High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Tom McEwen, (born 1937) is an American drag racer, who won the U.S. Nationals during part of his 45 year career. He is listed as number 16 of the 50 most significant drivers of NHRA’s first 50 years. He received the nickname "the Mongoose" in 1964 from engine builder Ed Donovan. It was largely originally used as a device to entice Don "the Snake" Prudhomme into a high-exposure match race. McEwen won only five NHRA national events during his 45-plus-year career, but McEwen’s gift for gab and promotional ability made him one of the sport`s most influential and controversial figures.