Larsen Motorsports has announced Washington High School senior Sarah Stewart as the team’s newest Development Driver after she emerged as a top candidate in the highly competitive “Who Wants to Be the Next Jet Car Driver” contest.

The nationwide search evaluated participants through multiple stages, including interviews and assessments focused on mindset, professionalism, communication skills, and safety awareness - all critical qualities for drivers competing in the high-performance world of jet drag racing.

A development driver is a racer selected by a professional motorsports team to participate in a structured training program designed to prepare them for higher levels of competition. Rather than focusing only on driving, the program develops the individual’s overall readiness for the sport, including technical knowledge of the vehicle, safety procedures, teamwork with crew members, and the professional responsibilities that come with representing sponsors and organizations.

“When Larsen Motorsports surprised me at the World Wide Technology Raceway Championship banquet, I was beyond elated and honestly couldn’t believe the news. Elaine Larsen, Chris Larsen, and Josette Roach at Larsen Motorsports sent a thoughtful video message, congratulating me on my championship and announcing how I will be their next Development Driver,” Stewart said. “Over my years of drag racing, Elaine and Josette have been huge role models to me. As two of only a handful of jet dragster pilots, few of whom are women, Elaine and Josette not only are dedicated advocates for women in motorsports, but also passionate about inspiring the next generation of racers and supporting students interested in pursuing a career in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

“We were incredibly impressed by Sarah throughout the entire process,” said Elaine Larsen, co-owner and driver for Larsen Motorsports and Florida Institute of Technology. “Her determination, coachability, and respect for the responsibility that comes with these cars made her a natural fit for our program. She understands that being a driver is about more than speed - it’s about preparation, teamwork, and representing the sport the right way.”

Development drivers work closely with experienced drivers, crew chiefs, and engineers to gain hands-on experience both on and off the track. Training often includes simulator sessions, physical conditioning, media preparation, and education on race operations and safety systems. The goal is long-term growth, allowing teams to build trust and ensure drivers are fully prepared before moving into major competitive roles.

Fellow driver Josette Roach of House of Kolor and Larsen Motorsports emphasized Stewart’s strong foundation in motorsports. “I see a lot of myself in Sarah,” Roach said. “We both started racing in Jr. Dragsters, and that foundation teaches discipline, respect, and patience early on. Watching her approach this opportunity reminds me of why that path matters, and I’m excited to help mentor her as she takes the next step in her racing journey.”

Co-owner Chris Larsen said the selection reflects the team’s long-term vision. “This program is about trust and growth,” Larsen said. “Sarah demonstrated that she understands what it means to represent our team, our partners, and the sport - both on and off the track. That level of maturity is essential in jet racing.”

As a Development Driver, Stewart will continue advanced training both on and off the track. Her preparation will include simulator work, physical conditioning, safety systems education, and close collaboration with Larsen Motorsports drivers, crew chiefs, and engineers as she works toward future competitive opportunities.

“This past year, as I wrapped up my last season in junior dragsters, I made it a goal of mine to do everything I can to be an inspiration for other younger girls as I continue my racing career. I am so thankful to have had such incredible role models and mentors as I grew up - such as Elaine, Josette, and other women drivers - and I want to pay it forward by being that for somebody else,” Stewart said. “I aspire to show younger girls and boys that pursuing down the path of motorsports is possible. I want them to know that they are strong, capable, and unstoppable if they truly put their mind to it. I cannot begin to express my gratitude toward everyone at Larsen Motorsports for giving me this opportunity of a lifetime. It still seems unreal, but I am excited for this chance to learn more about jet dragsters and what goes on behind the scenes, along with being trained by renowned jet dragster drivers Elaine Larsen and Josette Roach. Achieving this honor means the world to me, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

The Larsen Motorsports Development Driver Program is designed to identify and train the next generation of jet dragster drivers while emphasizing safety, teamwork, technical knowledge, and real-world responsibility.

Drag racing has been a part of Stewart’s life for a long time.

“My grandfather started it all, passing his love for cars and speed down to my Dad. My Dad and Grandpa spent hours in the garage together tinkering on cars,” Stewart said. “My brother and I grew up at the racetrack watching Dad race, and in the garage with him soaking up everything we could about engines. Eventually, we got into junior drag racing and haven’t looked back. I was eight years old the first time I made a full throttle pass down the dragstrip.”

Stewart’s selection continues the program’s mission of developing drivers who are not only skilled behind the wheel, but also strong ambassadors for the sport.

Sarah is the daughter of Mike and Angela Stewart. At WHS, she’s involved with National Honor Society (Secretary), SOAR Into STEM, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) through Four Rivers Career Center (President of the chapter), marching and concert band (Section Leader), Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club and Link Crew. Her future plans are to attend college and pursue a degree in a STEM-related field.

 

 

Sarah Stewart

 

Larsen Motorsports has announced Washington High School senior Sarah Stewart as the team’s newest Development Driver.