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Want to be Updated?Feel left out of the loop? Wondering when breaking news is going to happen? Look forward to the FLASH preview or just can't wait for the new issue? We have the answer. CompetitionPlus.com is compiling a mailing list to keep you informed of what's going on. It's a simple process. Send us an email at CompetitionPlus@aol.com, put in the title and the body, "Sign Me Up" and your request will be granted. Want to see the latest rumors or incriminating comments, visit our new Rumors & Overheard Quotes.
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| The last photo of Long Island Dragway, the last remaining drag strip on the Island. (John Monecalvo photo) |
(9-22-2004) - The rumors of Long Island Dragway being bought by Pro Stock racer John Montecalvo and being renovated to national event status can be officially ceased. Montecalvo sent us these pictures before the scheduled demolition.
The track was first built in the 1950s and was the first racing
home to not only Montecalvo, but also John Nobile as well as scores
of other top name racers. The proposed plan is to turn the property
into a retirement community. This was the only dragstrip that remained
on Long Island.
Montecalvo, who owns a paving company, was asked if his company
was interesting in doing the demolition. He respectfully declined
citing the emotional pain would be too much.
Coughlin's racing everywhere this weekend
(9-22-2004) - There will be plenty of members of
the Coughlin family hitting the race track this weekend. NHRA POWERade
Pro Stock ace Jeg Coughlin Jr. will be competing at the NHRA O'Reilly
Fall Nationals in Dallas. A little closer to home, fans can find
John, Troy, Mike, and even Troy Coughlin Jr. flying the yellow-and-black
Jeg's Mail Order colors at the NHRA Lucas Oil Division 3 event at
National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio.
John will be driving his Jeg's Mail Order Chevy Cavalier in Super
Stock. The last event he competed at was the Mac Tools U. S. Nationals
where he took home class honors for Super Stock C-Modified.
This weekend will also mark a return to racing for Troy. The second-generation
driver will be fielding his Jeg's Chevy Cavalier that he raced previously
in Pro Stock. A number of modifications have been made to the car
with the intent of making it a competitive threat in the Top Sportsman
category.
Also in Hebron, Mike will be racing in Super Gas this weekend. He
is focused on winning the division title and moving up in NHRA Lucas
Oil Super Gas championship.
Keep your eyes pealed for Troy's son Troy Jr. TJ will be joining
his father and uncle's as the third-generation Coughlin will be
looking to score a victory in his Jr. Dragster.
The Westin Mission Hills Resort in Ranch Mirage to Host 2004 NHRA POWERADE Drag Racing Series Awards Show
(9-22-2004) - NHRA announced today that the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series Awards Ceremony will be held on Monday, Nov. 15 at The Westin Mission Hills Resort in Rancho Mirage, Calif.
Unlike in the last few years, the awards ceremony is invitation-only and will feature a pre-event cocktail reception amid the backdrop of the resort’s beautiful scenery, a formal sit-down banquet, and an after-party at the stunning Bella Vista Restaurant.
“The Westin Mission Hills Resort is a beautiful location and will provide a fitting setting for the conclusion of the season and the crowning of our much-deserved NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series World Champions,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA.
The Westin Mission Hills Resort is renowned for its championship golf, world-class service and incomparable amenities including a Pete Dye golf course and the only Gary Player signature course in Southern California, four pools, seven lighted tennis courts and a spa, making the experience a true get-away for the NHRA racing community after a long season and hard-fought championship chase.
The Lucas Oil Drag Racing Drag Racing Series awards presentation and party will take place prior to the night’s festivities at the Westin Mission Hills Resort.
Auto Club Celebrates 10th Anniversary Sponsorship of NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion Legacy of Motorsports Celebrated at Bakersfield
(9-22-2004) - Racers and hot-rodders won't be the only legendary people at the 13th Annual NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion. The Automobile Club of Southern California, the presenting sponsor of the event, will put on display some of the tow trucks and other vehicles that have made the Auto Club synonymous with service to the motoring public. The Auto Club is celebrating its 10th anniversary as sponsor of the event, to be held Oct. 1-3 in Bakersfield, Calif.
"We really enjoy showing off our own heritage at this major hot rod event," said Tom McKernan, President and CEO of the Auto Club. "We get the chance to show some of our younger members the kinds of vehicles we used in what they'd call the 'olden days.'" Among the vehicles present will be a 1936 hot rod tow truck and one of Gary Densham's funny cars.
"We're glad we can continue to lend a hand and be a part of such a great event," said Rick Lalor, motorsports and event manager for the Automobile Club of Southern California. "The California Hot Rod Reunion has evolved into an incredible experience that showcases the history of hot rodding and celebrates the accomplishments of many legends of the sport. We are extremely pleased to continue our support of the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion. This is an event not to be missed."
"The Automobile Club of Southern California is not just a presenting sponsor of the Reunion, but it's an integral part of everything we do," said Sam Jackson, executive director of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, which produces the event. "The Auto Club is also the presenting sponsor for the Museum. We're honored that this is the Auto Club's 10th anniversary with the Reunion and we welcome their continued sponsorship and support in presenting one of the truly great hot rod gatherings. With the Auto Club's help, the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion has become the premier event of its type, bringing together hot rodders and racing fans for family fun and excitement."
On-site at the Reunion, even those who aren't yet members of the Auto Club can get a jump-start, if they need one. This service is provided by the Auto Club at no charge. Of course Auto Club members can get any services they need as well. Auto Club members who show their card at the Famoso Raceway ticket window get a $5 discount on a full event credential or $2 off on Saturday or Sunday daily tickets.
Since its inception in 1992, the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion has offered hot rodders and racers the opportunity to reunite with old friends and reminisce about "the good old days." The Reunion includes competition on the racetrack, a car show, a chance for fans to meet the legends and stars of the sport, a barbeque and the highly popular "Cacklefest," which involves early-days-style front-engine dragsters being push-started, then all gathered together on the drag strip starting line with engines running or 'cackling."
Tickets for the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion, presented by the Automobile Club of Southern California, are available by calling 800/884-6472. A full event credential is $55 for adults and only $10 for those under 16. Full event credentials include a "goody bag" that features the highly collectible Reunion Annual and a dash plaque. AAA members receive a $5 discount on a full event credential or $2 off on Saturday or Sunday daily tickets when they show their membership card. Camping passes are available with credential purchase at $35 and swap meet spaces are just $40 for a 20' x 20' space. Daily tickets may be purchased at the gate of Famoso Raceway, north of Bakersfield on Highway 99. For additional Reunion information, call 909/622-8562 or visit http://museum.nhra.com.
For the tenth consecutive year, the Automobile Club of Southern
California, the largest affiliate of the AAA, is the presenting
sponsor of the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion. The Automobile Club
of Southern California has been serving members since 1900. Today,
the Auto Club's members benefit by the organization's emergency
road service, financial products, travel agency and trip planning
services, highway and transportation safety programs, insurance
products and services, automotive pricing, buying and financing
programs, automotive testing and analysis and legislative advocacy.
Information about these products and services is available on the
Auto Club's web site at www.aaa-calif.com.
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Brandon the Bachelor?
(9-21-2004) - The Producer for ABC's The Bachelor is in the process of hand selecting the star for their seventh season and were reportedly interested in recruiting Brandon Bernstein. The shoot schedule, which begins in Mid-January and runs for 6-8 weeks, conflicts with the race schedule, a source close to the situation said.
Had Bernstein have committed, he would have been the second Top
Fuel driver to be featured on one of the reality shows. Bobby Lagana,
Jr., had previously appeared on the show ELIMIDATE.
Atlanta Race Not to be Rescheduled
(9-21-2004) - ProMedia officials have announced
that the cancelled PRO Hot Rod and Muscle Car Nationals event scheduled
for Atlanta Dragway September 17-19 will not be re-scheduled. Several
issues were involved in the decision according to Charlie Harmon,
Vice President of Business Development and Events “We took
a lot of time looking at the factors involved, including ProMedia’s
schedule, the racetrack schedule, enough lead time to appropriately
promote the event and the potential impact rescheduling would have
on the majority of racers in the PRO Edelbrock Drag Racing Series
who would need to schedule vacation time with very little notice.
The fact that the Atlanta race fell so late in the season narrowed
our options considerably. It’s an unfortunate turn of events
and a decision we regret having to make, but it’s the only
decision we can make when considering all of these factors. We’re
looking forward to completing the season at the Nitto Tires World
Street Car Finals at Memphis in Oc
tober,” Harmon said.
