NHRA Funny Car legend John Force sent to the hospital.

NEW: NHRA Funny Car legend John Force sent to the hospital after his car exploded during the first round of the PlayNHRA Virginia Nationals.

The 75-year old won the race against Terry Haddock, clocking in at 302.62-mph before his engine exploded.

Force was able to exit the car and was apparently alert before being sent to the hospital.

“He’s one tough son of a b*tch, I know that. He’ll be back. It’s just tough to see somebody go through that. I hope he’s all right. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. I know he’ll be back,” his teammate Austin Prock said.