Drag Illustrated Issue 182, May / June 2023 | Page 145

Randy Lee , a veteran race official with an extensive schedule , was named the chief starter of the WSOPM .
Orlando-based DJ Jason Logan ( left ) brought a new level of energy to the starting line . Between his music and his interactions with the crowd and the announcers , Logan has become a staple at DI events . He was assisted by his longtime friend Ralphie Cotto .
Since taking ownership of the track in 2018 , Victor Alvarez has worked to make Bradenton a Pro Mod hotspot . He took that to a new level this year by working with Buck and the DI team to host the WSOPM . A passionate import racer and enthusiast , Alvarez also spearheaded the addition of the XFWD class .
Charles Carpenter , known as the “ Godfather of Pro Modified ,” was named the event ’ s grand marshal . He was on hand throughout the event , and had the honor of flipping the starter ’ s switch for the first pair of Pro Mod eliminations on Sunday .
J . T . Hudson ( right ) is known by many as a cohost of The Wes Buck Show , but he ’ s also an integral part of the WSOPM team . He was the first DI staffer on the grounds and the last one to leave , making sure everyone was having a good time along the way . Here , he poses for a photo with Kevin Contardo , husband of DI writer Kayla Zadel , and Christian Carpenter , son of DI / WSOPM COO Mike Carpenter .
May / June 2023 DragIllustrated . com | Drag Illustrated | 145