Hart’s Debut Win Headlines Gatornationals as ANGIE SMITH Claims Pole Position

March 9, 2026

• While Josh Hart grabbed headlines with his debut Top Fuel win at John Force Racing, ANGIE SMITH quietly secured the No. 1 qualifying position in Pro Stock Motorcycle at the Gatornationals. Smith’s pole position puts her in prime position as the 2026 NHRA season kicks off, showing that women continue to be forces at the front of the field when given competitive equipment.
• The weekend also highlighted an interesting team dynamic with LEAH PRUETT stepping back into Tony Stewart Racing’s Top Fuel dragster while her husband Tony Stewart drives for Elite Motorsports. Pruett returns to competition after taking time off to have their son, creating a unique situation where the couple will be racing against each other’s teams throughout the season.
• The Gainesville results set up what could be a compelling season for women in NHRA, with Smith starting from pole strength in Pro Stock Motorcycle and Pruett returning to Top Fuel competition. Both represent the kind of veteran presence that proves women belong at the top level of drag racing when the focus stays on performance rather than novelty.

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