Ocala’s own Josh Hart gave a dominant performance at the 2026 Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals this past weekend, setting the track speed record and earning his first career pole in route to a victory in his debut with John Force Racing.
Hart claimed the Top Fuel: Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals title in his debut with his new team, John Force Racing.
According to a recap by the NHRA, Hart’s final round 3.733-second run at 337.83 mph was enough to claim victory against world champion Doug Kalitta at Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville on Sunday, March 8.
On Friday, Hart set the track speed record, and on Saturday, he earned the first No. 1 qualifier position of his career. According to the NHRA, Hart dispatched Dan Mercier, Tripp Tatum, and four-time champion Antron Brown on his way to the final matchup against Kalitta.
The victory snapped a nearly five-year winless streak for Hart that dated back to his first win in Gainesville in 2021.
Hart told the NHRA following this weekend’s win that he was grateful for everyone, noting that he was finding it difficult to believe the win was happening. He added that his new team at John Force Racing surpassed every record he set in his career during its first weekend.
After the victory, the Ocala driver again expressed deep gratitude to legendary racer John Force for the opportunity to join the team, noting that the professional environment helped him find immediate success.
According to his racing profile, the 42-year-old Hart has amassed over a dozen career final rounds and a half dozen wins in his career. He is sponsored by local automotive company Burnyzz Speed Shop and Speedmaster.
John Force Racing was founded by John Force, a 16-time Funny Car champion. In its history, the organization has claimed at least 24 championships.
Beyond his success on the track, Hart is a prominent local entrepreneur who built his business from the ground up alongside his wife, Brittanie. The couple has two children (Helen and Banks). According to his official biography, Hart credits his professional success to a foundation of loyalty and humility, acknowledging the tireless work required to achieve his dreams both in the shop and behind the wheel.
Follow Josh Hart during his next race as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues its 20-race season later this month at the Arizona Nationals in Phoenix. That race is scheduled for March 20-22.
Leave your words of encouragement for Josh Hart and support this local racer on his journey by following him on his website, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.