Lynn Prudhomme, the wife of the famed drag racing hero Don Prudhomme, has been an important part of his life from their first meeting in a high school art class in the Los Angeles region. Lynn has graciously shared the limelight of this renowned figure’s remarkable career throughout the decades, transitioning from lover to devoted wife.
Don Prudhomme, better known as ‘the Snake,’ is a legend in American drag racing history. His outstanding career won him significant inductions into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (1991) and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame (2000).
Don and Lynn Prudhomme’s Long Relationship
Don Prudhomme and his wife, Lynn, have been married for decades. While Lynn has continuously eschewed the spotlight that comes with her husband’s celebrity, she has remained the foundation of their family. Lynn maintained a sense of normality for their daughter, Donna Lynn, despite Don’s 35-year racing career, first as a driver and then as a team owner. Lynn’s unwavering support stretched much beyond that of a racing spouse as they traveled across the nation.
She took the critical job of an excellent team manager, which is often taken on by drag racing spouses. Recognizing the sport’s inherent perils, Lynn saw how a single devastating collision might swiftly destroy a racer’s family. This realization led her to consider the necessity for a structure that might provide both emotional and financial assistance to wounded racers and their families. They and other drag racing spouses co-founded the Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW). DRAW was founded to help Shirley with her medical expenditures, but it quickly grew into a philanthropic organization.
Don Prudhomme Honored in Exclusive Exhibition
The San Diego Automotive Museum in Southern California featured an exceptional permanent display honoring Don Prudhomme. This historic anniversary was commemorated with an exclusive grand opening on July 13, 2023. This stunning exhibit features over 100 of Prudhomme’s renowned NHRA Wally Awards. His storied career included stints as a driver and team owner in the NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car races.
Prudhomme’s distinctive fire suits and helmets are also on display in the show. The visual attraction is complemented by a well-designed video package that captures some of Prudhomme’s most memorable tracks. Recent interviews with Prudhomme enhance the story. Prudhomme, who was joined by his wife Lynn and daughter Donna, expressed his thanks by saying,
“It’s a huge pleasure to be in this wonderful museum and to have my career honored here. I’m also delighted that the NHRA has been acknowledged as this fantastic area where people can come and learn more about drag racing.”
The museum, located at 2080 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101, within one of the historic buildings of San Diego’s famed Balboa Park, is a great venue for aficionados to immerse themselves in the history of a racing classic.
