The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series continues its 2025 season with the American Doorslammer Challenge, May 22-24, at Summit Motorsports Park. This event marks the third stop of the eight-race series, showcasing all-out doorslammer action.
Tyler Crossnoe, series director, expressed enthusiasm for the venue, stating, “The Bader family has built one of the most impressive facilities in the sport, and their commitment to creating a first-class experience for racers and fans is second to none.” He added that the Ohio drag racing community’s passion enriches the event, making it a special stop on the tour.
Participation levels for the co-headlining categories, Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous and WS Construction Pro Boost, are at series-record highs. Fans can expect robust fields as Midwest drivers join the competition in Norwalk.
Pro Nitrous points leader Marcus Butner heads into Norwalk after a recent victory at the Travis Mills Foundation Mid-Atlantic Showdown. He defeated rookie Amber Denton, who now sits second in points and is the daughter of three-time Pro Nitrous world champion Tommy Franklin, who is currently third.
Hometown favorite Melanie Salemi leads Pro Boost competitors. She secured a win at the season opener, driving her “Purple Reign” ’68 Firebird, and will race with support from family and friends this weekend.
Blake Denton leads in Liberty’s Gears Pro Street as a newcomer, achieving a win and a runner-up in his first two races. Defending event winner Ethan Steding follows closely behind in points after clinching the latest victory.
In AED Competition Fuel Systems Extreme Pro Stock, Jeremy Huffman is the points leader for the first time, following his initial career win at the Mid-Atlantic Showdown. Chris Powers, a two-time world champion, sits second, with Alan Drinkwater, last season’s champion, in third.
Walter Lannigan leads in PDRA Pro 632, aiming for his first world championship after consistent performances this season. Ohio’s Jeff Melnick, the 2023 champion, is in second, and Lexi Tanner follows in third.
In PDRA Super Street, Austin Vincent narrowly leads over defending event winner Connor McGee. Third place is held by Matt Schalow, who faced a setback at the last race but remains in contention.
The American Doorslammer Challenge will include fierce competition in sportsman categories, with Ron Whitlock, Alan O’Brien, Ken Langlois, and Nick Meloni as points leaders. Local racers will have a chance to compete in the Edelbrock Bracket Bash.
Makinze Alexander holds the points lead in Paragon Pro Jr. Dragster after a win and a runner-up performance. In Classic Graphix Top Jr. Dragster, Will O’Brien recently took the lead, highlighting the tight race among competitors.
Competitors can test on Thursday, with sportsman qualifying starting at 5 p.m. Pro qualifying sessions are scheduled for Friday at noon, 4 p.m., and 8 p.m. Saturday will feature Jr. Dragster final qualifying at 8:30 a.m. and pro eliminations beginning at noon. The FuelTech Winner’s Circle celebration is planned for 9:30 p.m.
