With the O’Reilly Auto Parts Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by Super Start Batteries being contested just down the highway from his Chicago-area home, Top Fuel driver Tony Schumacher will head into his hometown race with winning on his mind.

After racing to victory in Bristol two weeks ago, the seven-time world champion is hoping to keep the streak going during this weekend’s event. Fans will have the opportunity to meet Schumacher the day before the 15th annual race gets under way at Route 66 Raceway during an appearance on behalf of NHRA title sponsor Full Throttle Energy Drink.

On Thursday, the driver of the U.S. Army dragster for Don Schumacher Racing, who has picked up three event wins at Route 66 Raceway during his NHRA career, will sign autographs and greet fans from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Walmart at 2424 W. Jefferson in Joliet. ESPN Radio 1000 also will be on-site during the appearance, giving away general admission tickets to the upcoming race this weekend.

“It’s cool to be able to do an appearance in my hometown and even better that it’s just down the street from the track,” said Schumacher, who holds the points lead in the Top Fuel standings.

“I love racing at Route 66 Raceway, and there is no better way to start the race weekend than by spending time with our great fans while supporting our series sponsor Full Throttle Energy Drink.”

Fans attending this weekend’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by Super Start Batteries also are encouraged to stop by the Full Throttle Energy Drink display, near the entrance to Nitro Alley, for the ultimate race-day experience.