Points leader Richard Gadson made a strong impression in Pro Stock Motorcycle under the lights on Friday, taking the top spot with a run of 6.747 at 201.59 on his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki at the 40th annual Texas NHRA FallNationals. Gadson made the quickest run in each session, with the run at night netting him a $5,000 bonus for “JEGS Friday Night Live.” If it holds, Gadson would also earn his second No. 1 qualifier of the year.
That was a noteworthy achievement for Gadson, who continues to have a banner year in his second season in the class. The two strong runs add to his points lead, with Gadson confident in what he can accomplish over the stretch run.
“From the championship standpoint, obviously, I’m counting every point I can find. I’m just feeling good about the bike, feeling good about the performance, and you know, I’m holding on for dear life [to the points lead] right now, so I’ll take anything I can get,” Gadson said. “I’m 29 points ahead with three races to go.
“Championship battle aside, I’ve always wanted to have a specialty low qualifier Friday. We have a few of them throughout the year, but none of them are like the Stampede of Speed, where you get to get up there on the [saddle]. I’ve always wanted to sit up there. I don’t think I ever have. So, this was pretty cool.”
Defending world champ Gaige Herrera, who is after his third straight win in Dallas, is second with a 6.767 at 200.35 and rookie Brayden Davis is third after going 6.772 at 200.53.
Qualifying continues at 12 p.m. CT on Saturday at the Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex.
