It’s been nearly two decades since Terry Haddock last strapped into his family-owned Nitro Funny Car for a IHRA national event on a regular basis – and when he did, he walked away as the champ.
Now, 17 years later, Haddock and his family-run Terry Haddock Racing team are making their return to the newly revived IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series, set to open July 12-13 at National Trail Raceway outside Columbus, Ohio.
“It’s incredible to see the IHRA Outlaw Nitro series making a comeback,” said Haddock. “This organization has played a big role in my racing career, and to have the chance to compete again – especially after winning the final title before the series went away – means a lot to our entire team.”
In 2008, Haddock won the final IHRA Funny Car championship before the series was shelved, never getting the chance to defend the title or run the No. 1 on the side of his car. But this summer, he’s finally getting that shot – and this time, he’s not taking anything for granted.
“We’ve really worked hard to refine our program and clean it up, and the car runs real well,” Haddock said. “It’s pretty awesome that we’re going to get the chance to go defend it – even if it’s 17 years later.”
Joining Haddock on the entry list for the series kickoff are Dale Creasy Jr. and Jack Wyatt – the only other drivers from that 2008 IHRA season returning to the fold. While many of the class’s top names have moved on or stepped away from the driver’s seat, this trio’s participation brings a sense of full-circle energy to the rebirth of the series.
Haddock’s independent Nitro Funny Car operation has long been a staple of the NHRA tour – built on perseverance, grit, and a genuine love of the sport. The team’s decision to focus on quality over quantity in recent years – racing only when fully funded – has helped stabilize the program and improve performance.
“This whole thing’s been about heart for us,” Haddock added. “And when you’ve got the right people around you, and some help from great partners, you can do big things.”
Terry Haddock Racing’s 2025 IHRA campaign is backed by a lineup of longtime supporters, including Concho Supply, T&D Express, Priority Systems Mechanical Services, P&C Cable, Tovar’s Hutto Automotive, Temple Iron and Scrap, Precision Fence, and Silver Star Painting.
With fresh momentum behind the IHRA and a new vision for the Outlaw Nitro Series, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and new-school firepower when Haddock and company light up the scoreboard.
Because for Terry Haddock, this isn’t just another race – it’s the long-overdue sequel to a story that never got its proper ending.
This story was originally published on July 3, 2025. 
