Comella Captures Third Consecutive Dodge HEMI® Challenge Win!

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park witnessed a thrilling showdown at the 69th Annual Dodge Power Brokers NHRA U.S. Nationals as the iconic Dodge HEMI® Challenge marked its 22nd edition. The event, known as the longest-continuous-running specialty race in NHRA history, featured vintage 1968 Dodge Dart and Plymouth Barracuda factory “package cars” that had dominated the NHRA SS/AH class for over five decades. This year’s challenge was nothing short of extraordinary, with nearly 20 entrants vying for the coveted title and bragging rights.

Steve Comella, hailing from Rochester, New York, emerged as the star of the show, clinching his third consecutive title in this prestigious event. Driving his 1968 Barracuda to victory, Comella showed remarkable skill and determination, making him a true force to be reckoned with on the track during the week. In a heart-pounding final round, he secured the win with a final round time of 8.331 seconds, narrowly beating his opponent, Jimmy Daniels, who posted a time of 8.395 seconds.

The names Daniels and Comella have been synonymous with the Dodge HEMI Challenge for the past eight years, demonstrating their dominance in this highly competitive arena. Together, they have claimed seven of the last eight specialty event titles held annually at the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indy. Daniels had an impressive four consecutive victories from 2016 to 2019, while Comella followed up with back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022.

“I work all year to win this prize for one day,” Comella shared, his excitement palpable. His victory earned him the accolade and a substantial $15,000 cash prize. Reflecting on his remarkable achievement, he added, “It’s been 364 days since the last win at this race, but now let’s see how many times we can do it. We’re going to enjoy it tonight, and tomorrow, we’ll start prepping for next year.”

The Dodge HEMI Challenge continues to be a unique fan-favorite, drawing enthusiasts and racers alike to witness these vintage muscle cars’ sheer power and performance. The event’s legacy, steeped in history, promises to remain a highlight on the NHRA calendar for years to come.

In addition to the cash prize and the title, this year’s victor was bestowed with a one-of-a-kind, custom-made trophy crafted by the talented artist Tom Patsis of Cold Hard Art, a local Brownsburg, Indiana-based artist. Tom Patsis, a former NHRA welder-fabricator and the winner of the 2021 Netflix competition series Metal Shop Masters, designed a trophy as unique and impressive as the event itself.

Steve Comella’s remarkable three-peat victory is a testament to his skill, determination, and dedication to the sport of drag racing, and it sets the stage for yet another thrilling chapter in the history of the Dodge HEMI Challenge.

Video Source: NHRA and Class Racer