Modern Racing, one of the respected names in the drag racing and motorsports industry, has announced an exciting addition to its team. Dan Oddy, son of legendary engine builder and Pro Modified pioneer Jim Oddy, is stepping into the role of Operations Manager. After 16 successful years with Detroit Speed, Oddy brings his expertise and a lifelong passion for drag racing to Modern Racing, marking a new chapter for both Dan and the company.
Modern Racing owner Justin Elkes shared how Oddy’s addition to the company will benefit everyone.
“Dan’s background is perfect for what we need at Modern Racing,” Elkes explained. “Our business has grown incredibly fast over the last seven years, and we needed someone who truly understands the industry. Dan’s experience—from his early days working with his father’s Pro Mod team to his 16 years at Detroit Speed—makes him an ideal fit to help us tie all facets of our business together.”
“I am very excited to be at Modern Racing and work with the excellent team that Justin has put together,” said Oddy. “Modern Racing is one of the most respected companies in drag racing, and I can’t wait to help Justin and the team take Modern Racing to the next level with my background in Pro Mod as well as my 20-plus years of experience in the aftermarket parts industry. The attention to detail and quality level that has been achieved by the team at Modern Racing is the best I have seen in my experience.”
Elkes emphasized that the addition of Oddy will allow Modern Racing to focus on becoming more efficient, improving customer communication, and expanding its offerings.
“We’re launching a new product line in 2025, including wiring harnesses for direct sale to the public,” Elkes added. “Dan’s leadership will free me up to concentrate on these new ventures while ensuring our day-to-day operations run smoothly.”
Oddy’s history in racing is a testament to his deep understanding of the sport. Growing up around his father’s shop, Oddy’s Automotive, Dan played a key role in Pro Mod racing from its inception in 1990. Working alongside his father and Fred Hahn, Dan helped secure championships across USSC, Super Chevy, IHRA and NHRA series.
Beyond racing, Oddy’s career spans over two decades in the automotive and aftermarket parts industries. At Detroit Speed, he contributed to product design, technical writing, and marketing, helping to grow the company into a leader in its field.
Looking ahead, Oddy’s primary focus as Operations Manager will be streamlining operations, enhancing customer communication, and supporting Modern Racing’s rapid growth. One major initiative is the launch of a new wiring harness product line, which will allow Modern Racing to directly serve the public with cutting-edge solutions.
Additionally, Dan will take on project management duties to improve efficiency and ensure customers have the best possible experience throughout their builds.
“My plan is to help with some of the day-to-day operations and help wherever I am needed to free Justin up to let him do what he does best,” noted Oddy. “As we continue to grow, we need to become more efficient and organized and keep the products and projects flowing, so that will be our game plan for 2025.”
For Oddy, joining Modern Racing is more than just a career move—it’s a return to his roots in drag racing.
“I really look forward to getting back in the drag racing world after being out of it for a while,” Oddy added. “Like my dad says, we may not remember all the races we won over the decades, but we never forget all the great racers and people we met along the way, so to get to see and work with them again is super exciting.”
Located in the heart of motorsports country, Mooresville, NC, Modern Racing is a premier provider of motorsports electronics, wiring, and fabrication. Known for their unparalleled quality and expertise, Modern Racing serves drag racers, tuners, and builders with comprehensive solutions for performance and efficiency. The addition of Dan Oddy to their team is a testament to their commitment to excellence and innovation.
For more information about Modern Racing, visit www.ModernRacing.net or contact their team directly at (704) 576-7337.
This story was originally published on January 9, 2025. 
