Force, 72, tops qualifying at NHRA’s event in N.C.

CONCORD, N.C. — John Force topped Funny Car qualifying Saturday with his zMAX Dragway-record run Friday night in the Circle K NHRA Four-Wide Nationals.

The 72-year-old Force, a 16-time Funny Car season champion, had a 3.850-second pass at 334.24 mph in a Chevrolet Camaro, eclipsing the track record of 3.851 set by daughter Courtney Force five years ago.

“It was a good day,” said Force, who posted his first top qualifier of the season. “Let’s see where (Sunday) goes. I just love racing at this place.”

Justin Ashley led the Top Fuel field with his Friday pass of 3.669 at 331.77. Angelle Sampey topped the Pro Stock Motorcycle lineup with a 6.714 at 201.16 on Saturday on a Suzuki.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.