NHRA Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon made it a memorable double-win weekend by racing to the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory Monday at Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis.
Robert Hight (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also were winners at the world’s most prestigious race, the 18th of 24 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series events. It is the last race in the NHRA’s regular season and sets the stage for the six-race Mello Yello Countdown to the Championship playoffs which begins Sept. 13-15 at zMAX Dragway near Charlotte, N.C.
A day after winning the special $100,000 Traxxas Nitro Shootout, Langdon earned another $100,000 payday after powering his 8,000-horsepower Al-Anabi Racing dragster to a run of 3.818 seconds at 320.97 mph to beat Steve Torrence in the championship round for the second straight day.
With how special this event is and with the history behind the race, it was important for me to win this and I wanted it bad. – Shawn Langdon
Langdon, who earned a class-best fifth victory of the season and sixth of his career, also beat Pat Dakin, Terry McMillen and Doug Kalitta to reach the final round.
“This is the biggest race of the year by far and this team just did a phenomenal job,” said Langdon of his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory. “With how special this event is and with the history behind the race, it was important for me to win this and I wanted it bad. This team has given me a great car and it’s a dream opportunity.”
Torrence and Bob Vandergriff secured the final two positions in the Countdown to the Championship. Everyone will start out chasing Langdon, who has plenty of momentum on his side as he is seeking his first Top Fuel world championship title.
“Having a car like this gives you confidence and now it’s up to me to perform,” Langdon said. “We have a chance to contend and being part of this team is a great feeling. We want to keep the momentum going and keep working hard.”
Hight broke a 35-race winless streak and claimed his 28th career victory and second at Indy by beating Jack Beckman in the final round. Hight went 4.111 at 312.64 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang to earn the victory over Traxxas Nitro Shootout winner Beckman’s Valvoline/MTS Dodge Charger. The victory also gave John Force Racing its sixth consecutive Funny Car win at the tradition-rich Indy event.
“This is definitely the biggest win of my career,” Hight said. “We won four races in a row last year and then to go into that dry spell, you start wondering and doubting yourself, and that wears on you. (Crew chief) Mike Neff really changed things for me this weekend and this was the perfect time to get a win.”
A semifinal finish sent Tim Wilkerson into the Countdown to the Championship, and Del Worsham, who also fell in the semifinals, picked up a clutch second-round win against John Force to move him past Bob Tasca III into the No. 10 position. He will be one of nine drivers chasing points leader Matt Hagan when the Countdown to the Championship playoffs begin. That list includes Hight, who won the 2009 world championship.
“The competition in Funny Car just continues to get tougher,” Hight said. “We’re going to have to put together six good races and I think we’re going to have to win two of those six if we want to have a chance to win the championship.”
Pro Stock points leader Edwards earned his sixth season victory and 40th in his career by topping V Gaines on a holeshot in the final round to continue his banner season. Edwards posted a winning time of 6.637 at 208.39 in his Interstate Batteries/I Am Second Chevy Camaro, using a quicker reaction time to beat Gaines, who went 6.62 at 208.78 in his Kendall Oil Dodge Avenger. It was the second Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory for Edwards, who claimed his other Indy title 15 years ago in 1998.
“If you keep running well and keep giving yourself opportunities, that’s all you can ask for,” Edwards said. “It’s a tremendous feeling to win this race. That was some of the best racing in Pro Stock in a long time. It’s just anybody’s race out there and I’m just fortunate to get the win, especially doing it at the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals. It really feels good.”
It’s a tremendous feeling to win this race. That was some of the best racing in Pro Stock in a long time. – Mike Edwards
Edwards went as quick as 6.613 en route to the victory, beating Chris McGaha, defending world champion Allen Johnson and six-time Indy winner Greg Anderson to reach the championship round. Edwards will start the Countdown in the top position after dominating much of the regular season.
“I’m ready to start the Countdown,” Edwards said. “It’s going to be a battle and a fight, and it’s going to come down to what drive can perform the best. But I feel like with my car and my team that we’re capable of winning, and it’s going to be fun.”
In Pro Stock Motorcycle, John Hall picked up his second win of the season by beating teammate Matt Smith in the final round. Hall rode his Viper Motorcycle Company Buell to a winning time of 7.034 at 188.38 to knock off Smith, who finished in 7.065 at 189.66 on his Viper Motorcycle Company Buell. Hall beat defending world champion Eddie Krawiec, Michael Ray and L.E. Tonglet to set up the memorable matchup with Smith.
Securing the final four Countdown positions on Monday were Eddie Krawiec, rookie Adam Arana, Tonglet, who advanced to the semifinals to move from 11th into the ninth position, and Shawn Gann. Hector Arana Jr., who has a class-best four wins, will start the Countdown from the No. 1 position, though Hall takes plenty of momentum into the final six races of the season.
“We just went for it and I was lucky enough to get the win,” Hall said. “It felt great to get that second Wally and this is huge for Viper Motorcycles. Everybody out there is tough and you have to be on top of your game to win one of these.”
The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series continues Sept. 13-15 with the Carlyle Tools NHRA Carolina Nationals presented by NAPA Auto Parts at zMAX Dragway in Concord, N.C. It is also the first race in the Countdown to the Championship.
Mike Janis picked up his second career win in the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Series on Monday at the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis. The race is the seventh of 10 races in 2013 for NHRA’s popular 250-mph doorslammer touring series.
Janis also earned his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals win by powering his Valvoline Chevy Camaro past points leader Rickie Smith in the final round, denying Smith of his third straight victory in the series. Janis posted a winning run of 5.952 seconds at 241.41 mph in his supercharger-powered Camaro, topping Smith’s 5.955 at 241.37 in his nitrous-injected IDG Racing Camaro in the championship round.
Smith, who was also the No. 1 qualifier, maintained the points lead in the class, though Janis jumped from sixth to the third position with the winning performance.
Janis’ road to victory started with a round-best 5.976 at 241.15 in a first-round win against Jimmy Widener. He followed that up by going 5.976 at 242.23 to beat Kenny Lang and advanced to the final round by powering past Kevin Rivenbark with a 5.999 at 241.54.
Monday’s final results from the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway Park at Indianapolis. The race is the 18th of 24 in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series:
Top Fuel — Shawn Langdon, 3.818 seconds, 320.97 mph def. Steve Torrence, 3.907 seconds, 309.63 mph.
