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PSM NEWCOMER BRAYDEN DAVIS LOOKS TO KEEP ROLLING AT AMERICAN REBEL LIGHT VIRGINIA NHRA NATIONALS
DINWIDDIE, Va. (June 20, 2025) – It was nearly a perfect weekend for Brayden Davis in just his second career start in the Pro Stock Motorcycle ranks two weeks ago in Bristol. The only thing missing – an event win – is something he’d love to take care of in his third career NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event, this weekend’s fifth annual American Rebel Light Virginia NHRA Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park.
Riding the rental bike for the powerhouse Vance & Hines team, Davis made a strong impression in Bristol, taking the No. 1 qualifier with a terrific series of runs and then advancing to the semifinals.
His arrival on the Pro Stock Motorcycle scene was sudden, but it was definitely impactful and Davis hopes to continue that run of success this weekend in Richmond.
“When I joined the team, I knew I was going to have a good-running motorcycle and it was going to be up to me on how well I can ride,” Davis said. “The more passes I get, the more confident and comfortable I was able to get. Andrew (Hines, crew chief) and I have been working together really well. The guys on this team, they are definitely top-notch and the more data we get, the more dangerous we’ll be.”
Last season, Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won in Richmond during the two-day event. This year’s event, which is the ninth of 20 races during the 2025 season in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, will be broadcast on FOX broadcast network and FS1, including eliminations coverage beginning at 4 p.m. ET on FOX on Sunday, June 22.
This weekend’s American Rebel Light Virginia NHRA Nationals will give teams a unique challenge with its two-day format featuring three qualifying sessions on Saturday and race day on Sunday. Davis will take part in the specialty race for the first time when he gets a semifinal rematch with teammate, back-to-back world champion and defending event winner Herrera.
The other matchup features Bristol winner Richard Gadson and Chase Van Sant. Davis would love a double-up weekend, but he’s thrilled to compete in a loaded class that also includes Matt Smith, Jianna Evaristo, Angie Smith and Steve Johnson.
Davis has quickly developed into a marquee talent in a brief time, but a simple approach has been key. The nerves haven’t gotten to him and Davis insists he’s enjoying every minute of this ride.
“I just go out here and ride the bike, and try not to over-think it,” Davis said. “I try to hit my shift points, cut a good reaction time and get it to the finish line. I like to have fun and engage with the fans, but when it’s time to race, it’s time to race. You’ve got to get locked in. I definitely think there’s a good season ahead of us.” |
