SUNDAY - Schumacher, Wilkerson, Anderson and Showers take home Mac Tools U.S. Nationals Honors

Top Fuel -- Tony Schumacher, 4.498 seconds, 328.54 mph def. Darrell Russell, 4.613 seconds, 290.19 mph.

(9-7-2003) - Tony Schumacher successfully defended his Top Fuel event title Sunday at the NHRA's longest running event, the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

Tim Wilkerson, Greg Anderson and Reggie Showers also won in their respective categories at the $2.5 million race, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

Schumacher beat Darrell Russell in the final round of Top Fuel. Schumacher turned in a career-best elapsed time, going 4.498 seconds at 328.54 in the U.S. Army dragster, beating Russell's 4.613 pass at 290.19 in the Bilstein dragster. Schumacher has nine career wins and three have come at the U.S. Nationals.

"It is unbelievable to come in here and win," Schumacher said. "All of the cars were making consistently fast runs and I knew that if we stumbled, then game over. And this is Indy. This is a big win."

Funny Car -- Tim Wilkerson, Pontiac Firebird, 4.841, 321.19 def. Johnny Gray, Firebird, 4.903, 314.24.

The U.S. Army team hired a different crew chief - championship tuner Alan Johnson - before the June race in Chicago. The team won that race too.

"If Alan says we are going to run fast, then we are going to run fast," Schumacher said. "I have got to stop questioning him because he absolutely knows what he is going. I wanted to win Indy more than anything else in the world."

Showers, a double amputee, earned his first national event victory of his career. He also earned the K&N Filters Pro Stock Bike Klash bonus event win to sweep the weekend in the two-wheel category. Showers beat Shawn Gann for the Pro Stock Bike victory. Showers went 7.264 at 181.40 on his PDI Suzuki to beat Gann's 7.232 at 188.04 on his Mac Tools Suzuki.

"I've watched my heroes win this race," Showers said. "For me to do it is just unreal. I don't think this will sink in for a while."

Pro Stock -- Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.803, 203.40 def. Kurt Johnson, Chevy Cavalier, foul.

Wilkerson earned his second career Funny Car victory, beating Johnny Gray in the final round. Gray, winless in three tries this season, went 4.903 at 314.24 in his Checker Schuck's Kragen Pontiac Firebird in a losing effort. Wilkerson's 4.841 at 321.19 in his Levi, Ray & Shoup Pontiac Firebird earned the win from the No. 15 qualifying spot.

Wilkerson's first final round appearance of his career was at the U.S. Nationals in 1999.

"We've raced alcohol Funny Cars here in the past and won a couple of division races at this track," Wilkerson said. "We've done a good job at this track. I like it here and I think I really do have a soft spot for Indy."

Wilkerson said he thought his final round opponent was going to beat him on performance - something he toyed with all weekend.

"We had some good data because we made two good qualifying runs in the heat on Saturday," Wilkerson said. "I knew it was going to take more than a 4.85 to win today and we got after it during the elimination rounds. The car responded. I still thought Johnny was going to run faster than he did."

Pro Stock Bike -- Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.264, 181.40 def. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.232, 188.04.

Anderson won for the eighth time in 10 final round appearances this season. The Pro Stock points leader went 6.803 at 203.40 in his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am to beat Kurt Johnson, who fouled at the starting line in his ACDelco Chevy Cavalier.

Anderson, owner of 12 career wins, is no stranger to the U.S. Nationals. His first career runner-up finish was in Indy in 1999 and he won the race in 2001 - just his second career win. Still, Anderson wanted to prove the win wasn't a fluke.

"Your toughest critics are bound to consider it a fluke until you come back and validate the original win," Anderson said. "No one can say that we didn't earn this one. If I am fortunate enough to move on and win the Pro Stock championship, I would want Indy to be on the list of wins in the same season. If you win the championship but you don't win Indy, it still feels like you left something on the table."

Anderson's biggest challenge to his first NHRA championship is Johnson. Anderson has a 176-point lead over Johnson. Before he can think about championship points any more, Anderson said he was going to enjoy the toughest win of the season.

