The Golden Age of Female Drag Racers: Shirley Muldowney and Her Legacy

Introduction

Since the earliest days of drag racing, the fast and furious world of the sport has been dominated by male drivers. However, in a time that is often overlooked, a few women emerged to challenge the status quo and prove that skill, determination, and courage know no gender. Shirley Muldowney is the pioneering female drag racer who not only paved the way but also etched her name in the history of the sport. This article will explore her legendary career and the achievements that made her the best female drag racer ever.

Shirley Muldowney: Breaking Barriers and Setting Records

Shirley Muldowney's journey in drag racing was a battle against the odds and gender stereotypes. In 1973, Muldowney became the first woman licensed to drive a Top Fuel dragster by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). This was a monumental achievement in a male-dominated environment, followed by a series of records and victories that have yet to be surpassed.

A Pharmacists Wife and a Top Fuel Phenom

Shirley Muldowney was born and raised in New Jersey. She began her racing career in the late 1960s, racing with her husband, Mac Muldowney, before launching her solo career in 1973. Her path to becoming a Champion was fraught with skepticism and opposition from those who believed drag racing, and motorsports in general, should remain a male preserve.

Despite the challenges, Shirley Muldowney continued to push the boundaries. She secured a Top Fuel drag racing license and went on to achieve numerous accolades:

In 1980, Muldowney secured the Top Fuel World Championship—becoming the first woman to win the title. Her victory marked a significant milestone in the history of drag racing. In 1981, she repeated her title, becoming the first person in history to win the championship three times. Throughout her career, Muldowney accumulated an impressive 18 career NHRA victories and a single IHRA Championship.

Garlits, a legendary drag racer himself, commented on Muldowney's remarkable achievements, saying, "If you ask me who has the most respect, it would be Shirley. She went against all odds. They didn't want her to race Top Fuel; the association, the racers, nobody wanted her… just Shirley."

Close Calls and Triumph Over Setbacks

Muldowney's career was not without its challenges. One of the most memorable close calls came during a race at Nashville in 1984, where her dragster, Cha Cha, suffered a serious nitro fuel fire. Despite the accident, Muldowney managed to survive and completed the race. Ironically, she spent 18 months in physical rehabilitation after the crash. This incident, however, only underscored her resilience and determination.

Her achievements were so remarkable that all three of her Top Fuel Championship wins were inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, and the Automotive Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant impact on the sport.

Muldowney's life and career were even captured on screen, as her story was made into the acclaimed documentary Heart Like a Wheel. This film not only highlighted her incredible racing career but also her personal journey, making her a true icon in the world of drag racing.

She was known for her fierce competitiveness and unwavering force of nature. Muldowney once said, "Motorsports is in my blood. I was destined to be a racer."

Legacy and Inheritance

While Shirley Muldowney is the undisputed pioneer in the world of female drag racing, her achievements are not without context. Other notable female racers include Angelle Sampey, who won three consecutive NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle championships, and Erica Enders, another formidable competitor with two championships under her belt.

When considering the best female drag racer, Shirley Muldowney stands out. However, the debate remains open, with each racer leaving a significant legacy in their own right. The impact of Shirley Muldowney on the sport and the future of female drag racers is undeniable, setting a standard that challenges and inspires those who follow.