04/24/2026
Great tribute to a good friend and customer, Ray Motes!
Ray Motes’ journey into drag racing started long before the spotlight ever found him. At just 11 years old, a single visit to a jalopy race sparked a lifelong obsession with speed. That early fascination quickly turned into action, as he got behind the wheel of a 1949 Ford while still in junior high. With no local NHRA track available in Kansas City, Ray pushed boundaries early—literally sneaking out of town just to compete. That hunger to race, no matter the obstacle, became the foundation of a career defined by determination and fearless ambition.
As his skills evolved, so did his machines. From modified flatheads to increasingly powerful builds, Ray was never satisfied with standing still. He set multiple AHRA records with his early creations, constantly chasing more speed and better performance. His transition into more advanced dragsters, including Hemi-powered builds, marked a turning point where raw passion met serious engineering. Even when faced with mechanical setbacks, Ray adapted, rebuilt, and came back stronger—proving that innovation was just as important as driving skill.
Beyond the track, Ray’s impact expanded into business and community. Partnering with industry figures, he helped build a network of speed shops across multiple states and played a key role in organizing competitive racing circuits. His ability to blend racing expertise with entrepreneurial vision made him a respected figure not just as a driver, but as a builder of the sport’s ecosystem. Whether behind the wheel or behind the scenes, Ray was always pushing the culture of drag racing forward.
His legacy is cemented not only by victories, but by versatility and influence. Ray Motes became the only racer to win world championships across NHRA, AHRA, and ADRA—an achievement that places him in a league of his own. From grassroots beginnings to Hall of Fame recognition, his story is one of relentless drive, constant evolution, and lasting impact. Even after stepping away from full-time racing, his contributions continue to shape the industry, inspiring new generations to chase speed and dream bigger.
