The FuelTech NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by D-Wagon features the fastest and most unique doorslammer race cars in the world. Pro Mod has something for everyone and is highlighted by a broad spectrum of historic muscle cars (Mustangs, Vettes, and Camaros) as well as a variety of today’s late model cars. Over the Labor Day weekend, Pro Mod drivers showed up at The Big Go for the 2022 event. After racing in Indy, Pro Mod will finish the season with three straight races at Charlotte, St. Louis and the season finale in Dallas.
Purpose-built Pro Mod race cars are the fastest NHRA class with working doors. The limitless combinations of engines and drive trains allow nitrous cars to use high octane racing fuel while supercharged and turbo cars run on methanol. With more than 3,000 horsepower under the hood, these doorslammers travel the quarter mile in less than six seconds at speeds in excess of 250 mph. After winning two of the final three races to end the 2021, Lyle Barnett had big hopes for the FuelTech Pro Mod championship this season.
Thorne Redlights Pro Mod Final at Indianapolis
Although every NHRA competitor wants a Wally from the U.S. Nationals for their trophy case, traditionally the weeklong event leaves a lot of the 950-plus drivers disappointed. But this year, after struggling in qualifying at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Lyle Barnett came alive and just kept turning on the win lights. It started in Round One when Barnett posted a 5.785 ET to eliminate Mike Castellana, then JR Gray Jr. and Eric Dillard to advance to the Final Round.
Number One qualifier Kris Thorne posted wins over Doug Winters and Adriano Kayaya before nailing a holeshot (.008 RT) win over a quicker Steve Jackson to advance the Pro Mod final against Barnett. However, the last doorslammer you would want to see lined up beside you when all the money is up for grab, is Lyle Barnett in his bright red Elite Performance/Modern Racing/Hairston Motorsports Camaro. Thorne reacted to quickly and Barnett coasted to his first ever Pro Mod win at The Big Go.
Photo courtesy Lyle Barnett Racing
Up Coming:
Betway NHRA Carolina Nationals
FuelTech NHRA Pro Mod Racing Series presented by D-Wagon races next at the Betway NHRA Carolina Nationals on September 23-25 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte NC.
