Santa Maria native Melanie Johnson, driver of the McPhillips Racing Top Alcohol Dragster, is set to compete in her home race at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Calif., March 28-30. As she embarks on her Top Alcohol Dragster career, Johnson is proud to announce the support of several Central Coast businesses that are backing her first West Coast race of the 2025 season.
Morro Bay Cabinets – A longtime supporter of NHRA drag racing, Morro Bay Cabinets is a family-owned business deeply rooted in the sport. Owned by the Gordon family, the company has been a staple in custom cabinetry since 1974 and is already a familiar brand in the Top Alcohol Funny Car ranks. Johnson’s father, Alan, and her late uncle, Blaine, raced alongside Mike Gordon in the sand dragster days, making this partnership a special continuation of their long-standing friendship.
The Hitching Post – The legendary Hitching Post restaurant in Casmalia, known for its world-famous Santa Maria-style barbecue, is also backing Johnson as she takes on the Winternationals. Since its establishment in 1952, The Hitching Post has been a staple of Central Coast cuisine, offering expertly grilled steaks and fresh seafood in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. Owned and operated by the Ostini family, the restaurant has remained a destination for locals and travelers alike.
DL Farm Management & DL Cooling – The Johnson family has a rich history in Santa Maria Valley agriculture, from operating a dairy to growing produce. Today, DL Farm Management leases the Johnson Family Ranch to grow premium strawberries. Owned by second-generation farmers Daniel and Lorena Chavez, DL Farms cultivates over 900 acres of strawberries year-round while giving back to local nonprofits, youth programs, and hospitals. Their commitment to quality extends to DL Cooling, established in 2018, which provides top-tier cooling services to keep produce fresh.
With strong backing from her hometown and the Central Coast, Johnson is eager to make an impact in Pomona as she continues her rookie campaign in TAD.
“Racing in Pomona is incredibly special to me,” said Johnson.”I have so many family and friends coming out to support me this weekend, and I’m honored to represent companies that have played such a meaningful role in my life. Mike and Cheryl Gordon have been there for me since day one—supporting my softball teams, track team, PR and media business, and now my drag racing career. The Hitching Post catered both my first birthday party and my wedding, and let’s be honest, they serve the best steak in the world! And DL Farms is currently growing some of Santa Maria’s finest strawberries on the Johnson Family Ranch—so we’ll have some fresh berries to share with the fans in Pomona this weekend!”
Fans can catch Johnson in action at the NHRA Winternationals March 28-30 at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip. For updates from the track, follow her on social media @melaniejohnsonracing.
This story was originally published on March 27, 2025. 
