Luka Markham: DragChamp Jr Racer Spotlight
Luka Markham is in this week’s DragChamp Jr Racer Spotlight. Learn all about this DragChamp Pro Member in his spotlight below!
SCOTTSVILLE, KY- Luka Markham has been racing Junior Dragsters for the past three years and first got introduced to the sport by his Dad. His uncle is NHRA Sportsman Motorcycle National Champion, John ‘Spooky’ Markham and his cousin is NHRA Sportsman Motorcycle Division 2 Champion, Dalton Markham. With his family’s guidance, it’s no wonder why Luka has quickly become such a competitive racer.
Luka’s home track is Beech Bend Raceway Park and he also competes in the Verge Quick Outlaw Series 7.90 Index/ bracket class.
During his first three years of racing, Luka has managed to earn twenty race wins and numerous runner-up finishes. In 2022, he also came in 2nd place in Junior Dragster points at the Southeastern Drag Bike Association series. Just recently, he made back-to-back finals at the Verge Quick Outlaw Series.
His Race Car
His Junior Dragster is a 2008 Outlaw Halfscale powered by a S&W Powersports Rhino motor with a Shockwave clutch. He has had this car for two years and has ran 7.30s in the 1/8 and 98mph in 1⁄4. Luka’s responsibilities with his car include prepping his tires after each round and cleaning his car.
Outside of Racing
When Luka isn’t behind the wheel of his Junior Dragster, he can be found playing football for the Allen County Patriots and playing Gorilla Tag on his Oculus Quest. His favorite food is the cheese pizza from Roosters and he loves to cheer on his favorite football team, the Tennessee Titans.
Accomplishments
- 2021 8 Race Wins
- 2021 4 Runner-ups
- 2021 Top 5 Finisher in 3 Points Series
- 2022 12 Race Wins
- 2022 3 Runner-ups
- 2022 2nd Place in Southeastern Drag Bike Association Series Points
- 2023 Back to Back to Back Finals at Verge Quick Outlaw Series
- 2023 Kentucky State Champion
Luka’s Q&A
What’s on your bucket list, future goals, what do you hope to achieve?
To be a NFL superstar; and a professional drag racer
Which win are you the most proud of?
2023 Kentucky State Champion winning a Wally Plaque
Who has made the biggest impact on your racing success?
My dad, John Means, and Ronnie Smith
Who do you look up to in the sport?
Shelby Thurman, Trent Phann, Adalynn Atkinson, and Aubrey Sutton
Who do you hate to see in the other lane, and why?
I hate to see first time racers in the other lane because my dad always wants me to give them the win so it motivates them.
What’s the hardest part of drag racing?
My dad yelling at me for my mistakes, win or lose
What do you enjoy the most at the racetrack?
Having fun with family and friends
Do you love to win or hate to lose?
I love to win
Which are you better at the starting line or the finish line?
I am way better at the starting line
Favorite movie or TV show?
The Meg
Favorite music, artist?
Rockstar by DaBaby
Name one thing most people don’t know about you?
That I have siblings, lol
Who would you like to thank, who helps you the most?
Dad & Mom, Angry Dave’s Plumbing, Dave’s Auto Body, S&W Powersports, John Means Tuning, Russell’s Printing, Ronnie Smith
What is a piece of advice you’d give to an aspiring racer?
Never give up, always follow your dreams.
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