Funny Car — Robert Hight, Ford Mustang, 4.111, 312.64 def. Jack Beckman, Dodge Charger, 6.072, 111.46.
Pro Stock — Mike Edwards, Chevy Camaro, 6.637, 208.39 def. V. Gaines, Dodge Avenger, 6.620, 208.78.
Pro Stock Motorcycle — John Hall, Buell, 7.034, 188.38 def. Matt Smith, Buell, 7.065, 189.66.
Pro Modified — Mike Janis, Chevy Camaro, 5.952, 241.41 def. Rickie Smith, Camaro, 5.955, 241.37.
Top Alcohol Dragster — Jim Whiteley, 5.353, 268.81 def. Chris Demke, 5.375, 267.85.
Top Alcohol Funny Car — Frank Manzo, Chevy Monte Carlo, 5.562, 261.27 def. Annie Whiteley, Ford Mustang, 5.571, 257.78.
Competition Eliminator — Jason Coan, Bantam, 8.160, 157.15 def. Mike Farrell, Bantam, DQ.
Super Stock — Todd Frantz, Beretta, 9.675, 132.95 def. Jeff Dona, Firebird, 9.861, 132.76.
Stock Eliminator — Brad Plourd, Nova, 11.419, 113.25 def. Mike McGinley, Firebird, 11.563, 112.74.
Super Comp — Frank Kohutek, Dragster, 8.902, 165.92 def. Troy Stone, Dragster, foul.
Super Gas — Philip Smida II, Cavalier, 9.900, 139.79 def. Marlin Snyder, Opel GT, 9.893, 158.63.
Final round-by-round results from the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway Park at Indianapolis, the 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series:
TOP FUEL:
ROUND ONE — Billy Torrence, 3.820, 322.50 def. Spencer Massey, 3.970, 236.30; Shawn Langdon, 3.785, 324.44 def. Pat Dakin, 3.806, 317.34; Terry McMillen, 3.847, 319.52 def. Brittany Force, 3.906, 274.11; Morgan Lucas, 3.784, 320.28 def. Antron Brown, 3.825, 321.27; Clay Millican, 3.800, 321.88 def. Tony Schumacher, 3.835, 314.31; Steve Torrence, 3.775, 328.38 def. Tommy Johnson Jr., 3.939, 283.13; Khalid alBalooshi, 3.794, 320.05 def. David Grubnic, 3.787, 320.97; Doug Kalitta, 3.798, 322.42 def. Bob Vandergriff, 4.868, 146.43;
QUARTERFINALS — alBalooshi, 4.055, 279.67 def. Millican, 4.387, 197.80; Kalitta, 3.849, 320.89 def. Lucas, 9.170, 75.58; S. Torrence, 10.025, 69.91 def. B. Torrence, broke; Langdon, 3.847, 320.28 def. McMillen, 12.255, 55.11;
SEMIFINALS — S. Torrence, 3.870, 318.02 def. alBalooshi, 8.030, 73.38; Langdon, 3.822, 318.99 def. Kalitta, 3.848, 322.81;
FINAL — Langdon, 3.818, 320.97 def. S. Torrence, 3.907, 309.63.
FUNNY CAR:
ROUND ONE — Ron Capps, Dodge Charger, 4.062, 315.05 def. Alexis DeJoria, Toyota Camry, 4.036, 312.35; Johnny Gray, Charger, 4.060, 313.66 def. Tony Pedregon, Camry, 4.190, 275.96; Jeff Arend, Charger, 4.144, 307.86 def. Matt Hagan, Charger, 4.248, 307.79; Del Worsham, Camry, 4.054, 317.57 def. Courtney Force, Ford Mustang, 5.138, 167.78; Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 4.028, 315.86 def. Bob Tasca III, Mustang, 4.505, 199.23; John Force, Mustang, 4.062, 319.14 def. Paul Lee, Charger, foul; Robert Hight, Mustang, 4.054, 315.27 def. Cruz Pedregon, Camry, 5.650, 120.83; Jack Beckman, Charger, 4.019, 316.45 def. Chad Head, Camry, 4.129, 308.78;
QUARTERFINALS — Hight, 4.557, 273.44 def. Gray, 4.676, 210.21; Wilkerson, 4.155, 300.26 def. Capps, 4.405, 235.10; Beckman, 4.219, 285.71 def. Arend, 4.586, 244.21; Worsham, 4.135, 309.91 def. J. Force, 10.601, 73.27;
SEMIFINALS — Beckman, 4.110, 309.42 def. Wilkerson, 4.126, 305.84; Hight, 4.112, 313.15 def. Worsham, 4.182, 300.06;
FINAL — Hight, 4.111, 312.64 def. Beckman, 6.072, 111.46.
PRO STOCK:
ROUND ONE — Allen Johnson, Dodge Avenger, 6.646, 207.66 def. Mark Martino, Pontiac GXP, 6.721, 206.83; Jason Line, Chevy Camaro, 6.624, 208.68 def. Curt Steinbach, Camaro, 6.647, 206.86; Shane Gray, Camaro, 6.663, 207.85 def. Vincent Nobile, Avenger, foul; Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.624, 208.49 def. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.680, 206.04; V. Gaines, Avenger, 6.617, 208.65 def. Warren Johnson, GXP, 6.692, 205.66; Mike Edwards, Camaro, 6.613, 208.71 def. Chris McGaha, Avenger, 6.696, 205.94; Jeg Coughlin, Avenger, 6.638, 206.86 def. Rodger Brogdon, Camaro, 6.676, 206.20; Rickie Jones, Camaro, 6.664, 204.66 def. Larry Morgan, Ford Mustang, 6.696, 206.57;
QUARTERFINALS — Coughlin, 6.657, 206.80 def. Gray, 15.224, 67.74; Anderson, 6.673, 208.14 def. Jones, 8.027, 125.03; Gaines, 6.625, 208.65 def. Line, 6.644, 207.50; Edwards, 6.640, 208.17 def. A. Johnson, 6.631, 208.62;
SEMIFINALS — Edwards, 6.640, 207.46 def. Anderson, 6.640, 208.36; Gaines, 6.637, 208.36 def. Coughlin, 6.640, 206.83;
FINAL — Edwards, 6.637, 208.39 def. Gaines, 6.620, 208.78.
