Adria (Force) Hight, Daughter of NHRA Legend John Force, Dies at 56 After Lifelong Role in Building Racing Dynasty

Adria (Force) Hight, Daughter of NHRA Legend John Force, Dies at 56 After Lifelong Role in Building Racing Dynasty

Adria (Force) Hight, the eldest daughter of NHRA legend John Force and a foundational figure behind John Force Racing, has died at the age of 56. Her passing marks the loss of a key architect behind one of the most successful teams in drag racing history.

Born June 4, 1969, in Huntington Park, California, Hight grew up immersed in the world of motorsports, long before John Force Racing became a dominant name in NHRA competition. Raised in Huntington Beach, she witnessed the early struggles and growth of her father’s team, eventually becoming one of its first employees.

A Builder Behind the Scenes

While many associate the Force name with championship drivers and on-track success, Adria Hight’s role was rooted in the foundation of the operation. In the early days, she handled whatever was needed—answering phones, selling merchandise out of the race trailer, and helping keep the fledgling team afloat.

That hands-on involvement evolved into a leadership role as she became chief financial officer of John Force Racing. In that position, Hight helped guide the organization’s business operations, playing a major role in transforming it from a family-run effort into a powerhouse team.

Her work largely took place away from the spotlight, but it was critical to the team’s long-term success.

Family at the Center

Hight was the oldest sibling in the Force family and maintained close relationships with her younger sisters—Ashley, Brittany, and Courtney—each of whom went on to become professional drivers in NHRA competition.

Ashley Force Hood made history in Funny Car, while Brittany Force became a multi-time Top Fuel champion. Courtney Force also competed in Funny Car before stepping away from racing. Throughout their careers, Adria remained a steady presence behind the scenes, helping support both the team and the family.