"This is such a wonderful place," Anderson said. "You come here with all of the power you have and you try to put it all on the track. Everyone throws their best at the U.S. Nationals. The competition always steps up."

Sportsman Results

Top Alcohol Dragster -- Morgan Lucas, 5.412, 262.13 def. Shelly Howard, 5.512, 257.68.

Top Alcohol Funny Car -- Jeff Craig, Dodge R/T, 5.738, 250.97 def. Marc White, Pontiac Firebird, 10.650, 78.58.

Competition Eliminator -- Larry Pritchett, Pontiac Sunfire, 7.962, 168.14 def. Mike Trumble, Sunfire, 8.662, 127.04.

Super Stock -- Charles Bohannon, Chevy S-10, 10.056, 129.55 def. David Bogner, Dodge Avenger, 10.126, 131.15.

Stock Eliminator -- Lee Zane, Buick Apollo, 11.840, 109.08 def. Dan Fletcher, Chevy Camaro, 10.697, 116.18.

Super Comp -- Steve Cohen, Dragster, 8.936, 153.82 def. Kyle Rizzoli, Dragster, 8.917, 175.27.

Super Gas -- David Tatum III, Pontiac Firebird, 9.917, 150.10 def. Bill Yates Sr., Chevy Cavalier, 9.894, 170.77.

Final round-by-round results from the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series -

TOP FUEL:

ROUND ONE -- Darrell Russell, 4.623, 317.12 def. Paul Romine, broke; Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 4.612, 310.34 def. Cory McClenathan, 5.054, 259.91; Tony Schumacher, 4.519, 327.59 def. John Smith, 5.777, 171.47; Larry Dixon, 4.566, 324.51 def. David Grubnic, 14.103, 71.50; Scott Kalitta, 4.575, 322.88 def. Clay Millican, broke; David Baca, 4.567, 318.02 def. Mitch King, 7.815, 94.98; Kenny Bernstein, 4.594, 321.81 def. Scott Weis, broke; Doug Kalitta, 4.541, 321.04 def. Jim Head, 8.722, 91.99;

QUARTERFINALS -- S. Kalitta, 4.564, 327.59 def. Hartman-Smith, broke; Russell, 4.579, 319.82 def. Baca, 5.462, 175.25; Bernstein, 5.477, 239.10 def. Dixon, 5.885, 211.10; Schumacher, 4.526, 326.40 def. D. Kalitta, 4.552, 328.86;

SEMIFINALS -- Russell, 4.612, 315.64 def. Bernstein, 5.280, 193.52; Schumacher, 4.523, 326.16 def. S. Kalitta, 4.549, 327.82;

FINAL -- Schumacher, 4.498, 328.54 def. Russell, 4.613, 290.19.

FUNNY CAR:

ROUND ONE -- Dean Skuza, Pontiac Firebird, 4.941, 261.72 def. Tony Pedregon, Ford Mustang, 5.499, 226.62; Gary Densham, Mustang, 4.812, 321.58 def. Bob Bode, Firebird, 4.948, 304.94; John Force, Mustang, 4.969, 296.89 def. Del Worsham, Firebird, 7.428, 151.66; Tim Wilkerson, Firebird, 4.829, 321.27 def. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 4.968, 299.80; Cruz Pedregon, Firebird, 4.887, 313.88 def. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.886, 316.67; Tommy Johnson Jr., Chevy Camaro, 4.905, 307.30 def. Frank Pedregon, Firebird, 5.616, 176.17; Scotty Cannon, Firebird, 4.903, 311.34 def. Ron Capps, Camaro, 4.928, 306.88; Johnny Gray, Firebird, 4.914, 304.39 def. Phil Burkart, Firebird, 4.879, 314.61;

QUARTERFINALS -- Gray, 4.945, 309.91 def. Force, 6.333, 149.95; Wilkerson, 4.994, 305.15 def. Cannon, 6.551, 133.84; Densham, 5.734, 180.14 def. Johnson Jr., 6.358, 175.52; Skuza, 4.903, 302.62 def. C. Pedregon, 5.145, 232.95;

SEMIFINALS -- Gray, 4.891, 312.13 def. Densham, 5.798, 168.03; Wilkerson, 4.864, 318.84 def. Skuza, 5.095, 244.83;

FINAL -- Wilkerson, 4.841, 321.19 def. Gray, 4.903, 314.24.

