NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Troy Coughlin maintained the qualifying lead for the NHRA J&A Service Pro Mod Drag Racing Series portion of the NHRA Summernationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park. This weekend’s Pro Mod Racing, presented by Aquaball, is the sixth of 12 events this season. 

Coughlin’s pass of 5.772-seconds at a speed of 257.53 mph from Friday’s qualifying session held up on Saturday to secure lane choice Saturday afternoon. He defeated Jonathan Gray in the first round of eliminations with a pass of 5.788 at 256.55. 

“It's pretty exciting to be that competitive again,” Coughlin said. “From not qualifying in Atlanta to a tough first round in Topeka, it's good to come back and come out swinging from the start, which is kind of nice. To be able to hold on to No. 1 qualifying spot in the J&A Series is a big feat. It's always been difficult, but it's getting tougher and tougher.”

Shane Molinari, the No. 2 qualifier, also advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating Mike Janis. Molinari’s pass of 5.818 at 234.61 was too fast for Janis’ pass at 8.947 at 109.81.  Molinari will be pitted against Rickie Smith in the second round. 

Smith moved into first after Eric Latino gave away the win at the start of the run when he red-lit. He had a pass of 7.899 at 121.65. 

J&A Pro Mod Series eliminations continue Sunday at approximately 12:45 at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park.