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE:
ROUND ONE — Matt Smith, Buell, 6.994, 190.00 def. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.034, 188.70; Michael Ray, Buell, 7.119, 184.65 def. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, foul; Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.986, 191.67 def. Shawn Gann, Buell, 7.081, 187.60; Scotty Pollacheck, Buell, 7.005, 187.70 def. Mike Berry, Buell, 7.008, 189.79; LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 6.956, 191.00 def. Dawn Minturn, Buell, 7.052, 186.54; Hector Arana, Buell, 6.948, 194.16 def. Adam Arana, Buell, 7.002, 188.04; John Hall, Buell, 6.977, 188.62 def. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 7.011, 189.73; Hector Arana Jr, Buell, 6.982, 191.46 def. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.049, 188.65;
QUARTERFINALS — Pollacheck, 7.032, 186.82 def. Savoie, 7.027, 190.70; Hall, 7.156, 186.25 def. Ray, 7.116, 186.82; Tonglet, 6.997, 188.75 def. Arana Jr, 7.015, 191.05; M. Smith, 6.992, 191.00 def. H. Arana, 7.001, 192.77;
SEMIFINALS — Hall, 7.006, 190.24 def. Tonglet, 7.256, 188.12; M. Smith, 7.018, 190.54 def. Pollacheck, 7.019, 189.92;
FINAL — Hall, 7.034, 188.38 def. M. Smith, 7.065, 189.66.
PRO MODIFIED:
ROUND ONE — Von Smith, Chevy Camaro, 6.023, 237.80 def. Mike Castellana, Camaro, 6.064, 240.51; Kenny Lang, Chevy Corvette, 6.003, 240.72 def. Pete Farber, Dodge Daytona, 6.045, 241.37; Troy Coughlin, Corvette, 5.977, 244.43 def. Tim Tindle, Camaro, DQ; Kevin Rivenbark, Pontiac Firebird, 6.033, 234.74 def. Mike Knowles, Camaro, 6.005, 241.58; Kevin Fiscus, Ford Mustang, 5.977, 240.98 def. Eric Latino, Camaro, 10.993, 78.92; Harold Martin, Corvette, 6.034, 230.80 def. Danny Rowe, Camaro, 9.947, 101.55; Mike Janis, Camaro, 5.976, 241.15 def. Jimmy Widener, Mercury Cougar, 6.078, 232.43; Rickie Smith, Camaro, 6.199, 229.86 def. Jason Hamstra, Mustang, 21.838, 34.26;
QUARTERFINALS — R. Smith, 5.967, 240.08 def. V. Smith, 6.052, 236.55; Coughlin, 6.043, 243.63 def. Fiscus, 6.218, 240.08; Janis, 5.976, 242.23 def. Lang, 5.983, 241.63; Rivenbark, 6.085, 233.40 def. Martin, 6.053, 236.13;
SEMIFINALS — Janis, 5.999, 241.54 def. Rivenbark, 7.793, 118.21; R. Smith, 5.948, 240.72 def. Coughlin, 5.951, 247.02;
FINAL — Janis, 5.952, 241.41 def. R. Smith, 5.955, 241.37.
Welcome to day five of the marathon NHRA U.S. Nationals! Today’s schedule will be a busy one, with the Traxxas Nitro Shootout’s for both the Top Fuel and Funny Car racers on tap, as well as final qualifying for all of the Mello Yello Series professional eliminators and Pro Modified. We’ll be kicking off the third session at 11 a.m. local time this morning under slightly cooler conditions that we’ve seen thus far, which should translate to some moving and shaking on the qualifying sheets.
As always, a special thanks to the presenting sponsor of our same day event coverage, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels!
Shawn Langdon and Jack Beckman raced to thrilling $100,000 Traxxas Nitro Shootout victories in their respective categories Sunday at the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals and both drivers will carry that momentum into Monday’s 11 a.m. eliminations as they are each chasing their first victories in the world’s most prestigious drag race.
Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle) will lead their categories as No. 1 qualifiers at the world’s most prestigious drag race, the 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series.
Top Fuel Points leader Langdon won the rain-delayed Traxxas Nitro Shootout in Top Fuel, knocking off Steve Torrence in the final round. Langdon beat Brown to reach the championship round, furthering the momentum for his Al-Anabi Racing team, which has claimed four victories this season.
“This was eight of the best cars battling it out for $100,000 and to win it here at Indy, it’s just a great feeling,” Langdon said. “The only way you could top this is to win (Monday) and then win a world championship. The team is working hard, having a good team and the car is running excellent, so it’s all good vibes right now.”
Defending world champion Beckman won the $100,000 Traxxas Nitro Shootout prize in Funny Car with an explosive final round victory against Cruz Pedregon. Beckman used a holeshot start in his Valvoline/MTS Dodge Charger and powered to a performance of 4.086 at 310.77 before a spectacular engine explosion launched the body off Beckman’s car at the finish line. Beckman, who defeated Ron Capps and Courtney Force to reach the final round of the eight-car field, was uninjured and he talked about the magnitude of the Traxxas Nitro Shootout victory.
“We’re the only car with the chance of doubling up at Indy and you have to like that,” Beckman said. “It’s a fairly surreal experience and the fact that we haven’t won anything this year makes it that much bigger. This just feels fantastic and truly is amazing. It’s one of those events that years from now you will always remember.”
The final qualifying fields were set for the Big Go, and defending NHRA Top Fuel world champion Brown went from the last qualifying spot to the No. 1 position with a thrilling run on his final attempt.
Brown, who was the No. 16 qualifier just moments before his final qualifying run, powered his Matco Tools dragster to a leading performance of 3.811 seconds at 320.58 mph. Brown, the 2011 winner here, earned his second No. 1 qualifying position of the season and 34th of his career. He will match up against Morgan Lucas in the first round of eliminations.
“It was a struggle for everybody on our team and we really had nothing to lose going into that run,” Brown said. “We weren’t scared, we got after it and we stepped up to the plate. This class has some big-name players and you can’t be afraid to go after things. We had been tip-toeing it and you can’t do that. Racing Morgan in the first round is like a final round matchup and we have to be ready and prepared to get the job done.”
Nine-time Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals winner Tony Schumacher, who wasn’t qualified before his final run, jumped all the way to No. 1 with a 3.814 at 319.82 in his U.S. Army dragster on his final pass before his teammate unseated him. Schumacher will start from the No. 2 position and Torrence will start third in his Capco Contractors dragster after posting a 3.815 at 325.61.