PRO STOCK:

ROUND ONE -- Jason Line, Chevy Cavalier, 6.847, 202.12 def. Mike Edwards, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.879, 198.64; Gene Wilson, Dodge Stratus, 6.844, 201.07 def. Taylor Lastor, Cavalier, 6.888, 200.89; Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.831, 201.19 def. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.859, 201.19; Larry Morgan, Stratus, 6.834, 200.95 def. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.823, 202.58; Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.835, 201.46 def. Steve Schmidt, Cavalier, 6.869, 200.74; Greg Anderson, Grand Am, 6.789, 202.73 def. George Marnell, Grand Am, 6.882, 200.95; Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.810, 202.67 def. Troy Coughlin, Cavalier, foul; Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.814, 201.16 def. Allen Johnson, Stratus, 6.855, 201.07;

QUARTERFINALS -- Morgan, 6.862, 201.04 def. Yates, 6.867, 201.10; J. Coughlin, 6.812, 201.16 def. Wilson, 6.870, 201.13; K. Johnson, 6.808, 202.24 def. Line, 8.492, 115.47; Anderson, 6.795, 202.64 def. Krisher, 6.849, 201.04;

SEMIFINALS -- K. Johnson, 6.831, 201.88 def. Morgan, 6.873, 200.98; Anderson, 6.820, 202.24 def. J. Coughlin, 6.850, 201.01;

FINAL -- Anderson, 6.803, 203.40 def. K. Johnson, foul.

PRO STOCK BIKE:

ROUND ONE -- Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.897, 130.75 def. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, foul; Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.233, 181.94 def. Craig Treble, Suzuki, foul; Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.238, 177.42 def. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.364, 178.64; Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.210, 181.62 def. Brian Schultz, Suzuki, foul; GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 8.377, 113.92 def. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, foul; Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.288, 185.74 def. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.326, 179.66; Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.264, 181.69 def. Mike Berry, Suzuki, foul; Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.206, 182.35 def. Chris Reuter, Suzuki, foul;

QUARTERFINALS -- Brown, 7.366, 182.85 def. Hines, foul; Scali, 7.288, 172.21 def. Collis, foul; Showers, 7.264, 184.52 def. Savoie, 7.251, 184.62; Gann, 7.270, 184.30 def. Tonglet, foul;

SEMIFINALS -- Gann, 7.300, 182.82 def. Brown, foul; Showers, 7.230, 180.57 def. Scali, 7.423, 177.56;

FINAL -- Showers, 7.264, 181.40 def. Gann, 7.232, 188.04.

More Hot Times at Indy

SUNDAY NOTES - Attendance an issue? Force cheering for Pedregon and Vandergriff vows to be back

(9-7-2003) - No wonder it’s off – After two days of clean-up delays, the Sunday crowd at the NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals was considerably off. On the sportsman pit side grandstands, there were noticeable gaps. Those that made the trek out to Indianapolis Raceway Park were treated to a significant delay when Paul Romine suffered a fire in the first pair just off of the line and also when Cory McClenathan followed with an oildown on the top end.

Family Tradition – The Baca family loves Indy. In 1977, Top Fuel low qualifier Dave Baca’s dad Dennis was the big winner.

We had to see it to believe it – Did you ever think that you’d see John Force cheering and jumping around for Cruz Pedregon to win? That’s exactly what transpired when Pedregon took out Whit Bazemore in the4 first round of eliminations. It’s a safe bet to say that their relationship has improve since Force’s tirade at a McDonald’s Drive-Through when he smashed his kid’s Pedregon diecast car in the Happy Meal.

Vandergriff vows to return – Despite a terrible crash on Saturday, rookie Top Fuel pilot Chris Vandergriff vows to be back with a new car. He quipped, “I didn’t come this far to let one setback knock me off of my game.” Vandergriff was walking gingerly and conveyed soreness in his back and neck as a result of the crash.

