Steve Johnson Takes Monster 4 Valve to No. 1 Qualifying Spot

Jack Korpela

3 years ago

In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Johnson continued his momentum after winning in Charlotte, earning his first No. 1 qualifier since 2019 with a run of 6.789 at 198.44 on his Slick 50 Suzuki at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park.

It’s the fifth career top qualifier for the veteran and he also made the quickest pass in track history. He’ll open eliminations against Jim Underdahl as Johnson aims for his second straight victory in what’s turned into a banner season.

“I’m just so proud. We just take all those tiny details and it’s all about this race team. It’s so good to get a yellow (No. 1 qualifier) hat,” Johnson said.

Eddie Krawiec jumped to No. 2 on his final pass of the day, going 6.807 at 201.49. Defending world champ and points leader Matt Smith made the fastest run in track history, qualifying third with a 6.815 at a track-record 201.58 mph.

Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 6.789, 198.44 vs. 16. Jim Underdahl, Suzuki, 7.054, 193.18; 2. Eddie Krawiec, Buell, 6.807, 201.49 vs. 15. Marc Ingwersen, Buell, 7.021, 194.16; 3. Matt Smith, EBR, 6.815, 201.58 vs. 14. Jianna Salinas, Suzuki, 6.992, 191.38; 4. Andrew Hines, Buell, 6.831, 201.13 vs. 13. Cory Reed, Suzuki, 6.965, 195.45; 5. Joey Gladstone, Suzuki, 6.863, 197.91 vs. 12. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 6.957, 196.13; 6. Angelle Sampey, Suzuki, 6.878, 196.36 vs. 11. Ryan Oehler, EBR, 6.933, 196.19; 7. John Hall, Buell, 6.908, 195.90 vs. 10. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.915, 193.07; 8. Angie Smith, EBR, 6.913, 198.61 vs. 9. Scotty Pollacheck, EBR, 6.913, 194.44.

Did Not Qualify: 17. Ron Tornow, 7.101, 190.24; 18. Kelly Clontz, 7.281, 178.02; 19. David Barron, broke.

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