Californian Top Fuel newcomer Ashley Sanford will be taking over the seat of the Rapisarda Autosport International Top Fuel dragster at the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St Louis this weekend.
With Australian driver Wayne Newby needing to return home to look after his Newby Engineering business (after already extending his trip for races in Charlotte and Maple Grove), Sanford will bring her trademark enthusiasm to the role. Sanford drove for the Lagana family at the US Nationals in her Top Fuel debut, but has extensive appearance in A/Fuel dragsters.
“I am so stoked to be joining the Rapisarda family and crew at the Gateway Nationals this upcoming weekend,” Sanford said. “When I answered the phone and Santo Jr. and Tino filled me in on the details and asked if I would be up for the task, let’s just say it was the easiest decision I’ve ever made!
“I know Wayne Newby will be missed but he had to head home to Australia to check in on Newby Engineering. I am absolutely honored to fill in for Wayne and do my best to take the Rapisarda Top Fuel Dragster down the track from A to B and try to go some rounds on race day!”