Garlits on a Sedgeway...That's scary

Brad Anderson Photo

Walking the Line – Jason Line had a much better first round in Indy than he did in Columbus. Instead of rolling the car at the finish line, he rolled into the second round with an upset of Mike Edward. Line is driving the Troy Humphrey-owned Pro Stock which is being rented by Greg Anderson.

Good to have goals – NHRA announcer Bob Frey, “My goal in life is the make Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins smile at least once in his life.

Third time is the charm – In two meetings prior to this year’s first round meeting between Larry Morgan and Warren Johnson, the “Professor” won both. This time Morgan showed the third time to be the charm by stopping Johnson.

SATURDAY - Baca, Force, KJ and Angelle lead Indy professional qualifying

David Baca retained the top spot in Top Fuel a week later.

(9-6-2003)- David Baca, John Force, Kurt Johnson and Angelle Savoie earned the No. 1 qualifying positions in their respective categories at the $2.5 million race, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

Force didn't pick up the Budweiser Shootout victory against his teammate Tony Pedregon, but he did earn his 116th No. 1 spot of his career after he turned in a pass of 4.759 at 307.72 to pace the 16-car Funny Car field - also the quickest field in NHRA history. Del Worsham took the No. 16 spot with a 4.873 at 305.91.

"It's been a good weekend so far," Force said. "Tony's never won the Budweiser Shootout before, although he has been close twice. His car is really starting to turn around. He's got the point lead and a shot at the championship.

"Our car screwed up in the Budweiser Shootout, but I'm glad we got to go some rounds."

John Force may have lost the Budweiser Shootout final round, but that didn't prevent him from securing the top spot in the Funny Car show.

Baca was the Top Fuel leader after all three days of qualifying. He went 4.499 at 324.91 in his American Racing Wheels dragster. It is the first No. 1 qualifier of his career and the quickest Top Fuel field in NHRA history. No. 16 qualifier Mitch King went 4.683 at 312.64 to anchor the field.

"To get my first No. 1 qualifier at the biggest race of the year in what turns out to be the quickest field ever all during my rookie year is amazing," Baca said. "Not many people can say that I'm sure."

Baca is still searching for his first career Top Fuel victory. This weekend he has a special paint scheme, representing Hunter's Hope, a children's charity founded by former NFL quarterback Jim Kelly.

"We're pretty optimistic about tomorrow," Baca said. "We'll need to be on our game but all in all, no matter what happens, it's been so great to get all this attention for our team and Hunter's Hope."

Angelle Savoie's final qualifying attempt nailed down the top spot in Pro Stock Motorcycle.

Two-time Top Fuel champion Shirley Muldowney and three-time champion Don Garlits both did not qualify for the NHRA's longest running event.

Johnson went to the top of the Pro Stock order with a 6.778 at 203.77 in his ACDelco Chevy Cavalier for his second No. 1 qualifier of the season and 23rd of his career. Johnson is second in the Pro Stock points, 158 points out of Greg Anderson and first place.

"We just want to stay a notch ahead of everybody and put four good runs in on Sunday," Johnson said. "But the only thing to worry about right now is the first round. We just need to get the right parts and pieces together and go."

Savoie stayed at the top of the Pro Stock Bike ladder with a 7.154 pass at 186.61 on her U.S. Army Suzuki. Savoie, the defending event winner, has 33 career top qualifiers.

"Being the No. 1 qualifier is not as big as winning the race," Savoie said. "But it is a step in the right direction."

Final eliminations begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday.

First-round pairings for professional eliminations Sunday for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Pairings based on results in qualifying, which ended Saturday.

