The Big Go, NHRA’s most prestigious and coveted event is underway in Indianapolis and all eyes are on qualifying for the NHRA Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals. A win here is career making, and is often described as more meaningful than a season championship. For these four drivers being in the number 1 qualifying position is a great feeling, but also one that comes with some nervousness. The only way to go is down when you are on top, and being number one on day one isn’t nearly as important as being number one after the last round of qualifying. But will Friday’s conditions prove to be the best of the weekend? Will they hold on to their top spots? We’ll find out over the coming days, but until then watch their top spot earning runs.

Friday, Aug. 31, 2018

MIKE SALINAS

TOP FUEL PRELIMINARY NO. 1 QUALIFIER

SCRAPPERS RACING DRAGSTER

3.756 SEC., 321.04 MPH

NOTE: Salinas has never recorded a No. 1 qualifier in his career.

J.R. TODD

FUNNY CAR PRELIMINARY NO. 1 QUALIFIER

DHL TOYOTA CAMRY FUNNY CAR

3.910 SEC., 325.45 MPH

NOTE: Todd is the defending event winner and has yet to record a No. 1 qualifier in Funny Car.

TANNER GRAY

PRO STOCK PRELIMINARY NO. 1 QUALIFIER

GRAY MOTORSPORTS CHEVROLET CAMARO

6.603 SEC., 208.68 MPH

NOTE: Gray has yet to earn a No. 1 qualifying position at this event .

EDDIE KRAWIEC

PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE PRELIMINARY NO. 1 QUALIFIER

MELLO YELLO / SCREAMIN’ EAGLE VANCE & HINES HARLEY DAVIDSON

6.825 SEC., 197.02 MPH

NOTE: Krawiec is the defending event winner.