News Summary
In a standout performance at the Bristol Dragway, Tony Stewart secured his first career No. 1 qualifier during the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. His impressive time of 3.755 seconds at 325.77 mph established him as a fierce competitor. Additionally, Stewart triumphed in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge specialty race, ending Kalitta Motorsports’ undefeated run this year. Other notable performances included Justin Ashley and Austin Prock in the Top Fuel and Funny Car categories, respectively, as qualifying results set the stage for thrilling eliminations this weekend.
Bristol, TN – Tony Stewart made headlines on June 8, 2025, by achieving his first career No. 1 qualifier at Bristol Dragway during the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. His remarkable qualifying run clocked in at 3.755 seconds, reaching a speed of 325.77 mph, setting him up as a strong contender for the event. In addition to his qualifying success, Stewart also claimed victory in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge specialty race, defeating Doug Kalitta with a time of 3.803 seconds at 324.05 mph.
Stewart’s achievement in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge marks the end of Kalitta Motorsports’ undefeated streak for 2025 in this specialty event. With this win, Stewart maintains a dynamic performance, as he has advanced to five consecutive final rounds this year and is now on the hunt for his first NHRA win at Bristol Dragway.
The competition was fierce in the Top Fuel category, where Justin Ashley secured the second qualifying position with a time of 3.762 seconds at 330.80 mph. Shawn Langdon followed closely, taking the third spot with a run of 3.800 seconds at 328.54 mph. In the Funny Car division, Austin Prock showcased his power by qualifying No. 1 with a run of 3.931 seconds at 328.30 mph, while J.R. Todd clinched the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Funny Car with a record of 4.004 seconds at 326.24 mph, overcoming competitor Jack Beckman.
In the Pro Stock category, Dallas Glenn emerged as the leader, qualifying No. 1 with a run of 6.645 seconds at 205.66 mph. Aaron Stanfield triumphed in the Pro Stock segment of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, finishing with a time of 6.688 seconds at 204.85 mph, edging out Matt Hartford for the victory. Brayden Davis made an impressive statement in Pro Stock Motorcycle, qualifying No. 1 with a record of 6.834 seconds at 197.59 mph during his second NHRA start. The Pro Stock Motorcycle portion of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge saw Herrera take the win, registering a time of 6.891 seconds at 196.30 mph.
Qualifying for the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals occurred under unpredictable weather conditions, characterized by frequent temperature changes that added an extra layer of challenge for the competitors. The NHRA eliminations for the event are scheduled to commence at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 9, 2025, where racers will aim to secure their positions as potential champions.
This year’s event has showcased the exceptional talent and capabilities of numerous drivers, with Tony Stewart’s dual victories amplifying anticipation for the eliminations. The atmosphere at Bristol Dragway is charged with excitement as fans and competitors look forward to the thrilling races ahead.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ron Capps Wins at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
Andy Ross to Perform Live at Thunder Valley Nationals
American Rebel CEO to Perform at Thunder Valley Nationals
Thrilling Races Set for NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
Meet Buddy Hull and Jim Dunn Racing Team in Blountville
A.J. Johnson Wins at NHRA Thunder Valley Celebrity Drag Challenge
24th Annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Set
Additional Resources
- NHRA Bristol Final Qualifying
- Wikipedia: NHRA
- NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Sunday News
- Google Search: Tony Stewart NHRA
- Del Worsham Named 2025 Legend
- Google Scholar: NHRA Thunder Valley
- Langdon Opens NHRA Thunder Valley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drag Racing
- Tony Stewart Legacy on NHRA
- Google News: NHRA Bristol Dragway
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
