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Shawn Langdon claims historic 1,000th Top Fuel trophy at Charlotte 4-Wide Nationals

With Connie Kalitta and "Big Daddy" Don Garlits Llooking on, Langdon cements his place in drag racing history
27 Apr 2025
David Kennedy
Feature

In a moment that will echo through drag racing history, Shawn Langdon etched his name alongside the greatest Top Fuel racer of all time, winning the milestone 1,000th NHRA Top Fuel trophy at the 2025 American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals.

Facing off against a star-studded final that included Antron Brown, Tony Stewart, and Justin Ashley, it was Langdon — behind the wheel for Kalitta Motorsports — who delivered under pressure.

With drag racing legend Connie Kalitta, his team owner and dear friend of "Big Daddy" Don Garlits, watching from the starting line, Langdon rose to the occasion and powered his way into the record books. The significance of the win ran deeper than just another victory.

In honor of this historic moment, Langdon was awarded a special trophy: a replica of the very first NHRA Top Fuel trophy presented to Don Garlits back in 1963. For fans, racers, and the sport itself, the symbolism was unmistakable. From the first Top Fuel trophy to the 1,000th, the spirit of innovation, determination, and pure speed that Garlits embodied continues to burn brightly.

With this win, Shawn Langdon joins "Big Daddy" not just in celebration, but in legacy. His name will forever be emblazoned next to Garlits’ in NHRA history, a rare and cherished honor that speaks to Langdon's talent, perseverance, and the tradition of excellence that Kalitta Motorsports has carried for decades.

As the crowd at zMAX Dragway roared in approval, and Garlits himself smiled from the top end, the magnitude of the achievement was clear: it wasn’t just about winning a race — it was about becoming part of something far greater. A bridge between eras. A tribute to the pioneers. And a reminder that history isn’t something you just read about — it's something you can still make.

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