Justin Ashley made it to the final round of the Lucas Oil Summernationals before a heavy rainstorm forced the postponement of the event. As a result, the final round is to be completed during the prestigious U.S. Nationals on Labor Day Weekend live on FOX broadcast Network.  

Sunday was filled with defining moments for Ashley as he and his team knocked off some of the category’s premier competition. Starting from the number 14 qualifying position, Ashley upset former Top Fuel World Champion Shawn Langdon in round 1 on the strength of a 3.82 ET at over 321 MPH. “Round one set the tone for the day” said Ashley. “The expectations were set. It was time to carry that momentum forward throughout the remainder of the weekend.”

Ashley and his team did exactly that, as they knocked off current points leader Doug Kalitta in round 2 in what proved to be one of the closest races of the day. Ashley had the starting line advantage and never trailed for the win. Justin then secured himself a spot in the finals against fellow first-time finalist T.J. Zizzo by knocking off multiple-time national event winner Leah Pruett in the semi-finals.  

This will be the first time two drivers with no previous top fuel national event victories will meet in the final round since Cristen Powell beat Bruce Sarver in 1997. Justin was happy with the decision to delay the finals until September. “I would have liked to race in the final on Sunday, but everything happens for a reason. I’m glad we’ll have the opportunity to race live on FOX in a few weeks. It’ll be a great platform for our sponsors to continue extending their reach” Ashley said.

The Justin Ashley Racing – Davis Motorsports team has moved up to 5th in the NHRA Mello Yello points standings.

Justin would like to thank Strutmasters, Menards, Auto Shocker, KATO Fastening Systems, Justice Brothers, Hero Soap Company, and Lucas Oil.