Top Fuel -- 1. David Baca, 4.499 seconds, 326.32 mph vs. 16. Mitch King, 4.683, 312.64; 2. Scott Kalitta, 4.502, 327.51 vs. 15. Clay Millican, 4.667, 313.37; 3. Doug Kalitta, 4.511, 327.03 vs. 14. Jim Head, 4.639, 321.58; 4. Kenny Bernstein, 4.518, 325.61 vs. 13. Scott Weis, 4.634, 312.57; 5. Larry Dixon, 4.530, 326.71 vs. 12. David Grubnic, 4.633, 321.42; 6. Tony Schumacher, 4.534, 324.75 vs. 11. John Smith, 4.611, 317.87; 7. Cory McClenathan, 4.558, 318.99 vs. 10. Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 4.599, 315.19; 8. Paul Romine, 4.563, 313.95 vs. 9. Darrell Russell, 4.568, 320.36.

Funny Car -- 1. John Force, Ford Mustang, 4.759, 317.94 vs. 16. Del Worsham, Pontiac Firebird, 4.873, 312.93; 2. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 4.764, 325.53 vs. 15. Tim Wilkerson, Firebird, 4.860, 319.52; 3. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.767, 323.74 vs. 14. Cruz Pedregon, Firebird, 4.859, 317.87; 4. Gary Densham, Mustang, 4.786, 320.97 vs. 13. Bob Bode, Firebird, 4.853, 304.60; 5. Tommy Johnson Jr., Chevy Camaro, 4.788, 318.92 vs. 12. Frank Pedregon, Firebird, 4.843, 313.80; 6. Dean Skuza, Firebird, 4.805, 314.97 vs. 11. Tony Pedregon, Mustang, 4.823, 318.02; 7. Ron Capps, Camaro, 4.813, 319.52 vs. 10. Scotty Cannon, Firebird, 4.822, 316.60; 8. Phil Burkart, Firebird, 4.813, 318.47 vs. 9. Johnny Gray, Firebird, 4.821, 321.27.

Pro Stock -- 1. Kurt Johnson, Chevy Cavalier, 6.778, 203.77 vs. 16. Troy Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.833, 201.79; 2. Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.785, 204.63 vs. 15. Allen Johnson, Dodge Stratus, 6.832, 201.55; 3. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.786, 205.01 vs. 14. George Marnell, Grand Am, 6.830, 201.10; 4. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.810, 202.97 vs. 13. Steve Schmidt, Cavalier, 6.830, 202.24; 5. Larry Morgan, Stratus, 6.811, 203.43 vs. 12. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.825, 202.18; 6. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.814, 201.73 vs. 11. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.823, 202.03; 7. Gene Wilson, Stratus, 6.816, 202.55 vs. 10. Taylor Lastor, Cavalier, 6.822, 201.82; 8. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.816, 201.49 vs. 9. Jason Line, Cavalier, 6.819, 202.73.

Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.154, 189.12 vs. 16. Brian Schultz, Suzuki, 7.263, 187.39; 2. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.162, 190.65 vs. 15. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.251, 188.04; 3. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.173, 189.79 vs. 14. Chris Reuter, Suzuki, 7.248, 188.17; 4. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.179, 185.08 vs. 13. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.238, 185.84; 5. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.188, 185.72 vs. 12. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.228, 184.57; 6. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.190, 189.92 vs. 11. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.228, 188.36; 7. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.205, 190.14 vs. 10. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.217, 184.30; 8. Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.210, 188.41 vs. 9. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.210, 183.44.

Tony Pedregon wins Budweiser Shootout over John Force

(9-6-2003) - Tony Pedregon picked up an extra $100,000 for winning the Budweiser Shootout Saturday at Indianapolis Raceway Park. The annual bonus event was held between final qualifying rounds for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals.

Pedregon won the bonus event race for the first time in eight appearances, beating Force in the final. Force smoked the tires early and Pedregon drove away with the victory with a run of 4.847 seconds at 297.48 mph in a battle between Ford Mustangs.

"It took me eight years to win that race and we really didn't do it on performance," Pedregon said. "It means a little more because I am now in some elite company considering all of the people who have won before me."

Pedregon won six of the first 11 races of the season but has yet to win a race since the June event in Columbus, Ohio. Pedregon lost in the first round on three consecutive weekends (Western Swing) and said the team is finally making strides toward being back in winner's circle.