Hagan stayed atop the field in Funny Car in his Magneti Marelli/Rocky Boots Dodge Charger with his track-record run of 4.007 at 319.22 mph from Friday. That gives Hagan, the Funny Car points leader, his fourth No. 1 qualifier of the season and 14th of his career. Hagan also clinched the No. 1 position for the Countdown to the Championship.
“We missed out on winning that Traxxas Shootout so I guess you can’t have it all, but it’s up to us to go out and try to win (Monday),” said Hagan, who is also seeking his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals win. “We’ve got a consistent car that’s doing down the track and that’s where you want to be this time of year. We want to make sure we do that again (Monday).”
Johnny Gray claimed the No. 2 qualifying position with a run of 4.012 at 312.13 in his Pitch Energy Dodge Charger. Del Worsham, who is currently 11th in the points standings and 27 points behind 10th place Robert Hight, qualified third with a 4.045 at 313.15 in his DHL Toyota Camry.
Pro Stock points leader Edwards jumped to the No. 1 qualifying position on Saturday by taking his Interstate Batteries/I Am Second Chevy Camaro to the top of the order with a run of 6.621 at 208.20. It is Edwards’ 13th No. 1 qualifier this season, putting him closer to the class record of 16 he shares with Greg Anderson, and 54th of his career. Edwards will face off with Chris McGaha in the opening round of eliminations.
“We made a really good run at the right time, and the conditions were the best we had all weekend,” Edwards said. “The car was just phenomenal today and we were low both sessions. It was just a really good day and hopefully it carries over to (Monday). I don’t care what class it is, winning here is the ultimate goal for everybody.”
V. Gaines also made a big jump in his Kendall Oil Dodge Avenger, moving to second after a pass of 6.637 at 208.59. Jeg Coughlin qualified third after powering his JEGS.com/Mopar Dodge Avenger to a time of 6.637 at 206.99.
Arana maintained the top spot in Pro Stock Motorcycle, going 6.938 at 193.88 on his Lucas Oil Products Buell. It gives Arana his first No. 1 qualifier of the season and 23rd of his career, and also his first No. 1 qualifier at Indy. He will meet his son, rookie Adam Arana, in the first round of eliminations, but remains focused on his second career Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory.
“It’s definitely a little bittersweet racing your own son in the first round, but by the same I token I want to win just like he wants to win,” Arana said. “We’ll see what happens. I’m going out there to win and that’s how I’ll always play. I just need to stay consistent like I have been during qualifying. My only focus is doing my job and doing everything I can to win.”
Ten other riders joined Arana in the six-second zone, as defending world champion Eddie Krawiec qualified second on his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson after going 6.948 at 190.89. L.E. Tonglet took his Nitro Fish Suzuki to the third spot with a pass of 6.966 at 191.38. Tonglet currently trails Steve Johnson by 30 points for the 10th and final spot in the Countdown to the Championship.
BROWNSBURG, Ind. — Monday’s first-round pairings for eliminations for the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway Park at Indianapolis, the 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Pairings based on results in qualifying, which ended Sunday.
DNQs listed below pairings.
Top Fuel — 1. Antron Brown, 3.811 seconds, 320.58 mph vs. 16. Morgan Lucas, 3.878, 313.80; 2.Tony Schumacher, 3.814, 319.82 vs. 15. Clay Millican, 3.852, 319.07; 3. Steve Torrence, 3.815, 325.61 vs. 14. Tommy Johnson Jr., 3.845, 319.22; 4. Brittany Force, 3.820, 313.44 vs. 13. Terry McMillen, 3.843, 320.28; 5. Shawn Langdon, 3.821, 322.34 vs. 12. Pat Dakin, 3.842, 313.37; 6. Billy Torrence, 3.823, 324.36 vs. 11. Spencer Massey, 3.837, 316.38; 7. David Grubnic, 3.824,321.04 vs. 10. Khalid alBalooshi, 3.832, 319.60; 8. Doug Kalitta, 3.829, 324.28 vs. 9. Bob Vandergriff, 3.831, 320.74.
Did Not Qualify: 17. Sidnei Frigo, 3.897, 307.51; 18. T.J. Zizzo, 3.908, 306.33; 19. Brandon Bernstein, 3.909, 315.27; 20. J.R. Todd, 3.922, 308.57; 21. Chris Karamesines, 3.976, 305.91; 22. Cory McClenathan, 4.027, 288.83; 23. Leah Pruett, 4.042, 303.64; 24. Damien Harris, 4.043, 292.08; 25. Bruce Litton, 4.165, 239.53.
Funny Car — 1. Matt Hagan, Dodge Charger, 4.007, 319.22 vs. 16. Jeff Arend, Charger, 4.138, 306.12; 2. Johnny Gray, Charger, 4.012, 312.13 vs. 15. Tony Pedregon, Toyota Camry, 4.091, 306.26; 3. Del Worsham, Camry, 4.045, 313.15 vs. 14. Courtney Force, Ford Mustang, 4.088, 316.30; 4. Bob Tasca III, Mustang, 4.046, 313.88 vs. 13. Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 4.086, 312.50; 5. Ron Capps, Charger, 4.049, 315.27 vs. 12. Alexis DeJoria, Camry, 4.081, 309.77; 6. John Force, Mustang, 4.052, 313.58 vs. 11. Paul Lee, Charger, 4.072, 297.61; 7. Robert Hight, Mustang, 4.056, 313.29 vs. 10. Cruz Pedregon, Camry, 4.068, 309.06; 8. Jack Beckman, Charger, 4.062, 310.55 vs. 9. Chad Head, Camry, 4.064, 308.35.
Did Not Qualify: 17. Blake Alexander, 4.191, 296.50; 18. Bob Bode, 4.357, 282.24.
Pro Stock — 1. Mike Edwards, Chevy Camaro, 6.621, 208.20 vs. 16. Chris McGaha, Dodge Avenger, 6.706, 206.45; 2. V. Gaines, Avenger, 6.637, 208.59 vs. 15. Warren Johnson, Pontiac GXP, 6.696, 206.70; 3. Jeg Coughlin, Avenger, 6.637, 206.99 vs. 14. Rodger Brogdon, Camaro, 6.689, 206.61; 4. Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.640, 208.10 vs. 13. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.689, 206.39; 5. Rickie Jones, Camaro, 6.644, 207.85 vs. 12. Larry Morgan, Ford Mustang, 6.676, 206.76; 6. Shane Gray, Camaro, 6.644, 207.85 vs. 11. Vincent Nobile, Avenger, 6.674, 206.95; 7. Jason Line, Camaro, 6.645, 208.33 vs. 10. Curt Steinbach, Camaro, 6.661, 206.07; 8. Allen Johnson, Avenger, 6.646, 207.88 vs. 9. Mark Martino, GXP, 6.661, 207.72.
