Rising PDRA Top Jr. Dragster star Victoria Beaner has been officially cleared to return to drag racing following her successful recovery from spinal fusion surgery. The 13-year-old standout, known for her talent on the track and inspiring resilience off it, is eagerly preparing to get back behind the wheel of her VRB Motorsports Jr. Dragster, “Deuce,” for the 2025 season.
The surgery, performed at the Paley Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida, addressed idiopathic scoliosis that had been rapidly progressing. After a 34-day hospital stay, Beaner is on track for a full recovery and looking forward to continuing her impressive racing career.
“I can now look forward to getting back in the car for 2025. A weight has been lifted,” said Beaner. “I am ecstatic about the end result, and that is a testament to the care provided by the Paley Institute and my doctors, Dr. Hariharan and Dr. Feldman.”
While the journey presented its challenges, including the difficult decision to step away from a potential championship-winning season, Beaner remains optimistic about the future.
“It was tough stepping away while leading the PDRA championship, but I know I’ll have many more championships in my career,” she said.
The LaBelle, Florida native had been enjoying a career-defining season prior to her surgery. As the reigning PDRA Sportsman Rookie of the Year, she secured a victory and runner-up finish in championship points events and added a non-points win at the Summit Racing Equipment PDRA ProStars specialty race in July. Her accomplishments and upbeat attitude have earned her a growing fan base and the unwavering support of her sponsors.
Beaner’s father and crew chief, Darin, praised his daughter’s determination throughout her recovery.
“Victoria approached this like a champion,” Darin said. “It wasn’t easy, but knowing she’ll come back stronger and more experienced makes the sacrifices worthwhile. She’s already looking ahead to 2025 and beyond.”
The family has also committed to raising awareness for scoliosis, sharing their journey to encourage early detection and treatment.
“If we can help just one family catch scoliosis early, this journey will have been worth it,” said Beaner, who plans to share photos and videos from her experience in the coming months.
The Paley Institute, renowned for its orthopedic and neurological surgical care in partnership with Palm Beach Children’s Hospital, provided exceptional care throughout the procedure and recovery process.
As she sets her sights on the future, Beaner’s goals remain clear. With plans to gain seat time in multiple cars as she works toward a long-term goal of competing in Pro Mod, she is determined to make her comeback season one to remember.
For fans and competitors alike, Victoria Beaner’s return to drag racing promises to be one of the true feel-good stories of 2025.
This story was originally published on December 4, 2024. 
