The Scrappers Sisters are ready to return to racing action this weekend at the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season opener, the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla. Jasmine Salinas (Top Fuel) and Jianna Evaristo (Pro Stock Motorcycle) have experienced some extreme highs and lows at historic Gainesville Raceway, making this one of the more meaningful stops on their schedule.
After a whirlwind rookie year, Jasmine Salinas is looking forward to competing at Gainesville Raceway for the first time in Top Fuel. While she’s only just begun her sophomore season in the professional ranks, Jasmine has an interesting history with this track from her days in sportsman racing. In 2021, she experienced the most dramatic on-track incident of her career when her Top Alcohol Dragster flew end-over-end in a jaw-dropping blowover. While the race car took a beating, Jasmine walked away with nothing more than a few bruises. In 2022, she made a triumphant return to Gainesville Raceway and landed in the winners circle, clutching her first national event Wally. She’s excited to light up the track in her 12,000-horsepower Valley Services Scrappers Racing dragster and has high hopes for the season.
“Last year, I took over driving duties after the race in Gainesville, so this will be my first time competing here as a professional drag racer,” said Jasmine. “I’ve been looking forward to this moment for a long time and it’s going to be a fun weekend. We knew we wanted to start fresh this season. We made a lot of changes to the car and team during the offseason. Testing went great and I’m confident that we’re headed in the right direction for 2025.”
Last year at this event, Jianna Evaristo debuted a new Buell motorcycle – a big change from her previous Suzuki rides. As the talented Pro Stock Motorcycle rider grew more comfortable on her new wheels, her confidence soared. She’s determined to make the most out of every pass this season with the guidance of her crew chief, Matt Smith.
“2024 was kind of a rebuilding year,” said Jianna. “I knew the Buell would be the right fit for me, but it took a while to make the necessary adjustments and get a feel for it. I learned so much last year and I’m excited to put it all together in Gainesville to start the season strong.”
Racing action for the first event of the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season will begin with qualifying on Friday, March 7 with two rounds at 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., followed by two more sessions on Saturday, March 8 at 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Eliminations are scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 9.
There are more videos on the Cycledrag Youtube channel (please subscribe here) and like the Cycledrag Facebook page (Please like here) and more will be coming soon. Also subscribe to our NEW Youtube channel “Racing Jack” and Check back daily.