Did Not Qualify: 17. Steve Kent, 6.710, 206.35; 18. Kurt Johnson, 6.716, 207.24; 19. Matt Hartford, 6.721, 205.91; 20. Lewis Worden, 6.724, 205.26; 21. Paul Pittman, 6.781, 203.92; 22. Dave River, 6.881, 201.43; 23. John Gaydosh Jr, 6.895, 199.58.
Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Hector Arana, Buell, 6.938, 193.88 vs. 16. Adam Arana, Buell, 7.025, 191.40; 2. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 6.948, 190.89 vs. 15. John Hall, Buell, 7.022, 189.84; 3. LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 6.966, 191.38 vs. 14. Dawn Minturn, Buell, 7.012, 190.08; 4. Scotty Pollacheck, Buell, 6.970, 191.43 vs. 13. Mike Berry, Buell, 7.008, 190.78; 5. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.980, 191.70 vs. 12. Shawn Gann, Buell, 7.007, 190.51; 6. Hector Arana Jr, Buell, 6.981, 192.69 vs. 11. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 6.999, 191.76; 7. Michael Ray, Buell, 6.983, 192.36 vs. 10. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 6.991, 192.06; 8. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 6.984, 190.62 vs. 9. Matt Smith, Buell, 6.989, 193.49.
Did Not Qualify: 17. Angie Smith, 7.033, 191.16; 18. Karen Stoffer, 7.042, 190.27; 19. Jim Underdahl, 7.055, 190.59; 20. Freddie Camarena, 7.145, 187.05; 21. Joe DeSantis, 7.216, 184.83; 22. Wesley Wells, 7.224, 185.87; 23. Redell Harris, 7.292, 183.44.
BROWNSBURG, Ind. — Sunday’s final results from the Second annual NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootout for Top Fuel at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis.
Top Fuel — Shawn Langdon, 3.821 seconds, 320.05 mph def. Steve Torrence, 3.828 seconds, 323.04 mph.
Funny Car — Jack Beckman, Dodge Charger, 4.086, 310.77 def. Cruz Pedregon, Toyota Camry, 4.066, 308.35.
It’s day four of the NHRA U.S. Nationals and the second day of professional qualifying, which will also include the $100,000 to win Traxxas Nitro Shootout for Top Fuel contestants. The second session of qualifying and the opening round of the Shootout will roll off this afternoon, with the final round under the lights this evening.
As always, a special thanks to the presenting sponsor of our same day event coverage, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels!
NHRA Funny Car points leader Matt Hagan shattered both ends of the track record and took over the qualifying lead Saturday at the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis.
Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Allen Johnson (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also were qualifying leaders at the world’s most prestigious drag race, the 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Series.
Rain wiped away Saturday’s second qualifying session as competitors made one qualifying run for the second straight day. The final two qualifying sessions are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Eliminations are set for Monday at 11 a.m.
Rain showers also moved the final two rounds of the Traxxas Nitro Shootout for Top Fuel to Sunday and they will now take place at the start of Top Fuel’s regularly scheduled qualifying times. The Traxxas Nitro Shootout for Funny Car will take place during its regularly scheduled time on Sunday.
After the three-hour rain delay, Hagan powered his 8,000-horsepower Magneti Marelli/Rocky Boots Dodge Charger to a leading performance of 4.007 seconds at 319.22 mph in considerably cooler conditions. Hagan, who has four wins in 2013, would gain his fourth No. 1 qualifier of 2013 and 14th of his career if the run holds. The 2011 Funny Car world champion is also seeking his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory.
“It was an incredible run and it was an awesome deal to be able to do that at Indy,” Hagan said. “It was worth the wait for us. It’s just been a phenomenal year and it was cool to see the fans so pumped after that. My team does an amazing job and I’m so glad we could set the track record here.”
Johnny Gray went 4.012 at 312.13 in his Pitch Energy Dodge Charger to take over the second spot while Del Worsham jumped to third after he powered his DHL Toyota Camry to a 4.045 at 313.15. Worsham is currently 11th in the points standings and trails Robert Hight by 30 points for the 10th and final spot in the Countdown to the Championship.
Hagan will meet Tim Wilkerson in the first round of the $100,000 Traxxas Nitro Shootout on Sunday.
“What an awesome car Dickie (Venables, crew chief) gave us and we’re really fired up for the Traxxas Shootout (Sunday),” Hagan said. “It’s going to take a really good car to beat us right now.”
In the first round of the Top Fuel Traxxas Nitro Shootout, top seed Shawn Langdon squeezed out a holeshot victory over Brittany Force, running 3.874 at 316.60 in his Al-Anabi Racing dragster. He will meet Antron Brown in the semifinals after the defending world champion knocked off Langdon’s Al-Anabi teammate Khalid alBalooshi with a 3.985 at 301.67 in his Matco Tools dragster.
Spencer Massey went 3.931 at 311.77 in his Battery Extender/Schumacher Electric to set up a semifinal matchup with Steve Torrence in a rematch of the 2012 Traxxas Nitro Shootout final. Torrence powered his Capco Contractors dragster past Tony Schumacher dragster with a run of 3.878 at 316.82.
“To run that 3.87, that’s exactly what we were trying to do,” Langdon said. “We knew we couldn’t take Brittany lightly. We had to race our race but also know we were going up against a fast car. I heard her the entire way down the track and it was a great first-round race, so we were fortunate to get the win. We’re going to be in pressure situations from here on out, so we have to have our ‘A’ game.”
Despite the razor-thin first-round loss in the Traxxas Nitro Shootout, Force remained the No. 1 qualifier in Top Fuel with her performance of 3.820 at 313.44 in her Castrol Edge dragster from Friday. If it holds through Sunday, rookie driver Force, the daughter of NHRA Funny Car icon John Force, would gain the first No. 1 qualifying position of her career.
