Anthony Troyer delivered another breakthrough moment in his young career at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota, driving the Fendt McPhillips Racing Top Alcohol Dragster to his second career victory in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. The win not only moved Troyer up to fourth in the championship standings, but also continued McPhillips Racing’s streak of success at Brainerd, marking the team’s third victory at the track in the last five years.
After qualifying fifth with a sharp 5.227-second pass at 270.59 mph, Troyer worked his way through eliminations with a mix of consistency, quick reflexes, and a little bit of luck. He started with a 5.270 at 271.57 mph win over Jamie Noonan in round one, then advanced past Melanie Johnson in the second round when Johnson red-lit. The semifinals brought one of the weekend’s most dramatic moments, as Troyer left first with a .035-second reaction time and held on for a holeshot victory over teammate Matt Cummings with a 5.226 at 270.97 mph.
That set up a final-round clash with veteran Jackie Fricke, where Troyer once again used his starting line advantage to seal the deal. His .048 light paired with a 5.241 at 272.23 mph was just enough to hold off Fricke’s quicker 5.211 at 277.60 mph, giving Troyer his second national event Wally of the season after scoring his first in Pomona earlier this year.
“This weekend wasn’t perfect, but there was a lot of luck and great teamwork that got us into the Winner’s Circle,” Troyer said. “Without my team, Fendt, Troyer Brothers, and all the support of my family and friends, I couldn’t have done this. I can’t wait for Indy. We’ll be ready and aiming for success.”
For team owner Rich McPhillips Sr., the weekend was a reminder of the group’s depth and ability to rise to the occasion. “The Fendt team had a great weekend in Brainerd,” he said. “I’m proud of how Anthony wheeled the car, earning holeshot wins in the Semifinals and Finals. This win is in memory of Chris Raschke from ARP. He was a great land speed racer, partner and friend that will be missed.”
Troyer’s Brainerd victory also marked another milestone partnership moment for Fendt and parent company AGCO, a global leader in precision agriculture technology. And while the team’s new pit mascot — a chicken named “Steve” — brought some levity to the weekend, the focus now shifts squarely to the biggest race of the season: the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, where Troyer will look to carry his momentum into Indy and beyond.
This story was originally published on August 17, 2025. 
