Willard, a racer who calls Elk Creek Dragway his home track, was a little anxious at the start of the Junior Dragster final against Tate Hildebrandt. He left -.004 too quick to trigger the red light. Still, Willard was pleased how the night went.

“It means everything to be the runner-up against the best-of-the-best,” Willard said. “I came as close as you can to winning it all.”

That was certainly a true statement as Roberts gained entry into the World Finals by his win in the IHRA Sportsman Spectacular presented by Moser at Quaker City Motorsports Park. VanNote was the Sportsman Spectacular winner at Muncie Dragway.

Both Willard and Hildebrandt qualified through the IHRA Summit Team Finals. Hildebrandt won the Division 4 (Renegades) title at his home track of Xtreme Raceway Park, while Willard won the Division 1 (Patriots) title at Roxboro Motorsports Park.

Willard was a key in Elk Creek Dragway repeating as team champions. His father, Mike, also qualified for the IHRA World Finals by winning the Mod (Box) class. Will explained being around family and friends is what makes racing so special to him.

“I’ve been racing 10 years. My grandpa, my mom’s dad, Richard Skeens, raced for many years,” Will said. “My dad, I’ve watched him since I was born and have always looked up to him. I got it from both sides of the family.”

As he moves from the Junior Dragsters to full-time in the big cars, Will is expected to remain a top contender. Congratulations to Will Willard and all those who reached the championship round at the 2024 IHRA Summit SuperSeries World Finals.