Doug Kalitta and his Mac Tools dragster jumped to the second position after powering his way to a 3.829 at 320.81. Massey is third with a 3.837 at 316.38.
Nobody could match Johnson’s top qualifying time of 661 at 207.02 from Friday in Pro Stock, keeping the defending world champion in the No. 1 position in his Team Mopar Dodge Avenger. Johnson, who is looking for his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals win, would claim his third No. 1 qualifier of the season and 31st of his career if it holds on Sunday.
Shane Gray stayed qualified second in his Gray Motorsports Chevy Camaro after going 6.665 at 207.78 on Friday. Points leader and five-time 2013 winner Mike Edwards remained third in his Interstate Batteries/I Am Second Camaro with his run of 6.669 at 206.70.
Arana was the only Pro Stock Motorcycle rider to reach the 6-second zone, going 6.968 at 192.80 on his Lucas Oil Products Buell. If it holds, it would be the first No. 1 qualifier of the season for Arana and 23rd of his career.
“We didn’t know what to expect because of the heat and we didn’t think it would be that fast,” Arana said. “But we stayed calm and made a great run. I was happy and jumping up and down. I’ve been struggling for a little bit and I needed a run like that to get my confidence back.”
Matt Smith, who ran a 7.010 at 192 on his Viper Motorcycle Company Racing Buell on Friday, was bumped to second. Steve Johnson is currently third with a 7.017 at 190.65 on his Suzuki while Shawn Gann moved to fourth after going 7.020 at 189.71 on his Pirana Z Racing Buell.
Saturday’s results after the first two of four rounds of qualifying for the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway Park at Indianapolis, 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Sunday for Monday’s final eliminations.
Top Fuel — 1. Brittany Force, 3.820 seconds, 313.44 mph; 2. Doug Kalitta, 3.829, 320.81; 3. Spencer Massey, 3.837, 316.38; 4. Tommy Johnson Jr., 3.845, 319.22; 5. Bob Vandergriff, 3.848, 304.39; 6. Terry McMillen, 3.863, 319.22; 7. Shawn Langdon, 3.874, 316.60; 8. David Grubnic, 3.876, 318.47; 9. Steve Torrence, 3.878, 316.82; 10. Pat Dakin, 3.889, 273.94; 11. Tony Schumacher, 3.904, 316.90; 12. Billy Torrence, 3.924, 309.84.
Not Qualified: 13. Damien Harris, 3.944, 292.08; 14. T.J. Zizzo, 3.949, 305.56; 15. Antron Brown, 3.985, 301.67; 16. Leah Pruett, 3.991, 303.64; 17. Chris Karamesines, 4.021, 295.98; 18. Khalid alBalooshi, 4.272, 197.80; 19. Bruce Litton, 4.438, 183.59; 20. Clay Millican, 4.551, 171.66; 21. J.R. Todd, 4.688, 163.31; 22. Sidnei Frigo, 4.963, 151.39; 23. Brandon Bernstein, 5.106, 138.87; 24. Morgan Lucas, 5.609, 125.99; 25. Cory McClenathan, 5.619, 120.61.
Funny Car — 1. Matt Hagan, Dodge Charger, 4.007, 319.22; 2. Johnny Gray, Charger, 4.012, 312.13; 3. Del Worsham, Toyota Camry, 4.045, 313.15; 4. Bob Tasca III, Ford Mustang, 4.046, 313.88; 5. Ron Capps, Charger, 4.049, 315.27; 6. Robert Hight, Mustang, 4.056, 310.91; 7. Chad Head, Camry, 4.064, 308.35; 8. Paul Lee, Charger, 4.072, 297.61; 9. John Force, Mustang, 4.087, 309.70; 10. Cruz Pedregon, Camry, 4.087, 300.13; 11. Courtney Force, Mustang, 4.088, 316.30; 12. Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 4.130, 304.80.
Not Qualified: 13. Jack Beckman, 4.145, 306.53; 14. Blake Alexander, 4.214, 296.50; 15. Tony Pedregon, 4.509, 198.20; 16. Bob Bode, 4.517, 196.99; 17. Alexis DeJoria, 6.847, 97.91; 18. Jeff Arend, 8.712, 67.80.
Pro Stock — 1. Allen Johnson, Dodge Avenger, 6.661, 207.02; 2. Shane Gray, Chevy Camaro, 6.665, 207.78; 3. Mike Edwards, Camaro, 6.669, 206.70; 4. Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.675, 206.80; 5. V. Gaines, Avenger, 6.676, 207.98; 6. Jason Line, Camaro, 6.688, 207.59; 7. Jeg Coughlin, Avenger, 6.688, 206.07; 8. Rickie Jones, Camaro, 6.694, 207.11; 9. Vincent Nobile, Avenger, 6.698, 206.45; 10. Mark Martino, Pontiac GXP, 6.712, 206.45; 11. Larry Morgan, Ford Mustang, 6.712, 205.88; 12. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.714, 205.22.
Not Qualified: 13. Kurt Johnson, 6.716, 206.23; 14. Curt Steinbach, 6.731, 206.07; 15. Warren Johnson, 6.747, 205.41; 16. Matt Hartford, 6.748, 205.41; 17. Rodger Brogdon, 6.760, 205.07; 18. Steve Kent, 6.777, 205.22; 19. Lewis Worden, 6.781, 204.51; 20. Paul Pittman, 6.866, 202.21; 21. Dave River, 6.909, 200.65; 22. John Gaydosh Jr, 6.993, 197.16; 23. Chris McGaha, 13.202, 65.79.
Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Hector Arana, Buell, 6.968, 192.96; 2. Matt Smith, Buell, 7.010, 192.00; 3. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.017, 190.65; 4. Shawn Gann, Buell, 7.020, 189.71; 5. John Hall, Buell, 7.022, 189.79; 6. Adam Arana, Buell, 7.025, 190.73; 7. Hector Arana Jr, Buell, 7.029, 191.40; 8. Michael Ray, Buell, 7.032, 190.59; 9. Angie Smith, Buell, 7.033, 189.50; 10. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 7.037, 190.48; 11. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 7.039, 189.60; 12. LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 7.048, 190.32.
