Pro Stock Motorcycle pro Hector Arana Jr. ready to do well at another Lucas Oil race

BRAINERD, MN – Lucas Oil Buell Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana Jr. brings some momentum into the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals this weekend at Brainerd International Raceway.

Arana’s first source of strength comes from winning the Lucas Oil-sponsored Route 66 NHRA Nationals in Chicago on July 12, and he would love to again win a sponsor race this weekend.

“It’s definitely important to do well at the Lucas Oil race,” Arana said. “We won the last Lucas Oil race, so we’ve got to keep that streak going.”

Plus, the last time the Pro Stock Motorcycle class raced in Brainerd was during the 2012 season, and Arana reached the final round.

“Brainerd is one of my favorite races, “Arana said. “We haven’t been able to race there for two years now, so I’m glad to be back there again. The last time I was there, I raced in the final, so I’m looking forward to doing well there again.”

Arana is in the midst of a stellar season, as he sits second in the points standings with two races remaining before the Countdown to the Championship playoffs begin. He has won once in two final-round appearances and has two No. 1 qualifiers. In addition, his two final rounds have come in the last three races: The win in Chicago and a runner-up finish in Denver.

“I just want to do well,” Arana said. “I’m really competitive, and if I’m not on top, I’m not satisfied. That’s my goal.”

Arana is in his fifth full season as a pro, and he has built up a terrific résumé. He has won 10 times in 72 races, posting a 119-61 win/loss record. He has also been to 17 final rounds and has 18 No. 1 qualifiers.

Pro Stock Motorcycle qualifying sessions are scheduled for 3 and 5:30 p.m., Friday, and 1 and 3:30 p.m., Saturday. Eliminations begin at noon, Sunday. ESPN2 will carry both qualifying and elimination action.