Take a look at this, IHRA Nitro Series Qualifying Pro Mod, Funny Car, Outlaw Pro Mod & Top Fuel Action!
The IHRA Nitro Series Qualifying delivered an adrenaline-pumping night of drag racing, with Pro Mod, Outlaw Pro Mod, Funny Car, and Top Fuel competitors putting down blistering passes. Fans at Rena Raceway in Hebron, Ohio were treated to big names like Kye Kelley, Disco Dean, Frankie “Madman” Taylor, and Ricky Smith, all battling for the top qualifying positions.
Kye Kelley and Disco Dean Set the Tone
The action kicked off with Kye Kelley blazing down the track with a 3.71-second pass at 200 mph, immediately taking the provisional #1 spot. Right behind him, Disco Dean showed the Cadillac has serious power, clocking a strong 3.89 to stay competitive in the Pro Mod field.
New Faces Enter the IHRA Stage
Fans also witnessed Jeff Plut’s debut in the IHRA Pro Mod class. Plut lifted early but still managed a 4.0 at 152 mph, using the pass to gauge where he fits among some of the toughest racers in the country.
Tim Brown and Early Round Drama
Tim Brown was slated to face off against Tom Blinkco, but after a last-minute shakeup, he ended up making a solo Q1 pass. Brown laid down a 3.80 at 206 mph, proving he had the consistency to fight for qualifying position.
Frankie Taylor Dominates Outlaw Pro Mod
The night’s biggest performance came from Frankie “Madman” Taylor, who ran a jaw-dropping 3.67-second pass. That run secured him the #1 qualifier spot in Outlaw Pro Mod after Q2. Taylor’s performance edged out Kye Kelley’s improved 3.68, making this one of the tightest battles of the session.
Ricky Smith Adds to the Show
Veteran Ricky Smith reminded fans why he’s still a top threat. Smith ripped a 3.71-second run, staying right in the mix with the heavy hitters like Kelley and Taylor.
Top Fuel Brings 320+ MPH Speeds
The Top Fuel dragsters stole the show with incredible horsepower. Fans saw passes in the 3.80s at over 321 mph, with one car nearly reaching the sand trap after blasting through the finish line. The raw power and speed left the crowd stunned and eager for elimination day.
Looking Ahead: Elimination Day
With qualifying wrapped, attention now shifts to the eliminations tomorrow, where racers will battle head-to-head for victory. The qualifying sessions showed just how close the field is, and fans can expect nail-biting duels between Kye Kelley, Frankie Taylor, Ricky Smith, and Disco Dean.
Final Thoughts
The IHRA Nitro Series Qualifying lived up to the hype with record-setting runs, high drama, and fierce rivalries. From Frankie Taylor’s top-qualifying 3.67 to Kye Kelley’s relentless push in the 3.60s, the competition promises fireworks in the elimination rounds. With Funny Cars, Outlaw Pro Mods, and Top Fuel machines all delivering action, this event is one fans won’t soon forget.
