Tim Paap secured his first Pro Nitrous victory during his debut after transitioning from Elite Top Sportsman over the winter. Leading a team that includes past NHRA Top Sportsman world champion Jeffrey Barker and past PDRA Elite Top Sportsman world champion Donny “Hollywood” Urban, Paap qualified No. 1 and advanced through eliminations to face three-time world champion Tommy Franklin in the final round.

Paap, driving his Musi-powered Paap Auto Body ’16 Corvette, recorded a winning time of 3.651 seconds at 205.26 mph. Franklin finished with a close 3.652 at 205.66, taking the runner-up spot.

Thanks to Pat Musi Racing Engines, which doubled the winner’s purse through the PDRA’s new Power Purse program, Paap took home $20,000 for his victory.

“It’s just surreal right now. Absolutely surreal,” Paap said, thanking his team and sponsors, including Killin’ Time Racing and Holley. “There’s so many people to thank. It hasn’t sunk in yet.”

Paap excelled on the starting line throughout eliminations, beginning with a .017 reaction time and a 3.699 run against Edward Wilson in the first round. He continued his winning streak with a .005 reaction time in a second-round matchup against former world champion Tim Molnar, finishing with a 3.679 at 201.67.

In the semifinals, Paap left second against Tony Wilson, but still advanced with a time of 3.688 at 203.80, surpassing Wilson’s 3.736.

Franklin, in his Musi-powered “Jungle Rat 3.0” ’69 Camaro, also had a strong day, defeating Pro Mod veteran Tommy Mauney in the opening round with a time of 3.695 at 204.51. Franklin worked his way to the final, edging out Marcus Butner in the second round with a 3.678 at 205.07, and topping Jackie Slone Jr. in the semifinals with a time of 3.666 at 205.26 to secure lane choice for the final.