Sad news struck the drag racing community this morning with the passing of legendary drag racing personality Tom "The Mongoose" McEwen. He was 81 years-old. Though he may not have had the most wins under his belt, his match racing antics with Don "The Snake" Prudhomme and his overall charisma will live on.

Aside from his sponsorship deal with Prudhomme and Hot Wheels to create a traveling drag racing show (immortalized in the 2013 film Snake and Mongoose), McEwen's most significant victory was at the US Nationals in 1978, driving his funny car against fellow racer Prudhomme. A high note in his career merely days after his son Jamie died of leukemia.

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The Mongoose was truly ahead of his time. He provided a glimpse into the future of NHRA racing, business and showmanship. President of NHRA Glen Cromwell spoke to the legacy of McEwen.

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"We are all saddened to learn the news of Mongoose's passing. He was truly one of the most brilliant pioneers of NHRA Championship Drag Racing and continued to support the sport through a number of initiatives including our current NHRA Legends Tour in which he played an instrumental role. Everyone at NHRA will miss him deeply. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with the McEwen family at this difficult time."

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