BRAINERD – Jack Beckman had the quickest Funny Car run in NHRA history for the third consecutive event Saturday, powering his Dodge Charger to a 3.901-second pass in qualifying for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway.

Beckman also had fastest speed in NHRA history at 325.69 miles per hour.

Beckman, who posted a 3.921 at Sonoma, Calif., and a 3.912 in Kent, Wash., in the previous two events, will need to post a time of 3.940 or quicker Sunday to certify the 3.901 as a national record — which carries a 20-point bonus.

"I am very satisfied with the 3.901 and the speed record," said Beckman, a five-time event winner this season. "It's been a long time since I've had a speed record. I saw John Force run that 3.93 right in front of us. But then there goes [crew chiefs] Jimmy [Prock], John [Medlen]and Chris [Cunningham] again. It's so interesting when you see a car that's this unbelievable; it's like everything becomes believable.

"I love our chances tomorrow, and I feel incredibly comfortable."

NHRA canceled the final qualifying session because of persistent rain showers and the threat of a thunderstorm.

Richie Crampton led Top Fuel qualifying, Shane Gray topped the Pro Stock field, and Andrew Hines was the fastest in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Crampton had a 3.718 at 323.50, Gray powered his Chevrolet Camaro to a 6.607 at 209.20, and Hines had a 6.937 at 190.54 on a Harley-Davidson.

Associated Press