Racing Through the Heat: Another Wild Night of Heads-Up Action
Last Updated on July 28, 2025 by WWTR
By Chris McCrossan
MADISON, Ill. (July 28, 2025) – Despite a relentless heat wave and storm threats in the forecast, the WWTR N/T Racers program pressed forward with grit and determination. Gates opened at 5:00 p.m., and just before test and tune began, the sun started to set. Though ambient temps stayed in the 90s, the track surface leveled off around 115°F, offering racers a consistent surface to battle on.
Test ‘n’ Tune launched at 7:00 p.m., followed by qualifying rounds at 8:00 p.m. The night sky lit up with heat lightning, setting a stunning scene for a full night of pro tree, small tire, heads-up racing that stretched into the early hours of Sunday morning.
Street Car & Stick Shift Competition
Each Street Car group brought out heavy competition with close racing and standout performances. Shaun Manley claimed the Street Car Group D win over Ed Miller, while Dan Harris Jr. drove to victory in Group C over Brandon Ducket. In Group B, Connor Wilson edged out Brandt Nelson at the stripe. Kyle “Gator” Ciborowski continued his hot streak with a win in Group A over John Cadenhead, securing another back-to-back victory in the program. In Stick Shift, John Miller bested Jessey Pashea.
Small Tire Limited – 5.00 Index for this race’s random chip draw.
The Small Tire Limited class drew 12 competitive entries despite extreme temperatures. With the 5.00 index chip drawn, racers had to be sharp and strategic all night. In a familiar final-round pairing, Matt Phillips lined up against Brad West. While Phillips made a strong push on his 26″ tires, it was Brad West who took the win—once again proving his consistency and power in the index game.
Gangsta 28’s – Beater Bomb Hits the Strip
Gangsta 28’s saw a boost of excitement with the appearance of Joey Hiykel in Beater Bomb. His entry raised the bar and pulled in a crowd. Joey faced off against Blake Neeley in a much-anticipated final. With both racers delivering hard launches and tight runs, it was Beater Bomb that came out ahead, adding another big win to its legacy.
Phil’s Plumbing Street Bike and Garrison Security Group Super Comp MX Class
Bikes tore down the drag strip on Saturday with a battle of the Hayabusas. It was Jaylen Burris in the ’08 who battled it out with Ace Willey’s ’03 in the finals of the Phil’s Plumbing Street Bike Class. However, it was Burris from Madison who took the class win. In the Garrison Security Group Super Comp MX Class, it was Scott Leonard in the ’13 Hayabusa who secured the win over Phil Humphrey.
Special thanks to the WWTR track staff and the WWTR N/T Racer relations team for managing another well-run event under tough conditions. Their commitment and professionalism are what make this series possible.
Next Up: Speed for All Wally Race – Aug. 15, 2025
Don’t miss the upcoming Friday night Wally Race on Aug. 15. The stakes will be high, and competition even higher. This one is set to be a packed house.
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