Tim Wilkerson Set To Compete At 54th Gatornationals

One of the NHRA’s most prestigious events will open the 2023 season this weekend. Gainesville Raceway has been home to numerous records during its five-decade run. The track will play host to the NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout, an event with $130,00 on the line. Eliminations will take place on Sunday, as drivers will look to open their season with a win at the historic venue.

Schedule

The NHRA season typically begins and ends Pomona, California. This season is a rare instance where the season begins at the Gatornationals.

The racing began on Thursday with the first round of qualifiers. Much of the qualifying will take place on Friday and Saturday. The All-Star Callout races take place on Saturday, where the eight fastest drivers from the top fuel class will be able to choose their opponents based on speed. All these events will lead into Eliminations on Sunday.

HERE WE GO! The 2023 @CampingWorld Series season starts NOW! Are you ready?! pic.twitter.com/foSQOHNyqa

— NHRA (@NHRA) March 10, 2023

Tim Wilkerson goes for his third

62-year-old veteran Tim Wilkerson is a two-time former winner of the event. Wilkerson recently teamed up with JCM Racing to compete in Funny Car. Wilkerson is now co-owner of the team, teaming up with Joe Maynard. The driver is excited about the merger, although he said there was some sadness that came with the move. He had been with his previous team for 22 years.

Wilkerson talked about why the Gatornationals is a special event, citing both the venue itself as well as the fans. He talks about the track being old and having a lot of tradition around it, as well as the fact that he has won there twice before.

Wilkerson’s crew from 2022 remains intact despite the merger of the teams. The 27-year veteran is looking to win his first Funny Car Championship in 2023. Wilkerson has finished in the Top-10 18 times in his career, but is looking to become a bona fide contender this season.