The loss of the race also alters the 2004 championship points system. Due to the year now only having seven races contested, all bonus points will now be awarded based on 5 of 7 races.
Specifically, points will be accumulated using the best points
totals accumulated from 5 of 7 events. Racers that compete in 5
of 7 events will receive 100 bonus points. Racers that compete in
all seven events will receive an additional 100 point bonus.
Kaboom
(9-21-2004) - The times were hot for those participating in the Corteco NSCA World Finals in Columbus, Ohio. This boomer belonged to Top Street racer Jerry Albert. He was uninjured, but his Alcoa-sponsored Camaro was singed a bit.
The explosions didn't stop there, either. In the running for the Pro Street title, Scott Merkel's season ended with this explosion during qualifying. Pat Musi clinched the title when Merkel couldn't make the first round call for Sunday eliminations. (Brian Wood Photos)
Keep your eyes open - stolen vehicle
(9-21-2004) - One of CompetitionPlus.com's readers
had their racing operation stolen and sent us a note to post.
Our pickup truck - a medium blue 1990 GMC 2500 series, with
some minor driver side front fender damage (this fender is partially
spray painted a darker blue), our flatbed tandem axle car hauler
trailer with a blue steel frame, wooden floor slats and a black
tool box with a white lid on the front were stolen at 3:40 a.m.
on Thursday, September 16th - RIGHT OUT OF OUR DRIVEWAY! Our 1968
Chevelle was on the trailer when all was stolen - which is the most
painful for us to deal with.
Any information regarding this theft, please email Stolen
Truck Info.
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Darrell Russell Memorial Low ET Challenge to be awarded in Dallas
(9-21-2004) - Competitors in Top Alcohol Dragster and Funny Car will be eligible for the Darrell Russell Memorial Low ET Challenge during this weekend's O'Reilly Fall Nationals presented by Castrol at the Texas Motorplex just south of Dallas. The award will be presented on behalf of avid Top Alcohol fan David Smith and Darrell’s brother Chris Russell. The award is sponsored by DarrellRussell.com.
The award is in memory of Darrell Russell, who won four Division 4 Championships while competing in Top Alcohol Dragster during the 90's. He made the move to Top Fuel in 2001, NHRA's premiere class, winning his first event and earned the Rookie of the Year honors. He went on to win five more national events before he was tragically killed in an accident this year at St. Louis.
Smith chose the Dallas event since Russell was a Texas native, and very proud of it.
"We started doing the low e.t. award this year at select events since the low qualifier money was pulled this year for the alcohol cars," explained Smith. "For the Dallas race, we decided to honor Darrell's memory with the award at a Texas race. If you ever watched Darrell, whether racing or back in the pit signing autographs, it didn't take long to figure out he was from Texas."
Chris, who served as his Crew Chief while Darrell raced the alcohol ranks, added, "This all still hurts pretty bad but it helps when guys like David do things like this to honor Darrell. This award would have meant a lot to Darrell because he always loved the people in the alcohol ranks, and of course he loved being low qualifier at the races just as much. My family wants thank everyone who keeps Darrell’s memory alive, we really appreciate it."
The award will be given to the quickest elapsed time by a Blown Alcohol Dragster, A/Fuel Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car at the conclusion of qualifying on Saturday. Winners will receive a plaque and $250.
A website has been established at DarrellRussell.com where Darrell
Russell memorabilia such as T-Shirts, Decals and more can be purchased.
All proceeds go towards the Darrell Russell Memorial Fund which
exclusively helps Darrell’s wife Julie. Additional donations
may be sent to Darrell Russell Memorial Fund, Partners Bank of Texas,
P.O. Box 60369, Houston, TX 77205. Partners Bank of Texas phone
number is 281-964-3000.
Official Purse Announced for DRAGSTOCK
Friday
Nowling Motorsports Management Burnout Contest:
Any Pro Mod competing at DRAGSTOCK may enter.
Winner - $1,000.00
Total Friday Purse $1,000.00
Saturday
Didicom Clash:
The top eight qualifiers (REGARDLESS OF WHICH TEAM THEY ARE ON)
will compete in Saturday nights Didicom Clash.
Winner - $10,000.00
Runner Up - $5,000.00
Semis - $2,500.00
First Round Losers - $1,000.00
Total Saturday Purse - $24,000.00
Sunday
AMS All Stars Vs. FLOWMASTER Outlaws Challenge:
11 drivers on each team (3 that were voted in plus the top 8 qualifiers
on each team) will compete in 3 rounds of this unique Team Vs. Team
Challenge on Sunday.
11 Winners - $2,500.00 Each
11 Runner Ups - $1000.00 Each
Each Round - $1,000.00 for low ET of the round
Each Round - $1,000.00 for top MPH of the round
Total Sunday Purse - $44,500.00
Bonus Money
FLOWMASTER King Of The Outlaws (determained by driver who has the
lowest average ET of the 3 rounds during Challenge on Sunday) -
$5,000.00
If car that is FLOWMASTER King Of The Outlaws is running FLOWMASTER
Mufflers they will receive an additional $5,000.00 courtesy of flowmaster
RACENSUR.COM 3 Second Club - First 3 drivers in the 3's will receive
$3,000.00 Each, a plaque and a custom leather jacket courtesy of
Mel Eaves and RACENSUR.COM the Official Insurance Provider of DRAGSTOCK
and the ADRL
Total Bonus Purse - $19,000.00
Contingency (as of today) - $12,000.00
A complete list of contingency sponsors will be posted here as soon
as it is finalized.
Total DRAGSTOCK Purse (as of today) $100,500.00
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First Vic Edelbrock, Sr.. Wyotech Scholarship handed out to Auto student Troy Sato
(9-21-2004) – One thing Vic Edelbrock enjoys doing is helping students who plan on a career in the automotive industry, and supporting schools that offer a strong automotive curriculum. With two successful scholarship programs already benefiting students, Edelbrock has started another with WyoTech by giving out a $5,500 scholarship check to student Troy Sato in a ceremony at the Laramie, WY, campus.
“WyoTech has a great program which produces top-notch automotive students, and with the growth in this industry, we need them,” Edelbrock said.
“WyoTech is a prestigious automotive technical institute and Troy is the ideal recipient of this scholarship. He’s into racing, hot rods and works on cars of all types. I’m glad we at Edelbrock can help him pursue his automotive career.”
For 19-year-old Sato, the scholarship is dream come true. “This is the biggest honor I’ve ever received, by far,” he said. “The Edelbrock name and recognition will help me when I look for a job. I want to be the best, and this will give me an edge.”
Sato, who hails from Mt. Vernon, Wash., has completed WyoTech’s diesel program and is now taking chassis fabrication and high-performance engine classes. His wish is to work on a World of Outlaws pit crew and already has some hot rod experience, especially with Edelbrock. “Right out of high school, I worked with Dave Tatom at Tatom Custom Engines, the same shop that did engine work on the famous Vic Edelbrock Sr. 1932 Ford Roadster. That really helped sparked my interest in hot rods.”
Both Sato and the Vic Edelbrock Sr. WyoTech Scholarship got high marks from Dale Eslinger, executive director of the WTI Foundation. “It is through the support of industry leaders like Edelbrock that we can encourage deserving young people to complete the technical education they need to succeed,” he said. “The scholarship that Edelbrock has sponsored will go a long way toward helping Troy prepare for a career in the very competitive high performance engines industry. The WTI Foundation is honored to help facilitate the Edelbrock Scholarship and to recognize the hard work and achievement of students like Troy Sato.”
WyoTech, which has campuses in Laramie, Wy., Sacramento, Calif., and Blairsville, Pa., offers a specialized automotive curriculum, including training in street rods, custom trim and upholstery, diesel, service management and collision/refinishing.
Edelbrock also gives automotive students scholarships at South Torrance High in California and at the Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, Kans.
