Pro Stock Motorcycle contender Richard Gadson, riding the RevZilla Vance & Hines Suzuki, will host representatives from Big Brothers Big Sisters along with their “Littles” at six NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series national events. The program kicks off with the NHRA American Rebel Light Four-Wide Nationals at zMax Dragway next weekend.
Gadson, raised in Philadelphia by a single parent, credits Big Brothers Big Sisters as a vital part of his support system. “My father passed away when I was just 6 years old,” Gadson said. “My mom did everything she could to provide for me and my siblings… To help her by giving us a better shot at life, my mom signed my sister and I up for mentors through BBBS of America.”
After hosting a group during the 2024 NHRA Reading Nationals, Gadson aims to expand the initiative this season. “Last year I didn’t tell anyone what I was doing, not even my Vance & Hines teammates,” he said. “It was cool to give back… I am excited to share something I love, NHRA drag racing, with some kids who maybe wouldn’t otherwise get this experience.”
In addition to the Charlotte race, Gadson will host “Bigs and Littles” at several other events, including the Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 Nationals (May 15-18), the Cornwell Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals (August 27-September 1), the Reading NHRA Nationals (September 11-14), the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis (September 26-28), and the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals (October 9-12).
Gadson’s goal is to bring eight to ten “Bigs and Littles” to each event for a behind-the-scenes look at drag racing and his Pro Stock Motorcycle team. Guests will enjoy pit tours, visits to the suite tower, and access to the NHRA midway and staging lanes.
“My Big Brother took me to various events and venues that I likely would’ve never had the opportunity to experience,” Gadson noted. “I just had to reach back to my roots and do something for the kids. There are all sorts of opportunities in drag racing not just racing.”
Gadson and Werner Communications have secured tickets for all six races and will collaborate with local Big Brothers Big Sisters organizations to ensure a memorable experience for all involved.
