Shawn Reed is a seasoned American drag racer who has left his mark in both drag boat racing and NHRA Top Fuel competition. Known for his versatility and determination, Reed has earned multiple world championships in the International Hot Boat Association (IHBA) and is steadily expanding his presence in the high-stakes world of NHRA. As the owner and driver of Shawn Reed Racing, he continues to push the boundaries of speed and performance on the dragstrip.
Bio
Born on August 11, 1965, in Defiance, Missouri, Reed stands at 5’9″ and weighs 190 pounds. He is married and enjoys hobbies like boat racing, golf, and travel. Reed began his racing career on the water, becoming a standout in drag boat racing and earning multiple IHBA championships between 2007 and 2018. In 2014, he transitioned to land-based racing, earning his Top Fuel license at the Frank Hawley Drag Racing School and has since competed in numerous NHRA events.
Early Life
Raised in Puyallup, Washington, near Pacific Raceways, Reed was exposed early to the roar of drag racing. The proximity to racing culture fueled his passion and led him to pursue a career in motorsports—first on water and later on asphalt. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his later success in both boat and dragstrip racing.
Family
Shawn Reed is married, though he tends to keep details of his personal life private. He frequently acknowledges the support of his family and close associates, crediting them with helping him balance his demanding racing career and personal responsibilities.
Career
Reed began his career with dominance in drag boat racing, securing multiple IHBA world championships. He made his Top Fuel debut in 2015, chasing new challenges on the dragstrip. In 2024, he announced a full-time return to NHRA competition as both owner and driver of Shawn Reed Racing, forming a technical alliance with AB Motorsports and three-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown.
Throughout his NHRA career, Reed has reached notable milestones, including a semifinal finish at the 2019 NHRA Northwest Nationals and a career-best speed of 334.82 mph at the 2025 Route 66 Nationals. Based in Brownsburg, Indiana, his team continues to gain momentum in the ultra-competitive Top Fuel category.
Net Worth
Reed’s exact net worth is not publicly known, his long-standing career in both drag boat and Top Fuel racing, coupled with his ownership of a trucking and excavating business, suggests a stable financial foundation. His investments in racing and business reflect a commitment to excellence