HOOTERS IHRA DRAG RACING SERIES POINTS
TOP FUEL
Clay Millican(6) 1054
Bruce Litton (1) 824
Tim Cullinan 688
Doug Foley(1) 633
Bobby Lagana, Jr. 573
PRO MODIFIED
Mike Janis(3) 643
Harold Martin(1) 564
Rick DiStefano 494
Al Billes (1) 479
Mike Castellana(1) 475
FUNNY CAR
Mark Thomas(4) 913
Rob Atchison(2) 842
Terry McMillen 605
Jeff Burnett(1) 400
Jim Sickles (2) 384
SUNOCO RACE FUELS PRO STOCK
John Nobile (1) 692
John Montecalvo (2) 673
Elijah Morton(1) 630
Brian Gahm(2) 609
Rick Jones(1) 564
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McPherson to be honored at NHRA World Finals
(9-21-2004) - Jeg's Automotive will present the inaugural Jeff McPherson Memorial Trophy to the winner of the Two-Wheel Drive Super Modified class tractor-pulling event Sept. 25 at the Delaware County Fair. McPherson, a Jeg's Mail Order tech for 16 years and partner in a two-man tractor-pulling team with his father Dick, was tragically killed in an auto accident on August 8, 2003.
The American Tractor Pullers Association (ATPA) has agreed to bring their two-day world championship of high-revving, dirt-churning horsepower to coincide with the premier event in harness racing, the world-renowned Little Brown Jug. Both events will be nationally televised on ESPN and ESPN2.
The Delaware County Fair has been extended two days to accommodate the ATPA's world championships. Unlimited Super Stock, Super Farm Tractors, and 4X4 Trucks will be featured Friday, Sept. 24, while 10,000-pound Pro Stock, Modified Tractors, and Two-Wheel Drive Trucks will take center stage Saturday, Sept. 25. The action begins at 7 p.m. both days, with Saturday designated as Jeg's Automotive Fair Day.
In addition to presenting the Jeff McPherson Memorial Trophy, Jeg's Automotive will have an area by the main gate promoting it's "Racing for Cancer Research" foundation and featuring the 2002 NHRA POWERade Pro Stock world championship-winning Jeg's Mail Order Chevy Cavalier.
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ESPN2 ANNOUNCES TELEVISION SCHEDULE FOR NHRA STYLEFEST PRESENTED
BY SONY Xplod
(9-21-2004) - ESPN2, in cooperation with the NHRA,
announced their programming schedule for NHRA Stylefest presented
by Sony Xplod. Each of the 13 programs will be :30 minutes in duration
and are hosted by Bruno Malla, "Crash" Gladys and Kenny
Sergeant. The shows will highlight the fan friendly activities associated
with the NHRA Stylefest presented by Sony Xplod and the NHRA Summit
Sport Compact Series
The popular NHRA Stylefest presented by Sony Xplod features many
of the lifestyle elements that have made sport compact drag racing
one of the fastest growing segments in motorsports. They include
a car show with up to 500 automobiles on display, the NHRA Xtreme
Car Audio Competition, DJs and local talent performances, the extreme
sports exhibition and the NHRA Xtreme Bikini Jam presented by Modified
Magazine.
2004-05 Schedule (all times are EST and subject to change):
Oct. 28, 2004 - 4:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 2004 - 3:30 p.m.
Nov. 11, 2004 - 3:30 p.m.
Nov. 11, 2004 - 4 p.m.
Nov. 30, 2004 - 3 p.m.
Dec. 2, 2004 - 3:30 p.m.
Dec. 9, 2004 - 3:30 p.m.
Dec. 16, 2004 - 3 p.m.
Dec. 23, 2004 - 4 p.m.
Jan. 6, 2005 - 3:30 p.m.
Jan. 6, 2005 - 4 p.m.
Jan. 13, 2005 - 4 p.m.
Jan. 20, 2005 - 4 p.m.
LUCAS OIL NHRA NATIONALS POSTPONED
(9-17-2004) - Two days of heavy rain showers from the remnants of Hurricane Ivan completely saturated the grounds of Maple Grove Raceway Saturday, including the racer pit areas and spectator parking lots, forcing NHRA officials to postpone the 20th annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals until Oct. 8-10.
Two rounds of professional qualifying for all four categories will be held on Oct. 8 at 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and two more qualifying sessions are set for Oct. 9 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Eliminations will begin at 11 a.m. on Oct. 10.
The completed qualifying session for Pro Stock and Pro Stock Bike will be carried over until the rescheduled event. Andrew Hines leads Pro Stock Bike with a 7.137 at 186.51 on a Harley-Davidson, while Ron Krisher is atop the 16-car Pro Stock field with a 6.850 at 201.37 in a Chevy Cavalier.
The NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series moves on to the Texas Motorplex near Dallas for the O’Reilly Fall Nationals next weekend (Sept. 23-26) before heading to Chicago for the CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals (Sept. 30-Oct. 3) at Route 66 Raceway.
KRISHER AND HINES LEAD QUALIFYING IN RAIN-SHORTENED DAY AT LUCAS OIL NHRA NATIONALS
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| Ron Krisher raced to the top spot in Pro Stock by clocking a 6.850 at 201.37 in his Valvoline Chevy Cavalier. Krisher, who has earned 13 No. 1 positions during his career, has not held the top spot since Dallas 2002.. |
(9-16-2004) - Ron Krisher and Andrew Hines were leaders Friday during a rain-shortened day of qualifying at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway.
Persistent rain showers forced NHRA officials to postpone a majority of racing action including both sessions in Top Fuel and Funny Car and one of two planned sessions for Pro Stock and Pro Stock Bike. Eight Pro Stock competitors weren’t able to make a pass in their only session due to wet weather conditions.
The $1.7 million race is the 19th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.
Rain showers moved into the southeastern Pennsylvania area at 3 p.m. and continued intermittently for the rest of the afternoon before NHRA officials pulled the plug on the day around 8:45 p.m.
Weather permitting, qualifying will continue Saturday with pro sessions set for 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Eliminations are scheduled for Sunday at 11 a.m.
INTERNATIONAL HOT
ROD ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES 2005 HOOTERS DRAG RACING SERIES SCHEDULE
Five of twelve events to be contested as Thursday-Saturday races
(9-16-2004) - The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has released the 2005 Hooters Drag Racing Series schedule, featuring 12 national events to be held late March through early October.
“Our goal is to consolidate the 2005 Hooters schedule and make it as user friendly as possible,” stated IHRA President Bill Bader. “We’ve moved the conclusion of the season up almost one month to better accommodate fans, sponsors and media.
“Next season, five of the twelve national events will be contested using the well received Thursday through Saturday format we introduced this season,” added Bader. “This schedule allows IHRA to present two “Night of Fire” programs; one Friday and a second during the Saturday championship finals. The Thursday through Saturday format gives the fan added value for their entertainment dollar and enables IHRA to create additional excitement by utilizing jets, wheelstanders, fireworks and special attractions, such as our motorcycle stunt teams, to create a memorable, competitively priced event.
“This format also gives Sunday back to families for activities and allows an extra day to complete the race in case of bad weather,” commented Bader.
The 2005 season again begins in Texas with the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals at San Antonio Raceway, March 31-April 2 and concludes at the Bethesda Software World Finals at Rockingham Dragway, October 7-9.
“We continue to emphasize the growth of our established events in the United States and Canada,” stated Bader. “We will concentrate on improving our facilities and expanding the Thursday through Saturday race format to attract new fans to our unique brand of drag racing.
“Next season, San Antonio, Virginia Motorsports Park and Maryland International Raceway join Martin and Norwalk to present the Thursday through Saturday format,” added Bader.
“Because of the large Sportsman and Pro car count and the popularity of the race, the Sunoco World Nationals at Norwalk will be a four day event, Wednesday, August 24 through Saturday, August 27.”
Bader announced Edmonton’s Budweiser Motorsports Park will undergo a million dollar improvement program to be completed in advance of the 2005 Rocky Mountain
Nationals. Improvements include paving the entrance road, all pit roads, professional and sportsman pits and spectator entrances. Bud Park will also repave and reprofile the drag strip surface, including the shut down area.
“After only two years, the Edmonton event has become a popular and successful stop on the Hooters tour. I commend track owner Rob Reeves for making the large financial commitment needed to grow Western Canada’s only professional drag racing event for fans, sponsors and racers.”
