T. Franklin, Harris, Denton Lead the Pack at PDRA Showdown

The PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown at Virginia Motorsports Park drew fans and top competitors together for a thrilling display of drag racing. This high-energy event featured multiple qualifying rounds and showcased some of the best performances from racers across various categories.

The excitement built as racers vied for coveted qualifying positions and victory in their respective classes. Tommy Franklin, a formidable competitor and three-time world champion, secured the No. 1 qualifier spot in the Pro Nitrous category.

He achieved an impressive 3.648-second pass at 206.99 mph in his Musi-powered ’69 Camaro, known as “Jungle Rat 3.0.” Franklin’s prowess was also evident in the Pro Nitrous Fab4 Shootout, where he triumphed over Billy Albert, who qualified third with a respectable 3.658-second pass.

In Pro Boost, reigning champion Jason Harris claimed the No. 1 qualifier position with a stellar time of 3.626 seconds at 207.02 mph. However, the excitement did not end there; Harris faced Ed Burnley in the Fab4 Shootout final.

Burnley turned up the heat with a 3.631-second pass, ultimately taking the win. The rivalry added an extra layer of tension to the already electrifying atmosphere of the event.

Blake Denton continued to impress by securing the No. 1 qualifier award in Pro Street with a run of 3.962 seconds at 196.70 mph. He maintained his strong performance throughout the season, with two-time world champion Tim Essick and reigning champion Ethan Steding closely following in the qualifiers.

The Extreme Pro Stock category saw Chris Powers shine as he captured the top spot with a time of 4.094 seconds at 177.11 mph. This marked his second consecutive No. 1 qualifying award, reinforcing his strong position in the field.

Alan Drinkwater was a close second, pushing the competition to new levels. In the Pro 632 category, Jeff Melnick made headlines by becoming the No. 1 qualifier with a 4.178-second run at 168.37 mph.

This achievement marked his first top qualifier award of the season, especially notable considering the challenges he faced in the previous year. Meanwhile, Austin Vincent stole the spotlight in Super Street, posting an impressive time of 4.582 seconds at 159.89 mph to take first.

The sportsman divisions did not go unnoticed either, with Glenn Butcher and Jody Stroud showcasing their skills by qualifying first in their classes, Elite Top Sportsman and Elite Top Dragster, respectively. Their strong performances highlighted the depth and talent present throughout the event.

As the PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting action. Final qualifying sessions for the Junior Dragster category are set for Saturday morning, followed by eliminations and numerous thrilling races throughout the day.

The atmosphere is sure to be electric as pre-race ceremonies and professional eliminations are scheduled to kick off at noon. This event has not only been a showcase of talent but also a celebration of the racing community, reflecting the spirit and camaraderie among competitors and fans alike.

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John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.