In his debut with John Force Racing, Ocala's Josh Hart triumphed by defeating reigning Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta in the final round of the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. Chad Green (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock), and Richard Gadson (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also emerged victorious in the first of 20 season races. Josh Hart secured a win in his first appearance with John Force Racing at Gainesville Raceway, overcoming reigning Top Fuel world champion Dou