke and K-Mac take us back to the time of Kid Rock & Pamela Anderson, Talladega Nights, and "The Run" (Tony Schumacher). That's right it's 2006 in the world of Sportsman Drag Racing!

177: Where do we stand?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed are back together this week. Discussing topics ranging from what races are happening, what races are postponed, when are they happening? Then they moved into a fun topic, with all of the Netflix documentary watching going on during these times, the guys discuss which racers they'd love to see a documentary on. They even called in producer Mark to weigh in!

Throwback Thursday to 2005 w/ Kevin McKenna

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 13:00:00 -0400

We're trying something new during this social distancing/shelter in place/quarantine period, in addition to our regular weekly episodes. We're calling it Throwback Thursday! The premise is simple: each week we'll select a year from at least a decade ago; and discuss the sportsman drag racing events, stories, and standout performers... As if it happened yesterday. This episode's feature: 2005! Luke is joined by National Dragster staffer and drag racing historian Kevin McKenna for this look back on one of the more memorable seasons in sportsman drag racing history.

Story Time with Jeg Coughlin Jr.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 23:07:30 -0400

On this weeks edition of Story Time, Luke gets to go down memory lane with Jeggy.

Story time w/ Peter Biondo

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 22:14:48 -0400

5x NHRA World Champion interviews 7x NHRA World Champion Peter Biondo for a fun-filled story time segment. In it, Peter recalls some entertaining times from throughout his career (and youth), and ties in some of the most recognizable names in all of racing!

176: 2019 NHRA Top Sportsman Champion Sandy Wilkins and IHRA Sportsman Champion Dustin Carrol

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Continuing our 2019 Championship Interview Series, Jed gets the chance to catch up with 2019 NHRA Top Sportsman Champion Sandy Wilkins and 2019 IHRA Sportsman Champion Dustin Carrol. Two great interviews with a couple of guys with race cars at different ends of the E.T. spectrum!

Story Time with Sisko

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 14:06:12 -0400

Really fun story time with Steve Sisko, tune in for some quarantine entertainment!

175: Greatest Season of "our" lifetime?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400

This week, Luke and Jed are joined by Kevin McKenna, Editor of NHRA National Dragster. They are going to hash out who THEY believe have had the best seasons of essentially the last 30 years. Did they pick them all? Do you agree? Tune in to find out!

Shawn Langdon Story Time

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 14:05:42 -0400

In this weeks special story time episode, Luke catches up with Shawn Langdon.

174: Frank Aragona Jr and Kaden Harrill Interviews

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 12:59:36 -0400

Luke gets to catch up with both Frank Aragona and Kaden Harrill in our continuation of 2019 champion interviews. Frank, the 2019 NHRA Comp Eliminator back to back champion outlines his second championship in a row and discusses his future plans. Kaden, the 2019 IHRA Jr. Dragster champion, discusses his start in the sport, and how his season lead to the championship.

Bonus Story Time: Troy Williams Jr.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 22:32:32 -0400

Luke sits down with Troy Williams Jr. for a cool story time episode.

173: "The Times We're In" and Story Time with Jed!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:33:20 -0400

Luke and Jed do their bet to give their take on the current state of the world, and more in line with most of our listeners interests, the racing world. The real fun in this episode comes with an incredible story from our own co-host, Jed. You will NOT want to miss this one!

Bonus Story Time with Tommy Phillips

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 16:00:48 -0400

This sound came from a live interview Luke did on This is Bracket Racing's Facebook page, we bring it to you, podcast listeners, as a direct recording, no ads, no drops, or cuts, just a really cool sit down story with Luke and Tommy. Enjoy!

172: 2019 NHRA Top Dragster Champion Danny Nelson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:21:35 -0400

Luke gets the opportunity to sit down with Danny Nelson, in our continuation of the World Champion interview series. Tune in to hear about Danny's 2019 season!

171: Crazy world...and Some Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed, delve into the world of the Covid-19 (coronavirus) and its effects on racing and the rest of our lives. They of course recap some of the big stories from the little bit of racing that we have had so far this season. The most exciting part of this episode is our March Madness replacement bracket. Stay tuned for a few polls, for a more interactive experience with this segment.

170: 2019 NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion Allison Doll

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 11:53:06 -0400

Jed gets the opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with Ali Doll, the 2019 NHRA Stock Eliminator champion, they discuss her start in the sport, background, and of course her incredible 2019 season, tune in now to hear her story.

169: Early Season Review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 12:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed are back together for a "normal" episode this week. They cover a variety of topics, catching up on some personal life stuff, and recapping some of the early season happenings.

168: James Wester Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 11:59:51 -0500

Luke received a really cool story from a bracket racer named James Wester, feeling the story really should be heard by all, we bring it to you in this weeks episode. Enjoy!

167: 2019 NHRA Super Stock Champion Vic Penrod and 2019 IHRA Top Champion Keith Cleveland

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 12:54:16 -0500

Tune in for a really awesome show, a couple of great guys sit down with Jed, to discuss their stories. Vic, hailing from Oklahoma and Keith from New York, have vastly different stories and both are very interesting.

166: NHRA Super Pro Champion Mikie Sturgill Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 15:20:53 -0500

Luke gets a chance to catch up with NHRA Super Pro National Champion Mikie Sturgill, listen in to hear Mikie's story.

165: NHRA Season Preview with Kevin McKenna

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 12:00:00 -0500

We take a break from our Championship Interview series, to bring you an NHRA Season preview. With the Winternationals coming up this weekend, Luke and National Dragster Editor, Kevin McKenna sit down to give their predictions and preview of the 2020 NHRA season. Tune in to hear their take!

164: NHRA Sportsman Champion Ryan Montford

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 13:00:00 -0500

Listen in to hear Ryan Montford's road to the Sportsman. Jed leads Ryan through a recap of his history in the sport, and trip to Pomona.

163: A decade for the ages...the 2010's

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 13:00:00 -0500

Luke and Jed set out on an insurmountable task, to try to identify some of the greatest accomplishments, greatest races, best appearing drivers....wait...yes you read that right! Tune in now to hear a truly entertaining episode!

162 NHRA Super Gas Champion Jeremy Mason Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 08:40:00 -0500

Continuing our Championship Interview series, this week brings us to NHRA Super Gas Champion, Jeremy Mason. Luke sits down with Jeremy for a discussion on his season, his trials, tribulations, and strategies. Tune in to this insightful interview with this years Super Gas Champ!

161: 2019 Champion Interview Series 1: Chris Johnston and Dustin Avondet

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 02:54:47 -0500

Our first episode of 2020, begins the 2019 Championship Interview Series. We begin our coverage in the bottom bulb bracket racing arena, with NHRA Pro Champion, Chris Johnston, and IHRA Modified Champion Dustin Avondet. Both of these racers have awesome stories that came with their quest for the championship. Listen in as Jed sits down with both of these awesome racers.

160: 2019 Year in Review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 14:11:12 -0500

Luke and Jed take this episode to review the 2019 season. They discuss the biggest stories of the year, and some of the best performances, as well as crowing the Overall 2019 BTE Who’s Hot.

159: Chet Dragon Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 11 Dec 2019 11:26:34 -0500

The MAN, the MYTH, the LEGEND! We have Chet Dragon sitting down with Jed for a conversation that bridges Chet’s 40 years in the sport. Why he has chosen the weapon he has (6.30 buggy), and how he’s approached the sport over the last 4 decades.

158: Mitchell McKinney Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:32:26 -0500

In this week’s episode, Luke provides us with the 2nd installment of our “regular guy” series of podcasts, where we highlight racers that may not be household names. Mitchell provides an incredible perspective on racing, from his point of view.

157: John Dibartolomeo Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 27 Nov 2019 14:03:54 -0500

Luke gets the chance to talk about the state of the sport among other things with Drag Racing Edge Magazine Editor, John Dibartolomeo.

156: Champions Crowned

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 13:34:49 -0500

Luke and Jed highlight NHRA and IHRA Champions from top to bottom. The guys break down all of the awesome drama from Pomona. They even weigh in a little bit on some of the happenings in the professional ranks.

155: Rick Baehr Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 10:56:11 -0500

This week Jed has the opportunity to sit down with “Slick” Rick Baehr. A great dive into Rick’s drag racing career. They discuss Rick’s racing history, accomplishments, with lots in between.

154: Scotty Bodmer Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 17:38:57 -0500

This week Luke sits down with very successful, yet maybe lesser known or talked about, racer Scotty Bodmer. Scotty has 11 track championships and a $20k win at Atco to his credit. Tune in to hear his story.

153: Million Dollar Reflections

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 12:47:53 -0400

This week, Luke and Jed discuss a lot of things that have went on in the last couple weeks, highlighting mainly The Million. They also discuss one racers performances that have come together to be an incredible season in this week’s BTE Who’s Hot.

152: NHRA Points From Top to Bottom

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 13:00:00 -0400

Luke welcomes guest Kevin McKenna, senior editor of NHRA’s National Dragster. Together the two cover the NHRA points chases from top to bottom, they discuss which classes are up for grabs and who the contenders are. Tune in, as the season comes to a close with only three events on the schedule, things will be interesting in multiple classes.

151: Top 25 of ALL TIME!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 18:09:35 -0400

Ever thought about who the Top 25 racers in sportsman drag racing of all time? Luke and Jed break down THEIR ideas of the Top 25. Be sure to tune in, some will agree, some will disagree, but at the very least it can drum up a discussion about those who have accomplished the most in our sport.

150: Matt Dadas Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 15:12:01 -0400

Jed sits down with Matt Dadas to discuss what has been an incredible season. They discuss the progression of the season, where it started and where its headed. Matt was able to describe what it was like to be the car owner for a momentous occasion as well as what it was like to be behind the wheel.

149: Scott Lemen Interview!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 19:48:45 -0400

Luke gets a chance to sit down with Dragraceresults.com owner and co-founder of Collectortethers.com. With decades of racing experience, and an all-around industry presence. Luke gets to pick Scott’s brain on lots of topics including the status of big money bracket racing and where its headed.

