The kids shouldn’t be the only ones allowed to have all the fun. 

That’s why this weekend, Billy Torrence, the 65-year-old father of multi-time Top Fuel champion Steve Torrence, plans to make his debut at the 38th annual NHRA FallNationals hosted by the Texas Motorplex, located in Ennis, Texas. 

Don’t kid yourself; the elder Torrence is a seasoned driver, having won the 2019 edition of the event and a year later reached the final, only to be beaten by his son. Torrence has eight career Top Fuel victories and multiple wins in Super Comp. 

“It’s always fun racing with Steve, especially at the Motorplex,” he said. “It’s been a little while, but it’s good to be back.”

"A while" is defined by Torrence as the 2022 NHRA Carolina Nationals outside of Charlotte, where, ironically, he lost to Steve in the first round. With 79 career starts over eight seasons, Torrence has established an impressive reputation, boasting a noteworthy 101-79 individual record and never failing to qualify for any event he has participated in.

Torrence has proven to be an overachiever, having finished in the top five amongst points earners in 2019 and 2021 despite running a partial season. His best finish stands at third in the Covid-shortened 2020 season.