CHANDLER, Ariz. — Phoenix native and NHRA Top Fuel driver Travis Shumake is set to ignite his 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season with a return to his home track, Firebird Motorsports Park, for the NHRA Arizona Nationals, March 21-23.
Coming off a series of low 3.70-second passes at 324+ mph, Shumake is eager to show his hometown crowd the progress he’s made since his Top Fuel debut at this event last spring.
Shumake announced that Fry’s Food Stores will return as the primary sponsor of his 12,000-horsepower dragster.
Shumake launched his Top Fuel career in the Fry’s Dragster at last year’s Arizona Nationals, competing in front of a sellout crowd and facing four-time world champion Steve Torrance in the first round.
“We are thrilled to join Travis for his 2025 campaign to return home for the Arizona Nationals, saying yes was an easy decision,” said Monica Garnes, president of Fry’s Food Stores. “Arizona is home to passionate motorsports fans who take pride in seeing the iconic Fry’s logo represented in the fastest racing on earth.”
“Beyond the track, Travis is an incredible ambassador for our brand—whether he’s engaging with the community at events or bringing excitement to our stores, he genuinely connects with both our associates and customers. What he has accomplished in his rookie season, both on and off the track, inspires us all to live our dreams,” Garnes added.
Shumake acknowledges that his first season was a learning experience, both as a driver and team owner.
“I learned a lot last season, that’s for sure. On and off the track, I was constantly finding my footing. I’ve owned this car for over two years, but I’m still in my Top Fuel infancy. To put it into perspective—a full-time Top Fuel driver averages 120+ laps in a single season. I’ve made 16 in my life. Even at 6’4” and 205 pounds, I’m really still just a giant Top Fuel baby.”
Despite his relative newcomer status, Shumake enters Phoenix with confidence, following a strong finish to the 2024 season that saw both he and fellow fan favorite Gary Pritchett consistently clocking low 3.70-second passes approaching 325 mph in his dragster.
“Five out of our last six passes, we’ve run under a 3.73. Troy Fasching, Adem Cave, and Rob Flynn have this thing on rails, and we aren’t hurting parts—which is great for my wallet,” Shumake said.
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