Michael Chitty Claims 2025 West Central Division 5 Top Sportsman Title

During the 2025 season, Michael Chitty was on a mission. Not only did he represent the West Central Division as the JEGS Allstars representative, but he also traveled the country in pursuit of a bigger goal—capturing the Circus Motorsports Top Sportsman Championship for West Central Division 5.

Chitty set the tone early in the season with a commanding victory at the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event at No Problem Raceway. He followed that performance with a runner-up finish at the Division 5 season opener in St. Louis, proving his consistency right out of the gate. The momentum continued as Chitty added another win to his résumé at Brainerd International Raceway, further separating himself from the competition.

By season’s end, Chitty amassed 316 points, securing the Division 5 championship. He edged out Dan Schei, who finished second with 260 points, while Josh Vandeventer rounded out the top three with 251 points.

Chitty’s standout season didn’t just earn him division honors—it also brought national recognition. In 2026, he’ll proudly carry the No. 6 on the side of his Top Sportsman ride.

The celebration begins tomorrow night as the 2025 West Central Division 5 Champions Weekend officially kicks off with the Laris Motorsports Insurance Happy Hour & Practice Tree Race at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel.

This fun, laid-back evening is designed to bring racers, families, and friends together before a weekend dedicated to honoring the very best in the West Central Division.

The event is proudly supported by Laris Motorsports Insurance, whose continued commitment to the racing community helps make moments like these possible. Their support plays a key role in creating memorable experiences for racers at every level.

The Laris Motorsports Insurance Happy Hour & Practice Tree Race will take place on Friday, January 23, 2026, beginning at 7:30 PM in the Great Plains GHI at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel.

We invite everyone to attend—even if you’re not attending Champions Weekend—to join us as we kick things off, celebrate the season, and begin the weekend surrounded by the people who make West Central Division 5 racing so special.

Join us for the 2025 NHRA Division 5 Awards Ceremony as we celebrate another incredible season of racing in the Land of the Brave! 

📅 Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026 

🕔 Cocktail Hour: 5:00 PM 

🍽 Dinner: 6:00 PM 

🏆 Awards: 7:00 PM 

👔 Attire: Business Casual 

📍 Location: Marriott Kansas City Overland Park 10800 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS 66210