Thrills, Speed, and First-Time Finals Headline Route 66 NHRA Nationals

The engines roared and the crowd erupted at Route 66 Raceway this weekend as the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK delivered an unforgettable showcase of speed, power, and passion. With a full weekend of fierce competition across multiple categories, Sunday’s final rounds offered drama, redemption, and standout performances that will be remembered throughout the season.

A Sunday Steeped in Tradition and Triumph
The day began in spectacular fashion with the SealMaster® Track Walk and Driver Introductions, followed by a moving rendition of the National Anthem by John Stemberg, Product Specialist and Emcee for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Experience, represented by Productions Plus. The patriotic energy set the tone for a day of top-tier racing.

Tony Stewart Claims Top Fuel Glory
In a marquee matchup, Tony Stewart powered to victory in Top Fuel, besting Justin Ashley in a final-round face-off between two of the sport’s most competitive drivers. While Ashley held a slim edge at the starting line, Stewart surged ahead by the time they passed the Christmas tree and never looked back, securing the win and making a statement in what was their first final-round battle. Stewart now leads the season with commanding momentum.

Jack Beckman’s Hole-Shot Heroics in Funny Car
Jack Beckman returned to the winner’s circle in thrilling fashion, edging out Austin Prock in Funny Car with a masterful hole-shot victory. Beckman’s sharp reflexes at the line made the difference, as he held off a hard-charging Prock in one of the closest races of the day. It was a win for both skill and strategy.

Gaige Herrera Dominates in Pro Stock Motorcycle
Continuing his dominance in the Pro Stock Motorcycle class, Gaige Herrera delivered a near-flawless run against veteran Matt Smith. A lightning-quick reaction time gave Herrera the early edge, and he never trailed, showcasing both the precision and power that have made him a top contender all season.

Pro Mod to Wright, Big Names Win Across Sportsman Classes
Mason Wright came out on top in the always-explosive Pro Mod category, defeating JR Gray in a strong final-round performance.

Motorcycles and Muscle Finish Strong
Crowd favorite Larry McBride took the win in Top Fuel Motorcycle, overcoming Bob Malloy in a fast, aggressive run that thrilled two-wheel fans. In the Peak Streetcar Shootout, Tom Bailey muscled past Bryant Goldstone to claim victory in a battle of street-legal powerhouses.

Other standout winners included:

Donna Morris in Super Stock, capitalizing on a strong run against Troy Galbraith.

Marion Stephenson took Stock Eliminator after Joey Shipp lit the red light, handing over the win.

Jeffrey Cheney grabbed victory in Super Comp, thanks to a stellar launch against Kimbra Fuesting.

David Dahlem added his name to the winners list in Super Gas, outrunning Nathan Prose.

Gregory Rice secured Top Dragster honors over Tony Elrod with a consistent and commanding performance.

Jason Dietsch triumphed in the Factory Stock Showdown, defeating Lee Hartman.

Jesse Alexandra earned the Factory X trophy with a final-round win over Conner Statler.

Looking Ahead
The Route 66 NHRA Nationals once again delivered on its promise of top-tier motorsports entertainment. With thrilling matchups, breakthrough performances, and a powerful pre-race ceremony that honored tradition and passion, the event proved why it remains a cornerstone of the NHRA schedule.

As the tour continues, all eyes will be on the next stop, where drivers will look to build on momentum—or bounce back from heartbreak—in the chase for championship gold.