Matt Plotkin, a 29-year-old, has been recognized as one of DI’s Top 30 Talents Under 30 in 2023. He has a diverse set of skills in the world of drag racing, participating in various levels from local no-prep races to high-profile NHRA national events. However, Plotkin’s involvement in the sport is not recent; it has been a part of his family tradition for as long as he can remember. He credits his father for introducing him to drag racing, as his father has been participating in the sport since the 1970s. Growing up near Englishtown, New Jersey, Plotkin frequently visited the track with his family, sparking his interest in NHRA and drag racing. After moving to Texas, he became involved in the grudge and no-prep aspects of the sport.
In 2015, Plotkin and Jason Flores founded Project X Promotions, successfully organizing their first event the following year. Their annual schedule now includes popular no-prep races such as the Bounty Hunters and Winter Meltdown events. According to Plotkin, nearly a decade ago, they were among the first to embrace the no-prep trend, focusing on providing top-notch products and a satisfying experience for customers. Despite changing locations, their loyal racers and fans have remained dedicated and supportive. Their ultimate goal is to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, which they believe their no-prep races offer.
In 2021, Plotkin took on a new role as a full-time worker with the NHRA, expanding from his previous position as a promoter. He currently serves as both the Regional Tech Director and Division Services Coordinator for Division 4 and is the Chairman of the Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle Committee. A notable contribution by Plotkin was his involvement in creating the NHRA Factory X class. He fondly recalls a meeting with a small group at an IHOP in Bowling Green, Kentucky two years ago, where they came up with ideas for the class on a napkin. According to Plotkin, after a gradual process, they have reached a point where the category is highly competitive, incorporating elements from grassroots and no-prep races to make it more relatable for a professional category. Factory X has successfully produced cars that resemble actual cars, which will greatly contribute to the category’s success.
Plotkin is proud of his involvement in both ends of the drag racing community and believes that bringing the two together will have positive effects in the future. He emphasizes the importance of mutual learning between regular racers who frequent local tracks and professional teams who may overlook the smaller races. According to Plotkin, there seems to be a disconnect between these two sides, and it is crucial for NHRA to recognize the value of grassroots racing and share their expertise in safety and event organization to improve other racing programs. Ultimately, everything is interconnected in the racing world.
When not hosting his own events or traveling for national and divisional races, Plotkin lives in Denton, Texas with his wife Mady, who is also the NHRA Division 4 Director and was recognized as one of the 2018 Drag Illustrated 30 Under 30 honorees. Plotkin jokingly mentions that after five years, he is finally on equal footing with her. He chuckles, “I am finally free from her using it as leverage against me for a whole year.” Their bond began when she received her PRI 30 Under 30 recognition, and they have been inseparable ever since. The future actions and involvement of Plotkin are uncertain, but his dedication to diving into his role or any form of drag racing he chooses to participate in remains unquestionable. According to Plotkin, the future is not predetermined, and he is eager to expand the sport in any way he sees fit and play a positive role in its development. He is committed to doing everything possible to ensure the strength and well-being of the sport.