Austin Prock's journey from a young aspiring racer to NHRA Funny Car champion reached its pinnacle when he clinched his first championship at the NHRA finals in Pomona. At just 29 years old, Prock secured his 15th No. 1 qualifier of the season with the fourth-quickest run in class history.

A decade ago, Prock wrote on his LinkedIn profile that he would "one day set records in the world of motorsports." That prediction materialized spectacularly during his rookie Funny Car season.

His path to championship glory wasn't straightforward. After losing his Top Fuel seat at John Force Racing due to sponsorship issues, Prock stepped in to replace Robert Hight in Funny Car. He immediately made an impact by winning the PRO Superstar Shootout at Bradenton Motorsports Park in his debut.

The 2024 season showcased Prock's dominance:

• Seven No. 1 qualifiers in nine races
• Eight race wins, including three in the Countdown
• An impressive 50-11 win/loss record
• 18-point lead before the Countdown reset

What makes this championship special is that Prock achieved it alongside his father Jimmy and brother Thomas on the same team. Despite the pressure of competing at the highest level, Prock maintained his composure throughout the season.

"I study my craft every day," Prock explained. "Every run I make, I go back and watch the videotape in slow-mo and see things I could do better, practice my reaction times, and just try to be a machine."

His methodical approach, combined with a quick race car and exceptional starting line performance, proved to be the winning formula in one of the most dominant Funny Car seasons in NHRA history.

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