Three-time NHRA Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan is helping the next generation by mentoring and sponsoring Radford, Va., Jr. Dragster driver Brandon Sullivan.

Hagan has been coaching and guiding Sullivan since he got his first Jr. Dragster in 2016 at the age of 11. With the backing of Hagan Cattle Company, Sullivan, now 17, has won two different track championships, won at three big tracks on the east coast (Bristol Dragway, Rockingham Dragway, and in Darlington, S.C.), and more.

“Matt and I talk or text each other almost every week ribbing one another about the previous week or wishing one another good luck for the upcoming race,” said Sullivan. “Matt gives me great advice and guidance. He always tells me to focus with that killer instinct, stay humble, and above all else, to go out there and have fun.”