Thunder Valley Watchlist: Three Drivers Set to Make Noise at Bristol

The mountains of Tennessee are about to rumble as the NHRA Super Grip Thunder Valley Nationals return to Bristol Dragway from June 6–8, 2025. A track known for its elevation swings, unforgiving surface, and die-hard fanbase, Bristol isn’t just a race—it’s a proving ground. With pressure mounting at the midpoint of the season, here are three standout drivers who could steal the show this weekend.

1. Justin Ashley – Top Fuel

Justin Ashley enters Thunder Valley with something to prove. Despite sitting fifth in the standings and having reached the final round twice this season, a win has eluded him—so far. Ashley, however, is approaching this back-to-back race stretch with sharp focus.

“I’ve always felt that back-to-back races are important for continuity,” Ashley said. “It’s critical for the purposes of getting into a consistent rhythm and routine. We’re fortunate to have had a lot of success at Bristol in the past. Now we’re eager to take what we learned last weekend in Epping, New Hampshire and have the opportunity to apply it right away.”

With veteran crew chiefs Mike Green and Tommy Delago dialing in the tune-up on his SCAG Power Equipment dragster, Ashley is in prime position to capitalize. If the team can connect all the dots, don’t be surprised if Ashley breaks through and parks it in the winner’s circle on Sunday.

2. Julie Nataas – Nitro Funny Car

Julie Nataas is stepping into uncharted territory this weekend, making her long-anticipated Nitro Funny Car debut. After a dominant run in the A/Fuel ranks, where she racked up nearly 30 Wallys, the Norwegian driver now straps into the 12,000-horsepower Airmine Toyota GR Supra, tuned by DC Motorsport.

This isn’t just a class upgrade—it’s a career-defining moment.

Nataas brings with her a reputation for fierce competitiveness and the ability to adapt quickly, both critical traits in the wild world of Funny Car. As she makes her debut at one of the sport’s most demanding tracks, expect her to turn heads from the first pass.

3. Richard Gadson – Pro Stock Motorcycle

Few riders have made a quicker impact in Pro Stock Motorcycle than Richard Gadson. In just a short span, he’s gone from a fresh face to a legitimate contender. He’s currently third in points and riding a wave of confidence after claiming the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge victory and stringing together strong performances throughout the early part of the season.

Gadson pilots the RevZilla/Mission Foods/Vance & Hines Suzuki and continues to close the gap on the class leaders. Notably, there’s never been a repeat winner at Bristol since PSM was introduced to the track in 2021. Gadson could very well keep that streak alive—and add his name to the growing list of winners.

The Final Word

Thunder Valley has a way of exposing the weak and elevating the strong. Whether it’s Justin Ashley aiming for that elusive win, Julie Nataas launching a bold new chapter in her career, or Richard Gadson ready to rise to the top, Bristol is where moments become milestones. This weekend, the stakes are high, and these three are primed to deliver.