In the Driver’s Seat with Jesse Varner

This week’s DragChamp Jr. Racer Spotlight is all about 2021 DragChamp 6-9 Jr. Racer of the Year Top 10 driver, Jesse Varner.

TEMPLE, GA- Jesse Varner has been racing for the just one year and has already made his mark on the Junior Drag Racing world. Just this past year, Jesse Varner made his way to 12 finals and earned himself the 8th spot on the 2021 DragChamp 6-9 Jr. Racer of the Year list. Jesse is the latest Varner to join in on the family racing tradition. His siblings, Grace, Josiah, and John also race Junior Dragsters and his parents both race as well.

During racing season, they travel to multiple racetracks but their home track is Silver Dollar Motorsports Park. Jesse normally competes in the 11.90 Index or 6-9 Year Old Junior Dragster class.

To stay up with Jesse and the rest of his families racing, check out their Facebook page, Varner Family Racing.

His Race Car

Jesse just moved from an older, mild steel, unknown chassis to his Sister’s old car, a 2001 Mike Bos Junior Dragster. The drivetrain is a l206 with a Shockwave clutch.

Outside of Racing

His favorite food is Shrimp and Mac n’ Cheese and one thing most people don’t know about Jesse is that he loves reptiles. Wresting and football are his favorite sports and his favorite music artist is Michael Jackson.

Accomplishments

• 12 Finals Total
• 6 Wins
• 6 Runner-ups
• Made it to 6 cars at the NHRA Eastern Conference Finals
• 2021 King of the Mountain 6-9 Juniors Double-up Wins

Jesse’s Q&A

Future goals?

To win a track championship and ecf

What is your favorite race car?

My Dads, ’67 Chevelle

Who has made the biggest impact on your racing success?

My Dad

Who do you look up to in the sport?

My sister, Grace

How do support your racing?

My Dad and sponsors

Who do you hate to see in the other lane?

Grace

What’s the hardest part of drag racing?

Everything

What’s the most embarrassing moment in a race car?

Probably missing the tree with a .700 light.

What are you saying to yourself just before you stage?

I pray before every round.

What do you enjoy the most at the race track?

Winning and seeing friends

Are you superstitious?

No

Favorite movie or tv show?

ECW or WCW

What do you do in your free time?

Eat and be lazy

Would you rather hang out with a crowd, or have a quiet evening at home?

Quiet evening at home

Who would you like to thank, who helps you the most?

My parents

What is a piece of advice you’d give to an aspiring racer?

You have to beat the best to be the best and I always tell everyone good luck!

For more DragChamp Jr. Spotlights, click here.