In a clash of blue-collar nitro racers, Funny Car racer Terry Haddock got the best of Top Fuel racer Mitch King at the inaugural Texas Invitational match race. The battle of flame-throwers kicked off the 3rd annual Stampede of Speed week at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas. 

Haddock's path to triumph began on Saturday when he outpaced fellow Funny Car contender Jeff Diehl in the opening round, setting the stage for his monumental face-off with King for the Texas Invitational championship belt. Securing his spot in the final, King left a trail of tire smoke behind as he outperformed Buddy Hull during Saturday's heart-pounding race.

Haddock was all smiles after the event.

“Any win is awesome, and I am super proud of my guys,” said Haddock, surrounded by his crew. “I am super grateful and thankful to the Meyer family for putting this event together. They are trying to grow the sport of drag racing, and we need more people like them out here. This Stars of Texas event with the concerts, bull riding, and drag racing is just awesome. We had so many people come up to our Funny Car that had never seen anything like it, and now they are fans. This was a great two days of racing and music. I can’t wait to get to the Texas Fall Nationals.”

Haddock was quick to point out that every time he rolled to the starting line, he did so with an appreciation of those who have had to fight their way up the ladder as he has. 

“I like racing Mitch King and those guys as well as Jeff Diehl and Buddy Hull," Haddock said. "This was a great group of drivers to show off for the fans on Saturday and Sunday. When you can run a Funny Car against a Top Fuel dragster and do something different that’s a lot of fun. It was cool at the top end to see a Top Fuel dragster make the turn and pull up beside us. This was a great time.

"Competing against these remarkable drivers in the presence of our fans on Saturday and Sunday was an absolute pleasure. The opportunity to pit a Funny Car against a Top Fuel dragster and bring something distinctive to the table is immensely gratifying. Witnessing a Top Fuel dragster gracefully maneuvering alongside us at the finish line was an unforgettable sight. This has been an unquestionably delightful experience."

The Texas Invitational, a thrilling addition to the already action-packed Stars of Texas Music Festival weekend, captivated fans with its exceptional lineup. On Saturday, attendees were treated to performances by renowned country music stars from the 90s, culminating in sensational sets by Texas country legends Sawyer Brown and Clay Walker. Throughout the day, fans enjoyed junior bull riding and a range of enticing vendor booths. 

Augmenting the musical entertainment were thrilling drag races and a captivating drone show showcasing the country music theme. 

Sunday witnessed the sky filled with the melodies of country music once again, headlined by Midland—a perfect ending to a day brimming with fun activities, including a breathtaking lantern release by thousands of devoted fans. Additionally, the event offered a beer expo, the Jambo's BBQ contest, and more riveting bull riding.

Christie Meyer Johnson, co-owner of the Texas Motorplex, expressed her delight at the tremendous success of the Stampede of Speed's initial three days, citing larger crowds, favorable weather conditions, and a plethora of captivating on-track action. 

"Next year, this event will only grow bigger, featuring an expanded lineup of performances, races, and satellite events," Johnson said. "Our aim is to establish this as the premier October destination for racing, music, and family fun, attracting fans from across the nation."