Six-Time Pro Stock Champ Erica Enders Set for Thrilling Bristol Comeback

Erica Enders, a six-time Pro Stock champion and the most successful female in motorsports with 49 wins, heads to the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol looking to build on recent progress.

Enders finished second last weekend in Epping, just behind rival Greg Anderson, and hasn’t claimed a victory since the 2024 season opener in Gainesville.

The Elite Motorsports team has focused on making improvements, testing in Tulsa and working nonstop at the shop to get her Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage/Melling Performance/Scag Power Equipment car back to top form. Enders is determined and states that her group will keep pushing through any setbacks.

She credits teamwork and steady preparation for the renewed momentum and is especially optimistic about racing at Bristol Dragway, where she has already won three times.

This race weekend marks the eighth event of the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Bristol Dragway remains a highlight for both racers and fans, featuring action across Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Motorcycle classes.

In 2024, champions like Tony Schumacher, Austin Prock, Jeg Coughlin, and Gaige Herrera took home Bristol wins. Last year, Clay Millican, Austin Prock, Erica Enders, and Matt Smith captured the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge.

Semifinalists from the New England Nationals will meet again in Bristol, promising more competitive rematches in 2025.

In the Pro Stock Motorcycle field, Gaige Herrera aims to become the first to win twice at Bristol, facing rivals like former champion Angelle Sampey, Jery Savoie, and Steve Johnson. Six-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Matt Smith is also competing for another Bristol victory.

The Top Fuel class is led by Tony Stewart, who has advanced to five straight final rounds this season and now sits atop the points. Brittany Force, Doug Kalitta, Shawn Langdon, and Antron Brown are also considered top contenders.

In Funny Car, reigning champion Austin Prock scored his first Bristol win last weekend. He currently leads the 2025 points after picking up two wins this year, followed closely by Jack Beckman and strong names like Paul Lee, Matt Hagan, and Ron Capps.

The Bristol event is packed with activities for fans, including races in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Factory Stock Showdown, and Mountain Motor Pro Stock divisions. After Saturday’s final qualifying, there is a special autograph session and fanfest in the midway.

Throughout the weekend, Nitro Alley Stage will host Nitro School, driver meet-and-greets, more autograph opportunities, and entertainment for all ages. Fans on-site enjoy access to the pre-race ceremonies, SealMaster Track Walk, and the popular winner’s circle celebration on Sunday afternoon.

Every ticket acts as a pit pass, allowing fans a close-up look at teams working on the cars and a chance to interact with drivers. Qualifying rounds are set for Friday, June 6 at 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET, with additional rounds Saturday at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Eliminations begin Sunday, June 8, at 12 p.m. and race action will be broadcast on FS1. Qualifications can be watched Friday evening, with more coverage Sunday, including live eliminations starting at 3 p.m. ET.

After her runner-up finish at the New England Nationals, Enders is slotted into another round of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Bristol, pairing up against her teammate Aaron Stanfield, while Greg Anderson meets Matt Hartford.

Enders made a strong move in the points standings last weekend, jumping to ninth and hoping to gain even more with many events still ahead in the season. She says her confidence is coming back and feels grateful to work with a group whose hardworking mindset has helped them break through tough times.

As the season heads into Bristol, the competition across all NHRA classes remains intense. Drivers, crews, and fans are looking forward to a key weekend, with bragging rights, valuable points, and a return to the winner’s circle all on the line.

Fans looking for broader motorsports news can also find insights on related racing events such as NASCAR’s recent Nashville race.

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.