NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Twenty years ago, Del Worsham and his father, Chuck, stunned the Funny Car class by winning both the Skoal Showdown bonus event and the NHRA U.S. Nationals on the same weekend, a rare “double-up” that earned him $225,000 and a permanent place in Indy history. The victory was made even more special by the family partnership behind it, with Chuck calling the tune-up that carried Del past Frank Pedregon in a razor-tight Monday final. For the Worshams, Indy became the stage where a father and son proved they could take on the sport’s biggest names and win it all.

Two decades later, the story comes full circle. This Labor Day weekend, Del Worsham will return to the same stage as a team owner and tuner, celebrating that milestone anniversary by putting another rising star in his Toyota GR Supra Funny Car. Julie Nataas, the 2023 NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster world champion and one of the sport’s most versatile young drivers, will strap in with Worsham calling the shots from the starting line.

“The U.S. Nationals means everything to a racer,” said Nataas, who already has her own history in Indy, including two JEGS Allstars wins and the 2022 U.S. Nationals Top Alcohol Dragster crown. “I’ve had unforgettable moments here in Top Alcohol Dragster, but coming back in Del’s Funny Car with the backing of Airmine and Toyota, on the anniversary of his sweep, is incredibly meaningful. This event is full of history, and I can’t wait to add to that story again this year.”

For Worsham, the decision to bring Nataas to Indy is equal parts celebration and mentorship.

“Julie has proven herself at every level she’s competed in,” he said. “We’ve already built a strong foundation together, and Indy is the perfect place to continue her growth. To bring her back here on the 20th anniversary of one of my biggest career moments, it feels like the story has come full circle.”