NHRA drag racing standouts Jasmine Salinas (Top Fuel) and Jianna Evaristo (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are filled with determination as they prepare to compete at the NHRA Carolina Nationals at state-of-the-art zMAX Dragway, just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. Their father and Scrappers Racing team owner, Mike Salinas, raced to a runner-up finish at this event last year and the Scrappers Sisters are aiming for similar success as competition in the Countdown to the Championship (NHRA’s version of the playoffs) heats up.
Jasmine Salinas and her crew are working diligently to improve consistency as she continues learning the ropes behind the wheel of her 11,000-horsepower Valley Services Scrappers Racing Top Fuel dragster. The talented rookie is experiencing the challenging learning curve that comes with powering one of the fastest-accelerating machines in the world.
“Last year we had the car to beat,” said Jasmine. “The crew has had to adjust to working with a brand new driver and we are experiencing those ups and downs together. The competition in Top Fuel is really tight this season. Everyone is leveling up and we are feeling the pressure. Going through tough times like this can make or break the team bond, and I think in our case, we are becoming a stronger unit. I’m so grateful for the persistence that my crew has demonstrated throughout the season. We are determined to get to a more positive place in these final five races.”
After experiencing a number of setbacks at the Countdown opener in Reading, Pennsylvania, Jianna Evaristo is eager to turn things around at zMAX. The skilled rider has been making consistent improvements aboard her Valley Services Scrappers Racing Buell this season and she knows that her team has what it takes to turn on win lights as they work to gain ground in the Countdown to the Championship.
“After our experience in Reading, we are ready to put that behind us and get back to business out here,” remarked Jianna. “This is the home race for my teammates and mentors, Matt and Angie Smith. I want to get some redemption out there and gain some points so we leave Charlotte in a better position.”
The Scrappers Sisters will take to the track for the NHRA Carolina Nationals starting with qualifying this Friday, September 20 with two sessions at 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. On Saturday, September 21, qualifying will continue with two sessions at 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled to begin at noon on Sunday, September 22.
This story was originally published on September 19, 2024. 
