Championship Drag Racing

ACDelco Las Vegas NHRA Nationals
Las Vegas, NV
(October 25-28)

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Driver Profile

Matt Smith MSR/Viper Motorcycles Buell

Las Vegas, Sunday: Matt Smith headed into Las Vegas this past weekend only a mere 10 points out of the POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle points lead. Needing to keep his hopes alive in Pomona, Smith knew he needed a good showing at Vegas.

Having some problems in qualifying, due to hurting a motor on Friday during qualifying, Smith a crew had to change motors in order for the next day’s qualifying. Running a 7.049 at 186.77 mph, Smith qualified himself and his Torco Buell in the third position.

Squaring off against Steve Johnson first round, Smith took his time and ran a great 7.068 at 186.51 mph to get the win light. Second round he had to run one of the top-four contenders in the Countdown to One, Peggy Llewellyn. Cutting a great light, but slowing up a bit, Smith would get the huge holeshot win and would advance to the semifinals.

Having to run Andrew Hines, who was leading the points, Smith knew it was now or never. Giving it all he had, Smith cut a good light and ran a great time, however Hines just fared a little better and Smith would lose the round.

“We had a good weekend,” said Smith. “I mean, yes I would have liked to have gone a few more rounds, but all-in-all I guess I can’t complain. We have a great team and a great sponsor, and we still have a chance next weekend to try and win this championship. We are testing today (Monday) in Vegas to try and better ourselves for next weekend. We are holding nothing back and are going to give it our all in Pomona; hopefully we can make something happen.”

Smith sits third in the points now, 14 points out of second and 51 points out of first.

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