Family commitments sometimes take precedence, even for championship drag racers. Keith Haney, founder and two-time Pro Mod champion of the Mid-West Drag Racing Series (MWDRS), announced he will step out of the driver seat of his “Black Mamba” nitrous Pro Mod for the upcoming Throwdown in T-Town race. However, Haney tapped another proven winner, Marcus Birt, to wheel the car in his absence.

The Throwdown in T-Town, a major event on the MWDRS calendar that takes place May 9–10, 2025 at Osage Casino & Hotel Tulsa Raceway Park. Haney explained his reason for missing the event involves attending his daughter’s Master’s degree graduation ceremony.

“I want to be there to support her — she’s done such a great job,” Haney said. But he quickly assured fans and competitors his team remains focused on winning. “Don’t think for a second we’re backing down from competition. Marcus is a badass driver, and I know he’ll drive the wheels off the Black Mamba.”

Marcus Birt brings extensive experience, particularly with high-powered nitrous cars. He famously campaigned his own Pro Mod Corvette nicknamed “John Gotti”, clocking impressive times like 3.55 seconds on radial tires and low 3.60s in Pro Mod configuration.

Birt expressed excitement about returning to this style of competition. “It’s going to be cool driving the Black Mamba,” Birt stated. “I haven’t been in a nitrous Pro Mod in a few years, and I’m ready to get back in… I’m looking forward to driving in front of the Tulsa crowd.”

This driver swap holds significant championship implications for Keith Haney Racing. MWDRS rules dictate that season points follow the team, not the individual driver. With Haney aiming for a third Pro Mod title, substituting a highly capable driver like Birt represents a strategic move to keep accumulating points.

The decision also needed the blessing of Haney’s tuner, Brandon Switzer, who holds considerable influence over who pilots the potent Black Mamba. Haney confirmed Switzer’s approval: “Brandon doesn’t let just anyone drive this car… He respects Marcus and believes in what he brings to the table.”

Interestingly, Haney and Birt share an on-track history. They both faced off in a memorable grudge race several years ago at the World Series of Pro Mod. Now, Birt takes control of Haney’s machine, aiming to deliver a strong performance for the team at Tulsa Raceway Park’s popular Throwdown event. Fans attending the race get a unique opportunity to see Birt handle the Black Mamba in a high-stakes MWDRS competition.