Hector Arana

Drag racing at the highest level, as with most types of motor sports, is extremely expensive. Privateers are extremely rare and as such should be recognized as much as possible. One of these die-hard racers is none other than Hector Arana (of the Hectors vs Harleys duel).

For many years, he hauled his pro stock bike, a Buell, from race to race with little money to spare, in order to live the dream. With few to no sponsors, he kept believing in himself, even as he failed to qualify at NHRA events.

Happy birthday, Hector... genuine "good guy". We all salute you!

And there must be some element of truth in the old adage: "good things come to those who wait". Some years ago, Lucas Oil Products identified with Hector Arana and came onboard as main sponsor. He now fields another pro stock bike, which is piloted by his son, Hector Arana Jr.

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The 2012 PSM rivalry picture

Absolutely love this picture...the Hectors against the Harleys. The latter's incredible win streak this season is reflected in their confidence. The Hectors intensity to wrestle them back to earth is shown here as well. Too funny....let's see what happens tomorrow.

Matt Hines sits in a PSM photo session, Hector Arana (in red) has fun with Mark

For more on the Hectors, please click here. For the Harley's story, please click here.

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Photo credit: Mark Rebilas