148: All things Fling!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 14:57:52 -0400

Luke and Jed discuss all the happenings from the Fall Fling at Bristol Dragway. Offering up a recap of winners, as well as opinions on some of the more dramatic moments. An awesome story leads a NHRA Stock Eliminator racer to get the BTE Who’s Hot. Stay tuned all the way to the end for one of our more interesting endings to the show.

147: Luke interviews Chris Gulitti

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 12:00:00 -0400

Jed sits down with Chris Gulitti for a cool look into the father son duo’s racing history, and future. A fixture on the big money bracket racing tour, Chris and his son Cory can be found in almost any corner of the country, chasing huge payouts, with an incredible amount of success. Tune in to hear Chris’s story!

146: Luke interviews Chris Garretson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 13:43:15 -0400

Luke gets to sit down with the man, the myth, the legend Chris Garretson, made famous for finishing 6th in Super Comp National points for 2018, with a 110-mph airplane front tired and top end throttle stopped dragster.

145: The Big GO Recap and NHRA Sportsman Points Outlook

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 14:00:00 -0400

The guys talk about KC Pesnell fallout, some Labor Day results from Summit Motorsports Park, and then go into the Big Go at Indy. Luke breaks down the weekend’s events. Every year around this time Luke goes full out NERD on the NHRA Sportsman.

144: KC Pesnell breaks the Internet!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 13:34:04 -0400

KC Pesnell broke the internet. So, we had to talk about the 14-year-old who won $50,000! In that discussion, Luke and Jed debated whether KC (or any 14-year-old) should be driving a 140+ mph dragster alongside grown men and women at the highest level of our sport. In addition, Jed put his reporter hat on and broke some news about the situation. It's as much of a "must listen" podcast as we've ever published! Once we wrapped up our thoughts on that situation, we brought on Rex Simmermaker, host of the “Fast Brackets Podcast”on the eve of the first U.S. Nationals featuring the two fastest pure sportsman categories: Top Dragster and Top Sportsman.

143: Interview with Stephen “Champ” McCrory

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 14:17:54 -0400

Jed sits down with Stephen “Champ” McCrory, they talk about Champs history in the sport, his accomplishments, and how he feels about the direction the sport is going.

142: JJ’s Top 10 for the Month of July and House Cars!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 15:24:02 -0400

Luke and Jed return for an entertaining and slightly “off” regular episode, featuring a discussion about house cars, and their opinions concerning them. JJ’s Top 10 (15) returns with July’s picks, and some light results talk.

141: Miss Mia Tedesco Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 14:03:44 -0400

On this week’s interview Jed gets to dive into Mia Tedesco’s head and find out about her start into drag racing and what keeps her going week after week. Faith and family are vitally important to Tedesco. She began drag racing when she was 8 at Pittsburgh Raceway Park (renamed Keystone Raceway Park), a track owned by her father Michael Tedesco. It was her Uncle Carmen who convinced his niece to grab a helmet and fire suit and to get behind the wheel of a race car. A lifelong drag racing fanatic, Uncle Carmen was Mia's biggest fan until his passing in 2015.

140.1: Andy Schmall Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 15:41:26 -0400

Luke gets to dive into the Andy Schmall racing world.

140: This is Bracket Racing Elite Live Chat Episode

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Sat, 27 Jul 2019 08:09:55 -0400

Luke and This is Bracket Racing Elite air a live chat with This is Bracket Racing Elite members, an example of what one would expect to see as a member of Elite.

139: This is Bracket Racing Elite Interview Episode

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:47:05 -0400

Luke and This is Bracket Racing Elite present interviews with 4 Elite members. Listen in for some insight about these racers and how This is Bracket Racing has improved their programs.

138: Luke and Jed Break Down the Big Money Scene

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 12:00:00 -0400

Much anticipated, Luke and Jed give their thoughts and opinions on the state of big money racing. They talk about race structures, effects on local programs, and what’s keeping these races so successful.

137: SFG 525 and WFC Recaps along with special guest Gage Burch

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 10 Jul 2019 11:32:40 -0400

After a HUGE couple weeks of racing, we have a ton to cover! Taking the spotlight are the SFG 525 and the World Footbrake Challenge. Luke and Jed get to cover the results from these races, and have a chat with the winner of the biggest paying bracket race in history!

136: Jed’s interview with Bob Mullaney

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 12:07:16 -0400

Jed takes a trip down memory lane with Bob Mullaney, they discuss Bob’s start in racing, as well as what he’s up to these days. Lots of great stories, with a very talented, and accomplished racer.

135: SFG $525 Preview and big NHRA Sportsman Decision

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 14:02:35 -0400

The guys preview what will be the biggest payout our sport has seen to this point, and make their predictions. They discuss the big sportsman postponement at Norwalk. Various, National, Divisional, and bracket racing results from around the country as well.

134: Interview with Danny Bastianelli

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 18 Jun 2019 12:34:00 -0400

Luke gets a chance to sit down with the “Delaware Destroyer” Danny Bastianelli. Luke gets some insight on Danny’s long history in the sport.

133: The Armed Forces Racing JJ’s Top 10 Return for 2019

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 15:22:06 -0400

Jam packed episode this week! JJ returns with his top 10 (15) presented by Armed Forces Racing. The guys talk about two different NHRA Nationals, Divisional at Numidia, along with big money bracket racing around the country and an IHRA Summit Sportsman Spectacular! Topped off by an awesome shout outs segment!

132: Interview with Gary Don Free

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 13:49:59 -0400

Luke gets the opportunity to sit down with Drag Champ creator Gary Don Free. Hear about Gary’s history in racing, and how “Drag Champ” came to be.

131: Jegs All-Star Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 May 2019 14:44:12 -0400

This week the guys, pay their respects to Kyle Ellis, after losing him tragically in an accident en route to the Huntsville. Onto brighter topics, they cover a ton of results from one side of the country to the other. Finally they preview the Jegs All Star race and make some pics.

130: Wes May Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 May 2019 15:02:10 -0400

Luke gets the opportunity to interview Wes May. They discuss Wes’ early years, how it all began for him, and some unknown history on the famous Wes May Regal. Tune in to hear the rest of the Wes May story, past to present.

129: Spring Fling Galot Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 16 May 2019 02:15:36 -0400

Luke and Jed recap the Spring Fling Galot, highlighting some stand out performances there. They also discuss some NHRA LODRS results from around the country over the past two weeks. They discuss an interesting Super Street performance from California as well.

128: The Peep Show

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 09 May 2019 12:00:00 -0400

Luke and Jed get the opportunity to pick the brain of Peeps Pennington, after his win at the Spring Fling Million, with its historical $375,000 payout! Peeps shares how the day went, his emotions, and of course the after celebration!

127: Vegas Million Re-Cap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 02 May 2019 14:13:15 -0400

Luke and Jed re-cap the Spring Fling Million, and Luke discusses his take on splits or lack thereof. From there the guys cover results from the ATI Bigfoot $40k Footbrake race, as well as the Texas Triple 10’s.

126: Sit down with Edmond Richardson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 19:24:10 -0400

Luke sits down with one of the greatest racers in the sportsman/bracket ranks. Edmond Richardson has been winning races for 30 years, and has the drive to continue. An incredible in-depth interview with “The King”, with a lot of insight on racing and winning over his extremely fruitful career.

125: NHRA Heavy Couple of Weeks

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 12:35:13 -0400

The guys cover racing from the past two weeks, almost exclusively NHRA heavy while most all of the significant bracket racing was cancelled/postponed due to weather, they preview some of the upcoming events and finish off the NCAA Final four bracket and we have a “whip us” winner.

124: Kyle Seipel: His Story

Luke Bogacki — Thu, 11 Apr 2019 01:07:02 -0400

This week Luke & Jed got an opportunity to catch up with Spring Fling Million co-promoter & racing legend Kyle Seipel. Rather than discuss the imminent success of what has become arguably the most prestigious event in Sportsman Drag Racing, Kyle agreed to let listeners in. Within this highly personal episode, he details what the last 8 months have been like, clinically and emotionally, in his battle with cancer.

123: Racing Results from Across the Country with a little Final 4 Action

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:13:27 -0400

The guys cover racing from the past two weeks, from Montgomery, Huntsville, Gulfport, Two IHRA Summit Sportsman Spectaculars, and a few cool hometown stories mixed in. They round it out with the Final 4 “whip up” phrases. A huge show with a lot on tap! Enjoy!

122: 2018 NHRA Sportsman World Champion: Brian Hendrickson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 19:28:07 -0400

Jed sits down to talk with Brian Hendrickson, Brian speaks about his start in racing, some of the trials and tribulations of getting his car to Pomona. He also highlights the challenge and pressure of winning the E.T. finals, and then the days in Pomona, not to mention has some incredible “Rapid Fire” question answers!

121: Racing from Coast to Coast and NCAA Bracket Time!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 13:00:57 -0400

Racing coverage from Coast to coast, Tucson to Gainesville. The guys recap some of the highlights from Tucson, Gainesville, Texas, and the Loose Rocker race in Virginia! It’s also that time of the year, March Madness, this year Luke and Jed attach races phrases that “whip us” Like basketball or not, this is an entertaining segment!

Special This is Bracket Racing Elite Q&A Session with Luke, Kevin Brannon, and Justin Lamb

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 15:12:51 -0400

Luke, KB and Justin, get together to answer some of your questions. Covering a wide range of topics, from Setup questions, to strategy, these guys get down to the nuts and bolts of the sport. They also talk about the benefits and advantages of being a member of This is Bracket Racing Elite.

NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion Brian McClanahan

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:54:47 -0500

On this week's episode of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast, we catch up with reigning NHRA Stock Eliminator Champion, Brian McClanahan. Brian will walk us through his championship campaign, his epic heavyweight slugfest with Justin Lamb down the stretch, and his incredible family history (3 generations of NHRA World Champions).

