Erica Enders’ Comeback to Bristol Is Perfectly Timed for Victory

After a challenging start to the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, Erica Enders is heading back to Bristol at a time that could not be better for her. Enders, a six-time Pro Stock world champion and the most successful female driver in motorsports history, comes to the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals with momentum on her side.

She currently holds 49 career wins, but her last victory came at the season opener in Gainesville in early 2024, making the wait for win number 50 a long one.

Last weekend at the NHRA New England Nationals in Epping, Enders put together an impressive performance and finished runner-up against her fierce rival, reigning world champion Greg Anderson. That strong showing helped her move up to ninth place in the Pro Stock standings.

Enders believes her Elite Motorsports team has found answers as she continues to drive the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage/Melling Performance/Scag Power Equipment Chevrolet Camaro. She credits persistent work in the shop and productive test sessions in Tulsa as key factors in their recent turnaround.

Enders is no stranger to success at Bristol Dragway. The Tennessee track has seen her reach the winner’s circle three times, and she calls it one of her favorite stops on the schedule.

She is optimistic heading into the eighth event of the year, feeling the team has new energy and direction after their testing efforts. Enders will also compete in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Bristol, along with her teammate Aaron Stanfield.

This special event pairs top finishers from the previous race for extra points and cash, and Enders previously won the Challenge during the 2024 season at this same location.

The Elite Motorsports group has had to solve tough problems early this year, but according to Enders, their determination and teamwork have never been stronger. She says her crew’s resilience and commitment remind her why she values racing with them, especially during hard times, both personally and professionally.

Their shared experience and refusal to give up have kept Enders motivated as they chase more wins and a chance to advance further in the standings.

As the series reaches its halfway mark, Enders knows there is still plenty of opportunity to climb. Bristol’s unique atmosphere and rich history make it a favorite among drivers and fans alike, and Enders hopes this will be where she returns to the top step of the podium.

With tough competition expected, her focus is on building confidence and maintaining the progress seen in recent weeks.

The Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol are scheduled for June 6 to 8. Both the track and fans are ready to see if Enders can turn recent hard work into another victory.

With several high-profile matchups on deck, the weekend promises intense action and a chance for Enders to take another big step toward her goals this season.