The NHRA Gatornationals, held on March 8, 2026, at Gainesville Raceway in Florida, delivered an adrenaline-packed day of drag racing action. Among the standout performances, Josh Hart secured the victory in Top Fuel, while Chad Green triumphed in the Funny Car category.
"I’m just proud of my team, and we’re making a lot of progress together," said Josh Hart after clocking a remarkable 3.733 seconds run at 337.83 mph to defeat veteran racer Doug Kalitta. Kalitta finished with a time of 3.877 seconds, reaching a speed of 319.60 mph, but it was Hart's consistent performance that earned him the top spot.
The Funny Car Final was equally thrilling, with Chad Green piloting his Ford Mustang to victory, finishing in 3.959 seconds at 329.91 mph. "This just feels amazing; we worked so hard to get here," remarked Green after his race against Alexis DeJoria, who clocked in at 5.003 seconds in her Chevy Camaro.
In Pro Stock, another intense battle unfolded with Matt Hartford claiming victory over Greg Anderson. Hartford's winning time was 6.530 seconds at 210.41 mph, just edging out Anderson's 6.562 seconds at 209.72 mph. "Every lap we run is a step closer to where we want to be as a team," Hartford commented, reflecting on his strategic approach during the race.
The Pro Stock Motorcycle category crowned Richard Gadson as its champion. He triumphed with a time of 6.753 seconds at 200.05 mph, narrowly defeating John Hall, who finished with 6.799 seconds. "These machines are powerful, and any mistake can cost you the race. I just stayed focused, and it paid off," Gadson stated.
Beyond the top categories, the race also highlighted impressive performances in other divisions. Jamie Noonan captured the Top Alcohol Dragster title, while Sean Bellemeur took home the win in Top Alcohol Funny Car. Noonan finished his final with a time of 5.249 seconds, slightly faster than Anthony Troyer's 5.259 seconds.
The Competition Eliminator title went to Peter D'Agnolo, who clocked an 8.415 seconds run, defeating Matthew Alvey. Dan Fletcher showcased his skills in Super Stock, securing victory over Kent Hanley with a time of 9.558 seconds.
The event was packed with astonishing runs, leading to thrilling finishes across all divisions. "Races like this are what drag racing is all about. Some of the closest finishes I’ve ever seen," said NHRA team manager, sharing insights after the final races.
As racers and teams head to their next events, the Gatornationals served as a reminder of the competitive spirit and camaraderie that define the NHRA. With champions crowned and records challenged, fans can look forward to the season ahead, which promises more high-octane action and electrifying performances.
Upcoming events in the NHRA schedule will surely keep the momentum going as racers aim for glory in the full-throttle world of professional drag racing. Keep an eye on the next NHRA stops and anticipate more intense rivalries boiling over onto the track.