The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced the creation of the Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship following the death of longtime ARP brand ambassador and racer Chris Raschke earlier this month.
Raschke, 60, died on August 3 during a crash at Bonneville Speed Week while driving the Speed Demon streamliner.
The scholarship will be part of the SEMA Scholarship Memorial Fund, which provides support to students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. SEMA said the program will carry on Raschke’s passion for the industry and serve as inspiration for future generations.
“Through this scholarship, SEMA will ensure that Raschke’s influence and dedication continue to inspire the next generation,” a statement from SEMA said.
Raschke was a respected figure in land speed racing and the engine-building community, known for his technical expertise and longstanding presence in the industry. He was attempting to help the Speed Demon team achieve a milestone 500-mph run in 2025, following a 459.734 mph best performance last year.
A celebration of Raschke’s life is scheduled for Saturday, August 23.
Applications for the 2026 SEMA Scholarship Program open on January 1, 2026, at sema.org/scholarships.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Chris Raschke Memorial Scholarship,
established by SEMA. This new scholarship will ensure that his legacy continues by providing
opportunities for students who share his passion in performance, engineering and excellence.
You can donate in Chris’ memory using this link: https://sites.sema.org/scholarships/donate.php#!/SEMA-Scholarship-Chris-Raschke/p/774072557/category=0.
Checks made out to the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund can be mailed to1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765 (attn: Joe Escobar).