NHRA Action on opposite sides of the country and SR vs GW

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 15:13:50 -0500

Luke and Jed recap NHRA action from either side of the country, and also have some fun discussing a social media post suggesting Scotty Richardson vs Gary Williams at $5k a pass. They talk some about a new Division 6 program an extremely quick race sell out.

Episode 117: 2018 NHRA Super Comp Champion Steve Williams

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast, we catch up with reigning NHRA Super Comp Champion, Steve Williams. Steve is a longtime veteran of the sport, with incredible insight. Within the interview, he shares his incredible perspective on the Super Comp category, sportsman racing in general, and the industry that surrounds it.

Episode 116: Hot Rod Rodney Finchum

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 15:52:54 -0500

This week we cover some ACTUAL racing! For the first time in a few months, there were a few races to catch up with, Luke and Jed discuss the NHRA Winternationals, The Division 2 race in Orlando, as well as some bracket racing from Belle Rose, LA. Getting to what you all really want however, Hot Rod Rodney Finchum joins us for a nice long interview full of great stories and hucklebuckin!

Episode 115: NHRA Super Pro ET Champion Patrick Osmundson

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 11:54:54 -0500

We are back to our coverage of 2018 Champions. Jed sits down to talk with NHRA Super Pro E.T champion Patrick Osmundson. Listen in as we get to know Patrick, his story, and the events that led to his Super Pro Championship

Episode 114: Winter Catch Up

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 06:51:24 -0500

Taking a break from the 2018 Championship interview series, Luke and Jed take some time to catch up with some of the happenings over the winter. The guys talk about some big money races that are coming up in 2019 all over the country, as well as some of the other news from the racing world.

Episode 113: 2018 NHRA Top Sportsman Champion Ronnie Proctor

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 10:54:50 -0500

2018 NHRA Top Sportsman Champion Ronnie Proctor has won just about everything that one can win in a Top Sportsman car. A Ford guy through and through, Ronnie currently is running a Jerry Haas built Mustang in the 6 second zone at 200+ MPH. Ronnie gets the opportunity to tell his story on this weeks episode.

Episode 112: 2018 IHRA Top Summit Super Series Champion Dale Scates

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 11:54:47 -0500

2018 IHRA Top Summit Super Series Champion Dale Scates, 25, East Texas resident travelled to Memphis to compete for his National Championship. Dale has been racing since he was 10 years old, starting in a Jr dragster at Pine Valley, and hasn’t taken a break since. Listen to his story, winning his championship in a borrowed car after finding a bad lifter in his own!

Episode 111: 2018 NHRA Top Dragster Champion Paul Nero

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:51:14 -0500

2018 NHRA Top Dragster Champion Paul Nero, a perennial top finisher in Top Dragster joins us in this installment of our championship coverage. Paul has multiple national event wins in multiple classes, has qualified for the NHRA All-Stars, and also competes in big money bracket races. Paul, an Oregon resident, finds himself behind the windshield putting in a lot of travel time to reach races all over the country with his closest national event over 4 hours from home and others being 17-21 hours from home or more!

Episode 110: 2018 NHRA Sportsman Motorcycle E.T. Champion John Markham

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 02 Jan 2019 12:50:40 -0500

2018 NHRA Sportsman Motorcycle champion John Markham is a 49-year-old from Bowling Green, KY, and has a storied history drag racing motorcycles. John has 10 National Championships in various motorcycle racing associations and over 30 national wins Listen as John details his championship season with Jed.

Episode 109: 2018 NHRA Competition Eliminator Champion Frank Aragona

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 27 Dec 2018 12:00:00 -0500

This week’s champion guest, Frank Aragona is a perennial top 10 Competition Eliminator National points finisher. He has stood at the top twice now, once in 2007 and of course this season. Nearly a dozen national event wins to his credit, Frank has seen a lot of success in Competition Eliminator, but has also dabbled in nearly all of the NHRA sportsman categories with success. Frank is a huge proponent for Competition Eliminator and you can hear the true passion in his words about the class!

Episode 108: 2018 IHRA Jr Dragster World Champion Kyla Feit

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 13:21:00 -0500

Kyla is 14 yrs old Jr Dragster racer from Wisconsin Rapids, WI She’s a freshman At Lincoln High school in Wisconsin Rapids. WI where she’s a High Honor Roll student. She started racing when she was 10 & won her first race the following year. She won two races & was X number points Champion this year at Great Lakes Dragaway, which led her to be invited to Memphis for World Finals. There she was runner up in the gambler race & then won the World Finals. Outside of racing, Kyla enjoys dancing. Which she’s been doing since the age of 3. She’s in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, & modern. She’s also won 2 scholarships for her dancing.

Episode 107: 2018 NHRA Super Gas Champion Devin Isenhower

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 12:00:00 -0500

Devin Isenhower is just 21 years old, our youngest 2018 NHRA Sportsman Champ. Devin competes not only in his championship winning Camaro bodied Roadster SG machine, but also an American Race Cars dragster in the 8.90 category. Not only did Devin win the 2018 Super Gas national title, he also finished 10th in Super Comp points. In addition to his world championship, Devin won the Division 3 Super Gas championship (for a second consecutive season) in 2018.

This is Bracket Racing Elite Special Episode

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 19:29:20 -0500

In this BONUS episode, Luke and Kevin Brannon discuss racing strategy, philosophy, and execution (at both ends of the track). Luke and KB are the lead instructors within ThisIsBracketRacing ELITE, an exclusive online membership community. Within the group, they hold regular live chats in which they discuss topics and field a variety of questions presented by group members. This bonus episode is essentially a public version of that; and a bit of a glimpse inside ThisIsBracketRacing ELITE.

Episode 106: 2018 IHRA Modified Champion Toby Daniels

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 12:58:50 -0500

2018 IHRA Modified Champion Toby Daniels, 44, from Barbourville Kentucky began his drag racing journey tagging along to the track with family. Going to the track with his father and brother got Toby hooked on drag racing, just like so many of us. After battling some nerves in the first few rounds, Toby tells Jed about his trip to the final, and the people that helped make it possible!

Episode 105: 2018 NHRA Super Stock Champion Justin Lamb

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 12:56:21 -0500

Justin Lamb recently won his 5th NHRA World Championship, which puts him in rare air within the sportsman drag racing community. His 2018 Super Stock crown, in addition to his 5th title total, was his 3rd in Super Stock and his third in the last two calendar years. In 2017, Justin became just the 3rd driver in NHRA history (joining Scotty Richardson and Jeff Strickland) to win two championships in the same season when he won the Super Stock and Stock titles. In 2018, he came painfully close to duplicating the feat. Justin won the Super Stock title for a second consecutive season.

Episode 104: Nelson Belot, Kenny Underwood’s Dream Season Continues, & the Return of Racer Confidential

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 12:31:01 -0500

In today’s episode, the guys sit down with Nelson Belot (Bee-Lot) to discuss how he not only won the long distance award at the NHRA Finals, but also took the Summit Pro National Championship back home to Massachusetts. Kenny Underwood is back at it, padding his phenomenal win total with a pair of scores down south; and the long awaited, highly anticipated return of Racer Confidential!

Episode 103: Rambo hits the century mark & Super Comp battles to the finish

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 11:17:30 -0500

In this week's show, the guys discuss David Rampy's 100th NHRA National Event victory, the 2018 class of NHRA Summit Series champions, and that wild finish to the NHRA Super Comp title chase. Plus regular and semi-regular features: BTE Who's Hot, #RacingAnswers, and of course, shoutouts for days!

Episode 102: NHRA Champions Crowned, JJ’s Top 10

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 11:47:45 -0500

In this week’s episode, lead (only) Sportsman Drag Racing correspondent J.J. Pennington shares his Top 10 from October! In addition, Luke and Jed recap the drama in Las Vegas that culminated in 6 of the 7 NHRA sportsman world champions being crowned. They also previewed the upcoming Summit Series World Championships in Pomona and break down the action from the World Series of Bracket Racing in Georgia.

Episode 101: More Excessive Braking Discussion and NHRA Title Talk

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 14:03:37 -0400

Luke and Jed discuss SFG’s stance on Excessive Braking, along with a seemingly bizarre ruling from NHRA. Plus, Million Dollar Race Promoter Randy Folk joined the show to clarify some of the details of this year’s Million and to provide his unique perspective on the decisions he was faced with at the event; both this season and in years past. Plus: BTE Who’s Hot, event results from across the country, nerdy NHRA championship breakdowns, and of course, shoutouts for days!

Episode 100: One Bizarre Million

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 11:28:56 -0400

Kenny Underwood became just the second two-time Million Dollar Race Winner. Randell Reid nearly went Verdi on ‘em. Scotty Richardson came close to getting the one win that has eluded him. And none of that was the biggest story of the Million. You know what was. Luke & Jed talked about all that and more. Guests for this show include BOTH the Million Dollar Race winner Kenny Underwood, and runner-up: 17-year-old Cory Gulitti. One long episode to recap one crazy weekend in Montgomery. You gotta hear this.

Episode 099: Million Dollar Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 12:24:05 -0400

On the eve of the 23rd annual Mickey Thompson Million, the guys welcome the only 2-time winner of the Million, Gary Williams to the show. GW rehashes his glorious triumphs from 2004 and 2007, how they changed his life, and some thoughts on the Million in general. Gary, Luke, and Jed all weigh in on predictions for the winner and the car count at this year’s Million. In addition, the guys break down the NHRA title chase following an exciting weekend in Charlotte, and recap a handful of big buck bracket events leading into the Million Dollar Race.

Episode 098: It’s a Young Man’s Game… And NHRA unrest

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 14:43:30 -0400

In this week’s show, the guys break down coast to coast action from a busy weekend. Highlights include David Rampy’s quest to reach 100 national event wins, a slew of young guns with huge performances, breakdown and insight on a few unsubstantiated rumors, and of course the monthly edition of JJ’s Top Ten!

