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Michael Ray called on to pinch hit for Jianna Evaristo in Pro Stock Motorcycle

Jianna Evaristo, the track speed record holder in Pro Stock Motorcycle at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, will not compete this weekend. Instead, veteran rider and crew member Michael Ray will ride her JGH/Scrappers Buell. In this interview, Evaristo and Ray explain what happened.
04 Sep 2026
NHRA National Dragster staff
News

Over the last few seasons as part of Matt Smith’s team, Michael Ray has established himself as a capable tuner, mechanic, and all-around handyman. Ray also happens to be a competitive Pro Stock Motorcycle rider, and that skill will come in handy this week as he’ll be racing at the Cornwell Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals.

Ray, a three-time national event winner, will be called in to pinch hit for his MSR teammate, Jianna Evaristo, who suffered an injury in a recent training accident. Under NHRA’s Medical Replacement Policy, Ray is not only able to race Evaristo’s JHG/Scrappers Buell, but he  can also earn points on her behalf.

Here, Evaristo and Ray explain their decision, and their expectations for the biggest event of the season.