The Randy Meyer Racing team had a weekend to remember at zMAX Dragway as they celebrated the long-awaited conclusion of the 2025 Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals — with a Wally in hand — and debuted two bold new Top Alcohol Dragster designs at the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals.
After rain delays postponed the Gatornationals Top Alcohol Dragster final in March, Matt Cummings and the team picked up right where they left off on Saturday. Behind the wheel of the newly wrapped GUNK “We Like It Dirty” dragster, Matt powered through the semifinals against Jamie Noonan with a 5.172-second pass at 279 mph to move into the final against longtime competitor Jackie Fricke. Matt delivered a flawless 5.188-second run, while Jackie’s 5.38 ET wasn’t even close, to clinch his first Gatornationals victory — and the team’s first Gatornats win since 2023.
“Since the first time I went to the Gatornationals as a spectator in the ’80s, I had a dream of winning a trophy at this National Event,” said Cummings. “I finally did it! Winning the Gatornationals is a feeling I’ll never forget — seeing that win light come on, knowing I performed at the same level as the incredible car the team gave me. I’m proud to bring another win home for Randy, JJ, and everyone who makes this happen.”
“I felt good about my chances this year when we won the first two rounds but was really disappointed the rain came to postpone the race. I had over a month to think and prepare myself for the conclusion. Friday evening was a long night of little sleep and adrenaline that kept going through me every time I woke up. Getting the semifinals win in dominating fashion really gave me confidence going into the final round. I don’t remember much after JJ said let’s kick some a** and stated the car, but I do remember seeing my win light after the finish line. The best feeling is coming around the corner and seeing the NHRA officials guide you into the winner’s spot next to the media tent.”
The 5.17 ET carried Matt to capturing the No. 1 spot, and McKenna secured No. 4 with a 5.242 at 273 mph — a strong showing for the team. In Saturday’s opening round of the 4-Wide Nationals, McKenna picked up the round win after a solid 5.231-second run, advancing to the second round quad. Meanwhile, Matt’s GUNK machine encountered rare issues, and an uncharacteristic late reaction time and pass of 5.49 down the quarter-mile ended his race day earlier than planned.
McKenna continued her push into the final quad with a strong effort but faced tire smoke at the hit during the last pass, ending her bid for the Wally. Despite the final-round heartbreak, the weekend was a major step forward as McKenna continues to build momentum in her rookie Top Alcohol Dragster season.
American Rebel Light Beer NHRA 4-Wide Nationals
The weekend marks Randy Meyer Racing’s first national event win of the 2025 season and continues the team’s tradition of championship-caliber performance across the NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster class.
Up next, the Randy Meyer Racing Team will prepare for the Cleetus and Cars event held in Indianapolis with Matt and Gary Pritchett returning to the driver’s seat, both drivers are locked in and ready to chase more Wallys.
