Steele, Alabama – Michael Neal etched his name, again, into the history books at DragCoverage’s Night of Fire by claiming the Outlaw Pro Mod victory in just the second outing with this car. The win was more than just a race result—it was a family moment, a milestone, and a reminder of why Neal loves the sport. This is his second DragCoverage Night of Fire Victory, defeating Joe Baker in the final round of competition. Neal ran a career best with the new hot rod, lighting the scoreboard up with a 3.75, 200.53 MPH.
DragCoverage Events: A Destination for Racers
Neal spoke highly of DragCoverage and the community it fosters. “All the DragCoverage events are races I look forward to going to,” he said. “The fans really turn out, and it’s the most Pro Mod cars you’ll see in one place. TJ makes the racers feel wanted, and that’s important. These days I’m picky about what races I go to, but it’s always the DragCoverage events.”
Final Qualifying Order after 3 Sessions
1. Hank Stubbs 3.656, 206 MPH
2. Michael Neal 3.751, 198.36 MPH
3. Tim Segars 3.819, 195.10 MPH
4. Paul Gibbs 3.819, 194.25 MPH
5. Joe Baker 3.826, 198 MPH
6. Jason Collins 3.856, 196.33 MPH
7. David Mallory 3.905, 194.13 MPH
8. Bil Clanton 3.922, 186.68 MPH
————————
9. Kelvin Brow 3.997, 183.63 MPH
10. Jim Bracket 4.043, 180.28 MPH
11. Bart Morris 4.271, 181.92 MPH
12. John Sullivan 4.340, 130.26 MPH
13. Jamey Adams 4.408, 182.77 MPH
14. Mike Decker 4.528, 123.49 MPH
After 3 qualifying sessions, Hank Stubbs, David Mallory, and Bil Clanton were unable to make the call, placing the alternates Kelvin Brown, Jim Bracket, and Bracket Morris into competition.
A Special Win with a New Car
Taking a new car to victory lane is no small task, and for Neal, it was a defining moment. “This was only the second time I’ve been out with this brand-new car. Pretty special to me that I got to the winner’s circle this fast,” Neal said. But with a grin, he admitted it also raised the bar. “Now what am I gonna do? The expectations are high.”
Racing as Family
More than trophies and time slips, Neal emphasized how much racing means to him as a family affair. He thanked his mom and dad, noting that the operation is 100% family-run, with his wife and kids by his side at every event.
“Spending time with my family at the track is what makes this so special,” he explained. “The track is my happy place. Racing with everyone feels like being with family. We’ll fire up a shrimp boil in the afternoon, and it’s just a great time. Honestly, I have more friends at the track than around my hometown.”
Acknowledgments
Along with his family, Neal gave special thanks to John Fahr and Tom Ashley for their support. Their help, combined with the dedication of his tight-knit team, made this victory possible.
Looking Ahead
While Neal admits that an early win with a new car adds pressure, it also proves the potential of both driver and machine. With momentum on his side and family at his back, Neal’s 2025 season is shaping up to be one to watch.
DragCoverage congratulates Michael Neal on his Outlaw Pro Mod victory at Steele’s Night of Fire and looks forward to following his journey throughout the season.