Episode 097: Jake Howard Rules the World; NHRA Titles Still Anyone’s Guess

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 03 Oct 2018 11:13:50 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed discuss Jake Howard’s incredible run: all he does is win E.T. Finals (that’s 5 in 3 years, and 3 in 3 weeks for those keeping score at home). Luke took a deeper dive into the NHRA national points chase in Super Stock, Super Comp, and Top Sportsman to break down the championship contenders and their odds. The guys closed the show with a couple of listener e-mails that depict some unique and thought provoking situations (re-runs, points implications, gifted rounds, etc.). Plus the usual nonsense: BTE Who’s Hot, What’s On Tap, Shoutouts and more.

Episode 096: Rocky Pintavalle is the People’s Hero & NHRA Gets Slippery in St. Louis

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:00:15 -0400

Luke & Jed sit down with the man of the hour, Rocky Pintavalle. In case you haven’t heard, Rocky had an incredible season… last weekend! Pintavalle drove his 3-speed equipped back-half Mopar to wins in both the $15,000 opener and the $50,000 main event at the Fall Fling. The guys recapped everything Fall Fling, including the big ($500,000) announcement for next year’s event. NHRA got slippery in St. Louis, so the guys did their best to rehash that drama and recap a busy weekend of sportsman action from across the country

Episode 095: Bracket Finals Domination

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 19 Sep 2018 13:14:41 -0400

Luke and Jed did their best to recap an incredible weekend of racing from across the country. Jake Howard and Mikie Sturgill headlined a weekend chalk full of E.T. Finals action with rare doubles. Cory Gulitti and Andy Schmall showed out in big dollar bracket competition. We’ve got new national points leaders in two NHRA categories. Lots to talk about - plus potentially the most memorable Luke rant/tangent to date. That and more on one long episode of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast!

Episode 094: Patriot Day Special & Zach Schlumpf from “Dialed In w/ Jake & Zach”

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 13:23:55 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed get “Dialed In” with Zach Schlumpf, co-host of a new racing podcast titled “Dialed In with Jake & Zach. In addition, they recapped a fairly light weekend of racing action highlighted by a pair of NHRA divisional events, and previewed a big weekend of bracket finals action on the horizon. Jed, Luke and Producer Mark also weighed in with memories from September 11, seventeen years later.

Episode 093: Devin Isenhower, JJ’s Top Ten, and all things Big GO!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 05 Sep 2018 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, the guys caught up with recent NHRA U.S. National Super Gas champion (and current Super Gas points leader) Devin Isenhower to recap the biggest win of his young career. That leads their in-depth coverage of the Big Go, and some of the stories of note from the fabled event. Lead (only) Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast correspondent JJ Pennington provided his Top 10 for the month of August, and the guys closed the show with a pair of epic Racer Confidential stories.

Episode 092: The year of the bottom bulber continues!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 13:02:12 -0400

In this episode, the guys dissect the NHRA points chase following a big weekend of divisional action. Did you hear that the Top Dragster bump in Bowling Green was 6.342?!?! That’s not a typo: 6.343 DID NOT get in! Jed and Luke discuss and get deeper into the 32 vs. 48 car Top Dragser/Top Sportsman debate. Plus they recapped a busy weekend of bracket action from coast to coast that featured another pair of bottom bulb racers scoring big wins in Top Bulb/Combo events. All that plus the usual shenanigans: two new “Racer Confidential” stories, Chance from BTE (not from the roof of a motorhome), and shoutouts for days.

Episode 091: Nick Duty’s Big Win & JR Lobner’s Big Month

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 14:44:18 -0400

In this episode, the guys catch up with Nick Duty fresh off of his big win at the Windmill Nationals. They discuss his emotional triumph, his life as a track operator who gets to race every once in awhile, and the year of the Chevette. The NHRA points picture got a little bit clearer after a big weekend of events across the country; and some pockets got a little fatter following a number of big dollar bracket events from coast to coast.

Episode 090: A half dozen BTE “Who’s Hot” Candidates & the introduction of “Racer Confidential”

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 13:31:36 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed start off talking about ducks, pylons, and kamikaze racers before smoothly transitioning into the week that was in sportsman drag racing - and it was a big one! They highlight results from the SFG event at Dragway 42, along with the Nightfire Nationals in Boise, ID and big bracket action from Virginia, South Carolina, and Illinois. Plus they recap the lone NHRA event of the weekend and the points implications attached to it. The guys closed the show with the first edition of “Racer Confidential” a fun format to tell anonymous (and entertaining) stories about the folks that we (and you) race with!

Episode 089: World Super Pro Challenge Recap & JJ’s Top 10

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 13:31:21 -0400

This episode of the podcast is jam packed with guest appearances from our lead (only) correspondent, JJ Pennington (JJ’s Top 10) and recently crowned World Super Pro Challenge $50,000 winner Chris Stine. Also:

Are we understating the accomplishments (and greatness) of Justin Lamb?

The weekend brought a memorable father-son final round (and nearly two)

And it’s the year of the No Box racer and the No Split Final!

Episode 088: NHRA Talk with a touch of Drama

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 13:36:41 -0400

In this NHRA heavy episode of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast, Luke gets all nerdy talking numbers and details in the NHRA sportsman title chase. The guys get deeper into the 32 vs. 48 car field debate for the NHRA Top Dragster and Top Sportsman classes. And the guys introduce a new (to the show) sponsor with a cameo appearance from Chance Lykens of BTE Performance. They close this week’s show where they opened last week’s episode: on the topic of some nasty turns in the “drama” surrounding the current big dollar bracket scene.

Episode 087: Big Bucks Drama & Jed’s Redemption

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 13:01:10 -0400

Facebook drama within the big buck bracket community, Jed’s redemption tour at the JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout, and the NHRA sportsman world championship picture (and our podcast pick ‘em contest) is a little bit more in focus. The guys discuss these topics and more in Episode 87!

Episode 086: 2 Big Bucks at Michigan, & our NHRA dismissals make us pay!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 12:58:47 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed rehash the action from the SFG Summer Shootout at US 131 as well as NHRA action from Division 3 and 6, and assorted big dollar bracket events across the country. Two former world champions that the guys dropped from their team last week showed out over the weekend and forced them to rethink those decisions… Luke previews the upcoming JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout, and they close the show with a popular #RacingAnswers topic: dealing with the first round (or final round) jitters.

Episode 085: 2018 NHRA Re-Draft!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 11:42:37 -0400

National Dragster Senior Editor Kevin McKenna joined Luke & Jed for this week’s show, as the trio performed their mid-season re-draft of Sportsman champions. That closed an episode that led off with Jed’s World Footbrake Challenge Recap, as well as insights from Luke’s weekend at the Firecracker Bracket Nationals in Byron, IL. In addition, they touched on results from the Tenn-Tuck series, and NHRA national and divisional action. Jed was tired and slurring his words... Luke shouted out half of Minnesota… It was a pretty typical Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast!

Episode 084: Happy Birthday America!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 11:33:20 -0400

This episode features our monthly segment from the best 12-year-old announcer and podcast personality in the land, JJ Pennington: JJ’s Top Ten. In addition, the guys discuss the holiday weekend events, introduce a new Siebert Performance Who’s Hot, and close with some final thoughts on the constantly changing landscape of big dollar bracket racing in 2018.

Episode 083: IHRA Vice President Skooter Peaco

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 11:29:53 -0400

In this episode, Luke welcomes the newest addition to his family, and the guys recaps a weekend of racing, in Texas and North Carolina. They highlight a standout JR performance and another footbrake racer earns Who’s Hot honors. IHRA’s new Summit Sportsman Spectacular is explained by our guest Skooter Peaco, and as always the popular shoutouts round out the episode.

Episode 082: Kevin Pollard is Really Good at Drag Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 12:01:38 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed lay gifts at the feet of Kevin Pollard, and discuss related news from the SFG No Dragster Nationals. That was the lead event of a busy weekend of racing that also included the No Box Nationals, the 75 Hundos in New York, and a full slate of NHRA divisional and national event action. The show wrapped with a long overdue edition of #RacingAnswers, the regular What’s On Tap segment of upcoming events, and the increasingly coveted show-ending shoutouts.

Episode 081: Crew Chief Confidential

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 11:57:37 -0400

Barry Davis, the longtime crew chief for sportsman racing legend David Rampy joined Luke and Jed this week to discuss his role and the role that crew members (who are often family members and/or friends) play in racing everywhere. The guys led the show with some big talk from the weekend: a $50,000-to-win NO SPLIT final round. As always, they covered notable results from across the country and previewed this weekend’s biggest upcoming events.

Episode 080: Timing Block Controversy!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 11:31:10 -0400

This week, the guys got to catch up with the most recent winner on the NHRA Top Sportsman tour, Don O’Neal, who claimed his second win of the 2018 season in bizarre (and controversial) fashion last week in Chicago. Don talked about that, his hot start to the season, and the cloud of tragedy hanging over the entire Top Sportsman class. In addition, Luke & Jed covered the big weekend in Chicago including the annual JEGS All-Stars competition and big dollar bracket racing from around the country.

Episode 079: Michael Jordan, Lebron James, or Kevin Pollard?

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 30 May 2018 12:00:00 -0400

It’s the end of the month and you know what that means! It’s JJ’s top ten! This time around, JJ not only broke down his top 5 Super Pro and Bottom Bulbers from the month of May, but added in a Jr. Dragster segment. In addition, the guys broke down a massive holiday weekend that included a legendary performance from Kevin Pollard, and no less than half a dozen standout performances from across the country.

