Justin Ashley knew the odds were definitely not in his favor, but he wasn't the least bit deterred in his effort. 

Ashley, who debuted a new 1-800-CASHOUT A/Fuel Dragster team this weekend during the Chevrolet Performance NHRA U.S. Nationals qualified for the most prestigious drag race in the world with a car he only started for the first time a week ago, and with a team assembled two weeks ago. 

In a class as challenging and complex as Top Alcohol Dragster, such efforts are the exception and not the norm. 

"It's definitely an accomplishment for us," said Ashley, a two-time winner in his rookie season last year. "We came to the races, expecting to win. You always do that. But at the same time, you recognize how good the competition is out here in this class.

"We have so much respect for the competitors out here. To be able to come out here, and earn a spot in the field against 25 other teams is something special. I think it is a really great starting point for us."

Ashley will start Sunday's eliminations as the 14th seeded entry on the strength of 5.381 elapsed time at 276.75 miles per hour. He will face Julie Nataas in Sunday's first round of eliminations. 

"When you look at the big picture here, just qualifying can be chalked up to a team victory," Ashley, a successful real estate investor from New York's Long Island, added. "I think for us, the big picture is the continual acquisition of data, and racing first round provides us with the opportunity. We plan to take full advantage of it.

"It's a great start for us."