Veteran knowledge proves beneficial for Arana Sr. in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC – In the hunt for his second NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series championship, Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana Sr. had last-minute work to do for the Pep Boys NHRA Carolina Nationals to ensure he starts off the playoffs the right way.

Heading into the last qualifying session without a clean pass down the track all weekend, Arana got it done when it mattered most with a 6.996 at 192.60 mph. Securing the No. 13 spot, it will be a battle of the Buells when Arana’s Lucas Oil entry faces off against No. 4 Matt Smith’s bike in the first round of eliminations.

“We prepped everything at the shop to avoid working here,” Arana said. “We tore down the motors, replaced everything that we could think of, and did anything possible to have a fresh start. I want to finish this year on a bang.

“To then come over here and not be able to go to second gear was frustrating. I had no data, which meant I couldn’t tune or really do anything to fix the problem. Finally, with the help of everyone we were able to finish the changes on time, make the run, and have the bike shift.”

After dealing with shifting issues all weekend, Arana was more focused on fixing the problem than putting down a fast time in qualifying. Now that the problem has been fixed, Arana knows that he can show what his Lucas Oil Buell is really capable of when it matters most.

“I was so focused on the shift point, wondering if my bike was going to shift or not, that I missed my shift points completely. When I realized that, I shifted but it didn’t feel like if anything happened. I assumed something was wrong and I shifted it again. I felt that one go and I thought to myself, ‘Okay, let’s keep on going.’ I finally crossed the finish line under power through all the gears, so I’m smiling.

“I feel relieved that the bike finally shifted. Saying that though, we found the problem and got it fixed, which is what matters. I’m going to have a good night of sleep tonight and just try to stay calm for tomorrow.”

Eliminations will start at approximately 1 p.m., Sunday, with elimination action broadcast on ESPN2 on tape delay.