| LONG BEACH, CA (October 8, 2025) — It’s homecoming week for both Jim Dunn Racing drivers as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads deep into the heart of Texas for the 40th Texas NHRA Fall Nationals, October 8-12, at the world-famous Texas Motorplex. While primary driver Buddy Hull continues to recover from a left-hand injury sustained at the Sonoma Nationals, fellow Texan Alex Laughlin will once again handle driving duties for the Jim Dunn Racing 75th Anniversary Funny Car, which will feature True Brand as the primary sponsor for the second time this season. Even though he won’t be behind the wheel, Hull is coming into his home race weekend with his trademark enthusiasm, ready to represent his team, sponsors and home state in a big way. “There’s nothing like racing in Texas. It’s my home, my people, and my favorite stop on the tour,” said Hull. “The Texas Motorplex and the Stampede of Speed mean so much to me. It’s the biggest, most exciting week in drag racing, and even though I won’t be in the seat, I’m still going full throttle all weekend long with the fans, the team and the community. I’m beyond fired up!” Hull, a proud supporter of the Stampede of Speed, will be a major presence throughout the event, participating in fan activities and community appearances. On Thursday, October 9, from 7 – 8:30 p.m., he’ll be meeting fans and signing autographs at the PreStage FanFest in Waxahachie at Railyard Park, one of the most anticipated events leading up to the Fall Nationals.  “The PreStage FanFest is awesome, it’s one of my favorite parts of this whole week,” said Hull. “It brings the sport right to the fans before we ever hit the track. I love shaking hands, taking photos, talking racing, that’s what this sport is all about. If you’re anywhere near Waxahachie, you’ve got to come out!” The Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car currently piloted by Alex Laughlin has steadily moved in the right direction, continuously running elapsed times in the low 4’s, and at the recent 4-Wide Carolina Nationals, even making a 3.987 second pass. While Laughlin handles the driving duties in Dallas, Hull won’t be idle. He’ll be serving as the chauffeur of the Rodak Cadillac powered by Rodak Coffee, helping the Texas Motorplex with off-track events and keeping the energy high all weekend. “I might not be making runs in the Funny Car this time, but I’ll still be running wide open,” said Hull. “Between helping the Motorplex, hanging out with fans, and cheering on Alex and the True Brand Funny Car, it’s going to be a busy and unforgettable weekend. This is home, and I’m so proud to be part of it.” The Texas NHRA Fall Nationals is the fourth of six races in the NHRA’s Countdown to the Championship. As Laughlin carries on accruing points for Hull under the NHRA’s medical driver replacement policy, the entire Jim Dunn Racing team is focused on moving up in the point standings. In addition to True Brand, this weekend Hull and Laughlin will also be representing sponsors Blaze Exhaust Probes, Lescure Mechanical Services, KGC Construction, Mooneyes, Vertex Roofers and General Contractors, Crow Safety, Koppl Pipeline Services, Menards, Wiley X, USD and Compass Facility Services. True Brand will in turn be highlighting the amazing work the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) does across the country throughout the race weekend. This will be the second time Jim Dunn Racing has repped True Brand and the third time True Brand has promoted the National Breast Cancer Foundation at the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals. “Working alongside Buddy and Alex, and our incredible partners at True Brand, is so much more than a collaboration — it’s a shared mission,” said Ashley Miller, Senior Director of Public Relations & Spokesperson, National Breast Cancer Foundation. “Year after year, these world-class racers pour their hearts into bringing awareness and hope to women and families when they need it most. In moments when life feels uncertain, partnerships like this remind us that there is strength, compassion, and life-saving action in every race.” The National Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1991 by breast cancer survivor, Janelle Hail. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1980 at the age of 34. At the time of her diagnosis, there was little information about the disease, and she was forced to decide about her health with few options. After her treatment, Janelle made a commitment to help women around the world by educating them about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. “We have three races left this season, and I know everyone is focused on making these last few chances count,” said Hull. “We’ll make some noise in Dallas and make sure to represent True Brand and the rest of our sponsors well.” Laughlin and the Jim Dunn Racing team will have two qualifying runs on Friday, October 10 and then two more qualifying runs on October 11 at Texas Motorplex. The 16 Funny Cars with the quickest elapsed times after all four rounds of qualifying will compete on race day on Sunday, October 12 at 10 a.m. CT. Fans can watch the race on FOX and FS1. For tickets or more information on the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals visit stampedeofspeed.com. |
