Capps, Torrence, Anderson, and Gadson score big wins in Bristol

Ron Capps, a three-time Funny Car world champion, became the all-time wins leader at Bristol Dragway on Sunday. He ended a 33-race winless streak by beating Paul Lee in the final round of the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals.

In addition, Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock), and Richard Gadson (Pro Stock Motorcycle) secured victories in the eighth of 20 races in the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

Capps delivered his best performance of the weekend in the finals, clocking in at 3.957 seconds and 328.06 mph in his NAPA Auto Care Toyota GR Supra to overtake Lee, securing his eighth victory at Bristol Dragway. This achievement surpasses Tony Schumacher's record for the most wins at this track.

This victory brought Capps significant relief, ending a prolonged winless period. His previous win was in Indianapolis in 2023, but on Sunday, he rediscovered his form in Thunder Valley, triumphing at the picturesque track for the third time in four years. Capps defeated Matt Hagan, Epping winner J.R. Todd, and Dave Richards to reach the final, delivering an outstanding performance to claim his 77th career win and advancing to fourth in points.

“We’re a single-car team, and we can’t rely on other teams, so it’s been a bit more challenging,” Capps stated. “Even during tough times, I never doubted Guido [crew chief Dean Antonelli]. I just knew we had to improve, and we adhered to the plan.

“I anticipated struggles, but as an owner, I’ve observed and tried to manage it in a certain way. This track is demanding. Winning here more times than John Force is significant. I’ve long accepted being No. 2 to John Force in everything, but having eight wins here is incredible. Winning repeatedly at such a challenging track for both driver and crew chiefs feels like a championship victory.”

Lee reached the final round for the third time this season with victories over Chad Green, Buddy Hull, and Daniel Wilkerson. He now holds second place in points, while Austin Prock remains the points leader despite a second consecutive first-round exit.