Episode 078: Dream Team Challenge Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 23 May 2018 13:10:40 -0400

In this episode, the guys took an opportunity to sit down with the masterminds behind the SDPC Dream Team Challenge: Gaylon Rolison and Britt Cummings. The duo explained how the unique Dream Team idea came to fruition, and all four (Gaylon, Britt, Luke & Jed) discussed their excitement for the weekend that lies ahead. Britt even got a few jabs in at Johnny Bracket Racer, as that epic grudge match will culminate this weekend in Memphis as well! In addition, the guys broke down last week’s action, which was NHRA heavy with several results that could impact the national championship chases throughout the sportsman landscape.

Episode 077: The Mental Side of Racing with Bruce Deveau

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 16 May 2018 12:56:56 -0400

In this episode, the guys deviate significantly from the typical show for an interview with Bruce Deveau, a licensed psychotherapist and Performance Consultant and the author of the popular Racer’s Mind series of audio trainings and workbooks. In the interview, they had a wide ranging discussion on optimal mental performance, how sports psychology applies behind the wheel, and also touched on the topic of mastery and our pursuit of it. In addition, the guys previewed the upcoming Dream Team Challenge, discussed the pending culmination of the Cummings vs. Ezell grudge match, and even talked a little smack about their own teams as they prepare for Memphis.

Episode 076: Shawn Langdon Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 09 May 2018 12:56:20 -0400

In this episode, the guys were joined by the driver of the Kalitta Racing Global Electronic Technology Funny Car, Shawn Langdon. Prior to his nitro fame, Shawn was a 2-time national champion in Super Comp, and also has a Jr. Dragster national title to his credit (he’s the only driver to date to hold titles in Jr. Dragster, a sportsman category, and a professional category: Top Fuel). Shawn talked a bit about his foray in the Funny Car category, brought us up to speed on his sportsman racing operation, and his latest project: The Nomex Effect podcast that he hosts with teammate J.R. Todd. In addition, Luke & Jed had a lengthy discussion about the tragic events of the past week, and what it means going forward. And, as always they recapped the major action from the week that was, including the Spring Fling Galot, the NHRA Southern Nationals, and more.

Episode 075: Retro Drag Racing Phrases and JJ’s April Top 10

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 02 May 2018 12:40:16 -0400

This week’s episode kicked off with the monthly breakdown from Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast Lead (and only) Correspondent, J.J. Pennington. In it, the best 12-year-old announcer in the world unveiled the second edition of “J.J.’s Top Ten.” Luke & Jed then reviewed an entertaining list of “retro” racing phrases submitted by you the listeners and threw in a few entertaining stories to boot. They recapped the past week of on track action, highlighted by the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Charlotte, as well as big bucks bracket action from across the country.

Episode 074: Ezell Saga and Spring Fling Million Winner Randell Reid

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:33:57 -0400

Randell Reid, the winner of last weekend’s Spring Fling Million joined Luke & Jed on this episode to recap and relive his huge victory over J.R. Lobner in Friday’s main event. While Randell and J.R. were obviously the big story, their success was at least somewhat overshadowed by a staging controversy earlier in the day involving Johnny Ezell. The guys put Johnny Bracket Racer on trial so to speak, and weigh in on the intentions and ramifications of his actions. In addition, they broke down the Bigfoot $40k’s from Darlington, the first IHRA Sportsman Spectacular from Baton Rouge, and the NHRA national event from Houston.

Episode 073: Powerball winner, Brandon Taylor Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 14:20:13 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed are joined by last weekend’s $175,000 Powerball of Drag Racing winner, Brandon Taylor. Brandon gives us a bit of a round-by-round of how the biggest windfall of his drag racing career to date happened, and what was going through his head in that crazy final round sequence. In addition, the boys recapped the weekend action from not only the Powerball event, but also NHRA Lucas Oil Series action from Texas, Las Vegas and North Carolina. They previewed what may well be the biggest weekend of the sportsman drag racing season coming up: Spring Fling Million, Bigfoot $40k’s, and more. And they closed the show with the popular #RacingAnswers segment.

Episode 072: Justin Lamb on fire, Armed Forces Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 13:21:03 -0400

In this episode, the guys got the unique opportunity to catch up with Jeff Lambert, the president of Armed Forces Racing. Jeff shared his unique path into drag racing and how he has intertwined his passion for our sport with his military background to genuinely impact the lives of veterans. In addition, Luke & Jed recapped the week that was, which was highlighted by stellar performances by sportsman competitors from coast to coast. They also previewed this week’s SFG Powerball event in Jackson, SC and even spent a little time rehashing the Masters.

Episode 071: Kyle Seipel and Peter Biondo Interview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 11:56:37 -0400

In this episode, the guys got the opportunity to sit down for a great conversation with the minds behind the Spring Fling Million and the Spring Fling brand: Kyle Seipel & Peter Biondo. They previewed the upcoming event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway that does offer the largest guaranteed purse in all of drag racing for 2018. They also provided a behind the scenes glimpse at the ups and downs of race promotion. In addition, Luke & Jed recapped the Southern Big Buck Nationals in Belle Rose, LA and look ahead to a busy month of April on the sportsman scene. Of course this podcast wouldn’t be complete without a final look back at the NCAA tournament and the podcast bad beat bracket. It’s our version of “One Shining Moment”

Episode 070: JJ’s Top 10 Debut

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 12:24:30 -0400

This episode features the first segment from the lead (and only) correspondent of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast: J.J. Pennington and the debut of J.J.’s Top Ten! In addition, PJ North knocks it out of the park with some professional sound for the Final Four of the podcast bad beat bracket and the intro for J.J.’s Top Ten. The guys touch on big bucks action from Huntsville, AL, bottom bulb action from Gulfport, MS, and the NHRA Lucas Oil Series from Houston, TX before closing with a Final Thought on track prep. Today’s episode is presented in part by our friends at PortaTree, ThisIsBracketRacing ELITE, Siebert Performance, and the AHRA!

Episode 069: Guess Who’s Back

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 13:34:26 -0400

In today’s episode, the guys update the Podcast Bad Beat Bracket to represent the Sweet 16, complete with several new, listener suggested additions! They recap the weekend’s biggest events (Tenn-Tuck, Gatornationals, and big bucks action from Oklahoma and Virginia), and close the show by catching up with Dallas Page, the winner of the recent Racing RV’s sponsorship contest via ThisIsBracketRacing ELITE. Thanks to our partners for presenting this week’s show: Siebert Performance, AHRA, PortaTree, and The Spring Fling Galot.

Episode 068: March Madness

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 15:10:00 -0400

This week’s podcast features a recap of the week that was: NHRA in Gainesville, big bucks in Tucson and the SFG opener in Georgia, plus the guys get into some Facebook drama from the week! Luke & Jed were joined by this week’s Seibert Performance “Who’s Hot” recipient: Lane Dicken, hot off his $100,000 victory in Reynolds, GA. In addition, they rolled out their own version of March Madness, tying outrageous (and common) racing “bad beat” stories to the top seeds of the NCAA tournament. It made for an enjoyable (if not somewhat ridiculous) episode.

Episode 067: “Bracket” Racing History

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 12:45:06 -0500

On this week’s episode, Luke & Jed were joined by legendary announcer, journalist and racer Bret Kepner to discuss the Sportsman Drag Racing Hall of Fame idea in greater depth. We doubt anyone has more diversity in experience or a greater knowledge of the history of drag racing than Kepner - he’s like a walking, talking encyclopedia (as you’ll hear on this episode). Hear his takes and some fascinating facts on our sport, in addition to the guys’ weekly recap of major events from around the country.

Episode 066: Sportsman Hall of Fame Discussion

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Feb 2018 11:31:38 -0500

Should Sportsman Drag Racing have its own Hall Of Fame? If so, where would it be located? And who gets first ballot induction? Luke & Jed discuss these ideas and share their thoughts on this week’s episode. In addition, they cover last weekend’s biggest newsmakers from Phoenix to Orlando to Montgomery, and more!

Episode 065: Guest Host Kevin Brannon

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 12:00:00 -0500

In this episode Jed is welcomed by co-host Kevin Brannon, while Luke goes on vacation and takes the week off. Jed and KB discuss a pit incident at Gulfport dragway over the weekend, as well as some King of the Coast results. The guys discuss KB’s move into racing full time, and the upcoming divisional at Orlando. They also highlight a few upcoming events. To finish up the episode, Luke gives us a #RACINGANSWERS segment on top end driving.

Episode 064: Bottom Bulb Top 25

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 11:37:49 -0500

Bottom bulb racers have been waiting for it: It’s the Bottom Bulb version of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast Top 25! Luke, Jed, and Mark recruited 12 distinguished panelists to assemble the top 25: listen to see who came out on top, who earned Top 25 status, and who got snubbed! Luke Siebert, of Siebert Performance and a notable bottom bulb racer of his own right, joined the show this week to break down the results and give his take. In addition, Luke & Jed cover the weekend’s results from Pomona and discuss upcoming events slated for this weekend.

Episode 063: Interview with Lynn Ellison

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 11:36:15 -0500

On this week’s episode, Luke & Jed sit down for a lengthy interview with reigning NHRA Top Dragster World Champion Lynn Ellison. Within that segment, Lynn recaps his amazing 2017 season, talks about the opportunity to compete alongside his daughter Madison, and what it’s like to bracket race at well over 200 mph. In addition, the guys rehash their NHRA picks from last episode in preparation for the NHRA season opener in Pomona. The episode closes with an appearance from newly minted Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast correspondent, JJ Pennington!

Episode 062: NHRA Pick’em

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 11:25:28 -0500

National Dragster Senior Editor Kevin McKenna joins Luke and Big Jed this week as they perform their annual NHRA Championship Draft. A year ago, Luke smoked Big Jed in the competition: and as a result, Jed’s “Big Red” Nova will feature a custom decal throughout 2018 to make sure everyone knows it! This year, Kevin, who helped the duo with their picks last season, got in on the action and picked a team of his own. The trio each selected three drivers in each of the NHRA sportsman categories as their own “Dream Team” of sorts. The show is a bit NHRA heavy this week, as Luke & Jed also discuss the advent of an 1/8th mile NHRA Division Series in the Southeast Division, and the addition of Virginia Motorsports Park to the NHRA National Event Schedule. Luke closes this week’s show with a “Final Thought” on the future of bracket racing.

