Matt Hudson, an Escalon High alumnus, took a new boat to Bakersfield on April 20 for the Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series 2018 opener and won the 8.0 second Pro Eliminator class.

After missing two qualifying passes on Friday due to mechanical problems, Hudson finally made one qualifying pass Friday afternoon, a disappointing 8.58 second pass. Early Saturday morning, Hudson made another pass at 8.52. Crew members made a big change with the fuel system and the next pass he ran an 8.32. Another minor change to the fuel system was made and Hudson got the boat to run 8.25 at over 130 mph. Hudson was the number 10 qualifier in a 15-boat field for Sunday eliminations.

On Sunday, Hudson’s first elimination run was 8.22 seconds for a first round win, round two was an 8.36 win, round three was an 8.23 win. Hudson kept sawing them off to get to the finals. Crew members added some timing to the engine and Hudson cut a great light and ran an 8.16 to win the event.

Just getting started for the new season, Hudson offered thanks to Albert at Farmers Blacksmith and Welding for all of his help and O’Reilly’s Auto Parts for helping supply race parts.