It was a big day for the NHRA J&A Service Pro Mod series on Friday at the 2016 NHRA Chevrolet Performance US Nationals. The category had the single gnarliest qualifying session in its history and part of it was Justin Shearer “Big Chief” from the Discovery Channel’s Street Outlaws television show. While his first run in competition driving the Crow Mod was not stellar or representative of what the car is capable of, his pre-race press conference was pretty awesome. Shearer is 100% genuine in the fact that he’s realizing a dream to be running here among the best in the world of professional drag racing.
We had an interesting conversation last night with a fellow drag racing journalist who shares our opinion that in the hoopla surrounding his debut, the real story of this whole thing is that we’re watching a guy live a lifelong dream. Regardless of PR missteps, controversy, and whatever the past history is, the present is what counts and when you hear Shearer talk to the media and honestly answer their questions about his car, about how he got here, and about what his impression of the event is rules.
The most interesting thing he says comes at the end of the deal when he says that his ultimate goal is to find a sponsor, put together a competitive package, and chase a championship in 2017. Hate him? Love him? Rooting for him? Rooting against him? You can pick a side but no one can deny the fact that this guy has this sport embedded in his soul.
You have to take the show for what it’s worth but Mr. Chief is exactly what drag racing lost, or the NHRA suppressed, years ago. He is the modern day Scotty Cannon or Al Hoffman in my mind.
All because the crow got totaled.
Results page says he was DQ’d on his first pass. Anyone know why? And someone get him a cap that fits and isn’t pulled down over his ears.
I’m not a racer, but watch every show. His personality even has my wife never miss a show, and she really isn’t into racing. The New Orleans show is just cringy, and neither of us can handle it.
The true spirit is still alive….. how can you not love that interview!
So this is the future? Smart ass wanna be thug? I have another description for him but I don’t think its politically correct.
There is no doubt in my mind someone will step up with a bullet for Justin. The guy can draw a crowd at any race track in the country. What engine builder wouldn’t want him for a partner? I’m thinking Reher / Morrison. We’ll see.