NHRA Northwest Nationals Promises Unique Night Racing Experience

ST. LOUIS, MO — Fans attending the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals this weekend at Pacific Raceways are in for a uniquely exhilarating experience. The event will feature a single nighttime nitro session on Friday, kicking off a packed schedule for Saturday.

On Friday night, the excitement begins with two Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle sessions at 6:40 and 8:15 p.m., culminating with a dramatic nitro session at 9:15 p.m. This year, participants can also aim for the Deecell Power Systems ‘After Dark Low Qualifier’ bonus that rewards the low qualifiers in each class.

“It will be an unforgettable night,” said Phil Burgess, NHRA National Dragster Editor. Top Fuel and Funny Car low qualifiers will take home $4,000, while Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle low qualifiers will receive $2,500 and $1,500, respectively. The winners will participate in an autograph session at 11 a.m. PT on Saturday at the Deecell display.

Leading the Top Fuel standings is motorsports legend Tony Stewart, the 2024 NHRA Rookie of the Year. Stewart aims to maintain his lead with only four races left in the regular season. Other competitors to watch include Shawn Langdon and Justin Ashley, who has achieved back-to-back victories.

In the Funny Car category, defending world champion Austin Prock showcases impressive performances with four event wins, solidifying his position atop the points standings. Competitors like John Force Racing’s Jack Beckman and past champions such as Matt Hagan and Ron Capps will also be in the mix.

The Pro Stock class has been led this season by the KB Titan Racing team, with reigning champion Greg Anderson and local favorite Dallas Glenn combining for seven wins. If Elite Motorsports Team is to regain momentum, this weekend is crucial.

In the Pro Stock Motorcycle division, current champion Gaige Herrera, who has three victories this season, leads the pack. Six-time champion Matt Smith trails him, while Herrera’s teammate, Richard Gadson, holds third place.

The event’s qualification schedule includes NHRA Lucas Oil Series outputs at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, followed by NHRA Mission Foods series qualifying at the evening sessions. Saturday will see NHRA Lucas Oil Series eliminations starting at 9:30 a.m. and the final nitro qualifying rounds later in the afternoon.

This year’s NHRA Northwest Nationals promises to deliver thrilling moments and competitive spirit, with expectations running high for the anticipated night session.