"I'm very happy we won because we are trying to feel our way back to where we were at the beginning of the season," Pedregon said.

The Budweiser Shootout featured the top eight qualifiers in Funny Car. The winner walked away with $100,000 bonus check. (Photos by Tracy Waters)

BUD SHOOTOUT AT INDY:

ROUND ONE -- Del Worsham, Pontiac Firebird, 4.949, 308.50 def. Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 6.429, 139.43; Whit Bazemore, Dodge Stratus, 4.924, 313.15 def. Tommy Johnson, Chevy Camaro, 4.911, 311.27; John Force, Mustang, 4.899, 313.15 def. Ron Capps, Camaro, 4.927, 308.35; Tony Pedregon, Mustang, 5.071, 265.74 def. Dean Skuza, Firebird, 6.157, 153.46;

SEMIFINALS -- Pedregon, 5.109, 271.68 def. Worsham, 5.159, 298.21; Force, 4.824, 321.12 def. Bazemore, 4.909, 291.32;

FINAL -- Pedregon, 4.947, 297.48 def. Force, 9.071, 88.36.

Chris Vandergriff's wild ride at Indy

Cory Janssen Photos

SATURDAY - Vandergriff suffers qualifying crash, Shirley still unqualified and Pedregon leads field into Budweiser Shootout

Shirley Muldowney had no luck on the final day of qualifications and missed the cut in her last Indy appearance as a driver. (Tracy Waters Photo)

(9-6-2003) - Vandergriff involved in top-end crash – Top Fuel pilot Chris Vandergriff suffered his first career blow-over during Saturday’s first Top Fuel qualifying session. The driver of the Efans.com Top Fuel car started to pull a wheelstand about the 300 foot mark. Vandergriff’s ride continued to pull the wheels in the air despite Vandergriff being out of the throttle early. After a brief flash fire upon impact, Vandergriff came to a stop in the shutdown area. Vandergriff appeared to be uninjured but is still being evaluated by medical personnel.

Someone other than Force – It took 12 years to do it, but someone other than John Force will be leading the seeded field entering the Budweiser Shootout at Indianapolis. The top spot didn’t fall far from the tree as Team Force driver Tony Pedregon will hold those honors entering the show. Pedregon earned the spot by virtue of winning 10 of 23 possible pole positions. Ironically, Pedregon was the slowest winner of the first round during the Budweiser Shootout.

Pawuk catches fire – Immediately following his burnout Summit Racing Equipment-sponsored Mark Pawuk came to a stop just past the tree with smoke billowing out of his Pro Stock Pontiac. The problem was traced to an electric fire. Outside of inhaling some smoke and fumes, Pawuk was uninjured.

John Force won whether or not he was victorious in the finals of the Budweiser Funny Car Shootout. Team Force driver Tony Pedregon beat the boss in the final round. (Tracy Waters Photo)

Shirley and Big still outside – After three qualifying sessions, drag racing’s legends Shirley Muldowney and Don Garlits have yet to crack the 4.723 bubble.

Muldowney has fought wheelstand and handling problems all weekend while Garlits has struggled to find the right combination on the monostrut.

Harley on the pole after 4 rounds – Andrew Hines sets on the verge of history with one qualifying session remaining. If Hines retains the top spot by virtue of his 7.162 elapsed time, he could become the first Pro Stock Motorcycle rider to ever pace a field at Indy.

Millican and Litton situation – While many have questioned Graham Light’s decision to allow Clay Millican and Bruce Litton’s runs from the previous week, the real reason for this decision is that the NHRA wanted to take away the opportunity for a team to buy their way into the field.

Snake back at Indy – After being away from the tour for a few events, Don “The Snake” Prudhomme was in attendance at Indy.

RESCHEDULED FRIDAY - Baca, Force, Johnson and Savoie lead fields as qualifying resumes

(9-5-2003) - Racing resumed for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals Friday at Indianapolis Raceway Park. John Force led the way in Funny Car during the third of five qualifying sessions and is one step closer to earning his 116th No. 1 qualifier of his career.