The 2005 Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series schedule follows:
March 31-April 2* 4th Annual Amalie Oil Texas Nationals presented
by Ancira Cars, Trucks and RV’s
San Antonio Raceway, San Antonio, Texas
April 22-24 35th Annual IHRA Spring Nationals, presented by Castrol
Rockingham Dragway, Rockingham, North Carolina
May 26-28* 5th Annual ACDelco Nationals
Virginia Motorsports Park, Richmond, Virginia
June 10-12 6th Annual MOPAR Canadian Nationals
Grand Bend Motorplex, Grand Bend, Ontario
June 24-26 3rd Annual Western RV Rocky Mt. Nationals presented
by
Northern Provincial Pipelines and Edison Chrysler/
Dodge/Jeep
Budweiser Motorsports Park, Edmonton, Alberta
July 15-17 3rd Annual Motor City Nationals presented by Heritage
Newspapers
Milan Dragway, Milan, MI
July 29-31 4th Annual ACDelco Canadian Nationals
Toronto Motorsports Park, Cayuga, Ontario
August 11-13* 24th Annual Torco Racing Fuels Northern Nationals
U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, Martin, Michigan
August 24-27** 28th Annual Sunoco World Nationals presented by
PPG
Norwalk Raceway Park, Norwalk, Ohio
September 9-11 10th Annual Amalie Oil North American Nationals
brought
you by Auto Value Stores
New England Dragway, Epping, New Hampshire
September 22-24* 14th Annual Presidents Cup Nationals
Maryland International Raceway, Budds Creek, Maryland
October 7-9 10th Annual Bethesda Software World Finals
Rockingham Dragway, Rockingham, North Carolina
* Thurs.-Sat. event
** Wed.-Sat. event
THE 3RD ANNUAL PRO HOT ROD AND MUSCLE CAR NATIONALS EVENT AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY HAS BEEN CANCELED.
(9-15-2004) - With the National Weather Service continuing to predict damaging winds, flooding and possible tornados in Northeast Georgia through Sunday, ProMedia officials have no choice but to cancel this weekend’s planned Pro Hot Rod and Muscle Car Nationals event at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Ga., the seventh race of the PRO Edelbrock Drag Racing Series.
The decision was based on three factors: first, the safety of racers who would be faced with towing through very dangerous conditions to get to the track; secondly, the National Weather Service forecasts which, as of Wednesday afternoon, continued to call for the possibility of hazardous weather throughout the weekend. Another consideration will be the facilities at the track. With upwards of a foot of rain forecast for the area, the track grounds could easily be flooded.
ProMedia is currently considering what, if any, options are available
to reschedule this event and will update racers once a decision
is made.
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Toliver Hires Norm Grimes as Schick Quattro Funny Car Crew Chief; Newcomer Has Won Five NHRA Alcohol Dragster Championships
(9-15-2004) - Jerry Toliver announced the hiring of Norm Grimes as crew chief of the Schick Quattro/Lions Gate Toyota Celica Funny Car Wednesday.
Grimes is a very successful engine builder and tuner of alcohol dragsters in NHRA's Lucas Oil Sportsman Series. He won five series Top Alcohol Dragster championships with drivers Rick Santos and Jack O'Brien. More recently, he tuned Morgan Lucas to two injected-nitro dragster national event victories and one divisional win.
"Norm has had great success in alcohol racing, on water as well as asphalt," said Toliver. "Wherever he goes, he climbs to the top. His expertise as a premier engine builder and those five alcohol dragster championships prove to me he is dedicated. He is a winner.
"It's a big step for anybody to move up from A-Fuel to the nitro Funny Car ranks and I think he's ready to make that move. With time and the proper coaching Norm will become one of the greatest crew chiefs out there. He's an enormously talented guy. He's been a good friend for many years."
By looking to the future with five races remaining this season - beginning with this weekend's Lucas Oil Nationals at Reading, Pa. - Toliver, Grimes and the Schick Quattro crew will be preparing for the 2005 campaign that begins February 10.
"At this point, we are 264 points out of 10th place and we really don't have anything to lose . . . and maybe everything to gain," Toliver said. "We can use the remainder of this year to get ready for next year and Norm can get some laps under him and we can move forward."
Grimes, of Sun Valley, Calif., didn't take long to accept the offer, even if prodded by his new boss.
"Jerry said he'd kill me if I didn't take this job," Grimes said facetiously.
"I am jumping right into it . . . right into the thick of things," Grimes added on a more serious note. "It's a great position to be in. I hope I don't let anyone down.
"I worked with Jerry for the only three races he ran in the 2002 season and learned a lot. We plan to use the balance of this year as a test session. We'll try some things and address certain situations, utilizing our national-event runs as test runs."
Grimes says he's "watched the Funny Car class for some time and the level of competition has become so keen that I don't think we'll see anyone being dominant. I want our car to run well, go rounds and get some wins. There are a lot of really good cars out there."
Toliver had kind words for Richard Hogan, whom Grimes is replacing.
"Richard did a great job," said Toliver. "He came into a difficult situation here and he sorted out probably 95 percent of it. He is a good guy and a great friend and I wish him well."
Toliver has one win this season, at Pomona, Calif., in February, and he was runner-up at Houston in April.
Grimes gets his first taste of competition during Friday's opening
rounds of qualifying at 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday's two sessions
are scheduled at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Sunday's competition commences
at 11 a.m.
Pro-Filer Performance Products Steps Up for NSCA’s Corteco World Finals
(9-14-2004) - Three years ago, the crew from Pro-Filer
Performance Products joined the NSCA as a front line sponsor. The
intent of the sponsorship, like any, was to introduce racers to
their product- and the successes are evident; Tony Bischoff's Super
Street Achieva and Randy Jewell's Top Street Corvette are topped
with complete Pro-Filer cast heads and intakes, while several SS
and NPS competitors have taken wins with Pro-Filer manifolds.
In addition, the company sponsored the Pro-Filer Performance Products
Shootout at the season finale each year in Columbus, Ohio. The original
format of the shootout included only Pro Outlaw and Pro Street;
eliminating each field of four leaving a dramatic, yet controversial
final after the end of qualifying. Since the weights for Pro Street
are heavier for the same equipment, equalizing them for the last
run was very unpopular for everyone concerned.
To eliminate the controversy, yet preserve all the excitement, the
Pro-Filer Performance Products Shootout for 2004 will include FIVE
classes, rewarding as many as four qualifiers in Pro Street, Pro
Outlaw, Super Street, Nostalgia Pro Street and of course, Pro-Filer
Top Street. The total giveaways will total a cool THIRTY GRAND in
Pro-Filer heads and other products.
All the action will take place at the Corteco World Finals at National
Trail Raceway in Columbus, Ohio the weekend of September 17-19.
The breakdown is as follows:
Pro Street:
Low Qualifier: $5000 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
2nd Qualifier: $2500 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
3rd Qualifier: $1250 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
4th Qualifier $1250 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
Pro Outlaw:
Low Qualifier: $5000 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
2nd Qualifier: $2500 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
3rd Qualifier: $1250 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
4th Qualifier $1250 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of 4.900 or 5.000 bore space cylinder heads (P/N 165 or 166)
Super Street:
Low Qualifier: $3000 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
2nd Qualifier: $1500 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
Nostalgia Pro Street:
Low Qualifier: $3000 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
2nd Qualifier: $1500 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
Top Street:
Low Qualifier: $3000 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
2nd Qualifier: $500 voucher good toward the racer/retail purchase
of Spreadport Cylinder Heads and/or intake manifold
The new and improved Pro-Filer Shootout will guarantee wheelstanding,
nitrous belching, piston-nipping qualifying action for each session.
Hartman taking a break from Top Fuel
(9-14-2004) - Rhonda Hartman-Smith announced today that she will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the NHRA circuit with the conclusion of the 40th annual Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals.
“With my 30th birthday coming up, I have decided to take the 2005 season off to focus on our family,” said Hartman-Smith. “It’s been a tough decision, but with the hectic schedule we lead and having our daughter, Megan, in kindergartner full-time, it was one that needed to be made. It is important to me that my family comes first, and it will be easier juggling schedules with one parent who can be a little more flexible with their time.”
Hartman-Smith, who has participated on the NHRA circuit as a Top Fuel pilot since 1997, has achieved a number of impressive professional accomplishments throughout her driving career. In 2001, she celebrated her first finish NHRA top 10 finish in the championship points standings. Within the 2002 season, Hartman-Smith and her husband John Smith not only made history as the first and only couple to finish in the top 10 in a professional category, but also became the first professional husband-and-wife to qualify at the same NHRA race. Once again records were broken in 2003 when Hartman-Smith became the Quickest Female on Earth with her 4.523-second pass at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Joliet, Ill.
