Updated

Tony Schumacher led Top Fuel qualifying Friday in the season-opening Circle K NHRA Winternationals at historic Auto Club Raceway.

The eight-time season champion had a 3.722-second run at 323.66 mph in his Don Schumacher Racing dragster.

"The second run was a good run," said Schumacher, a two-time Winternationals winner. "We got the No. 1 spot and earned a few points and I am proud of the guys. It's a good start. I am excited and my crew chief (Mike Green) is excited. Everything is looking great. I've been blessed to drive a race car for a living. I think we'll go faster."

Robert Hight topped the Funny Car field, and Bo Butner was the fastest in new-look Pro Stock category Pro Stock. Hight powered his Chevy Camaro to a 3.942 at 322.19. Butner ran a 6.606 at 209.43, also in a Camaro.