The second annual American Jr. Dragster Challenge presented by Capco Contractors wrapped up Saturday, Aug. 10, with winners in four categories crowned after a grueling day of eliminations. The Texas Motorplex once again played host to the event which benefitted Children’s Health hospital in Dallas.

The category winners included Summit Racing Equipment 7.90 class Winner Madison Smith and runner-up Conner Rivers.

The Lucas Oil 8.90 class winner was Brody Tigue who outlasted Grant Wiley in the final.

Tyler Janousek took top honors in the Snap-on Tools 11.90/13.90 class over Caden Keys.

Finally, in the Valvoline Instant Oil Changer All Run class Trent Augustyn defeated Braden Bettis to get the win and spectacular eagle trophy.

“I have to thank all the racers and their parents for putting on a great show under some tough conditions,” said Andy Carter, Texas Motorplex General Manager. “It was brutally hot, but we had a great turnout and a lot of fun. The donation to Children’s Health was a highlight and we could not have held this event without the support of Mama Kay and Billy Torrence from Capco Contractors. It was great to see the future of drag racing competing and showing such great sportsmanship.”

The two-day racing event actually began on Thursday when a group of racers displayed their Jr. Dragsters at Children’s Health Specialty Care Center in Dallas. For two hours patients and their families were able to climb into the race cars, pose for photos and talk with the Jr. Dragster racers. During the race Texas Motorplex general manager Andy Carter along with sales director Terry Smith presented Kyra Barnett from Children’s Health a check for $1,500 and a commemorative event racing helmet.

“This event is about helping kids and giving them a big-time event before school starts. You can see how hard all the kids work to be competitive, but it is also very cool to see them give back to the community. I want to thank the families that took the time to display at Children’s Health on Thursday,” added Carter.  [08/13/19]

After a trio of solid, low 3-second runs, Cruz Pedregon and team are preparing for Brainerd this week with a win in mind. "As a team, we're confident in how the Snap-on Funny Car is performing on the track, and we're working hard to maximize every opportunity to showcase what the car and this team can do," Cruz said. "In my career, I've seen what making the most of every session can do when it comes to earning Countdown points, and we're ready to move up into that Top 10 spot."

For an extra event to tune and run the Snap-on Dodge® at this critical point in the season, Cruz and team participated in the popular Night Under Fire® in Norwalk, OH, before heading to Minnesota.

"The car is running so well right now, and we're looking forward to making it the best it can be for Cruz to earn the points needed in the next couple of NHRA races to secure a Countdown spot," said crew chief Glen Huszar.

"Even as we focus on racing and standings, it's been important to me as someone whose family is originally from El Paso to send my thoughts to the residents, friends and family I still have there. And one of our team members is from Dayton, another place that’s been on our minds and hearts this week and will continue to be," Cruz said. "Heading to Brainerd, where so many great NHRA fans come out and create such a lively atmosphere, will be uplifting.”  (Dave Stoltz photo) [08/13/19]