“As much as I am disappointed that I have yet to win an NHRA event, I am equally as proud of all of our accomplishments as a team,” said Hartman-Smith. “We have fielded a terrific two-car team that’s finished in the top 10 for the past three seasons, and as a couple, John and I have made history several times. My first Wally will just have to wait a year or two.”
Although she is taking time off for her family, Hartman-Smith hasn’t totally given up on the idea of driving.
“I am absolutely not completely retiring,” emphasized Hartman-Smith. “With this time off we will just be able to regroup and concentrate on me coming back bigger and better than ever.”
For now, John Smith will be the primary driver of the Hartman Motorsports Top Fuel dragster. While the team did not renew their contract for the 2005 season with Honeywell due to budget concerns, they are planning on making a sponsorship announcement for Smith soon.
“We did not renew with Honeywell (FRAM/Prestone/Autolite)
for the 2005 season,” explained Hartman-Smith. “Their
allocated budget has made it very tough for us to run a two-car
team. I feel we did an excellent job for what we were given, but
we need more in order to move up to the next level and become a
competitive top 5 car. That is why we feel it is necessary to explore
other opportunities right now and focus on one car for the 2005
season that John will be piloting.”
Nobile scores emotional Sunoco Pro Stock victory; Litton, Musi and Sickles win at IHRA North American Nationals
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| An emotional John Nobile is crowned champion after defeating Rob Mansfield in the final round of Sunoco Pro Stock. |
(9-12-2004) - John Nobile successfully closed out the most inspirational story of the 2004 Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series as he took his first career Sunoco Pro Stock national event victory during the 9th annual Amalie Oil IHRA North American Nationals presented by Auto Value at New England Dragway in Epping, NH. Joining Nobile in the winner’s circle was Bruce Litton (Top Fuel), Pat Musi (Pro Modified) and Jim Sickles (Funny Car).
Visit our same day coverage at IHRA Epping.
Our Photo Gallery is at IHRA - Epping Photos.
 |
Point standings following IHRA Northern Nationals
(9-13-2004) - Point standings (top 10) for IHRA
professional categories following the Ninth
annual Amalie Oil North American Nationals brought to you by Auto
Value Parts Stores at New
England Dragway, the tenth of 12 events in the 2004 Hooters IHRA
Drag Racing Series -
Top Fuel
1. Clay Millican, 1,049; 2. Bruce Litton, 819; 3. Tim Cullinan,
683; 4. Doug Foley, 628; 5.
Bobby Lagana Jr., 568; 6. Louie Allison, 477; 7. Todd Paton, 461;
8. Rick Cooper, 452; 9. John Sipple, 440; 10. Chris Karamesines,
410.
Pro Modified
1. Mike Janis, 638; 2. Harold Martin, 559; 3. Rick DiStefano, 489; 4. Al Billes, 474; 5. Mike Castellana, 470; 6. Quain Stott, 449; 7. Shannon Jenkins, 430; 8. Mitch Stott, 426; 9. Billy Harper, 394; 10. Glen Kerunsky, 334.
Funny Car
1. Mark Thomas, 908; 2. Rob Atchison, 837; 3. Terry McMillen, 600;
4. Jeff Burnett, 395; 5.
Jim Sickles, 379; 6. (tie) Chris Foster, 350; Terry Munroe, 350;
8. Ronnie Midyette, 270; 9.
Larry Dobbs, 264; 10. Neal Parker, 228.
Pro Stock
1. John Nobile, 687; 2. John Montecalvo, 668; 3. Elijah Morton,
625; 4. Brian Gahm, 604; 5.
Rick Jones, 559; 6. Pete Berner, 484; 7. Frank Gugliotta, 473; 8.
Robert Patrick, 459; 9.
Steve Spiess, 425; 10. Tony Gillig, 376.
JOHN FORCE IS A GRANDFATHER; ASHLEY IS AN AUNT
(9-10-2004) – Twelve-time NHRA Funny Car
Champion John Force became a grandfather for the first time and
Mac Tools U.S. Nationals Champion Ashley Force an aunt following
the Friday birth of Autumn Danielle Hight to Force's oldest daughter,
Adria, and her husband, Robert.
The birth came at 1:05 p.m. (PDT) at St. Joseph's Hospital here.
Autumn Danielle weighed six pounds, eight ounces at birth and was
18 inches tall.
Adria Hight, 35, is the CFO for John Force Racing, Inc. Her husband
was the clutch specialist on Force's Castrol GTX Funny Car for five
championship seasons and now is the California Facility Manager
and test driver for drag racing's most successful team. He earned
his Funny Car license earlier this year after attending Frank Hawley's
Drag Racing School in Gainesville, Fla.
Although the parents chose not to determine in advance whether the
baby would be a boy or a girl, Force assured the media during the
U.S. Nationals that it would, in fact, be a girl. "Us Forces
don't have boys," he quipped, a reference to his four children,
all girls.
Unfortunately, the proud grandfather had little time to enjoy the
moment. He was booked on a redeye flight Friday night to Rhode Island,
where he is scheduled to make a Saturday appearance, along with
rookie teammate Eric Medlen, at Tasca Ford.
The 113-time tour winner canceled a morning flight so that he could
be with his daughter for the birth.
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HURRICANE REPORT FROM JW PERFORMANCE TRANSMISSIONS
(9-10-2004) - J.W. Performance Transmissions reported virtually
no damage to their facility from hurricane Frances. The facility
resumed normal business operations and hours on Tuesday September
7th. Their facilities will be open normal operating hours next week.
The company regrets that they were not able to attend the Reynolds
points meet this weekend.
NSCA Looking to Finish Strong with new Top Street Class
(9-10-2004) - The National Street Car Association is pleased to announce that the series will be contesting its Top Street class again during the Corteco World Finals in Columbus, Ohio September 17-19 after nixing it at the recent Northern Nationals due to low attendance. The event is the season finale for the 2004 Corteco NSCA Drag Racing Series presented by BFGoodrich.
"In reality, we had three cars," stated NSCA V.P. Patrick Budd, "but one guy really wanted to test only and the other two agreed to run in Pro Outlaw in order to bulk up the field. Unfortunately we had scheduled our Northern Nationals race on the same weekend as the biggest race of the year for Top Sportsman racers, the IHRA's World Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. Truth is, there aren't a whole lot of weekends to go around this time of year, and we felt it better to drop the class for that race than run it and Pro Outlaw light on cars."
Top Street is pro tree, heads-up eliminator that pits Top Sportsman-type cars against each other with weights and rules virtually identical to IHRA's dial class. There are some limits, like allowing only a single stage for the nitrous guys and limiting the bore center to 4.900 for the naturally aspirated racers, aimed at keeping the class affordable for the semi-pro sportsman. No lights or mufflers are needed, and the lettering is not an issue like with other 'street shootout' classes.
"We're rather surprised turnout has been as light as it has," commented series President Tony DePillo, "because it is unique in that we aren't asking racers to build new pieces, or force them to run as hard as it takes to qualify in IHRA competition. Jerry Albert has done well, as has Kenny Farrell. They're taking 2 grand for the win, plus contingency, so you can see that it pays good money."
Ironically, it is the racers within the NSCA that are building new rides for Top Street. The Foulk brothers, Butch and Brian Ferrarri and former Nostalgia Pro Street champ Dale Pittman all have re-directed their efforts to the new class, citing the heads-up format, low-seven/high-6-second elapsed times and comparatively low cost as the allure.
"Pro-Filer Performance Products stepped up and sponsored the class this year. They are a great group, and see the value classes like this offer the sportsman/quick 8-type door car, because these guys run their stuff," said Budd. "We want the attendance in Columbus to be representative of the buzz on the phone lines. It's as if everyone is waiting for their buddy to report. Some of the races have done fine, but we really want to finish strong for them."
For a complete set of rules and the schedule for the NSCA Corteco
World Finals, go to www.nsca-racing.com
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DIXON ORGANIZES AUCTION TO BENEFIT THE DARRELL RUSSELL MEMORIAL FUND
(9-9-2004) – Two-time defending NHRA Top Fuel champion Larry Dixon and his wife, Allison, are organizing a charity auction to benefit the Darrell Russell Memorial Fund and Russell’s wife, Julie.
The Darrell Russell Memorial Auction will be held on Saturday, Nov. 13 in the Hospitality Village at Pomona Raceway at 6 p.m. (PT) following the completion of qualifying for the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals. There will be both silent and live auctions and all proceeds will benefit the Darrell Russell Memorial Fund.
