Ep. 224 | Justin Ashley

Justin Ashley is a rising star in the NHRA Top Fuel ranks and he’s here to discuss his career and what it’s like to drive 11,000 horsepower. We start things off discussing 4-wide racing at zMAX Dragway and the discipline it takes; how the season is shaping up for his team; the new variables of an alliance with Antron Brown and working with Toyota; why Ashley’s website says occupation: real estate developer; if he genuinely wanted to race or felt had to follow in dad’s footsteps; if he considered doing anything else, like keeping with playing football; what he learned along each rung up the NHRA ladder; being non-emotional; why a dragster; what it feels like driving a Top Fuel dragster; if Ashley has had a big moment in the car, and what it’s like seeing other drivers go through one; adjusting to a Top Fuel schedule; what it means to have his own team; what Ashley does in the final few moments before the engine fires; competing in a one-and-done sport; if someone has to be fearless to compete in NHRA; slowing down in other areas of life; what gets Ashley the most excited about his job; aiming for winning multiple races this year; depth of the Top Fuel field; being on a fast upward trajectory; dad jokes. Music created by Tony Monge.Please support my work through Patreon: www.patreon.com/KellyCrandall