Tony Stewart, Columbus native and former NASCAR Cup Series star, reached the finals of the NHRA U.S. Nationals, losing to Justin Ashley.

Though not victorious Monday, Stewart rose to the top spot in the Top Fuel standings for the countdown to the championship.

BROWNSBURG — History was made at the 71st NHRA U.S. Nationals after a day filled with upsets across the four classes of the drag racing series.

Justin Ashley claims his first Top Fuel U.S. Nationals victory after winning on a holeshot against Columbus native Tony Stewart , who is in his second season in the series . Monday’s win is the 18th of Ashley’s career and third victory this season.

Ashley not only beat Stewart in the finals but some of the best NHRA drag racers in Tripp Tatum, Doug Kalitta and Antron Brown.

“I’ve

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