“We need to rise up together and help out a fellow racer,” Dixon said. “I call on every driver and sponsor to donate items and for the fans to show up and bid on something.
“My wish is that this grows outside of the boundaries of the NHRA family. I hope we can raise some awareness in the other sanctions as well. If one of our drivers knows anyone racing on another circuit, please call them and ask them to help out.”
Bob Frey, the longtime voice of NHRA drag racing, will emcee the auction and Julie Russell will be on hand for the event. The silent portion of the auction will take place from 3-6 p.m. The auction is open to anyone attending Saturday’s racing action at Pomona Raceway.
Some of the items up for bid include a big-block Chevrolet crate motor, a fully-paid tuition to Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, an autographed Jesse James Mac Tools toolbox, Dixon’s 1995 Miller Genuine Draft fire suit from his 1995 Rookie of the Year campaign, and an autographed guitar from rock-and-roll group Van Halen.
“If every driver can find one or two cool items from their own collection and then talk their sponsors into donating one or two things, we’ll end up with an awesome collection of stuff,” Dixon said. “Hopefully, we can raise a bunch of money for Julie (Russell) and the family to help them through this difficult time in their lives. It’s the right thing to do.”
The Dixon’s are looking for volunteers to help the day of the auction at Pomona Raceway. Anyone interested in contributing a few hours of their time in coordinating the event, please contact Ali Dixon.
If you would like to participate by making a contribution to the auction, please contact Dixon or Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School at (888) 901-7223. Also, if you have items to donate, please send them to the Darrell Russell Memorial Auction c/o Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, Fairplex – Gate 12, Pomona, CA 91768. Please note that Hawley’s school can only accept items sent via UPS, FedEx or DHL.
2005 PRODUCTION MUSTANGS TO APPEAR AT THE TOYO TIRES NMRA FORD NATIONALS EVENT IN MARTIN, MI THIS WEEKEND, SEPTEMBER 17-18-19.
(9-9-2004) – NMRA Events is proud to announce that we will have two 2005-production Ford Mustangs appearing at this weekend’s Inaugural NMRA Ford Nationals event at US 131 Raceway. This is the first time that a production ’05 Mustang will appear at an NMRA event in 2004!
The NMRA would like to thank Andy Benedict, Executive Director of Global Facilities, at Ford Motor Company for bringing out two ’05 production mustangs to this event. This Inaugural Toyo Tires NMRA Ford Nationals event is shaping up to be a very exciting race. Between the NMRA Denso Ford Drag Racing series, presented by Ford Racing, and the NMRA All Ford Auto Show Spectacular, presented by Dallas Mustang Parts, this race should have enough Fords to satisfy even the biggest Ford fan.
Thornton Wins Quickest and Fastest Side by Side Drag Race in PSCA History
(9-8-2004) – Ed Thornton and his Twin Turbocharged 57 Chevy Pro Street won the Pacific Street Car Association Labor Day Nationals in Las Vegas defeating Clint Hairston’s Twin Turbocharged Camaro in the final round. Hairston made a very close race of it leaving the starting line first by .04 seconds and appeared to be on the way to victory until the hard charging Thornton passed him near the 1000 foot mark and took the victory 6.62 at 210 mph to Hairston’s career best 6.73 at 212 mph. The race was the quickest and fastest side by side race in PSCA Pro Street history.
“I saw him out of the window” said Thornton, “and he moved out there when I tagged the limiter at the top of 2nd gear. But I started catching back up around halftrack and passed him by the 1000 foot mark after that I didn’t really see him but it was a hell of a drag race.”
In fact the margin of victory at the finish line was only .07 seconds confirming that the Hairston team was right there. Thornton was quick to acknowledge his competitor’s success.
“Those guys have really come a long way this year,” explained Thornton. “They have bettered their best at nearly every race. They really gave us a run for the money and my hat is off to them. To have them run that hard really makes our team rise to the occasion. I would like to say thanks to my tuner Shane Tecklenburg and my clutch expert Doug Stewart for the excellent job of giving me a car that was able to win. Now I’ll have confidence when we travel to Orlando in October.
The team plans to compete at the Orlando World Street Nationals at Orlando Speedworld Dragway on October 15 – 17 before returning to Fontana, Ca for the PSCA Fall Nationals October 22 – 24.
AN OPEN LETTER TO NHRA FANS FROM GARY SCELZI
(9-08-2004) - My comment about "minimum-wage dummies" that was aired on ESPN2 after my race with Cruz Pedregon at the U.S. Nationals this past weekend was absolutely uncalled for. And the second it came out of my mouth I knew I had made a big mistake.
Twenty-five years ago my brothers and I started Scelzi Enterprises in Fresno, Calif. For the first three years I made way under minimum wage, so I know how important starting out can be.
My comments were way out of line. If I could take them back, I would in a second. But, obviously, I can't do that. I spoke without thinking.
My frustration had nothing to do with my loss to Cruz Pedregon. It was strictly a safety issue.
There have been several instances over the years when drivers on the return road were not paying attention to workers - who are different at almost every event - and workers directing cars where they shouldn't go. The visibility in a Funny Car is extremely poor, so drivers count on the workers for their direction.
Sometimes there are three different people down there directing cars in different directions. Over the years, this has sometimes resulted in broken legs, people injured, and cars damaged at the end of the track.
On that particular run I was being signaled to go through a very small opening at the end of the race track. Cruz was told to stop. He obviously didn't see or didn't pay attention to what the corner worker was telling him. He swung the corner, almost hit my car, and his parachute ripped the body on my car.
I was extremely upset at Cruz for not following the corner worker's direction. When I confronted Cruz, Cruz said that he was on fire and my emotions got the better of me. That was a big mistake on my part, but when you're traveling 300 mph and you have problems and someone is being run into, your emotions run high and they're not able to be controlled easily.
When I was told that it was a corner worker's fault, naturally that's where I went because sometimes those people are inexperienced and I took it out on them.
Thirty minutes after the incident I got on the mini-bike and went down and apologized to the corner workers and I told them I was sorry for what I said and everybody was fine with it. They understood the situation.
I cannot apologize enough. It had nothing to do with minimum-wage workers. A better term would have been "untrained" or "inexperienced." Someone needs to be at the end of the track who is an official with a bright orange jersey perhaps, so the drivers know whom to watch, and one person should be making the decisions on what we drivers are to do.
Again, this was not because of my loss to Cruz. I'm obviously going to lose more races than I'm ever going to win. Believe me, that doesn't bother me. What bothers me is someone being injured or cars being damaged or someone being killed. That's the part that bothers me.
I am sorry for my comments. It hurts me more than you guys will ever know. But I can't take them back. All I can do is apologize.
I hope you, the loyal NHRA fans, will forgive me for what I said.
If not, I hope you still attend the races and hope that I get beat.
NHRA drag racing is the best high-speed competition you'll see anywhere
on Earth, and it shouldn't be missed. - Gary Scelzi
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Mohegan Sun Top Fuel team to Debut at North American Nationals
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| Paul Athey will have his Top Fueler in Epping . |
(9-08-2004) - The Top Fuel team of Grant Flowers and Paul Athey will enter its first race of competition in preparation for next year's battle for the championship. Athey has decided to park his Pro Modified car for the remainder of the season so that the new Top Fuel team can get a headstart on next year's program. Licensing was completed this past weekend with Athey running a best of 5.23 while losing the blower belt a little before the 1000' mark. Drag racing fans will now see the familiar Mohegan Sun logo on a little faster ride.
"This is the most I've been excited in a while!" stated Flowers after licensing. "I'm proud of what Paul is doing in the car. He seems very comfortable in there. We figured that the smartest approach would be to get Paul some seat time this year so he can have some experience going into next year. We are coming out next year to race hard! And I'm enjoying being on the outside of the car. It is pretty cool to watch my work go down the track." The team is already in the process of purchasing a new car and plenty of new motors and parts for the 2005 season.
Athey added, "The ride in this car is absolutely incredible!
It pulls all the way through the run and much harder than my other
cars! I can definately get used to this. Getting this license done
is a huge relief to the whole crew and Grant. Everyone has been
working hard on this the past few weeks and now we can concentrate
on racing this weekend!"
The Doc Needs some Lexan for his Hornet
(9-08-2004) - "Dr. Mopar" Chris Ketterman has acquired a 1970 AMC Hornet that is being converted into a Nostalgia machine to race against Dean Sox, the son of veteran Mopar runner Ronnie Sox. Ketterman runs a Mopar shop and is looking for a vendor that has a Lexan kit for his particular application that is IHRA approved.