David Baca, Kurt Johnson and Angelle Savoie also led the way in qualifying in their respective categories at the $2.5 million race, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

The first two rounds of qualifying ran Saturday before heavy rainfall postponed the remainder of the event.

Force drove his Castrol GTX High-Mileage Ford Mustang to a 4.759-second run at 307.72 mph to lead the Funny Car category.

Force has four wins in six final round appearances at the NHRA's longest-running race.

"I really like to run those kinds of numbers," Force said. "Mentally we have been waiting too long and I have a lot of energy. I'm ready to get in the Budweiser Shootout and win that extra money too."

While there are two qualifying sessions left on the schedule, the top eight Funny Car drivers will also compete in the Budweiser Shootout. The winner will take home an extra $100,000 in bonus money. Force is the No. 2 qualifier and will face No. 7 Ron Capps in the first round of the Shootout. No. 1 qualifier Tony Pedregon will race No. 8 Dean Skuza; No. 3 Whit Bazemore will face No. 6 Tommy Johnson Jr.; No. 4 Gary Densham will face No. 5 Del Worsham.
Baca paced the Top Fuel field with a track record E.T. of 4.499 at 324.51 in his American Racing Wheels dragster.

If Baca can stay at the top of the order, it will be his first career No. 1 qualifier.
"When I got down to the end of the track and they said we ran a 4.99, I said, 'Pardon me?'" Baca said. "(Crew chief) Johnny West said we were going to stand on it and we did. We hired Johnny in the offseason and I think we got the best free agent pick."

Johnson went to the top of the Pro Stock order with a track-record time of 6.778 at 203.77 in his ACDelco Chevy Cavalier. Greg Anderson set the track speed record with a 6.786 pass at 205.01 in his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am.

If Johnson can stay at the top of the field, it will be his second top qualifier of the season and 23rd of his career.

"I couldn't wait, you go all week long knowing you made bad runs," Johnson said. "You're still No. 2, you're still close, you're within a thousandth. All you have to do is fix the car and drive it and if the driver does his job and the wheels don't fall off the truck on its way here and it should be able to run up front and that's what we did."

Savoie, the defending event winner, went 7.164 at 185.28 on her U.S. Army Suzuki to lead the Pro Stock Bike category.

"I knew with the weather the way it is we had an opportunity to improve," Savoie said. "I had such a straight run that I didn't have to worry about anything other than hitting my shift points and staying tucked in. I'm looking forward to staying consistent on Saturday and building momentum for Sunday."

Qualifying continues at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday. Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. on Sunday.

Results Friday after qualifying for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park, 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Sunday's final eliminations.

Top Fuel -- 1. David Baca, 4.499 seconds, 326.32 mph; 2. Scott Kalitta, 4.503, 327.51; 3. Larry Dixon, 4.530, 326.08; 4. Tony Schumacher, 4.534, 324.75; 5. Doug Kalitta, 4.534, 327.03; 6. Cory McClenathan, 4.558, 318.99; 7. Paul Romine, 4.563, 313.95; 8. Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 4.599, 311.13; 9. John Smith, 4.611, 317.87; 10. David Grubnic, 4.633, 321.42; 11. Scott Weis, 4.634, 312.57; 12. Kenny Bernstein, 4.637, 314.39; 13. Clay Millican, 4.667, 313.37; 14. Bruce Litton, 4.707, 312.35; 15. Jim Head, 4.710, 309.98; 16. Darrell Russell, 4.723, 304.25.

Funny Car -- 1. John Force, Ford Mustang, 4.759, 317.94; 2. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 4.764, 325.53; 3. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.767, 323.74; 4. Gary Densham, Mustang, 4.786, 320.97; 5. Dean Skuza, Pontiac Firebird, 4.805, 314.97; 6. Ron Capps, Chevy Camaro, 4.813, 319.52; 7. Johnny Gray, Firebird, 4.821, 321.27; 8. Scotty Cannon, Firebird, 4.822, 316.60; 9. Tony Pedregon, Mustang, 4.823, 318.02; 10. Tommy Johnson Jr., Camaro, 4.828, 304.94; 11. Phil Burkart, Firebird, 4.838, 318.47; 12. Frank Pedregon, Firebird, 4.843, 313.80; 13. Bob Bode, Firebird, 4.853, 302.28; 14. Tim Wilkerson, Firebird, 4.864, 317.64; 15. Del Worsham, Firebird, 4.873, 305.91; 16. Terry Haddock, Camaro, 4.924, 308.99.

