Take a look at this, From NPK to the Future: Paige Coughlin Reflects on NPK Memories and Plans Beyond the Outlaws Era!
The drag racing world was shaken this week when Speed Promotions and Racing officially canceled the remainder of its 2025 schedule, bringing a sudden close to the Street Outlaws, No Prep Kings (NPK), and The Outlaws Touring Series era. For many fans, it marked the end of an unforgettable chapter in grassroots drag racing. But for racers like Paige Coughlin, the moment was far more personal—and it’s only the beginning of a new chapter.
Paige Coughlin’s Response to the Cancellation
Within hours of the announcement, 24-year-old Paige Coughlin—a third-generation racer and daughter of NHRA Pro Mod World Champion Troy Coughlin Sr.—took to social media to share her reflections. Instead of disappointment, she expressed gratitude.
She thanked the fans who had supported her and Team Golden Child over the past three years and confirmed that the final two races at US 131 Motorsports Park and Maple Grove Raceway were canceled. But more importantly, she reassured fans that she wasn’t done racing yet.
“We are not done racing yet. Thank you to every single fan that has cheered me and Team Golden Child on,” Coughlin said.
Building a Legacy of Her Own
Paige’s story is one of forging her own identity outside of her family’s legacy. While many expected her to follow the traditional Coughlin path through big money bracket racing and NHRA competition, she chose a different road.
After attending an NPK event at National Trail Raceway, she was hooked. She bought her 1992 Camaro, named it Golden Child, and dove head-first into the chaotic, unpredictable world of no prep racing.
This decision allowed her to step out of the shadow of her famous last name and create a name for herself. As she put it in a past Drag Illustrated interview, she wanted to “do things my own way” and build a reputation as Paige, not just “Troy’s daughter or TJ’s little sister.”
Rapid Rise in No Prep Kings
Coughlin’s progress was swift. She entered the Futures Class in 2023 and claimed her first win in Bowling Green in just her fourth start. That victory secured her a spot in the Invitational class, where she proved she belonged among the sport’s elite.
By the end of her first full season in 2024, she had:
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Made it to a playoff final in Texas
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Finished Top 10 in championship points
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Established herself as one of drag racing’s rising young stars
Her Camaro, Golden Child, became a symbol of independence and resilience. Paige has often said she will “never forget it” because of the lessons it taught her about driving and competing at the highest levels.
Looking Toward the Future
While the end of the Outlaws series feels like the end of an era, Paige made it clear her journey is only gaining momentum.
She revealed that her team is already building a new car and promised fans that the next steps in her career will be announced soon. Her fiancé, Johnny Tolisano, plays a key role in that future as both her crew leader and co-owner of J&J Racing Engines, while Paige balances racing with business responsibilities during the week.
This racer-driven, family-first approach echoes the very spirit that made Street Outlaws a cultural phenomenon in the first place.
Carrying the Torch Beyond Street Outlaws
Though Speed Promotions’ closure leaves a void in the drag racing calendar, Coughlin emphasized that the movement continues. The sport may shift lanes, but the drive, passion, and fan support remain alive.
Her final words to fans were both a thank-you and a promise:
“As soon as we get it all worked out, we will be sure to keep you all informed. I’m grateful. Golden Child and I are far from finished.”
Final Thoughts
The cancellation of No Prep Kings and The Outlaws series is bittersweet for fans and racers alike. Yet, Paige Coughlin’s story proves that while one chapter ends, another begins. Her resilience, passion, and dedication ensure that she—and Golden Child—will continue to inspire the next generation of racers.
From NPK to the future, Paige Coughlin is just getting started.