If you can help, email Ketterman with AMC Lexan Info.
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A D.R.A.W update
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| Tracy Winters is in her 13th year of working with D.R.A.W. |
(9-08-2004) -Earlier this year, a new sales representative here at J.W. Performance Transmission asked me, How’s the women’s club going?” Baffled by the question, I asked which women’s club are you referring to? It turned out he was referring to DRAW – Drag Racing association of Women.
Ten years ago, I suppose that DRAW was viewed as a “women’s club.” A decade later, DRAW is listed as an NHRA charity organization and has clearly become an important part of drag racing, its membership compromised of both men and women. In fact, two men currently serve on the Board of Trustees. The organization certainly has evolved in other ways, as well. Fund-raising efforts have brought well over $2,000,000 since the nonprofit organization was created following Shirley Muldowney’s unforgettable crash in Montreal.
We all witness hundreds or even thousands of race cars completing successful runs on drag strips all over the world. In the sheer instant that an accident takes place, an entire family'’ lives can change temporarily or permanently. DRAW provides families financial support to those families during their time of need.
This season marks my 13th year working in the industry and supporting organizations such as DRAW. It is funny how we evolve over the course of our lifetimes. During my senior year of high school, a teacher asked me what career I intend to choose. I can remember telling her that I wasn’t certain, but that I wanted to make a difference and have a positive impact in the lives of people.
In March 1991, I was completing my Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida. Unsure of what industry to pursue, I began to interview with various types of businesses. Ultimately, I chose a marketing position with J.W. Performance Transmissions, the company my Father and Mother founded in 1976. My career with J.W. Performance began June 1991. Three months later I joined DRAW as a new member. Over the next few years I served as Area Two coordinator, press secretary and finally a member of the board, believing that my business education and background would benefit the organization. Presently, I serve as a Board of Trustees member and coordinate the Florida Golf tournament held every March prior to the NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals.
On a personal note, I’ve been able to make a difference in at least one young life: In June 1999, I boarded an airplane to Russia and picked up my adopted daughter from an orphanage. I had never seen her before, but this was a case of love at first sight. Alexandra is now seven and she is truly the light of my life.
My greatest satisfaction has come from impacting other people;
from making a positive difference in their lives. Looking back,
I often wonder: Were these choices made by me, or a path chosen
by destiny? Either way, I wouldn’t change any part of my journey.
“ Racers Helping Racers” is much more than a marketing
moto for DRAW, and for me. - Tracy Winters
WILDGUST TEAMS UP WITH BAR’S LEAKS FOR REMAINDER OF 2004
(9-08-2004) - For the remainder of the 2004 IHRA season the Wildgust Motorsports Funny Car will be carrying the Bar’s Leaks logo. Scott Wildgust of Stratford, Ontario has been racing IHRA Funny Car for the last two seasons. This partnership will allow Wildgust and the team to attend the remaining three IHRA events in pursuit of a top ten finish.
The Wildgust team has been known this season as the GoDonkeey.com Funny Car, an idea the team came up with in order to promote their team.They have a website to keep fans updated and even have a Donkeey costume that is worn by a crew member every race.
“BAR’S LEAKS has been a strong supporter of Drag Racing for a long time and they are a great company with great people, we are extremely proud to have them come onboard. We feel our team will be a great addition to their motorsports program,” stated Wildgust.
BAR’S LEAKS motorsports manager Pat Ellerholz thinks this partnership has great potential, “We are very excited to work with Scott and his entire IHRA Funny Car Team, the opportunity to help them finish in the top ten and having the bonus of promoting Bar’s Leaks in front for the IHRA fans was something we just could not pass up! ” .
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Royal Purple And Nish Motorsports Break Records At The Bonneville Salt Flats; Royal Purple Streamliner Becomes The Worlds Fastest Unblown Single Engine Car
(9-08-2004) - Royal Purple is pleased to announce
that its Streamliner, driven by Nish Motorsports’ Mike Nish,
attained a new record of 373.907 M.P.H. and top speed of the meet
at 383.553 M.P.H at the SCTA / BNI World Finals on the Bonneville
Salt Flats. Nish eclipsed the previous record of 307.613 M.P.H set
in 2003 by Ken Hoover in the Plastics Express.
The event at the Bonneville Salt Flats was part of the SCTA / BNI
Bonneville Speed Week. Next up is the SCTA / BNI World of Speed,
September 17-20 and if all goes well on to the Finals in October
where Nish Motorsports will attempt to break an FIA world record
and push the new Royal Purple #998 Streamliner past the 409 M.P.H
mark.
“We congratulate the Nish Family on their record breaking
performance pushing the Royal Purple #998 Streamliner at Bonneville,”
said T. Mark McFann, marketing director at Royal Purple. “They
are a very talented and driven team and we look forward to celebrating
many more record breaking performances with them.”
To prepare for the 2004 season Nish Motorsports enlisted the help
of their longtime friend and engine builder, Tom Klein of Klein
Engines in Chandler, AZ to build a new engine capable of 3,000 horse
power. For World of Speed, Nish Motorsports will use the Klein Engine’s
built 461 C.I. small block Chevy, which is recognized as the fastest
small block Chevy on earth in attempt to break Bob Summers 34 year
old world record of 409.277 M.P.H.
Other modifications to the Streamliner, which made its debut in
2002, included: Jim and Benjamin Burkdoll modifying the mold, body,
engine cover and air inlet at Autobody Express in Ogden, UT and
Tim McNees, who fabricated the original chassis at McNees Enterprises
in Salt Lake City, UT, modified the frame structure.
In addition, Nish Motorsports is not only wearing Royal Purple colors
this year; the car is running Royal Purple motor oil, transmission
fluid, gear oil, power steering fluid and Purple Ice radiator super
coolant.
SCHUMACHER, DENSHAM, ANDERSON AND BROWN TAKE WINS AT 50TH ANNUAL MAC TOOLS U.S. NATIONALS
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| Top Fuel -- Tony Schumacher, 4.597 seconds, 323.66 mph def. Doug Kalitta, 4.621 seconds, 316.45 mph. |
(9-6-2004) - Gary Densham turned the 50th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals into the biggest payday of his career, winning the national event Monday after winning the Skoal Showdown bonus event on Sunday.
By winning both events, NHRA will pay Densham a $50,000 double-up bonus on top of the nearly $200,000 he pockets for the two victories.
Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Antron Brown (Pro Stock Bike) also earned victories in their respective categories at the $2.6 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series event.
Visit our same day coverage at NHRA 50th Indy.
The most extensive NHRA 50th anniversary Photo Gallery can be found at Indy Photos.
The nitrous
cars dominate Indy again; Halsey scores first career NHRA AMS Pro
Modified victory
 |
| Jim Halsey stopped Harold Martin in an all-nitrous final round. |
(9-6-2004) - It was rumored last year when Rickie
Smith brought home the NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals victory in
Indy that the most prestigious race on the
ten-race tour belonged to the nitrous camp. When Jim Halsey beat
ACDelco-sponsored Harold Martin in an all-nitrous final round, it
drove the point home. In the four year history of the U.S. Nationals
no supercharged doorslammer has ever won the “Big Go.”
RINGERS GLOVES BECOMES NHRA OFFICIAL SPONSOR AND TITLE SPONSOR FOR THRILLING PRO BIKE BATTLE AT U.S. NATIONALS
(9-5-2004)
-- The National Hot Rod Association
(NHRA) announced today that Ringers Gloves has signed a multi-year
agreement to become the Official Gloves of the NHRA and the title
sponsor for a lucrative race-within-a-race bonus program for Pro
Stock Bike competitors.
The Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle will be contested as a special
bonus event during the prestigious Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis
Raceway Park, Clermont, Ind., with television coverage provided
by ESPN2.
Riders begin earning points for the 2005 Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle at the 2004 Mac Tools U.S. Nationals. The eight riders accumulating the most qualifying points during the 15-race Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle series, which concludes at the 2005 O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals at Memphis Motorsports Park, will earn a berth in the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle.
"We're excited about increasing our presence and status in NHRA Drag Racing," said Kenny Dolenak, president of Ringers Gloves. "We're certain that the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle is going to be very exciting for race fans and the riders themselves. We're looking forward to helping the Pro Stock Bike category increase its popularity through this innovative bonus program, while at the same time looking forward to growing with whole NHRA Drag Racing movement."
