82-Year-Old Dode Martin Races The LS-Powered Dragmaster Trainer

LS swaps are commonplace in classic cars, sand rails and race cars, but how about an LS-powered vintage inspired dragster? Dode Martin completed the LS powered slingshot rail in a mere 14 months, but what makes this even more impressive is that Martin the is the third oldest driver holding a valid NHRA competition license.

At 82 years young, Martin is now able to drive any NHRA approved vehicle running 7.50’s or slower, after obtaining his license at the Barona 1/8-mile drag strip in northern San Diego county. “The Dragmaster Trainer,” is the name of Martin’s new rail that pays tribute to the old school rails. Despite having an old school appearance, the freshly built dragster features modern safety components and was built to be competitive, versus simply being a showpiece.

According to the video description posted on Vimeo, thanks to LS engine and the 170-inch wheelbase “The Dragmaster Trainer” is considerably safer than the longer rails that Martin campaigned in the 1960’s. Despite the windy conditions, Martin made several passes at the January 28^th 2012 test-n-tune at Barona, eventually dipping into the low 6-second range at the 1/8-mile track. Sure, low 6’s are not blisteringly fast, but when one is going for their NHRA license there are procedures to follow before the license is granted. Making several incremental passes is all part of the game and Martin should be congratulated for his driving skill and dedication to the sport.