Phil Lamattina has claimed an emotional Top Fuel title victory dedicated to long-time team member Gavin Coulthard and his late daughter Sheridan.
Lamattina upstaged reigning champion Damien Harris with a hole shot win at Riverbend Nationals as part of the National Drag Racing Championships on Sunday.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Phil Lamattina’s ultimate tribute to grieving father.
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The new champion’s performance in the A-Final was made all the more impressive after Harris had earlier set a new Top Fuel record for Australia.
Victory for Lamattina capped off a stirring fightback since his last triumph in 2022 while there were tears everywhere in the team’s celebrations for the Coulthard family.
Sheridan died as a passenger in a car crash in January that also claimed the life of an 11-year-old boy.
Lamattina raced with a heart for Sheridan on the side of his dragster.
“It’s huge for Gavin,” he said after the win, choking up as he spoke.
“He’s been on our crew for 16 years. It’s really good, can’t wait to see him.”
The sticker for Sheridan read ‘nothing can dim the light that shines from within’.
“I’ve got a lump in my throat the size of a tennis ball,” commentator Wade Aunger said.
“I know what that means to that family. Everybody I know in that family really want to send the love.”
Lamattina shared a hug with Gavin on the track then, in the ultimate tribute, brought the grieving father onto the podium to hand over the trophy.
“What a moment for that team, that is pure emotion,” Aunger said.
“There’s the moment. Oh my goodness, just so much raw emotion. We’re all thinking of you, mate. What an incredible moment. What a collector’s item that will be.”
Matt Naulty added: “That’s what I’ve been waiting for, the whole Lamattina team coming in as one. What a day.”
Head here to watch the Riverbend Nationals on 7plus
Vera Coulthard, wife of Gavin and mother of Sheridan, thanked the Lamattina family on Sunday night.
“Congratulations team, so well deserved,” she wrote.
“Thanks Sarah and Phil for honouring Sheridan and Gavin in this special moment. Our family love your family and always will.
“Thank you team for making Gavin smile again. It means so much.”
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