Riders will compete for a total purse of $51,000 in the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle in 2005: $36,000 is available for the Battle, while $15,000 in bonuses are awarded to the quickest Pro Stock Bike qualifiers throughout the Battle series.
In 2005, the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle winner will receive $15,000. The runner-up will earn $5,000. The two semifinalists will earn $3,000 each. The four first round finishers will earn $2,500 apiece. Low qualifiers earn $1,000 at each of the 15 events in the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle.
The announcement is part of a comprehensive NHRA sponsorship program, which includes NHRA Official sponsorship status, as well as participation as a major NHRA contingency sponsor.
"This is absolutely
one of the key attractions for our Pro Stock Bike community, an
event each rider and our fans look forward to with great anticipation,"
said Gary Darcy, NHRA vice president, marketing. "With Ringer
Gloves' support of this competitive bonus program, we're guaranteed
many more thrilling side-by-side races in the future. The Ringers
Gloves Pro Bike Battle definitely adds a level of drama and intrigue
to the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals and provides the best showcase in
the world of professional motorcycle drag racing."
Bethesda Softworks Sponsors IHRA World Finals at Rockingham Dragway
(9-2-2004) – The International Hot Road Association (IHRA) announced today that Bethesda Softworks will sponsor this year’s World Finals at Rockingham Dragway. The 9th annual Bethesda Softworks World Finals featuring the Richmond County Tourism “Night of Fire” is the 12th and final race of the 2004 Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series.
The IHRA World Finals are scheduled for October 22-24 in Rockingham, NC and will be held in conjunction with the release of IHRA Professional Drag Racing 2005 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and PC.
“The graphics and technology used in IHRA 2005 are terrific and reflect our continued commitment to making IHRA Drag Racing games something special,” said Vlatko Andonov, president of Bethesda Softworks. “This game is a big step forward for the IHRA series, and we’re thrilled to be able to be able to sponsor this great event as part of the game’s release.”
Bethesda Softworks, a division of ZeniMax Media, Inc., has published PC, Xbox, PlayStation, PlayStation 2 and wireless versions of IHRA Drag Racing over the last four years. This release of the game, tentatively scheduled for October 15, will give players the chance to compete as, or against, their favorite IHRA drivers in Top Fuel, Pro Modified, Funny Car, and Sunoco Pro Stock cars. More information on the game is available at http://www.bethsoft.com/.
“IHRA is thrilled with the continued support from Bethesda Softworks,” said IHRA Vice President of Marketing Aaron Polburn. “The evolution of the game is truly amazing, and the look and feel of this game is something drag racing fans will have to experience to believe.”
PRO Outlaw Drag Radial Shootout, covered by Hot Rod Magazine, to offer $5,000 to win purse plus $6,000+ in contingency postings for PRO World Finals Event at Memphis
(9-2-2004) -- The Outlaw Drag Radial class at
this year¹s PRO Nitto
Tire-sponsored World Street Finals at Memphis Motorsport Park, October
8-10,
has not only a huge payout ($5,000 to win!) but the winner and runner-up
will also be eligible for over $6,000 in contingency (and growing)
from
participating PRO sponsors. This event is expected to draw out all
of the
heavy hitters in America in Drag Radial competition, and the action
will be
covered by Hot Rod Magazine with exclusive coverage along with Fastest
Street Car Magazine and ESPN2 television.
The first PRO sponsors that have signed on to pay contingency
for Outlaw
Drag Radial are the following:
Edelbrock Cylinder Heads
Edelbrock manifolds
Edelbrock data acquisition
Edelbrock nitrous systems
Russell Hoses & fittings
Flowmaster Mufflers and Collector Mufflers
Mickey Thompson Drag Radials
MSD 8.5mm SC Spark Plug wires
Kooks Headers
Vortech Superchargers
Vortech Aftercooler Kits
Paxton Superchargers
Ross Racing Pistons
FAST Fuel Injection Systems
TCI Automotive Torque Converters
More will be added to the list every day. We are expecting over
$15,000 in
contingency to be posted by the race date for the Outlaw Drag Radial
Shootout in Memphis in addition to the $5,000 to win bounty.
PRO Hot Rod & Muscle Car Nationals Announces "Outlaw" Drag Radial Shootout Paying $5,000 to Win at the Nitto Tire PRO World Street Finals in Memphis!
(9-2-2004) - As part of the 3rd Annual Nitto Tire
PRO World Street Finals in Memphis, TN,
the PRO Edelbrock series, in conjunction with HOT ROD Magazine,
will present
the Inaugural Outlaw Drag Radial Shootout, with a $5,000 to win
purse, plus
contingency!
With full coverage provided by Hot Rod Magazine, the PRO Outlaw
Drag Radial
Shootout will provide the largest audience for drag radial racing
in
history. The rules have been kept to a minimum to ensure a large
number of
entries and to make this a true "Outlaw" class. So not
only can you win a
lot of money and prove that you are the baddest racer on drag radials,
you
will also get your car in the largest automotive performance magazine
on the
planet!
Make plans today to attend the Nitto Tire PRO World Finals in Memphis,
either as a "Drag Radial Shootout" competitor, or as a
fan.
The Dates & Location:
PRO Nitto Tire World Finals
October 8-9-10, 2004
Memphis Motorsports Park - Memphis, TN
Purse Outlaw Drag Radial Shootout, Covered by Hot
Rod Magazine:
WIN: $5,000
R/U: $2,000
Semis: $500
1/4s: $200
Entry will be $175.00 pre-registered
http://store.yahoo.com/nmra/oudrrash.html
or $225.00 at the gate.
Outlaw Drag Radial Rules:
-Equipped with D.O.T.-approved Drag Radial tires (BFG, NITTO, M/T,
or M&H)
up to a maximum width of 12 inches.
-Stock-type chassis vehicles with stock suspension.
-Must retain stock frame rails, may be notched for tire clearance
(back-half
prohibited). Mini tubs and coil-overs permitted.
-No wheelie bars
-3,200-pound minimum weight (deduct 250 lb for nitrous small block).
-Any power adders or engine type OK
-Automatic transmission with converter or OEM stick-shift with single
disc
clutch (clutchless transmissions prohibited)
-Gasoline required (max "0" on fuel check meter)
CITY OF INDIANAPOLIS DECLARES AUG. 30-SEPT. 6 AS NHRA
MAC TOOLS U.S. NATIONALS WEEK
(9-1-2004) - As part of the ongoing 50th anniversary celebration for the historic Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, the world’s most prestigious drag race, the city of Indianapolis has proclaimed the week of Aug. 30-Sept. 6, 2004 as “NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals Week,” it was announced Wednesday by city officials during a press conference at Monument Circle.
The $2.6 million ‘Super Bowl’ of drag racing takes place at nearby Indianapolis Raceway Park, Sept. 1-6. It is the 18th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series for 2004 and will be showcased nationwide during the weekend by ESPN’s family of networks, set to air more than 10 hours of coverage of the high-horsepower tradition on ESPN and ESPN2.
As NHRA celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, the showcase of speed and high performance continues. More than 1,000 competitors in 12 different racing categories are expected to perform in front of a standing-room only crowd during this weekend’s much-anticipated event at IRP.
Beth White, public access counselor and director of constituent services for the City of Indianapolis presented NHRA President Tom Compton with the proclamation during the official press conference to kick-off the weekend’s racing festivities.
“Drag racing has been a great success across the country, but everyone knows that the heart and soul of all motorsports is right here in the ‘Racing Capital of the World,’” White said. “The City of Indianapolis is extremely proud to take part in the celebration of the 50th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals by offering this well deserved proclamation and we look forward to many more years of exciting and successful NHRA Drag Racing at Indianapolis Raceway Park.”
In 1955 NHRA held the first U.S. Nationals in Great Bend, Kan., which boasted a competitive field of more than 200 cars. That event moved to Kansas City in 1956; on to Oklahoma City from 1957 to ‘58; and finally to Detroit for two more years (1959-‘60) before settling permanently in Indianapolis in 1961. Since then, the IRP quarter-mile drag strip has played host to many memorable moments in the sport, and the legend of the facility has grown. Today, a victory here is the ultimate achievement for any drag racer.
“This is truly a very special day for NHRA, Indianapolis Raceway Park, the city of Indianapolis and the sport of drag racing,” Compton said. “We’re proud