Blazing Trails in Junior Drag Bike Racing
In the adrenaline-pumping world of drag racing, Lillian Hagan, or “Lil” as she’s known in the pits, stands out as a force to be reckoned with. As both a racer and a part-time mechanic, Lil’s journey in motorsport is a compelling blend of speed, skill, and family dedication.
Lil’s passion for drag racing ignited when she was just a child, inspired by her father’s own exploits on the drag strip. “I want to do that,” she told him, setting aside her netball pursuits to dive headfirst into the world of racing. By March 2021, Lil was licensed and ready to make her mark.
What Lil loves most about drag racing is simple: the thrill of speed and the close-knit family environment. Racing has become a family affair, with everyone getting involved and supporting each other. She participates monthly at Benaraby Dragway, a three-hour trek from her home in Monto, and annually at Willowbank Raceway for the prestigious Gulf Western Winternationals, a six-and-a-half-hour journey.
Lil’s friends and workmates are in awe of her racing exploits, and her family couldn’t be prouder, although they always stress the importance of safety. Her ambitions are as high-octane as her sport. In two years, Lil plans to advance to senior brackets, starting with a street bike before moving on to more powerful machines like a Suzuki 600cc and eventually a 1000cc Honda CBR. Her ultimate dream? To race a nitro drag bike.
Among Lil’s many racing memories, a standout moment was winning her first Willowbank All Bikes event in 2022. Conversely, her scariest experience was a 60-foot burnout at Roma in Queensland that nearly ended disastrously. Despite these challenges, Lil’s resilience and determination have seen her through.
Lil’s current racing machine is a custom pink and black 300cc Yamaha, capable of reaching speeds of 108 kph. She customized this bike in 2023, having raced a 150cc Yamaha for two years prior. Drag racing is a complex sport that requires precision, consistency, and a keen understanding of mechanics—qualities that Lil has honed over her racing career.
Her impressive list of accolades includes multiple trophies and records, such as being the fastest legal junior drag bike racer in Australia and the first female junior drag bike racer in the country. She has consistently placed at the top in various rounds and finals, showcasing her prowess on the track.
Lil is supported by a dedicated team of sponsors, including Outback Flooring Solutions, BAR Welding, Boy Espresso, Flemings Auto Bits, and Dave Oliver Motorcycle Tyres. However, her biggest supporters are her parents and the rest of her family, who have always been there to help her chase her dreams.
To aspiring racers, Lil offers sage advice:
“Do not doubt yourself, follow your dreams.”
Her journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and a supportive family.
Lillian Hagan’s story is not just about winning races; it’s about inspiring others to push their limits and pursue their passions, making her a true trailblazer in junior drag racing.
What’s your why? Whether you’re a racer, behind the camera, on the tools, or the loudest cheerleader, we want to hear your story! Share with us your passion and motivation to inspire others. Submit your story: https://bit.ly/4aYoxO4