Drag Illustrated Issue 168, May 2021 | Page 82

2021 BY JOSH HACHAT /// PHOTOGRAPHS BY NHRA

WOMEN

OF POWER

Erica Enders continues to reach new levels and make more history on her path to becoming one of the most successful drivers in NHRA history .
Last year concluded another brilliant part of her remarkable career , claiming a fourth Pro Stock world title , an accomplishment that gives her more world titles than any female in NHRA history . The start to her 2021 season has been bumpy , but she did claim her 30th career victory in her 300th start , winning in Las Vegas , the same place she clinched her 2020 world title .
It ’ s a track she has dominated in her stellar career , with her triumph a year ago at the NHRA World Finals leading to an incredibly telling quote . “ I am a lucky girl to live the life I do ,” Enders said . On and off the track , Enders is a role model for all , and especially the younger fans , and it ’ s a responsibility she takes seriously and has performed almost flawlessly .
Her star power is at an all-time high regardless of how you measure it – though a tweet from former President Donald Trump is one way to judge it – and it doesn ’ t appear to be slowing down . Through it all , Enders ’ humble nature has been evident . While her driving talents put her in the upper echelon of anyone who ’ s ever stomped on a pedal in a Pro Stock car , Enders knows the value of spreading the praise .
“ I speak so highly of these guys , I mean it from the bottom of my heart ,” Enders said after her world championship victory in Las Vegas . “ I couldn ’ t do it without my team . All of these guys on this team , they give their lives to this . I could not be more proud . I ’ m so blessed and happy right now . I love this life I get to live .” DI

ERICA ENDERS REACHING NEW LEVELS

2021 BY JOSH HACHAT /// PHOTOGRAPHS BY NHRA

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