Episode 061- Turn back the Clock

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 12:20:24 -0500

This week, the guys are joined by 2-time NHRA World Champion Sherman Adcock, Jr. and the trio takes turns telling racing stories of yesteryear: entertaining tales from their youth and what feels like a little different time in sportsman drag racing. Jed shares a story that begins with losing a race car (quite literally) and ends in the winner’s circle. Sherman tells us about the early days of NHRA Super Gas, and highlights a few of the personalities of that time period. And Luke adds in the story of his first race day at his home track - a couple years shy of being a licensed driver. In addition, they talk about the ceasing of drag race competition at Englishtown, and touch on some of the upcoming events, news, and deadlines in the sport.

Episode 060: Towing Talk

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 17 Jan 2018 12:00:00 -0500

Some of the most discussed - and often most avoided - questions in the world of sportsman drag racing swirl around the issue of Commercial Vehicle mandates and the DOT laws as they apply to racers. In this episode, Luke & Jed do their best to get to the bottom of it, with the help of two highly respected industry professionals: Joe Fisher (Racing RV’s), and John Dibartolomeo (Drag Racing Edge). Joe and John help shed some light on towing and CDL requirements for our racing operations.

Episode 059: David Rampy

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 12:42:39 -0500

This episode was a real treat for Jed & Luke, as they got to sit down for a lengthy interview with recent NHRA World Champion and sportsman racing icon, David Rampy. In his interview, Rampy talked about everything from his Alabama roots to the intricacies of Competition Eliminator; his racing mentor, his team, and his drive to continue earning his living within sportsman competition. It’s one you don’t want to miss!

Episode 058: The Top 25 Reveal

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 13:22:15 -0500

The boys are back! After a week off for the holidays, Luke and Jed return – and they bring the goods this week in an episode sure to get everyone talking. In this episode, the guys rank the top 25 top bulb bracket racers in the world! Who’s number 1? Who missed the cut? Find out in an episode dedicated almost exclusively to poll banter. In addition, the guys touch on a handful of events that have been released in recent weeks, and close the show with the popular #RacingAnswers segment.

Episode 057: The Best of 2017

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 13:20:32 -0500

Here it is! By listener vote, Luke & Jed recap the “Best of” 2017: best single event performance, best event, biggest controversy, best story, and the granddaddy of them all: the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast 2017 Driver of the Year. In addition to breaking down the ballots, the guys discuss the passing of legendary NHRA Pro Stock champion Bob Glidden, update the listeners on some recent announcements, and close with a final thought on the sustainability of the current big dollar bracket racing landscape.

Episode 056: “Nasty” Nick Hastings

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 Dec 2017 13:41:50 -0500

On this week’s show, the guys sit down with arguably the most successful and versatile racer of 2017: Nick Hastings. Hastings’ accomplishments from the season read like a laundry list of the biggest and best events of the season: top bulb and bottom bulb. He talks about his year, his outlook, and how he took the step from weekly bracket racer to one of the most recognized and successful big dollar competitors in the sport! In addition, Luke & Jed discuss the hottest topics of the week, and preview the upcoming “Best of 2017” show which will be highlighted by a listener vote.

Episode 055: At Track SMACK Talk!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 12:00:00 -0500

On this week’s show, the guys discuss some of the latest developments in sportsman drag racing: IHRA’s Sportsman Spectacular, the recent Facebook discussion about what we would change about the sport, and more… But in large part, they relax and have a little fun! Luke & Jed are joined by multi-time world champion Slate Cummings as the three reflect on some of their most entertaining “Smack Talk” stories from over three decades at the race track.

Episode 054: 2017 NHRA Super Comp Champion, Austin Williams

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 12:00:00 -0500

On this week’s show, the guys catch up with recently crowned NHRA S/C world champ Austin Williams. In addition, they recap the holiday weekend action, which unfortunately included a disproportionate number of on track incidents. They also roll out a new “What’s On Tap” feature in which they preview upcoming events and talk about a 2018 schedule that is quickly becoming the richest and most exciting season in big buck bracket racing history. Plus they close the show with a long overdue #RacingAnswers segment.

Episode 052: Salute to the Champions

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 12:00:00 -0500

A couple months ago, Jason Patterson was a Footbrake racer from south Texas. Now he’s an NHRA World Champion. Luke & Jed catch up with him to talk about the experience. In addition, they salute this year’s class of NHRA world champions, discuss the latest IHRA news, and preview the upcoming Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast anniversary episode.

Episode 051: Justin Lamb is the 3rd Driver in NHRA History to Claim 2 World Championships in One Season!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 11:27:27 -0500

Justin Lamb just became the third driver in NHRA history to win two national championships in one season. Those titles marked the third and fourth of his illustrious career (he’s 30 years old). On this week’s show, Jed and Luke got to catch up with Justin en route to Pomona for the World Finals. In addition, they do their best to bring everyone up to speed on the remaining sportsman championship pictures, recap the World Series of Bracket Racing, and share some thoughts on integrity within championship points battles.

Episode 053: 1 Year Anniversary of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 12:00:00 -0400

It’s our anniversary! Join Luke & Jed as they take a look back at the first 52 episodes of the podcast and review the listener poll about the best, funniest, and most awkward moments of year one!

Episode 050: Southern Footbrake Challenge & NHRA Points Battles

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 11:56:34 -0400

In today’s episode, Luke & Jed revisit last week’s discussion on safety and break down the past week’s major events: big dollar Footbrake action at the SFC, NHRA national event competition from Las Vegas, and the final Division 2 event from Rockingham. They’re joined by recent Las Vegas winner Marko Perivolaris and Luke brings everyone up to speed on NHRA championship possibilities with just 2 weeks remaining in the 2017 season. And of course, the duo discusses their NHRA pick ‘em contest with an emphasis on the recourse for the loser.

Episode 049: Million Dollar Race Reflections

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:21:24 -0400

This episode is dedicated to everything Mickey Thompson Million. Luke & Jed were on hand competing for the biggest prize of the 2017 season. They didn’t win it, but they talk a lot about the man who did: Johnny Ezell. In addition, they touch on some of the hot topics from the Million: the split negotiation, safety equipment (or lack thereof), and the undertone of cheating accusations. No guest this week: Johnny Bracket Racing politely declined to come on (his racing speaks for itself).

Episode 048: Million Dollar Race Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 19 Oct 2017 12:00:00 -0400

This week the guys are recording live from the Mickey Thompson Million in Montgomery, AL. Luke & Jed are joined by the winner of the inaugural Million, TJ Tracey. In addition, they discuss the callouts from Huntsville last week and talk about Jed’s big win at the same event. Plus, they cover results from across the country and give their picks for this week’s Million.

Episode 047: Big Bracket Racing Announcements

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:59:02 -0400

In this episode, the guys discuss new developments in the world of bracket racing: from IHRA’s change in format, to an interesting system of pairing in the late rounds. Luke & Jed are joined by Britt Cummings, as he and Gaylon Rolison announce their new event: the 2018 Dream Team Shootout. In addition, they cover the NHRA action from Oklahoma and E.T. Finals events from the Southeast and the west coast… Plus they agree on a wager for their NHRA pick ‘em contest.

Episode 046: Catching up with the man of the hour, Troy Williams, Jr.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 19:33:13 -0400

In this episode, Troy Williams, Jr. joins the show to discuss his incredible week… Troy clinched the IHRA Top Dragster World Championship on Sunday, then kicked off the Fall Fling with a win in the 32-car Dragster Shootout. As if that weren’t enough, he capped the week with a $50,000 triumph in Friday’s main event! In addition, he tells a few stories about his early years at the track, plus Luke & Jed recap the Fling, the NHRA national event in St. Louis and breakdown their NHRA draft picks at the points battles wind to a close.

Episode 045: DRR Ultimate Series & IHRA Champions Crowned

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 12:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode, Luke & Jed are joined by newly crowned DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series champion Aaron Vail. The longtime Indiana door car driver tells the guys what it’s like to take a dragster home for the first time. In addition, IHRA crowned its sportsman champions last week with the Dragway 42 Finale, so the guys discuss that. Plus, they cover the NHRA action from Maple Grove and Rocky Mountain Raceway, as well as the DRR Series’ final stop in Huntsville and the Jim Harrington Memorial Classic at Cecil County. It’s an action packed show, recorded from the tower at Bristol Dragway during the Fall Fling!

Episode 044: Impending IHRA Drama

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 20 Sep 2017 13:20:43 -0400

In this week’s episode, 2-time IHRA World Champion and current points leader Danny Waters, Jr. helps the guys break down the IHRA finale and the championship contenders in each category. In addition, Luke and Jed cover last weekend’s national, divisional, and E.T. Finals events, and preview the upcoming Fall Fling. Plus, Luke tries to explain what the heck he’s doing in Salt Lake City and they debate the idea of giving a time trial in the middle of competition.

Episode 043: A look back at the SDPC Race Shop All-State Shootout & the Moser Great American Bracket Race

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 13 Sep 2017 12:00:00 -0400

It’s Jed’s time to bask in the glory of his Alabama Slamma All-State triumph! In this week’s episode, the guys recap all the happenings from Memphis: the $50,000-to-win main event, as well as the race they’ve talked about all season long: The All State Shootout. In addition, they recap the week that was in NHRA LODRS competition and preview the final DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series event of 2017.

Episode 042: Indy & Labor Day Weekend $ Race Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 06 Sep 2017 15:53:59 -0400

In this episode, the guys discuss all of the happenings from the Big Go, including an interview with 2017 Competition Eliminator winner (and 3-time Indy champion) Brad Plourd. In addition, they touch on the IHRA double header in South Carolina, as well as big buck action from Norwalk, Noble, Montgomery, Kil-Kare and Farmington.

