The Scrappers Sisters, Jasmine Salinas and Jianna Evaristo, are ready for high-octane racing action this weekend at the Pep Boys NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pennsylvania. This event marks the beginning of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship, NHRA’s version of the playoffs. With some of the fiercest competition the sport has ever seen, every point, pass and performance will be crucial for the team’s success.
Starting from the seventh spot in the Countdown to the Championship, Jianna Evaristo has shown remarkable progress all season on her Matt Smith-tuned Valley Services Scrappers Racing Buell. After a semifinal finish at Maple Grove Raceway last year, the talented Pro Stock Motorcycle pilot is riding a wave of momentum and aims to capitalize on her growing confidence as she seeks a breakthrough performance at this iconic venue.
“I feel like this Valley Services Scrappers Racing motorcycle and I are vibing at exactly the right time,” said Jianna. “The competition is incredibly tight right now and every single pass is important. I’m going to give it my all. The best part is, I’m having fun! The whole team at Matt Smith Racing has been so supportive. I still have a lot to learn but it’s moving in the right direction.”
Although Jasmine’s Valley Services Scrappers Racing Top Fuel dragster narrowly missed out on the Countdown to the Championship, the talented driver is determined to finish the season strong with standout performances as she pursues the 2024 NHRA Rookie of the Year title.
“Our team is going to finish this season like we are competing for the championship,” said Jasmine. “We are going to learn as much as we possibly can and we will pursue excellence with every pass. The support I’ve felt from this crew – my crew – this season has been overwhelming and I can’t thank them enough for their commitment. They are a championship quality team and they are turning me into a championship quality driver.”
All of the exciting racing action for the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will begin on Friday, September 13, with qualifying sessions at 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Pep Boys NHRA Nationals will feature two more qualifying sessions on Saturday, September 14 at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations will begin on Sunday, September 15 at 10:30 a.m.
This story was originally published on September 12, 2024. 
