While racer participation fell short of pre-event expectations — Nathan Sitko and Hodgson Racing took full advantage of the cards they were dealt while winning the 2026 Rocky Mountain Nationals.

The talented Edmonton-based group — who are again deep within the points mix for NHRA’s Heritage Hot Rod Series championship chase – were dominating while while winning a 4-car shootout at the RAD Torque Raceway event last Saturday.

After qualifying #1 (3.767 secs) for a 1/8th-mile program* which featured two USA and two Canadian based teams, the Hodgson Racing Bubble Up/Pacemaker Firebird continued a rapid pace during eliminations.

(* Shortened to 1/8th mile due to far top end track asphalt seepage after pre-event rain issues)

Nathan topped cross-town Edmonton driver Tim Boychuk in round #1 (with a 3.899 secs clocking) and with that advanced to face Mike Peck in the final round. Peck had defeated HRHS points leader Shane Westerfield in round one by a 3.828 secs to 3.864 secs count.

Nathan gained a significant starting line advantage in the final and roared to a decisive 3.874 secs to 4.188 secs win margin.

“That was a huge win for our team with regard to the championship points chase,” Nathan said. “The top four are so close in points, every event is big and will be so right to the end.”

“The tricky track conditions and weather were a challenge this weekend — but we were able to manage the horsepower well enough to land in the number one qualifying spot and hang on for the event win.”

As to the lower then expected class car count for the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series date – Nathan added.

“It could have been easily 8 cars. Unfortunately Derrick Moreira and Tim Eickstadt didn’t attend on short notice and local racer Jason Bussey and his two cars weren’t there either. Not sure — but I wish we could have attracted more cars up here for the fans.”

Nathan’s win was but the latest feather in the cap for Hodgson Racing winning the Rocky Mountain Nationals event on their home turf, with previous titles to their credit including: 2016 – 2017 – 2019 – 2023 events.

Posted by Bruce Biegler
Photos by Louren Sansregret & Doug Nichol