Pawuk Wins 2024 NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Championship

Mark Pawuk, a seasoned competitor in the NHRA, achieved a significant milestone by clinching his first Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown world championship at the NHRA Midwest Nationals. Driving his Empaco Equipment Dodge Challenger Mopar Drag Pak, Pawuk secured the title with a thrilling final-round victory over Jonathan Allegrucci, clocking in at 7.792 seconds against Allegrucci’s 7.833 seconds.

This victory not only marked a personal achievement for Pawuk but also solidified his status within the competitive landscape of the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown class. With a low elapsed time of 7.765 seconds during the event, he demonstrated both skill and speed, culminating in a remarkable championship season.

“This was my dream,” Pawuk shared after his win. “My whole racing career has been leading up to this moment. I started racing in the ’70s and won a Super Gas championship in 1981 when it was called Pro Gas. Winning a championship in the NHRA has always been a goal for me, and I wasn’t sure if I could ever achieve it. I owe this to Don Schumacher and my dad, who were with me throughout this season. I prayed for their strength, and it helped me get here today.”

Pawuk’s journey to the championship was anything but straightforward. He entered the Midwest Nationals as the No. 2 qualifier, knowing he needed a bit of luck along with his driving skill to secure the title. With four drivers in contention for the championship, Pawuk had to rely on a combination of his performance and outcomes from other races.

“I was third in points, but there were four of us within a round and a half of each other,” he explained. “The cards had to fall a certain way, and everything lined up for me. My team, especially Ray Barton Engines and my co-crew chief David Barton, worked tirelessly to find the right power. We made solid runs this weekend, and I can’t believe this moment has finally come.”

Pawuk kicked off his season with a win at the prestigious NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida, and later claimed a runner-up finish at his local track, Summit Motorsports Park. As the season progressed, his consistency and determination shone through, leading to his ultimate success at the Midwest Nationals.

The championship battle reached its peak during the semifinals when Pawuk faced off against Scott Libersher. With Libersher struggling with tire spin, Pawuk cruised to victory, effectively clinching the championship as Stephen Bell, his closest competitor, was eliminated earlier in the round.

“I saw my guys jumping up and down when Jonathan beat Bell,” Pawuk said. “Jonathan’s win was crucial for my championship. When I rolled up for my race, I just wanted to stay focused and not make any mistakes. Fortunately, everything came together perfectly.”

In the final round, Pawuk squared off against Allegrucci, who had qualified first with his 2019 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet. With both racers eager for victory, Pawuk’s quick reaction time of .023 seconds and strong run secured the championship.

“When you’re racing the No. 1 qualifier, you have to be at the top of your game,” said Pawuk. “Jonathan is a fierce competitor with a great car, so I had to stay sharp and focused. Winning today was truly a dream come true.”

Pawuk’s success throughout the season also included three bounty wins, underscoring his prowess in the competitive landscape. He expressed gratitude to his sponsors, including Flexjet, Empaco, and Ohio Cat, and his family’s support, particularly his children Kassandra and Kyle, who were present for the championship celebration.

“This experience has exceeded my wildest dreams,” Pawuk reflected. “Starting the season with a win and ending it with another victory has been amazing. I’m proud of my team and everyone who has been part of this journey.”

Source: NHRA