Jack Beckman Triumphs in PlayNHRA All-Star Callout at U.S. Nationals
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Jack Beckman of John Force Racing clinched the PlayNHRA All-Star Callout on Sunday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, narrowly defeating Matt Hagan in the final round as part of the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Beckman’s victory came with an impressive run of 3.980 seconds at 323.19 mph, marking his fifth win in the Indy Funny Car bonus race.
Racing in a specially designed John Force tribute car, Beckman previously triumphed over competitors Chad Green and J.R. Todd before facing Hagan in the finale. The veteran driver is now aiming for his third U.S. Nationals title, a feat that would further solidify his legacy in NHRA history.
“When I got my first shootout win, I thought, ‘This is awesome,’” Beckman remarked. “But to close the deal today is incredible.”
He emphasized the unpredictable yet thrilling nature of drag racing and expressed confidence in his performance for the upcoming main event.
Top Qualifiers Shine at U.S. Nationals
In the other NHRA categories, the following drivers secured the top qualifying positions:
-
Top Fuel: Shawn Langdon recorded a stunning 3.727 at 334.98 in his SealMaster dragster, solidifying his No. 1 spot and positioning himself for a chance at the regular season championship.
-
Funny Car: Ron Capps proudly claimed the provisional No. 1 with a run of 3.914 at 332.18, regaining the points lead heading into an anticipatory race day.
-
Pro Stock: Matt Hartford made a strong finish, clocking in at 6.572 in his Total Seal Chevrolet Camaro, marking his first No. 1 qualifier of the season.
-
Pro Stock Motorcycle: Matt Smith took the top spot with a 6.757 at 200.98, aiming for his fourth victory at the U.S. Nationals.
Looking Ahead
As eliminations for the U.S. Nationals begin at 10 a.m. ET on Monday, excitement builds within the paddocks. With substantial stakes, including the regular season championship and a $150,000 payout on the line, drivers have much to race for as they gear up for an exhilarating day of racing.
Beckman, Capps, Langdon, Hartford, and Smith will all be eager to seize victory and etch their names further into NHRA’s storied history.
