Veteran driver Tim Wilkerson, helming the SCAG Power Equipment/Levi, Ray & Shoup Ford Mustang, is ready to compete in the NHRA Midwest Nationals, aiming to boost his standing from the seventh spot in the Countdown to the Championship ranking. With an illustrious history at the Midwest Nationals, including a championship in 2008, two-time runner-up in 2005 and 2018, and two-time No. 1 qualifier in 1998 and 2008, Wilkerson is returning to World Wide Technology Raceway with the aim to clinch another significant victory.
In the 2022 NHRA Midwest Nationals, Wilkerson showcased a sturdy performance qualifying eighth and advancing to the Quarterfinals. His consistent competitiveness was further demonstrated at the Carolina Nationals, where he also qualified seventh and reached the quarterfinals, marking an encouraging trend as he approaches the upcoming challenge.
With the 2023 season unfolding favorably – 17 races, two wins, and one runner-up finish under his belt – Tim is looking forward to capitalizing on the momentum. A lifelong resident of Springfield, Ill., Wilkerson has always considered the World Wide Technology Raceway his home turf, bringing an added layer of enthusiasm and local support to his quest.
Wilkerson, making his 15th Countdown appearance, initiated the playoffs from the No. 8 seed. Post advancing to the quarterfinals at the first two of six Countdown events in Reading, Pa., and Charlotte, he has climbed up to the seventh position, illustrating a positive trajectory as he gears up for the intense competition ahead.
Reflecting on the bustling schedule leading up to the race weekend, Wilkerson shares, “A lot going on at St. Louis. I’ve got a media day on Wednesday, and then a press conference on Thursday, and Friday we’ve got one run of qualifying. On Saturday and Sunday, I’ve got a big group in hospitality with Dick Levi and his whole group. It’ll be Mr. Levi’s last big hospitality event, so that’ll be a lot of fun, and then of course we have got our SCAG dealers and distributors, so it’ll be a busy but exciting weekend.”
The NHRA Midwest Nationals is more than a race for Tim Wilkerson; it’s a blend of hard-fought competition, home-ground camaraderie, and the relentless spirit of a seasoned driver.
This story was originally published on September 28, 2023. 
