August 2024 Car of the Month – Kooper Thibodaux

Kooper Thibodaux Wins DragChamp Pro August Car of the Month with Hercules, his 2011 JR Race Cars Jr dragster

September 1, 2024 – DragChamp Pro member Kooper Thibodaux earned the August Car of the Month honors after collecting the most votes during the social media contest.

At just 13 years old, Kooper Thibodaux from Thibodaux, Louisiana, has already made a mark in the world of junior drag racing. With a racing lineage that spans three generations, it’s no surprise that Kooper’s passion for the sport runs deep. Kooper’s ride, a 2011 JR Race Car affectionately named Hercules, garnered significantly more votes than his closest competitor. After outgrowing his first car, Kooper and his dad Derek picked up Hercules last year, with hopes it will propel Kooper to many wins over the next few seasons. The car features a cut-out canopy and windshield for easy access, ensuring that Kooper can get in and out with minimal hassle—an important feature for any young racer. The RBZ steering wheel offers precise control, while the gold-anodized Magnum wheels with black and gold powder-coated beadlocks add a touch of flair, perfectly complemented by Hoosier slicks and front runners.

One of the standout features of Hercules is its carbon fiber wrap, giving the car a sleek, modern look that matches its performance capabilities. The 8.90 setup, complete with a 3×3 Rhino, Craws 33mm carburetor, Shockwave primary and secondary clutch, and JR Race Cars belt, ensures that Hercules is not only fast but also reliable. A 5.23 gear ratio and MyChron 5 660 keep everything in check, providing Kooper with all the data he needs to fine-tune his performance. Safety is paramount, with Pro 1 cam lock belts and a Deist parachute ensuring Kooper stays secure at all times.

Kooper’s journey in drag racing began at the early age of 8 when he earned his NHRA license. He quickly made a name for himself, winning his first race and consistently finishing in the top 10 at No Problem Raceway (NPR) and State Capitol Raceway (SCR). This year, with Hercules by his side, Kooper has already posted a runner-up finish and has his sights set on clinching his first win in his new car before the season ends. His ambition doesn’t stop there—Kooper plans to move up to the 7.90 class next year.

But Kooper’s life isn’t all about racing. When he’s not tearing up the track, he enjoys playing video games like Payday 2 and honing his musical talents as a trombone player in his school band. This balance of racing and enjoying the typical pursuits of a 13-year-old makes Kooper a well-rounded and impressive young man.

As the DragChamp Pro August Car of the Month, Kooper Thibodaux represents the future of drag racing—a future that looks incredibly bright. With his talent, drive, and the support of his family, there’s no doubt that Kooper will continue to achieve great things in the years to come. Keep an eye on this rising star; he’s just getting started.