Episode 041: Previewing the Great American $50K, All-State Shootout & the BIG GO!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, the guys cover last weekend’s NHRA results from Bowling Green and Virginia Motorsports Park, as well as bracket action from Huntsville and Salt Lake City. The are joined by co-promoter of the Moser Great American Bracket Race, Gaylon Rolison to talk about that event and the All-State Shootout that will be contested as a part of it. Luke closes the show with a final thought about the Big GO: the NHRA U.S. Nationals.

Episode 040: Points chases shaping up!

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, the guys discussed last week’s big buck bracket action from the DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series in Huntsville as well as the Beaver Big Buck Blast in PA. In addition, they cover NHRA races from Brainerd, Seattle, and Cecil County, plus IHRA action from Memphis and Empire, all with an eye on the ultimate prizes: the national championships in both sanctioning bodies.

Episode 039: RIP Windle Webster, Jr.

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 13:06:48 -0400

In this episode, the guys got a chance to catch up with PJ North and talk about the winding road that has led him to stardom on the Nashville music scene, and how he’s intertwined his music career with sportsman drag racing. They break down the weekend events: a trio of NHRA division races, along with big buck action from Virginia, Illinois, and Idaho. The podcast takes a somber tone when Luke, Jed, and PJ talk about Windle Webster, Jr.’s legacy and the racing incident that took his life last Friday.

Episode 038: IHRA Focus

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 13:01:58 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed dive into the IHRA points chase in all of the sportsman categories. In addition, they recap the week that was in NHRA competition: huge western swings for Jody Lang and Justin Lamb, as well as John Labbous Jr.’s continued domination of the super classes. Plus, they touch on the two big bracket events contested in the state of Michigan last weekend. Jed relives a devastating kickball defeat, and Luke talks about losing 4 semi-final rounds in under an hour. It’s a jam-packed podcast to say the least.

Episode 037: Top Sportsman Domination

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 12:36:21 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed catch up with former NHRA Top Sportsman champion and current points leader Jeffrey Barker on the heels of his double-up victory in Topeka. They break down the NHRA points chases following a big weekend of action, and recap big bracket races from Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. Plus, they provide an update on the upcoming All-State Challenge and preview next weekend’s Racing RV’s Exclusive 150.

Episode 036: The week in review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed touch on the events that made up the week that was: bracket action from Maryland and Alabama, the NHRA national event in Denver, and divisionals from Sonoma and Epping. They sit down for a chat with back-to-back NHRA Mile High Nationals Super Comp winner Kris Whitfield, and breakdown the bottom bulb All-State Challenge roster. The episode as a whole takes a somber tone following a massive loss to the sportsman racing community.

Episode 035: JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout Recap

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed cover the IHRA event in Maryland and NHRA across the country in Oregon, but they spend the bulk of the show discussing the JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout. The event had its highs and lows for both: from a massive car and spectator count, to a fantastic wheelie contest, to a young new champion, to getting stuck in the mud & Jed’s unfortunate encounter with a concrete barrier. They discuss it and much more on this week’s Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast.

Episode 034: Dan Fletcher’s Milestone Win

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 13:48:25 -0400

This week, Luke & Jed do their best to tackle a monumental weekend in sportsman drag racing. Dan Fletcher earned his milestone 100th NHRA national event win in Chicago. At the same event, David Rampy picked up his 95th win, and Luke himself became the 25th driver in NHRA history to double at a national event. Meanwhile, Jed had a big weekend of his own, hosting the 11th annual BTE World Footbrake Challenge. They discuss all that, and catch up with the man of the hour himself: Dan Fletcher. Plus Luke rants in the newest segment of the podcast, This Week’s Final Thought.

Episode 033: JEGS All-Star Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 15:56:45 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed breakdown the upcoming JEGS All-Stars competition. In addition, they take an opportunity to catch up with NHRA Top Fuel ace Clay Millican. Clay shares his incredible story: from a local racer scratching together pennies to make races along the IHRA tour in Modified eliminator, to Top Fuel world champion (6 times over), to legitimate NHRA contender. He recaps his emotional victory in Bristol on Father’s Day, and enlightens us all on some of the nuances of professional competition.

Episode 032: Announcer Chat w/ Willie

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 15:27:00 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed welcome longtime racer and the voice of the JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout, Willie Burnett. Willie and Jed share some announcing war stories as well as some memorable calls from the past. In addition, the guys recap the week that was, highlighted by a “Double Double” at the NHRA National event in Norwalk, and the much anticipated Lonestar Summer Shootout in Texas. Plus, they break down the NHRA points chase after a big weekend (there were two divisionals in addition to Norwalk; and they release the “Utility” class roster for the SDPC All-State Showdown.

Episode 031: NHRA Mid-Season Review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 12:48:35 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed welcome National Dragster Senior Editor Kevin McKenna to the show to review the first half of the 2017 NHRA season. Kevin assists Luke & Jed with their NHRA World Championship re-drafts, as they lock in #TeamLuke and #TeamJed for the remainder of the season. In addition, they recap the weekend’s events from Nashville, TN to Denver, CO and several points in between. Plus, Jed shares that he is the (self-proclaimed) “Greg Maddux” of his high intensity adult kickball league.

Episode 030: Cheating in Sportsman Drag Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:28:56 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed talk about cheating (and the threat of cheating) in today’s sportsman drag racing world. The show includes a long chat with Cody Harger, a Louisiana racer turned tech inspector, who handles tech inspection at the Million Dollar Race and the DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series events. In addition, they discuss the unfortunate accident turned social media saga of one southeast footbrake competitor, and bring everyone up to speed on the biggest events of the week that was: from Englishtown to Darlington, and the Ultimate 64 to the latest IHRA events.

Episode 029: Announcer Talk with JJ

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 12:36:50 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed relive a big weekend of NHRA competition highlighted by the national event in Epping, NH and three Lucas Oil Series Events. They also cover the No Box Bonanza at Summit Raceway Park, and preview the upcoming DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series event at Huntsville Dragway (June 23-25). In addition, they roll out their first #RacingAnswers segment with an emphasis on finish line safety… But the highlight of the show is an interview with up and coming bracket race announcer JJ Pennington!

Episode 028: Memorial Weekend Breakdown

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 31 May 2017 13:17:51 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed recap the weekend’s events from coast to coast: From NHRA at Bowling Green and Maple Grove to major events in Fontana, CA, Ardmore, OK, Steele, AL, Atco, NJ and Rockingham, NC and big bucks Footbrake action in Elk Creek, VA. Results include Matt Sayers domination, a Scooter Hamlin double, and even a Spencer Massey siting! Plus, they preview the Racing RV’s Exclusive 150 and Luke talks about become an outdoorsman.

Episode 027: Big NHRA Weekend

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 24 May 2017 12:02:23 -0400

In this episode, Luke & Jed recap the weekend’s events and their potential implications on the 2017 NHRA Lucas Oil Championship races. Austin Williams won the Menard’s NHRA Heartland Nationals. Surprise, surprise: this marks the fifth consecutive season he’s won the Topeka event! Jed & Luke discuss his success, and recap the NHRA divisional events in Atlanta, Norwalk, and Fontana with an eye on how they’ll ultimately impact the 2017 national championships. They also touch on last weekend’s big buck action at Capitol Raceway and preview the 11th annual World Footbrake Challenge (which returns to Bristol Dragway July 6-9)

Episode 026: Guarding against & preparing for theft

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 17 May 2017 13:59:15 -0400

This episode is dedicated to guarding our racing operations against theft, and what to do in the event that your race car/trailer/operation is stolen. Jed & Luke discuss with Brian Cireddu, the well-known and accomplished Ohio No Box racer who recently had his entire operation stolen from a motel near Las Vegas following the Spring Fling Million. In addition, they touch on various anti-theft devices, GPS tracking and alarms, and insurance options. It’s not the most fun episode, but hopefully one of the most impactful! Luke & Jed also touched on what little racing took place over the holiday weekend, highlighted by the Arkansas Footbrake Throwdown and the Spring Run Off at Rocky Mountain Raceway Park in Utah.

Episode 025: Galot/Atlanta Recap, West Coast Classic Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 10 May 2017 11:30:26 -0400

Last weekend, Luke & Jed were in attendance at the biggest races in the land: Jed was at GALOT for the Spring Fling, while Luke attended (and won SC at) the NHRA Southern Nationals in Atlanta. They cover those races in depth, as well as results from Huntsville, AL and Boise, ID, plus some fun racing related trivia and news and notes from across the country. They’re joined by longtime racer and promotor of the upcoming Figspeed West Coast Classic, Chris Forsythe. Chris previews the big event, which comes to Auto Club Raceway (Fontana, CA) on May 25-28, and discusses the bracket racing climate on the western half of the country.

Episode 024: 4-Wide Recap & Assorted Trivia

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 02 May 2017 11:41:09 -0400

In this episode, the guys recap the weekend’s big events: the NHRA 4-Wide in Charlotte, the Dallas LODRS, the Ten Grand Slam in Richmond, VA, and Big Jed’s $10k win at Holiday Raceway in Woodstock, AL. In addition, Luke & Jed preview the 7th annual JEGS Summer Door Car Shootout and challenge one another with some fairly random (mostly racing related) trivia.

Episode 023: The Last Big Thing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 12:50:14 -0400

In this episode, the guys spend some time with the winner of the LAST BIG Thing contest, 75-year-old Texan Don Boulware. Don shares stories of yesteryear, his secrets to enjoying incredible on-track success well into his 70’s, and an entertaining tale about his first trip to the Moroso 5-Day. In addition, Luke & Jed touch on the recent developments at Capital Raceway, the recovery of Brian Cireddu’s race car and trailer, and recap last weekend’s big events.

