Over the course of the final races of 2022, there were rumors that NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series Pro Stock mega-team Elite Motorsports and standout driver Troy Coughlin Jr., who won his first two Pro Stock class victories during this year’s campaign, might not be driving a yellow car again next season.
The Elite Motorsports racer, who came from Lucas Oil sportsman categories to find success in the door slammer class, won’t have to worry about that in 2023, as his Camaro will, once again, wear the bright yellow colors of JEGS, who continue their overall partnership with Elite Motorsports’ eight-car entry. The online national retailer and distributor of high-performance aftermarket auto parts and accessories is the primary sponsor for Coughlin Jr again next year.
JEGS, of course, has a longstanding relationship with both NHRA and Elite. When the company was sold in 2022, the new ownership group, Greenbriar, quickly understood the value and powerful brand recognition JEGS receives through the sponsorship. “Drag racing has been paramount to JEGS’ success since the beginning, Ralph Mondeaux, vice president of marketing for JEGS acknowledged. “We want to continue to build on the relationship as we enter a new era.
“It’s this connection to drag racing that allows our brand to thrive,” Mondeaux said. “We appreciate all of the loyal customers we’ve developed through drag racing over the years, and want to demonstrate that appreciation in a tangible way by supporting the sport that made all of this possible.”
Coming off a season where he earned two national event wins, Coughlin Jr. feels he’s got a bright future in the class, especially knowing he’s got JEGS continuing its sponsorship. “I’m absolutely honored to carry on the tradition of representing one of the industry’s most beloved brands,” he said. “I love JEGS with all my heart and getting to were the logo and represent the wonderful people who are a part of it has always been my dream. Major thank you to the entire JEGS team for supporting us!”
Richard Freeman, Elite Motorsports team owner, is pleased to have JEGS’ partnership back in 2023. “We appreciate everything they contribute to our team as a whole, especially their sponsorship of Troy Coughlin Jr. He’s a great driver and we feel confident that he will continue to be a leader in Pro Stock with JEGS on his car in 2023.”
Coughlin and the other seven racers on the Elite Motorsports Pro Stock squad – including five-time, reigning titleholder Erica Enders – have a rather long off-season to endure. Racing begins for the 2023 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series during the 54th Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, held March 9-12 in Gainesville, Fla.
By Anne Proffit
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