Not Qualified: 13. Dawn Minturn, 7.061, 188.49; 14. Mike Berry, 7.064, 189.15; 15. Karen Stoffer, 7.071, 190.27; 16. Craig Treble, 7.093, 189.52; 17. Jim Underdahl, 7.106, 190.59; 18. Scotty Pollacheck, 7.154, 187.39; 19. Andrew Hines, 7.157, 187.68; 20. Freddie Camarena, 7.219, 186.15; 21. Wesley Wells, 7.236, 185.87; 22. Joe DeSantis, 7.244, 184.22; 23. Redell Harris, 7.396, 180.40.
With Labor Day weekend upon, it’s time once again for “the grandaddy of them all” as the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series converges on the hallowed grounds of the Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis for the 59th running of the Chevrolet Performance NHRA U.S. Nationals!
As always, a special thanks to the presenting sponsor of our same day event coverage, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels!
Courtesy of NHRA Communications:
Friday’s results after the first one of five rounds of qualifying for the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway Park at Indianapolis, 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Monday’s final eliminations.
Top Fuel — 1. Brittany Force, 3.820 seconds, 313.44 mph; 2. Spencer Massey, 3.837, 316.38; 3. Doug Kalitta, 3.841, 311.13; 4. Tommy Johnson Jr., 3.845, 319.22; 5. Bob Vandergriff, 3.848, 304.39; 6.Terry McMillen, 3.863, 319.22; 7. Pat Dakin, 3.889, 273.94; 8. Billy Torrence, 3.924, 309.84; 9.Chris Karamesines, 4.021, 295.98; 10. Damien Harris, 4.142, 226.20; 11. Khalid alBalooshi, 4.272, 197.80; 12. Bruce Litton, 4.438, 183.59.
Not Qualified: 13. Clay Millican, 4.551, 171.66; 14. Shawn Langdon, 4.741, 156.06; 15. Antron Brown, 4.806, 155.60; 16. J.R. Todd, 4.863, 152.73; 17. T.J. Zizzo, 4.916, 147.12; 18. Sidnei Frigo, 4.963, 151.39; 19. Tony Schumacher, 5.062, 138.80; 20. David Grubnic, 5.153, 133.25; 21. Brandon Bernstein, 5.244, 130.42; 22. Leah Pruett, 5.324, 127.85; 23. Morgan Lucas, 5.682, 124.02; 24. Steve Torrence, 6.006, 105.14; 25. Cory McClenathan, 7.871, 76.00.
Funny Car — 1. Bob Tasca III, Ford Mustang, 4.085, 312.28; 2. John Force, Mustang, 4.087, 309.70; 3. Courtney Force, Mustang, 4.088, 316.30; 4. Cruz Pedregon, Toyota Camry, 4.089, 300.13; 5. Matt Hagan, Dodge Charger, 4.102, 311.63; 6. Del Worsham, Camry, 4.108, 300.00; 7. Johnny Gray, Charger, 4.122, 307.44; 8. Chad Head, Camry, 4.128, 307.51; 9. Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 4.130, 304.80; 10. Jack Beckman, Charger, 4.145, 306.53; 11. Ron Capps, Charger, 4.151, 304.60; 12. Robert Hight, Mustang, 4.166, 300.20.
Not Qualified: 13. Bob Bode, 4.517, 196.99; 14. Paul Lee, 5.517, 129.35; 15. Tony Pedregon, 6.595, 96.76; 16. Alexis DeJoria, 6.847, 97.91; 17. Blake Alexander, 7.072, 87.75; 18. Jeff Arend, 8.712, 67.80.
Pro Stock — 1. Allen Johnson, Dodge Avenger, 6.661, 207.02; 2. Shane Gray, Chevy Camaro, 6.665, 207.78; 3. Mike Edwards, Camaro, 6.669, 206.70; 4. Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.675, 206.80; 5. V.
Gaines, Avenger, 6.676, 207.98; 6. Jason Line, Camaro, 6.688, 207.59; 7. Jeg Coughlin, Avenger, 6.688, 206.07; 8. Rickie Jones, Camaro, 6.694, 207.11; 9. Vincent Nobile, Avenger, 6.698, 206.45; 10. Mark Martino, Pontiac GXP, 6.712, 206.45; 11. Larry Morgan, Ford Mustang, 6.712, 205.88; 12. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.714, 205.22.
Not Qualified: 13. Kurt Johnson, 6.716, 206.23; 14. Curt Steinbach, 6.747, 206.07; 15. Warren Johnson, 6.747, 205.41; 16. Matt Hartford, 6.748, 205.41; 17. Steve Kent, 6.777, 205.22; 18. Lewis Worden, 6.781, 204.51; 19. Paul Pittman, 6.866, 202.21; 20. Dave River, 6.909, 200.65; 21. Rodger Brogdon, 7.022, 164.97; 22. John Gaydosh Jr, 7.048, 193.82; 23. Chris McGaha, 15.546, 52.11.
Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Matt Smith, Buell, 7.010, 192.00; 2. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.017, 190.65; 3. John Hall, Buell, 7.029, 189.79; 4. Hector Arana, Buell, 7.034, 192.96; 5. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 7.039, 189.60; 6. LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 7.054, 190.32; 7. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 7.056, 189.39; 8. Dawn Minturn, Suzuki, 7.061, 188.49; 9. Michael Ray, Buell, 7.065, 189.52; 10. Shawn Gann, Buell, 7.065, 188.31; 11. Angie Smith, Buell, 7.068, 189.07; 12. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.071, 189.90.
Not Qualified: 13. Jim Underdahl, 7.106, 189.15; 14. Craig Treble, 7.112, 188.89; 15. Adam Arana, 7.133, 190.73; 16. Scotty Pollacheck, 7.154, 187.39; 17. Andrew Hines, 7.157, 187.68; 18. Mike Berry, 7.189, 188.10; 19. Wesley Wells, 7.236, 185.87; 20. Joe DeSantis, 7.244, 184.22; 21. Freddie Camarena, 7.319, 185.56; 22. Redell Harris, 7.810, 166.09.
