Travis Shumake's journey has been a remarkable fusion of drag racing, community leadership and personal growth. Growing up in Phoenix, his fascination with drag racing began early, fueled by interactions with NHRA drivers and childhood dreams of becoming a driver like his dad. Though his racing aspirations were momentarily sidelined by personal tragedy, he channeled his energy into student leadership and hospitality, excelling in both arenas during his time at Northern Arizona University.
Following a successful career in hospitality and nonprofit work, Shumake reignited his childhood passion for drag racing. After rigorous training at Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School, he earned his NHRA licenses and fulfilled his dream of piloting a Nitro Funny Car under the mentorship of Del Worsham. Despite facing challenges on the track, including a harrowing crash, Shumake persevered, eventually achieving success on the national drag racing circuit. His journey, marked by resilience and determination, culminated in a poignant tribute to his late father and a newfound fulfillment in both his personal and professional life. Today, as a development officer at New York’s Ali Forney Center, an LGBTQ+ youth shelter, Shumake continues to inspire others with his multifaceted accomplishments and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Shumake's inaugural race in the Top Fuel category will take place at the NHRA Arizona Nationals hosted at Firebird Motorsports Park in Chandler April 5-7. As a proud Arizona native and pilot and team owner of Shumake Racing, Shumake is participating in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series this weekend.
He a second-generation drag racer and son of NHRA Funny Car champion Tripp Shumake and Arizona Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Susie Shumake, looks to continue blazing a trail as the first openly gay driver to compete at the top level of any American racing league.
With an impressive track record of hitting speeds exceeding 300 mph, Shumake is a beacon of inclusivity in the traditionally macho world of motorsports. Through his unwavering commitment to his craft and his identity, Shumake has shattered barriers, making the sport more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community and drawing new fans to the $6-billion motorsports industry.
Shumake's runs will be on Friday, April 5 at 5 p.m.; Saturday, April 6 at noon and 2 p.m.; and Sunday, April 7 at 10 a.m. at Firebird Motorsports Park, located at 20000 S. Maricopa Road in Chandler.
For NHRA Arizona Nationals tickets, click here. For more information about Shumake Racing, visit travisshumake.com.
