Intense Heat Scorches Las Vegas Strip
Intense heat scorched the Las Vegas Strip, setting the stage for thrilling performances at the 25th annual Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals, powered by Direct Connection. This event, part of the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, is significant as it marks the 19th race out of 20 in this season’s lineup.
Austin Prock Dominates Funny Car Qualifying
Austin Prock, the Funny Car points leader, excelled during the qualifying rounds. He achieved the fastest run on Saturday, clocking a remarkable 3.885 seconds at 335.23 mph in his 12,000-horsepower Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS. This performance earned Prock his seventh No. 1 qualifier position of the season and the 22nd overall since entering the Funny Car division in 2024.
Prock’s impressive timing capped off a fierce competition, as he outpaced notable drivers like Jack Beckman, who finished second with a time of 3.892 seconds, and Matt Hagan, who came in third with 3.897 seconds. Prock is set to face Jason Rupert in the first round of eliminations, aiming for his third consecutive victory in Las Vegas.
Brittany Force Excels in Top Fuel
Brittany Force also shined in the Top Fuel category, maintaining her No. 1 qualifier status with a stellar performance on Friday. She set a record time of 3.697 seconds at a speed of 338.85 mph in her Chevrolet Accessories dragster. This achievement marks her sixth No. 1 qualifier this season and the 58th of her career, as she aims to defend her title at The Strip.
Pro Stock Performances
In Pro Stock, Greg Anderson made a strong impact by securing the top qualifier position with a time of 6.572 seconds at 206.76 mph in his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro. His performance was notable as it dethroned Cory Reed from the provisional top spot, marking Anderson’s eighth this season and 140th in his career.
Aaron Stanfield claimed the second position with a 6.593-second run, while Cory Reed finished third at 6.594 seconds. These performances add intense competition as the drivers prepare for eliminations.
Pro Stock Motorcycle Highlights
Gaige Herrera dominated the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, qualifying first with a run of 6.800 seconds at 199.17 mph on his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki. He aims for his third consecutive win in Las Vegas as he faces Karen Stoffer in eliminations.
Conclusion
With temperatures soaring on the Las Vegas Strip, the excitement surrounding the Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals is undeniable. The stakes are high as every competitor prepares for eliminations, hoping to capitalize on their qualifying performances. Fans eagerly await the action on Sunday to see who will emerge victorious in this thrilling showdown.
