MIKE ‘ HOLLYWOOD ’ DECKER III

Mod veteran Kenny Lang in the final round to reclaim his points lead with just one race left in the season .

“ My second win in New York was a cool feeling also because unfortunately Dad lost out in the semis , so you didn ’ t have that reassurance that we ’ re getting our picture taken no matter what ,” Decker said . “ This has to be earned . It was cool to go out there and get the job done .”

Decker was ready for a championship battle against his dad and Ward at the season-ending Superchargers Showdown at MIR in late September , but a poor weather forecast led to the cancellation of the event . As the points leader at

the time , Decker was crowned the 2024 NEOP- MA champion .

“ The season just came together ,” Decker said . “ I have an awesome crew behind me and I get to drive this awesome Larry Jeffers race car . It ’ s just an amazing machine . Combine that with motors from Todd Tutterow and his help with tuning the cars . He was there for both of my wins this year . Between the WYO Motorsports guys and my own team , it was just a huge team effort . It ’ s awesome to have a great big group of guys behind you .

“ I thank the Lord for a safe season and blessing me with this opportunity ,” Decker continued . “ I also have to thank my father and grandfather for giving me the opportunity to drive the car .

Shoutout to my wife [ Hannah ] for being by my side the whole season .

“ Special shoutout to Rodney Miller , my crew chief ,” Decker said . “ He ’ s been by my side for a while . The first year or two in Pro Mod was a struggle . Getting my first win with him as my crew chief was really special . It was really cool to see his reaction . It was really rewarding to see him get that win .”

NEOPMA Founder and President John Mazzorana announced his retirement at the end of the season following a 32-year run . Though details have not been finalized as of this issue ’ s print deadline , a racer is in talks with tracks , fellow racers , and sponsors to put together a 2025 NEOPMA season . DI

46 | Drag Illustrated | DragIllustrated . com Issue 192