Pregnancy forces Force Hood out in 2011

Two-time NHRA Nationals champion Ashley Force Hood will not race in the upcoming season after announcing she and husband, Dan, are expecting their first child.

The 28-year-old Force Hood said she is taking the 2011 season off to focus on motherhood and her new responsibilities as president of John Force Entertainment, a subsidiary of her father's racing company. She also plans to work with younger sister Courtney, who will be testing in funny cars in anticipation of a later pro debut.

Force Hood said she and Dan decided they would try to start a family after watching John Force clinch his 15th national championship last year.