Three-time Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan made history at the zMAX Dragway, setting the track elapsed time (E.T.) record and taking the provisional No. 1 spot for Tony Stewart Racing at the betway NHRA Carolina Nationals. Hagan’s impressive run of 3.825 seconds at 333.49 mph in his 11,000-horsepower Funny Car earned him the quickest time of the year in the category. If it holds on Saturday, it will be Hagan’s second No. 1 qualifier of the season and his 50th in his career.
In the Top Fuel category, Doug Kalitta continued his hot streak with a standout performance, securing the provisional No. 1 spot with a time of 3.665 seconds at 331.61 mph. Kalitta, who recently clinched his 50th career win, is aiming for his second No. 1 spot of the season and his 53rd overall.
Defending Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders had a strong start once again, taking the provisional No. 1 spot with a time of 6.509 seconds at 210.18 mph. Enders, who is vying for her sixth world championship, is looking for her third win of the season.
In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Gaige Herrera emerged as the frontrunner, distancing himself from the rest of the field with a time of 6.731 seconds at 200.44 mph. Herrera, who is currently second and 17 points behind Matt Smith, is seeking his 10th No. 1 qualifier of the year and his first career Countdown to the Championship victory.
The NHRA Carolina Nationals is the second of six races in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs, where drivers battle for season-ending honors. With intense competition across all categories, fans can expect thrilling races and fierce rivalries as the weekend progresses.
As the second day of qualifying approaches, competitors will have the opportunity to improve their times and secure their positions for race day. With track records already set and drivers determined to secure their spots, anticipation is building for an action-packed event.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NHRA Carolina Nationals continue and drivers strive for glory in their quest for championship titles.
