Since the first NRHA Non Pro Futurity was held in 1976, there have always been the standouts – the eye-of-the-tiger ultra-focused riders that seemed to rise above the field with multiple wins and reserves.
Randy Alderson of Sharpsville, Indiana, won the first two Non Pro Futurities in 1976 and 1977 and was co-reserve in 1979.
From Chicago, Illinois, Richie Greenberg won the Non Pro Futurity championship in 1978, then again in 1982 and 1983 when he also tied for reserve champion.
The man who defies time, NRHA Million rider Jim Morgan, dominated the Non Pro Futurity from 1982 through 1999 earning 3 championships and 8 reserve championships. And he’s still qualifying for futurity finals – most recently in 2021! Originally from Eldersburg, Maryland, he now makes Texas his home.
Charlie Wiederholt of Hastings, Minnesota won his first Non Pro Futurity championship in 1988, was reserve in 1989, then won again in 1991.
$3 Million Rider Mandy McQuay won her first futurity in 1993. Since then she’s become Mandy McCutcheon and has won a total of 10 Non Pro Futurities plus 5 reserve championships.
Arizonan and NRHA Million Dollar Owner Tish Fappani won her first reserve title in 2008 and then won 3 futurities in 2010, 2015 and 2018.
Jesse Asmussen, of Maquoketa, Iowa won his first Non Pro Futurity reserve in 2012 then won again in 2014 and 2019.
Kelle Smith won her first futurity in 2003. Since then, she has won 3 reserves (2007, 2013, 2017). Originally from Belle Center, Ohio, she now lives in Oklahoma.
Keith Crawford of Howell, Michigan won two futurities – one in 1997 and one in 1999.
Photo courtesy of NRHA NRHA’s 50th-anniversary celebration.