Take a look at this, Street Outlaws Stars Ryan Martin vs Kye Kelly for $20k, Again!
The rivalry between Ryan Martin and Kye Kelley has once again electrified the drag racing scene, this time with a high-stakes $20,000 race at the packed North Florida Motorplex. Fans witnessed not only the clash of two Street Outlaws legends but also the true spirit of grassroots drag racing.
Packed Stands and Old-School Racing Vibes
From the very start, the atmosphere was electric. The stands were overflowing, tents lined the fences, and parking spots were sold out as spectators poured in. With over 14–15 small-tire cars, 50 gassers, and dozens of bracket racers, the event felt like an old-school drag racing festival.
The Motorplex delivered a nostalgic yet thrilling vibe, proving once again why local tracks are the backbone of competitive drag racing.
Kye Kelley’s Big Block Upgrade
Kye Kelley arrived with a major upgrade—a new big block engine under the hood. His car looked dialed in, with the team constantly adjusting four-link bars and working the setup. The changes showed promise, making Kelley’s ride one to watch as the night progressed.
Ryan Martin Battles Technical Issues
On the other side, Ryan Martin’s Fireball Camaro was battling transmission issues. The car struggled to shift out of first gear, costing him valuable top-end speed. Normally clocking 180–185 mph, Martin was stuck around 179 mph, forcing him to adjust strategy and rely on quick reaction times at the light.
The $20,000 Question: Play It Safe or Swing for the Fences?
As the finals approached, Martin and his crew debated whether to run a consistent tune-up or “swing for the fences.” Having lost to Kelley on a red light in Georgia just a week earlier, the stakes were high. After gathering input from the team—including fans and family—the consensus was clear: go all out.
This decision highlighted the razor-thin line between playing it safe and pushing equipment to the limit in no prep racing.
Junior Dragsters and the Future of the Sport
Beyond the main event, the night also showcased the next generation. 15 junior dragsters hit the track, with young racers excited to share the stage with legends like Ryan Martin, Kye Kelley, and Daddy Dave. The interaction between seasoned pros and rising stars created a true family-friendly drag racing environment.
A Rivalry That Defines Street Outlaws
Ryan Martin and Kye Kelley’s rivalry has become one of the most compelling storylines in Street Outlaws and No Prep Kings history. From small-tire battles to big-tire finals, the two have traded victories back and forth.
This $20K clash added another chapter to their saga, keeping fans glued to every pass down the track.
Looking Ahead: A Winter Racing Series?
Martin and Kelley hinted at expanding these events into a full winter series, giving racers and fans something exciting to look forward to between official Street Outlaws seasons. With the turnout at North Florida Motorplex, it’s clear the appetite for more grassroots racing is stronger than ever.
Conclusion
The Ryan Martin vs Kye Kelley $20K showdown wasn’t just about the money—it was about legacy, rivalry, and the love of drag racing. From the buzzing crowd to the all-or-nothing strategy calls, this race reminded everyone why these two racers are fan favorites.
Whether it’s the Fireball Camaro fighting through adversity or Kye Kelley’s new big block proving its worth, one thing is certain: Street Outlaws racing is alive and thriving.
