News Summary
Ron Capps made history at the Bristol Dragway by becoming the all-time wins leader at the iconic track, marking his eighth victory during the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Capps ended a 33-race winless streak by defeating Paul Lee in the final with a remarkable run of 3.957 seconds, reaching a speed of 328.06 mph. His win elevates him to a total of 77 career victories, placing him fourth in the NHRA points standings. The event showcased thrilling performances across multiple categories, including achievements from Steve Torrence and Greg Anderson.
Bristol, Tennessee – Ron Capps Claims Historic Victory at Bristol Dragway
Ron Capps made history by becoming the all-time wins leader at Bristol Dragway, achieving his eighth victory at the iconic track during the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. This milestone victory allowed Capps to surpass the previous record held by Tony Schumacher.
After a lengthy 33-race winless streak, Capps showcased his resilience by defeating Paul Lee in the final round with an impressive run clocked at 3.957 seconds, reaching a speed of 328.06 mph. The win not only marked a return to the winner’s circle for Capps but also elevated him to a total of 77 career victories, placing him fourth in the NHRA points standings.
To reach the final, Capps displayed formidable skill by overpowering competitors including Matt Hagan, Epping winner J.R. Todd, and Dave Richards. His triumphant performance throughout the elimination rounds contributed significantly to the excitement of the event.
Top Fuel Division
In the Top Fuel division, Steve Torrence clinched the victory, defeating Justin Ashley in the final with a time of 4.022 seconds at a speed of 325.37 mph. This victory marks Torrence’s first win in nearly a year, his last being in Seattle in July 2024. His journey to the final was thrilling, as he defeated notable competitors including Dan Mercier, Clay Millican, and points leader Tony Stewart, winning the semifinal by a narrow margin of just .002 seconds against Stewart.
Despite finishing second, Justin Ashley has proven to be a contender this season, having achieved three final-round appearances. His consistent performance continues to keep him in the competitive mix of the Top Fuel standings.
Pro Stock Milestones
In the Pro Stock category, Greg Anderson achieved a remarkable career milestone, earning his 1,000th round win during the semifinals. This accomplishment places him alongside John Force as one of the only drivers to reach this impressive benchmark. Anderson not only celebrated this achievement but also captured his fourth race of the season, winning against teammate Dallas Glenn in the final round with a time of 6.623 seconds at 205.91 mph. Anderson’s victory took place at the same venue where he earned his first career Pro Stock win back in 2001.
Dallas Glenn, who entered the final as the No. 1 qualifier, experienced disappointment when he went red at the start line, costing him a chance at the title.
Pro Stock Motorcycle
Richard Gadson also celebrated a significant victory in the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, clinching his first win by defeating teammate Gaige Herrera in the final round. Gadson’s winning run was recorded at 6.884 seconds, featuring a strong reaction time of .014 seconds, which proved critical for his success. Although Herrera posted a quicker time of 6.882 seconds, Gadson’s strategic advantage secured his long-awaited win after previously reaching four final rounds without a victory.
Despite finishing second, Herrera has maintained his points lead, continuing to be a strong competitor in the season.
Event Overview
This thrilling day at Bristol Dragway was characterized by historic achievements and nail-biting races across multiple categories. The challenging conditions, influenced by changing weather patterns, added an extra layer of difficulty to the event, tested the skills of all participants. Capps, a driver representing a single-car team, acknowledged the hard work of his crew, crediting their consistent efforts for the breakthrough victory. The Bristol Dragway is known for its unique challenges, making each race a test of skill and endurance. As the season progresses, competitors aim to build on their successes, all while vying for the coveted NHRA title.
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Additional Resources
- NHRA News: Capps, Torrence, Anderson, and Gadson Score Big Wins in Bristol
- Wikipedia: NHRA
- NHRA News: Stewart, Prock, Glenn, and Davis Claim Top Spots in Bristol Qualifying
- Google Search: Bristol Dragway
- NHRA News: Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Friday News and Notes
- Google Scholar: NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
- NHRA News: Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Sunday News and Notes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drag Racing
- NHRA News: Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Saturday News and Notes
- Google News: NHRA Bristol Results
