In the history of drag racing , Lemons Headers occupies a cherished place . Opened in 1997 by Dan and Kathy Lemons , this family business quickly became a household name among car enthusiasts for its custom-made Chevy headers . With a steadfast reputation built over 25 years , their handcrafted , one-of-a-kind applications have set industry standards for quality , precision , and power . The commitment to a custom approach , instead of the “ one-size fits all ” mentality , has fueled their success . And now , the Lemons ’ legacy continues with each exhaust system , designed to fit seamlessly and enhance the performance of Chevys across the globe . The company has evolved into a car community hub , filled with a team of dedicated employees and a legion of racing enthusiasts .

On the other side of this enduring partnership stands Tony Foti , a drag racer and a retired LAPD detective who would swap out his badge and gun for a fire suit and helmet on the weekends . He ’ s known for his audacious drive – both on and off the track . Back in 1984 , Foti created the LAPD Racing Team , where he showcased his extraordinary driving skills in a AA / Pro Modified 1991 Camaro , a drag race beast that could hit speeds of over 200 MPH . Adorned in LAPD ’ s black and white livery and a police light bar , this was no ordinary race car ; it was a 1,300-horsepower symbol of unity and outreach , a tool to bridge gaps between the police force and the youth of Los Angeles .

The race car known as the “ world ’ s fastest police car ” captured the imagination of fans worldwide . With Foti behind the wheel , the LAPD Racing Team became an iconic symbol in the drag racing world , winning races as far as New Zealand , Australia , Alaska , and Hawaii , and attracting admirers in Japan . Such was its stature that it was twice chosen to open in the Chevrolet booth at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas , the premier automotive specialty products trade event .

The history of collaboration between Lemons Headers and Foti dates back to 2010 when

a chance encounter at a car show and a common love for automotives united them . It was then that Dan Lemons , disheartened by the mediocre exhaust on Foti ’ s race car , offered to craft a custom set of headers . The results exceeded expectations , improving not only the car ’ s aesthetic but also its performance .

“ They ’ re the best headers out there , there ’ s not even a question ,” says Foti . “ Even if I didn ’ t know Dan , from the set of headers I got … wow ! My car picked up a bunch instantly with his new headers on .”

This act of goodwill and proven performance sparked a friendship that the pair have cherished over the years , growing so deep that they now consider each other family .

Today , as Foti sets his sights on reviving the LAPD Racing Team , Lemons Headers is once again stepping up to the plate as the primary sponsor . As Dan passes the gauntlet of Lemons Headers to his daughter Jen Lemons and business developer Chuck MacDougall , the company has committed to crafting a custom set of headers for the soon-to-be iconic black-and-white race car . Celebrating the 40th anniversary since the first-ever LAPD race car took to the tracks , the revival of this racing team signifies not only a tribute to the past but also the rekindling of a decades-long friendship .

“ We are so pleased to partner with Tony to represent not only our brand and friendship but also to put a positive representation of law enforcement and promote that relationship with the next generation ,” says MacDougall .

When Foti approached Jen and MacDougall with the proposal to revive the LAPD race car , Foti had the perfect one in mind . He had recently stumbled across a used split-bumper 1971 Pro Mod Camaro Z / 28 and knew that with the right engine and a custom black and white refurbish , both the car and the Lemons Headers logo would catch eyes speeding down the racetrack .

“ This is the last real police race car we ’ re ever going to build ,” says Foti . And it ’ s here to make a lasting impression . The new police race car is set to run in the NHRA Nostalgia A / Gas class at 7.6 seconds at 185 MPH , guaranteed to give fans the show they ’ ve been waiting for .

Together , Lemons Headers and Foti are a testament to the strong bonds forged in the pit lane and the lasting legacy they can create . Their story is a heartwarming and exciting chapter in the exhaust of car racing history , built on mutual respect , shared passion , and an enduring friendship .

So , as the rubber hits the asphalt and the LAPD Racing Team roars back to life , spectators can rest assured that it ’ s not just about speed . It ’ s about a unique bond that has lasted decades and the spirit of two industry giants who believe in camaraderie , legacy , and the love of racing .

Ready to experience the rush of the racetracks ? The last real police race car is set to debut at the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion in October at Famoso Raceway in Bakersfield . DI

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LEMONS HEADERS