NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

The Henkelman Motorsports A/Fuel dragster driven by Garrett Bateman will return to competition with GK Machine as a primary sponsor at the season-ending In-N-Out NHRA Finals in Pomona.

Due to unexpected support equipment failures and the need to secure funding, the team has been on the sidelines for the majority of the 2023 season. 

“We are extremely thankful that our longtime associate sponsor GK Machine has stepped up to get us back in competition at Pomona,” said Bateman. “After costly, unforeseen damage to our trailer and the unexpected passing of our beloved former major sponsor Brent Gines, it has been extremely tough. We seek to do well for GK Machine and work toward building a strong relationship for the future”. 

Running out of the Pacific Northwest since 2012, Bateman and A/Fuel wizard Rick Henkelman have been a force to be reckoned with over the years with multiple national event and regional victories. The combo has been as quick as 5.18 in Pomona. 

“We have been in the final multiple times in Pomona and we would love to finally get it done for our good friends at GK Machine,” said Bateman. 

In addition to GK Machine the team will also be accompanied by Beckleys Boat Works, NGK Spark Plugs and Oregon-based Frontier Roofing, Deluxe Brewing, ARP, and Goodson Abrasives.

Located in Hubbard, Oregon, GK Machine designs, engineers, and builds a variety of parts, sub-assemblies, equipment, greenhouses, and machinery for multiple industries; including agriculture, transportation, construction, and industrial products.