Possible new look for Arana Sr. could bring success in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC – He is known as the “most interesting man in Pro Stock Motorcycle,” but Lucas Oil rider Hector Arana Sr. may unveil a new look when he rolls up to the starting line Friday, Sept. 12, for the start of the NHRA Carolina Nationals in Charlotte.

After sporting an infamous beard throughout the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season, the Arana is considering making a change. With recent mixed support from fans, he is contemplating starting his chase for another championship without the now-notorious beard.

“You would be surprised how many people have come to me in favor of the beard and some against it,” Arana said. “Other people have come to me as well and told me that ever since I have had the beard I haven’t been doing as well.

“Hearing things like that really make you think. I’m not superstitious but sometimes you can’t help but wonder if there is any truth to things like that. I like the beard; my wife hates it. I know I will have to shave it off at some point but it’s up in the air. It could be as soon as tomorrow or not until the end of the season. We will just have to see.”

At last year’s NHRA Carolina Nationals, Arana made it to the final round after taking out his oldest son in the semifinals. However, Arana knows he has some work to do following his results in Indy a couple of weeks ago.

“Sometimes you have to go by the seat of your pants,” Arana said. “I think I know what the bike wants. In the past I’ve been pretty good with what I feel needs to be done without having any data and still ran well. I’m just going to really follow my instincts and go from there. Hopefully, everything is working fine once we get to Charlotte.”

Fans should be on the lookout for the possible beardless Arana when qualifying sessions take place at 12:45 and 3 p.m., Friday, and 1 and 3 p.m., Saturday. Eliminations will start at approximately 1 p.m., Sunday, with both qualifying and elimination action broadcast on ESPN2 on tape delay.