JCM Racing has decided to expand its driver development program for the 2024 season. Initially launched earlier this year, the program aims to assist young and aspiring drag racers who have their sights set on a professional career in the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association).

The original lineup consisted of three promising NHRA upstarts: Waylon Bennett, the Division 2 Jr. Dragster champion in 2022; Kayleigh Hill, who made her Super Comp debut on the Division 5 circuit this season; and Wyatt Wagner, a successful two-time JEGS All-Star and contender for his third Division 5 Super Stock title.

As the 2023 NHRA Camping World Series heads towards its final stretch, JCM Racing is thrilled to open up applications for the driver development program for the upcoming 2024 season. This opportunity caters explicitly to junior drag racers who already have an established Jr. Dragster operation and plan to compete regularly in 2024. To be considered, applicants should have a minimum 3.0 GPA and active social media accounts. The submission period will commence on September 3 and conclude on September 9, with online applications being accepted. The names of the chosen drivers for the 2024 class will be announced at the Performance Racing Industry Show in Indianapolis in December.

While financial support is undoubtedly part of the equation, Joe C. Maynard, the driving force behind the program, emphasizes that the true value lies in the access provided to the developmental drivers. They connect closely with the JCM Racing team and its abundant resources, propelling their growth and learning experience.

“We’re giving these future stars the opportunity to learn invaluable skills that they will be able to apply as they climb the NHRA ranks,” explained Maynard. “We’re not here to be sponsors for these kids. Rather, we provide them access to our professional drivers so they can lean on them as a resource, whether it be to get their advice on in-car procedures, how to stay calm under pressure, or interacting with fans, for example. Our developmental drivers have access to our vendors and our management staff; they can work with our marketing team on pitch decks, with our PR and social teams on best interview and social media practices. It’s truly an invaluable experience for someone whose ultimate goal is to one day compete out here in the pro ranks.”

Since its inception just over a year ago, the Maynard family’s JCM Racing organization has already made a lasting impression in the world of drag racing. Apart from running the SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel dragster with Tony Schumacher behind the wheel, the Maynards have also formed partnerships with Tim Wilkerson and Justin Ashley, resulting in Maynard Wilkerson Racing and Maynard Ashley Racing. While the JCM team remains focused on increasing their win tally, currently standing at seven NHRA national event victories, they are equally committed to nurturing the future of drag racing.

“NHRA Drag Racing is something my family and I are passionate about, and we want to see it continue to thrive for many years to come,” Maynard expressed. “We feel with a structured program like ours; we’re able to give these future stars a leg up as they work to become the next Tony Schumacher or Justin Ashley or Tim Wilkerson.”

The online application for the 2024 JCM Racing driver development program will be accessible starting at 8:00 a.m. ET on Sunday, September 3, and will close at 5:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, September 9. It is important to note that any applications sent via mail, email, or social media direct message will be automatically disqualified. Interested individuals can find further information at JCMNitro.com/driver-development.