Peggy Llewellyn
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NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Peggy Llewellyn, the first woman of color to win a professional motorsports event, will return to the NHRA circuit for the 2010 season as a rider for Mark Lantz Racing.
“My words can't even begin to describe the excitement I feel. ... I am going racing,” said an elated Llewellyn, winner of the NHRA Dallas event in 2007. “I still had the burning desire to race; that never left me. It was the journey that allowed me to partner with Mark Lantz Racing for next season, which is a blessing.”
“We are excited and feel privileged to have Peggy join our team," said Michele Lantz, half of the husband and wife team owners of Mark Lantz Racing. “Her ability to ride and win a Wally after being off the track for several seasons proves that she has what it takes to be the next champion. Peggy brings a kind of spirit and passion that reflects what this organization is all about.”
The Lantzes are making their debut as team owners on the NHRA circuit next season, but they are not new to racing. They have been involved with drag racing since 2006 and formed Mark Lantz Racing in November 2007. They have worked with other teams and riders in the All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) series, most notably Derek Nonnamaker, who placed second in the Western Division and fifth in the National Division Championships.
Llewellyn will be the only competitor for the organization for the 2010 NHRA season, but the Lantzes believe that because of her track record, she can qualify for every race in the top half of the field, go as many rounds as possible at each race, and have fun doing it.
Coming off of her fourth-place season finish and history-making win in Dallas in 2007, Llewellyn ran only six races in the 2008 season – qualifying for five -- and was off the circuit for the 2009 season.
“I know I will return on a Buell with a team that knows how to win,” said Llewellyn. “We have the same goals, and they are behind me 100 percent, which makes the partnership strong. I want to qualify for each race because you can win from anyplace on the ladder. My next goal is more Wallys; I would also like a top 10 finish!
“This is my journey, however it has gone; it has taken me and continues to take me to great places. I will always enjoy riding and make the most of all my opportunities! Getting back on the bike, racing, winning, along with other exciting plans coming to fruition -- including a possible reality show -- I predict most of all I will be racing!”