The golden era of drag racing wasn’t just about speed, roaring engines, and burnt rubber—it was also about the personalities who made the sport unforgettable. Among them were three legendary women: Nikki Phillips, Linda Vaughn, and June Cochran.
These women didn’t just add glamour and excitement to the race track; they played crucial roles in shaping the culture of motorsports, capturing the attention of fans and racers alike. But what happened after their glory days in drag racing? Let’s take a deep dive into their incredible journeys and see where they are now.
Nikki Phillips: The Trailblazer of Drag Racing
Nikki Phillips was more than just a familiar face in drag racing circles—she was a pioneer who helped define the sport’s image. Known for her charismatic presence and deep involvement in promoting motorsports, she became a staple at drag racing events.
Her Impact on Drag Racing
✔ A Strong Advocate for Women in Motorsports – Nikki was a symbol of empowerment, proving that women could hold major roles in racing.
✔ Public Relations and Promotions – She played a huge part in making drag racing a more fan-friendly experience, helping promote races and drivers.
✔ An Icon in the Pits – Whether interacting with fans or working behind the scenes, she was a key figure in the golden era.
Where Is Nikki Phillips Now?
After her time in drag racing, Nikki continued to be involved in motorsports in various capacities. She transitioned into mentoring young women interested in racing, using her experience to break down barriers for the next generation.
While she may not be as visible at major racing events, her influence is still felt today, as more and more women continue to take on prominent roles in motorsports.
Linda Vaughn: The First Lady of Motorsports
If you’ve ever heard of “Miss Hurst Golden Shifter,” then you know exactly who Linda Vaughn is. She was the ultimate ambassador of drag racing, a woman who became one of the most famous faces in motorsports history.
Her Legacy in Racing
Linda Vaughn wasn’t just a beauty on the track—she was an integral part of racing culture, representing the Hurst brand and bringing excitement to every event she attended.
✔ A Walking Icon – With her signature blonde hair and infectious personality, Linda became a household name in drag racing and NASCAR.
✔ Miss Hurst Golden Shifter – She traveled the country as the face of Hurst Performance, riding in race cars and waving to fans.
✔ Beloved by Racers and Fans Alike – From the pits to the podium, Linda’s presence made every race more thrilling.
Where Is Linda Vaughn Now?
Even after stepping away from the limelight, Linda Vaughn remains one of the most respected women in motorsports.
She still makes appearances at racing events, attends Hall of Fame ceremonies, and continues to inspire new generations of motorsports fans. Her impact on branding, promotions, and fan engagement in racing is immeasurable—a legacy that will never fade.
June Cochran: The Beauty Who Ruled the Drag Strip
June Cochran wasn’t just a racing queen—she was a trendsetter who helped bring style and elegance to the sport. With a background in modeling and motorsports, she became a beloved figure at the track, seamlessly blending glamour with speed.
Her Role in the Racing World
✔ Miss Indy 500 – June Cochran was crowned Miss Indy 500, solidifying her place in motorsports history.
✔ Motorsports Advocate – She used her platform to promote drag racing and bring more attention to the sport.
✔ An Enduring Legacy – Her contribution to making drag racing more appealing to mainstream audiences helped expand the sport’s popularity.
Where Is June Cochran Now?
June Cochran’s impact on drag racing and motorsports marketing can still be felt today. While she stepped away from the racing scene, her influence on motorsports promotions and branding remains part of the industry’s DNA.
Though she may no longer be front and center at racing events, she will always be remembered as one of the women who helped shape the golden era of drag racing.
How These Women Changed the Face of Drag Racing
These three women—Nikki Phillips, Linda Vaughn, and June Cochran—weren’t just figures in the background. They were pioneers who:
✔ Brought personality and excitement to motorsports.
✔ Helped promote the sport to larger audiences.
✔ Proved that women had an important place in racing culture.
Their contributions helped set the stage for today’s generation of women in motorsports, inspiring countless individuals to get involved in racing—both on and off the track.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy Lives On
The golden era of drag racing wasn’t just about the cars and the speed—it was about the people who made it legendary.
Nikki Phillips, Linda Vaughn, and June Cochran may have stepped away from the racing spotlight, but their impact will never be forgotten.
They broke barriers, changed perceptions, and left a lasting mark on motorsports history. Their legacy continues to inspire a new generation of racing enthusiasts, proving that true icons never fade—they just leave behind an unforgettable track record.
