Driving Faster and Faster

Leah Smith of Hornsby won both of her sets of races  at the Freedom Nationals in Holly Springs, MS last weekend, braving 100-degree temperatures in the process. The races, originally scheduled for July 8-9, were rescheduled due to rain that weekend.

Her wins got her to second in the IHRA Summit Sportsman Series points chase at Holly Springs. A top finish at the end of August would send her to the 2023 IHRA World Finals.

Smith, 17, the daughter of Gregg and Christy Smith (see photo) of Hornsby, began racing in 2016.

Her love of racing is a family affair, following in the footsteps of her grandfather, Russell DeBerry, and mom. Her dad tunes her car and prepares it for competition.

Vaughan Oil Company sponsors the Junior Dragster Series at Holly Springs. Smith is sponsored by Vaughan Oil and Alliance Racewear.