The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sheer adrenaline of NHRA drag racing were all on full display at the Charlotte NHRA Friday Qualifying. Brittany Force etched her name in the history books, setting a new national Top Fuel speed record. Meanwhile, veteran Antron Brown is on a quest to honor drag racing legend Don Garlits at the momentous 1,000th NHRA Top Fuel event. This electrifying event at zMAX Dragway saw records fall and legacies celebrated, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend.
This article delves into the highlights of the Friday qualifying session, focusing on Brittany Force’s record-breaking run and Antron Brown’s pursuit of a special victory. We’ll also explore the significance of the 1,000th Top Fuel event and the legends who have shaped the sport. Stay tuned as we unpack the key moments and stories from this thrilling day of racing.
Antron Brown Chasing Don Garlits’ Legacy
Antron Brown’s journey in drag racing began at the tender age of 10, sparked by an encounter with the legendary Don “Big Daddy” Garlits. “Big Daddy let me in his pit,” Brown reminisced, recalling his childhood visits to the dragstrip in Englishtown, New Jersey. “I got to touch and see his car. I remember a big cross on the top of it and it said God.” That early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for the sport.
Now, with four NHRA Top Fuel championships under his belt, Brown has a unique opportunity to honor Garlits at the 1,000th Top Fuel event. He’s competing for a 65-pound replica trophy of the one Garlits received at the inaugural Top Fuel event in 1963. Garlits himself will present the trophy to the winner, adding extra significance to the race.
Brown, who won the 800th race, acknowledges the weight of the occasion. “This sport…makes you a part of history as a kid,” he stated. The chance to be recognized by his childhood hero and potentially win a trophy presented by him is a powerful motivator for Brown this weekend.
Brittany Force’s Record-Breaking Run
Friday night’s qualifying session saw Brittany Force shatter the national speed record with a blistering 341.54-mph run. This remarkable feat surpassed her previous record of 338.94 mph, set in November 2022. “In prime track conditions”, Force set a national record. That record was set at Pomona. The 38-year-old racer continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Top Fuel drag racing.
While Force’s speed was record-breaking, her elapsed time of 3.667 seconds placed her third in qualifying, behind Shawn Langdon’s 3.665 seconds. However, the speed record is a testament to the team’s hard work and the car’s incredible performance. Force and Kalitta were in the same quad and Force broke her national speed record.
This achievement underscores Force’s dominance in the sport and her relentless pursuit of excellence. She remains a formidable contender and a fan favorite, known for her fearless driving style and record-setting performances. Securing the top spot and etching her name in the record books once again. While she’s in third place for elapsed time, she broke her national speed record.
Doug Kalitta Claims Top Qualifying Spot
While Brittany Force stole the headlines with her speed record, Doug Kalitta secured the No. 1 provisional qualifying position with a zMAX Dragway elapsed time record of 3.646 seconds. That broke the record of 3.647 seconds set by Mike Salinas in September 2023. Kalitta’s impressive run demonstrates his skill and consistency on the track.
Kalitta, the 2023 NHRA Top Fuel champion, is a seasoned veteran of the sport. His experience and expertise were evident as he navigated the challenging track conditions and delivered a stellar performance. Friday night in second-round qualifying, Kalitta claimed the No. 1 provisional position
Securing the top qualifying spot gives Kalitta a significant advantage heading into race day. He’ll have lane choice and the confidence of knowing he has a fast and reliable car. It’s the 500th for the 2023 NHRA Top Fuel champion Doug Kalitta.
Celebrating 1,000 Top Fuel Races
Sunday’s Top Fuel race in the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway marks the 1,00th Top Fuel event. This milestone event celebrates the rich history and evolution of Top Fuel drag racing. From its humble beginnings to the high-tech, high-speed machines of today, Top Fuel has captivated audiences for generations.
Having Don Garlits present the winner’s trophy adds a special touch to the occasion. Garlits is a true icon of the sport, and his presence will undoubtedly inspire the drivers and fans alike. Brown won the 800th race and two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Brittany Force the 900th. This event will be one to remember as drivers race to honor and break records.
As the NHRA celebrates this momentous occasion, it’s a time to reflect on the legends who have shaped the sport and the thrilling moments that have defined it. This weekend at zMAX Dragway is not just a race; it’s a celebration of the past, present, and future of Top Fuel drag racing.
Conclusion: A Night of Records and Remembrance
The Friday qualifying session at NHRA Charlotte was a night of record-breaking performances and heartfelt tributes. Brittany Force’s incredible speed record and Doug Kalitta’s top qualifying spot set the stage for an exciting race day. Adding to the drama, Antron Brown’s quest to honor Don Garlits at the 1,000th Top Fuel event provides a compelling narrative that resonates with the history of the sport.
The American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway promises to be an unforgettable event. With legends of the sport on hand and drivers pushing the limits of performance, fans are in for a thrilling weekend of racing action. Brittany Force broke her national speed record and Kalitta claimed the No. 1 provisional position.
As the engines roar and the crowds cheer, this weekend will be a testament to the enduring legacy of NHRA Top Fuel drag racing. Whether it’s breaking records or celebrating the sport’s rich history, the passion and dedication of the drivers, teams, and fans will be on full display.
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