As a tradition established years ago, CompetitionPlus.com has asked members of the racing community to provide our readers with what they are most thankful for during this holiday season. This year's featured person is NHRA President Glen Cromwell. 

In 2017, NHRA promoted Glen Cromwell to President of the sanctioning body. The Michigan native, a former NHRA division director, represented the first true grassroots promotion into this position since the late Wally Parks, founder of the series held the role. 

Cromwell is considered one of the most personable figures in the role since Parks. He's had his battles along the way, namely a worldwide pandemic, and successfully navigated the major league of drag racing through the tumultuous time. 

In this edition, Cromwell opens up to convey those things he is most thankful for during this holiday season. 

I am THANKFUL for ...  Tracks

I’m thankful for so many great track partners, both for our national events and throughout the NHRA member track network. We were thrilled to add Chicago back to the mix this year, and have Phoenix and Virginia on the schedule next year as well.

I am THANKFUL for ... Sponsors

There are many great partners who have a passion for the sport and support our series and the race teams. We’ve welcomed a number of new sponsors to NHRA in recent seasons and we’re thankful to introduce them to our great sport. We believe they’ve seen the great ROI the NHRA offers as well.

I am THANKFUL for ... Race Teams

We’re extremely thankful for our race teams, who helped provide one of the most unbelievable seasons in NHRA history. The racing action is incredible across the board and we’re just as thankful for our amazing drivers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as driver participation continues to grow in that area. I’m also thankful for the wonderful diversity across our sport and at so many different levels. It truly is Speed for All in the NHRA.

I am THANKFUL for ... Safety Safari

Our Safety Safari puts in endless hours to provide a track that is safe for our racers and allows them to put on an incredible show for our fans. We’re thankful for their dedication and tireless work ethic to make all this possible.

I am THANKFUL for ... Fans, Attendance

We’re incredibly thankful to our amazing fans – without question, the best fans in sports. They turned out in force in 2023, as the NHRA had eight sellout days and enjoyed huge crowds across the country. We couldn’t do this without our fans, and we are always wowed and so appreciative of their passion and excitement for NHRA drag racing. 

I am THANKFUL for ... TV Viewership

We’re thankful for our TV partners at FOX, which has provided a massive platform for our sport. NHRA continues to show strong growth when it comes to our TV viewership, including audiences of more than 2 million for original airings during our race weekends in Indy and Maple Grove Raceway. It’s been a very valuable way to grow the sport.

I am THANKFUL for ... NHRA staff

I’m very thankful for every NHRA staff member. Each one puts forth a remarkable effort to put on the best events possible. We’ve enjoyed tremendous success across several areas in 2023 and I know they’re working hard to make 2024 even better.

I am THANKFUL for ... Celebrating America and Veterans Day

I’m thankful we were able to celebrate America and our veterans on Veterans Day at our In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals in Pomona. We’re proud to honor them and we’re just as proud to have a fanbase that is just as eager to celebrate and honor veterans and military families.

I am THANKFUL for ... Mission Foods and Camping World

The NHRA is thankful to have great partners like Camping World and Mission Foods. Camping World has shown tremendous commitment to our sport and we’re thrilled they will continue to be a partner for many more years, and we’re just as excited to welcome Mission Foods as our new title sponsor. They are extremely passionate about motorsports and we believe it will lead to great things for the NHRA and Mission Foods.

I am THANKFUL for ... My own family support

Last but not least, I am very thankful for my family and the support they give me every day!

I hope you have a blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.