After claiming the provisional pole on the first day of qualifying at the Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals, Greg Anderson and his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro were afforded two more passes on Saturday to try to improve. The competition, though, was afforded that same opportunity. The HendrickCars.com Chevrolet kept ahead, however, and Anderson’s challengers were unsuccessful in their attempts to dislodge the seven-time Indy low qualifier from his elevated position.
The five-time world champion will enter the final day of qualifying for the prestigious, historic U.S. Nationals with the provisional pole and 12 bonus points in hand for his efforts so far.
Rain dampened the racing surface all morning long ahead of the noon start, but by the time the KB Titan Racing team pulled to the starting line, the track was amply prepared for the horsepower they had to offer. It soaked Anderson’s 6.588-second pass at 206.29 mph right up, and he reeled in four additional bonus points as best of the round.
A quick turnaround ensued, but the well-oiled team hustled. Anderson made the call and threw down another low-of-the-round run, this time a 6.593, 207.18, for four more bonus marks and to solidify Saturday’s provisional pole.
“The guys did a fantastic job,” said Anderson, a 128-time No. 1 qualifier in Pro Stock aiming at No. 129. “Two great runs today, and that’s what it takes. These cars are so close in performance, power, driving ability. Everything has to be perfect for you to get a No. 1 spot and win rounds. We’ve done a great job so far, but we’re only halfway through the weekend. It looks like tomorrow is going to be a tick better again, and the pole is not safe. You’ll have to find a way to get the job done again.
“I’m really pleased with how things have gone so far here, and I think we have a good chance. But they’re all nipping at my heels, without a doubt, and anybody can get that pole. There are a lot of people capable of taking it, so we’ll have to give it all we’ve got and try to be perfect.”
Qualifying will conclude on Sunday at the 70th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals with two final sessions. Eliminations are scheduled to take place on Labor Day at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
This story was originally published on August 31, 2024. 