Pro Modified — 1. Rickie Smith, Chevy Camaro, 6.042, 240.51; 2. Von Smith, Camaro, 6.061, 236.75; 3. Eric Latino, Camaro, 6.086, 240.08; 4. Mike Janis, Camaro, 6.087, 238.09; 5. Mike Knowles, Camaro, 6.093, 240.72; 6. Tim Tindle, Camaro, 6.093, 203.83; 7. Troy Coughlin, Chevy Corvette, 6.151, 242.67; 8. Kevin Fiscus, Ford Mustang, 6.163, 239.14; 9. Mike Castellana, Camaro, 6.183, 237.42; 10. Kevin Rivenbark, Pontiac Firebird, 6.184, 230.84; 11. Chip King, Dodge Daytona, 6.206, 241.71; 12. Kenny Lang, Corvette, 6.225, 236.17; 13. Chris Juliano, Mustang, 6.261, 222.99; 14. Jason Hamstra, Mustang, 6.263, 231.40; 15. Steve Matusek, Mustang, 6.315, 225.56; 16. Jimmy Widener, Mercury Cougar, 6.324, 225.94.
Not Qualified: 17. Doug Winters, 6.325, 222.66; 18. Craig Cawte, 6.337, 228.31; 19. Harold Martin, 6.595, 218.19; 20. Bill Lutz, 6.734, 153.02; 21. Todd Tutterow, 6.931, 159.66; 22. Clint Satterfield, 8.237, 170.56; 23. Pete Farber, 11.220, 95.09; 24. Danny Rowe, 12.170, 83.55.
Brittany Force continued to show rapid improvement in her rookie season by racing to the qualifying lead in Top Fuel Friday at the 59th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis.
Bob Tasca III (Funny Car), Allen Johnson (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also were qualifying leaders at the world’s most prestigious drag race, the 18th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Series.
I’m so excited and we’re definitely feeling good right now. – Brittany Force
Force, the daughter of NHRA Funny Car icon John Force, powered her 8,000-horsepower Castrol Edge dragster to a leading performance of 3.820 seconds at 313.44 mph. If Force’s performance holds, it would be her first career No. 1 qualifying position. Force’s sister Courtney earned her first No. 1 qualifying position in Funny Car a year ago during her rookie season at the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals.
Qualifying for the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series event continues Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations are set for Monday at 11 a.m. The Traxxas Nitro Shootout in Top Fuel also takes place on Saturday, with the Funny Car Traxxas Nitro Shootout slated for Sunday.
“I’m so excited and we’re definitely feeling good right now,” said Force, who will meet points leader Shawn Langdon in the first round of the Traxxas Shootout on Saturday. “My guys have worked so hard and we’ve certainly struggled and a had a lot of ups and downs this year, but to get this first (provisional) No. 1 I’m so excited about it.”
Spencer Massey, currently second in points and the defending Traxxas Nitro Shootout winner, went to second with a 3.837 at 316.38 in his Battery Extender/Schumacher Electric dragster. Doug Kalitta’s 3.841 at 311.13 in his Mac Tools dragster put him in the third position.
“It’s our rookie season, but we’re fighting to get that first win and hopefully we can do it at the biggest race of the year,” Force said. “It’s tough to stay motivated when you’re struggling, but the guys are working hard, we’ve gotten a lot of support and it’s starting to pay off.”
Tasca paced the Funny Car category with a 4.085 at 312.28 in his 8,000-horsepower Motorcraft/Quick Lane Shelby Ford Mustang. Tasca, who is seeking his first win of 2013, will claim his first No. 1 qualifier of the year and fourth in his career if the run holds. The strong pass also helped Tasca’s chances for the Countdown to the Championship. Tasca, who is seeking his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory, is currently ninth in points.
“The car did exactly what we wanted today and that was great to see,” Tasca said. “Getting those three bonus points for making the best run that session was big. We want to keep getting those throughout the weekend, but that run also gives us some freedom to take a big swing at it (Saturday).”
John Force took his Castrol GTX Mustang to the second spot with a 4.087 at 309.70 while his daughter Courtney powered to the third spot with a 4.088 at 316.30 in her Traxxas Mustang. Cruz Pedregon’s 4.089 at 300.13 in his Snap-on Toyota Camry was the only other Funny Car to dip into the 4.0-zone on Friday.
“I don’t think that number is going to stick, so we’re definitely going to have to step up,” Tasca said. “But we’ve got a car that is capable of running three seconds and it’s also able to go down a hot, sticky track and I’ve never had a car like that. I’m having fun and we go to every race to win. That’s what it takes to be a championship contender and I’ve never had a team or a car as good as this.”
In Pro Stock, defending world champ Johnson took command during the lone qualifying session on Friday, running 6.661 at 207.02 in his Team Mopar Dodge Avenger. If it holds, it would be the third No. 1 qualifying position this season and 31st of his career. Johnson is seeking his first Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals victory and is currently second in points.
“We definitely made the perfect run in the first session in these conditions,” Johnson said. “We’ve got a really good set-up for these conditions and it just absolutely made a perfect run. It didn’t have much left in it.”
Shane Gray is currently qualified second in his Gray Motorsports Chevy Camaro after going 6.665 at 207.78. Points leader and five-time 2013 winner Mike Edwards took his Interstate Batteries/I Am Second Camaro to third after his run of 6.669 at 209.60. With his qualifying pass Edwards also secured the No. 1 seed in the Countdown to the Championship.
“Conditions for (Saturday) are supposed to be similar to today so it will be tough to improve,” Johnson said. “Winning this event is definitely on my bucket list. It’s right up there with winning the championship. It would certainly be really special.”
Smith ran a 7.010 at 192 in his Viper Motorcycle Company Racing Buell to take the initial top spot in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Should that run maintain the top spot, it would be the fourth No. 1 qualifier for Smith, who is currently second in points.
Winning this event is definitely on my bucket list. It’s right up there with winning the championship. It would certainly be really special. – Allen Johnson
Smith won the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals in 2006 and would like nothing more than to pick up his second win at Indy seven years later.
“We were pretty happy with how it went but it definitely wasn’t a perfect run,” Smith said. “We’ll take it, though, and we’ll go into (Saturday) and the rest of the weekend feeling good.”
Steve Johnson, who is fighting to stay in the 10th position in the Countdown to the Championship, went 7.017 at 190.65 on his Suzuki to surge to second. John Hall is currently third on his Viper Motorcycle Company Racing Buell after his pass of 7.029 at 189.79. Hall and Scotty Pollacheck also clinched their positions in the Countdown to the Championship after making a qualifying run, leaving only four spots remaining.
“We were pretty impressed with how it ran in the back half of the run, so we can’t complain,” Smith said. “I just wanted to get that one run down, so I’ve got that data for these conditions and we’ll be ready to roll for the rest of qualifying and eliminations.”
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