We’ve Got Some Speed Now”: Tony Stewart Highlights Effort Behind New Career-Best ET at Route 66 Nationals

In an impressive display of versatility and determination, Tony Stewart, the renowned three-time NASCAR champion, made headlines at the Route 66 Nationals in Joliet, Illinois, by setting a new personal best in the NHRA Top Fuel class. Filling in for his wife Leah Pruett, Stewart’s performance not only showcased his racing talent but also underscored the relentless effort and teamwork that went into achieving this milestone, despite the challenging weather conditions and schedule disruptions that marked the event.

The weekend at Route 66 Raceway was anything but smooth. Midwest storms swept through the region, leading to multiple rain delays that forced officials to alter the event schedule multiple times. Amidst the chaos and unpredictable weather, Stewart and his crew worked tirelessly behind the scenes, fine-tuning the dragster to optimize performance. Their relentless dedication paid off when Stewart clocked a blistering elapsed time (ET) of 3.692 seconds, the fastest of his career in the NHRA Top Fuel category. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Stewart, reaffirming his adaptability across different racing disciplines and his commitment to excellence.

Stewart’s comments after the run reflected a mix of satisfaction and excitement. “We’ve got some speed now,” he said, emphasizing the progress made by his team. The sentiment captured the essence of their efforts—a collective push to improve and push boundaries. Stewart’s background as a three-time NASCAR champion provided him with a unique perspective on racing, and his transition into NHRA competition highlighted his passion for motorsport and his desire to conquer new challenges.

The weather played a pivotal role in shaping the weekend’s narrative. The Midwest storms caused multiple delays, impacting the schedule and testing the patience and resilience of drivers, teams, and fans alike. However, these disruptions seemed to galvanize Stewart’s crew, who worked around the clock to ensure the dragster was in peak condition for each run. Stewart credited his team’s adaptability and Pruett’s guidance from the sidelines as critical factors in their success. His wife, Leah Pruett, is a prominent figure in the NHRA Top Fuel scene, and Stewart’s participation in her racing endeavors has been a testament to their shared passion for motorsport.

Fans at the event played a heartfelt role in the weekend’s atmosphere. Despite the rain delays and schedule uncertainties, spectators rallied behind Stewart and Pruett, holding up banners and cheering from the sidelines. Their unwavering support provided a morale boost that fueled the team’s determination to succeed, even under adverse conditions. The camaraderie and passion of the NHRA community were palpable throughout the weekend, reminding everyone of the sport’s vibrant spirit.

Stewart’s performance at Route 66 positions him as a serious contender for upcoming events, notably the NHRA Northwest Nationals. His ability to adapt quickly and perform under pressure has been on full display, and his latest run underscores his potential to challenge seasoned veterans in the sport. The achievement also signals a promising chapter for Stewart’s NHRA career, demonstrating that his talent and work ethic remain as sharp as ever.

Looking ahead, Stewart’s focus is on maintaining momentum and further refining his skills on the drag strip. His experience in NASCAR has provided him with a competitive edge, and now, in the NHRA, he appears to be finding his footing. The newfound speed and confidence are evident, and fans can expect to see more electrifying performances from him in the future.

In conclusion, Tony Stewart’s remarkable run at the Route 66 Nationals exemplifies the essence of perseverance and teamwork in motorsport. Despite the weather hurdles and schedule upheavals, Stewart’s dedication and his crew’s relentless effort resulted in a career-best ET—a testament to what can be achieved with passion, resilience, and a little bit of speed. As he prepares for the upcoming NHRA Northwest Nationals, all eyes will be on him, eager to see if he can carry this momentum forward and continue making history in the NHRA Top Fuel ranks.