Harrison Burton, the 24-year-old driver formerly of the No. 21 Ford Mustang for Wood Brothers Racing, has been making waves in the NASCAR Cup Series. But beyond the track, Burton’s life has also been speeding ahead, especially after his engagement to Jenna Petty (not related to Richard) on March 27, 2024.
Jenna, a dancer and active figure in the NASCAR community, recently gave fans a peek into their relationship, wedding plans, and life together during a Q&A on Instagram stories. For those of you who don’t know, their love story began unexpectedly—on a double date as teenagers that neither attended with the other. Now, they’re gearing up for a wedding in October 2025, blending their busy NASCAR lives with the excitement of planning their future. But how did this schoolmates-turned-soulmate story unfold?
Double dates, destiny, and wedding bells
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Harrison Burton’s fiancée had fans swooning as she opened up about their story. When asked how she and Harrison Burton met, she revealed, “We grew up going to the same school but never knew each other. We first talked on a double date, that we didn’t go on for each other (lol), but ended up falling for one another & have been inseparable ever since. I was 15, and he was 16.”
From teenage sparks to a proposal nearly a decade later, the two have been through it all. Wedding planning is now in full swing, and Jenna says it’s been a joy so far. “We have loved planning a wedding—combining all our favorite things! We are working with @sweetgrasssocial, and they have been a dream! So so lucky! We’re getting married in October 2025,” she shared.
When asked about her bachelorette party, she playfully admitted, “I have nooo clue! I need to call up my girls! Whatever we do, I know it will be fun!”
Burton’s fiancée also reflected on the unique camaraderie of having friends within the NASCAR community. “We are so blessed to have best friends in such a competitive industry. We always have each other’s backs and create so many fun memories on the road together. It’s easy to relate to each other’s successes and struggles, and it’s fun to relax together when everyone’s off. Wouldn’t have it any other way!”
Racing triumphs and shared dreams
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Harrison Burton’s NASCAR career has had its share of highs and lows, but nothing compares to his unforgettable win at Daytona in 2024. In a dramatic finish, Burton held off NASCAR superstar Kyle Busch, crossing the line first and finally earning his maiden Cup Series victory after 98 starts. The win was historic for Burton and Wood Brothers Racing, marking their 100th victory and securing Burton’s place in the playoffs.
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The moment was emotional for everyone involved, especially for Jenna Petty, who celebrated by his side. When asked how she felt watching Harrison’s Daytona triumph, she described the moment as “Unmatched!! Never wanted that moment to end.”
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For Burton, the win was bittersweet. As his time with Wood Brothers Racing concluded at the end of the 2024 season, he reflected on the victory: “I cried the whole victory lap. Obviously got fired from this job. I wanted to do everything I could for the Wood Brothers. To get them 100 [wins] on my way out… it’s amazing. We’re in the playoffs now!”
Throughout the rollercoaster of Harrison Burton’s career, Petty has been a steady source of support. Their shared life in NASCAR is more than just race days; it’s about the friendships, the road trips, and the memories they’ve built together.
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