Episode 022: Luke’s Big Win at the Spring Fling Million

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 09:15:13 -0400

In this episode, the guys recap the 2nd annual K&N Spring Fling Million, which brought the biggest victory of Luke’s career. What’s more? Jed and Luke squared off in round 5 of the main event! They talk about that, the spoils of victory, what went into the win, and they recap the entire week in Las Vegas. This is one Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast you don’t want to miss!

Episode 021: Powerball Recap with the Big Winner

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 12:34:54 -0400

In this episode, the guys talk with $250,000 Powerball champion Cameron Manuel. In addition, they break down last week’s action from coast to coast, preview the K&N Spring Fling Million Las Vegas, and announce the winner of the Last BIG Thing.

Episode 020: Vegas/Memphis Recap, Powerball Preview

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 11:01:22 -0400

In this episode, the guys recap the weekend events in Las Vegas, South Georgia, and Memphis. Luke & Jed also make their picks for the $250,000 Powerball Main Event, and discuss the five nominees for the LAST BIG Thing.

Episode 019: Marketing in Sportsman Drag Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 14:04:41 -0400

In this episode, the guys discuss marketing and sponsorship at the sportsman level. Who better to speak on that topic than longtime NHRA standout and representative for a multitude of racing & non-racing related companies: Tommy Phillips. Tommy discusses some of his keys to marketing success, how he applies the same principles to his role in event promotion, and even shares a comical story about choosing to race for a living over… Law school! In addition, Luke & Jed recap the week that was, including the DRR Ultimate Series opener in Huntsville, AL, NHRA in Houston, IHRA in Darlington, and big buck events in Rockingham and Gulfport. Luke relives his 1800 mile journey to the west coast as they preview the K&N Spring Fling Million!

Episode 018: Recapping a Big Weekend

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Mar 2017 07:58:52 -0400

In this episode, the guys discuss the NHRA Gatornationals, as well as big buck races from across the country and the IHRA event in San Antonio. Luke & Jed also announce the finalists for the LAST Big Thing, discuss the upcoming weekend events in Huntsville and Gulfport, and lament their NCAA tournament bracket failures. Listen with caution: Luke has gone vegan and he’s in a foul mood about it.

Episode 017: Drag Racing Psychology

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 12:44:16 -0400

In this episode, the guys have a spirited conversation with Dr. Tami Eggleston, a sports psychologist with a drag racing background. Tami, who holds a PHD in Psychology in addition to over 2 decades of racing experience, talks about the finer points of sports psychology and the role that it plays within our sport. In addition, Luke & Jed talk about the recent NHRA Division 2 event in Gainesville, provide some All-State Race updates, and break down the impeding NCAA men’s basketball tournament.

Episode 016: The Next BIG Thing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 10:35:39 -0500

In this episode, the guys talk with the seventeen-year-old driver who you listeners voted the NEXT BIG THING in sportsman drag racing: Caleb Ellison. In addition, Luke & Jed discuss the week’s results from Oklahoma to Arizona and points in between. Plus Luke breaks down the Missouri Valley Conference basketball tournament (because you care), and they discuss the closing of the iconic small track that Luke called home: Texas Raceway.

Episode 015: Race Results, Excessive Braking & The NEXT Big Thing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 10:10:58 -0500

What else could Luke & Jed possibly lead with in this episode? They discuss Jerry Emmons’ disqualification for excessive braking in the quarterfinal round of the NHRA Arizona Nationals in Phoenix, at length. In addition, they review the results from Phoenix, as well as the NHRA Division 2 opener in Orlando and the Super 7 Series bracket event in Montgomery, AL. Luke & Jed close with some thoughts on the upcoming Next BIG Thing vote, which will conclude next episode, as well as their thoughts on the 2017 DragRaceResults.com Ultimate Series, as it prepares to kick off in Huntsville, AL on March 24-26.

Episode 014: Women in Drag Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 11:01:06 -0500

In this episode, the guys discuss some of the obstacles facing women in our sport. Since Luke & Jed’s insight is obviously limited in that area, they enlisted 2-time NHRA Pro Stock World Champion Erica Enders to share her opinions. In addition to her thoughts on climbing the ladder and shattering the glass ceiling, Erica also shares fascinating insights on Pro Stock competition, as well as some of her most memorable moments and most stinging defeats. Luke & Jed also cover recent bracket events in Arizona and Mississippi, and talk about the latest developments (and call outs) in the All-State Race and related discussion.

Episode 013: The 2017 Season is Officially Underway

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 12:43:16 -0500

In this episode, the guys recap the NHRA season opening Winternationals in Pomona, CA, as well as the IHRA event in West Palm Beach, FL and the Southern Big Bucks Nationals in Belle Rose, LA. They also share their thoughts on “Birdman” James Finney’s recent comments about bracket racers as well as the passing of Danny Sons.

Episode 012: NHRA World Champion Draft

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 10:19:49 -0500

In this episode, the guys make their draft picks for the 2017 NHRA Lucas Oil Series World Champions & have a long chat with 2016 NHRA Top Dragster and Stock Eliminator World Champion Jeff Strickland. Strick talks about the dramatic and surreal ending to his 2016 season, who he views as his strongest competition in 2017, and his best Bo Duke impression as a 6-year-old.

Episode 011: Story Time

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 15:53:27 -0500

Episode 010: The State of Local Bracket Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 11:12:35 -0500

In this episode, the guys debate and discuss the state of local bracket competition; with an emphasis on what we, as racers can do to make it better. They enlist the insights of Bill Bader, the co-owner and president of Summit Motorsports Park for opinions on what can be done from the race track side to improve the grass roots level of the sport. In addition, Luke & Jed talk about JJ’s youth basketball team and Luke’s tricky decision as to whether or not to include his wife, Jessica on the Illinois All-State team.

Episode 009: Most Embarrassing Moments (Part 2)

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:30:33 -0500

In this episode, the guys make a big announcement about the All-State Debate. In continuing last week’s “Most Embarrassing” discussion, Jed shares his epic Super Chevy Show story, plus he and Luke are joined by 7-time World Champion Peter Biondo, who tells his own most embarrassing tale. Finally, the guys decided that their favorite story of embarrassment came from Kentucky’s Jared Bargo; so they bring him on the show to tell it (as only he can). This is almost without question the most entertaining Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast to date!

Episode 008: Your Most Embarrassing Moments

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 14:35:30 -0500

In today’s episode, the guys pay tribute to George Howard and Gary Moore, two hall-of-fame promoters who recently passed away. Luke & Jed each share their most embarrassing on-track moment. And Luke tries to talk Jed, a diehard Alabama fan, off the cliff following the College Football National Championship.

Episode 007: The All-State Finale

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 04 Jan 2017 12:04:04 -0500

In this episode, the guys discuss their new year "parties," and their thoughts on promoters competing in their own events and/or "house cars." That precludes the finale of the All-State debate, in which Luke & Jed narrow the "Final Four" (LA, NJ, AL, and OH) down to one champion. Did you know that Jed has never drank a sip of alcohol in his life? Did you assume that Luke can't make that same claim? Hear all about it & more on this episode of the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast w/ Luke & Jed.

Episode 006: Street Outlaws

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:01:18 -0500

In this episode, the guys table their All-State discussion, pushing the semi-final to next episode. Instead, Luke and Jed discuss the Powerball of Bracket Racing and then turn their focus to the Street Outlaws and Street Outlaws New Orleans TV series. Guests David "Bird" Jones and Kye Kelley give the guys an inside look at the show and grudge racing in general. Among other topics in their spirited interview, Kye issues a callout for Troy Williams, Jr. and the duo shares the tale of how Kye won a Honda Grom off of Bird.

Episode 005: Part II of the "All-State" Debate

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 10:03:05 -0500

In this episode, the guys roll out the much anticipated (and debated) regional finals of the "All-State" discussion (TX vs LA, NJ vs PA, KY vs OH, and TN vs AL), as they get one step closer to deciding the toughest state for sportsman drag racing competition. In addition, Luke & Jed talk about the "Shot Clock" idea bantered about the internet, as well as a breakdown of the high octane offenses within JJ's youth basketball league.

Episode 004: Round 1 of our "All-State" Debate

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 11:24:23 -0500

In this episode, the guys introduce the 16 "All-State" teams that made the cut and debate their merits. The first round of the "All-State" tournament is discussed and decided, setting the Elite Eight for next week’s show. Luke & Jed also discuss some big announcements regarding sportsman racers, a race track/racer social media feud, and Luke's inability to defeat his 3-year-old in a family card game.

Episode 003: Big Buck Bracket Racing in 2017

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 11:44:07 -0500

In this episode, the guys discuss the growing number of BIG money bracket races on the calendar. Guest Kyle Seipel discusses the history and future of the Spring Fling events, and the three banter about the current state of big dollar racing: whether these events can all survive and if they're good for our sport in general.

Episode 002: The State of Junior Dragster Racing

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 01:59:28 -0500

In this episode, the guys discuss Junior Dragster competition with an expert panel of guests including NHRA Jr. Dragster editor Candida Benson, recent Kentucky Big Bucks Junior Dragster Bonanza winner, Emily Parker, and Huddleston Performance's own Thomas Huddleston. Among the topics discussed: the rising cost of Jr. Dragster racing, Emily's unbelievable and emotional victory, what the future holds for today's Jr. Drag Racing stars, and some hot takes on the increase in "Big Buck" Junior Dragster events.

Episode 1: 2016 Year in Review

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 01:49:18 -0500

Luke & Jed recap the season that was, highlighting NHRA and IHRA world champions and the biggest happenings in big dollar bracket competition. What 2016 recap would be complete without speaking with 2-time $1,000,000 race winner (this season), Jeff Verdi? The guys discuss Jeff's big wins with him, and the impact his success could have on sportsman drag racing in general.

Episode 000: About the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast

Luke Bogacki & Jared Pennington — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 01:16:11 -0500

In this introductory episode, hosts Luke Bogacki and Jared Pennington introduce themselves, discuss their own careers in racing, and the talk about the motivation behind the Sportsman Drag Racing Podcast.