Pro Stock -- 1. Kurt Johnson, Chevy Cavalier, 6.778, 203.77; 2. Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.785, 204.63; 3. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.786, 205.01; 4. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.810, 202.97; 5. Larry Morgan, Dodge Stratus, 6.812, 203.43; 6. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.814, 201.73; 7. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.816, 201.49; 8. Jason Line, Cavalier, 6.819, 202.21; 9. Taylor Lastor, Cavalier, 6.822, 201.82; 10. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.823, 202.03; 11. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.825, 202.18; 12. Steve Schmidt, Cavalier, 6.830, 201.37; 13. Troy Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.833, 201.79; 14. Greg Stanfield, Dodge Neon, 6.834, 201.16; 15. George Marnell, Grand Am, 6.834, 200.83; 16. Bruce Allen, Grand Am, 6.835, 201.43.

Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.164, 189.12; 2. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.198, 189.79; 3. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.201, 189.15; 4. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.205, 185.33; 5. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.210, 183.44; 6. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.212, 190.14; 7. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.212, 189.82; 8. Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.214, 188.41; 9. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.224, 183.69; 10. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.238, 184.57; 11. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.253, 188.04; 12. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.261, 182.43; 13. Brian Schultz, Suzuki, 7.263, 187.39; 14. Tommy Grimes Jr, Suzuki, 7.271, 183.69; 15. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.297, 181.52; 16. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.299, 186.85.

SUNDAY - Mac Tools U.S. Nationals Postponed

(8-31-2003) - The 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals has been postponed due to inclement weather. The race will continue next weekend, Sept. 5-7 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

"Radar shows strong weather systems still moving in from the west that has been forecast to be here through Tuesday," said Graham Light, senior vice president of racing operations. "We have so much racing activity to be complete, we've moved it to next weekend."

Two rounds of qualifying were completed Saturday and those runs will count. Qualifying will continue on Friday and Saturday. One round will run on Friday while two sessions will be held on Saturday. The Budweiser Shootout, the bonus event for the Funny Car class, will also run on Saturday. Final eliminations are scheduled for Sunday.

The qualifying leaders for the pro categories are David Baca in Top Fuel, Gary Scelzi in Funny Car, Greg Anderson in Pro Stock and Angelle Savoie in Pro Stock Bike.

SATURDAY - Baca, Scelzi, Anderson and Savoie lead qualifying at Mac Tools U.S. Nationals

David Baca drove his American Racing Wheels dragster to a track-record E.T. run of 4.504 seconds at 326.32 mph to pace the Top Fuel category.

(8-30-2003) - David Baca, Gary Scelzi, Greg Anderson and Angelle Savoie led the way in qualifying in their respective categories at the $2.5 million race, the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

Friday's qualifying session was rained out and the remaining two rounds are at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday. Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. on Monday.

Baca drove his American Racing Wheels dragster to a track-record E.T. run of 4.504 seconds at 326.32 mph to pace the Top Fuel category. If he can stay at the top of the ladder, it will be his first career No. 1 qualifying spot.

Before the NHRA's longest running race weekend began, Baca and former NFL quarterback Jim Kelly established a partnership to help the Hunter's Hope foundation. Hunter's Hope was created to raise awareness for Krabbe and other leukodystrophies. Kelly was on site Saturday to cheer on the American Racing Wheels team.

Gary Scelzi has the provisional No. 1 qualifying position in Funny Car after he ran a 4.765 at 316.01 in his Oakley Dodge Stratus.

"It's unbelievable because we have never been (the No. 1 qualifier) before and we were talking about the Hunter's Hope foundation and how we felt like we had angels with us this weekend," Baca said. "Anytime we can help raise awareness for children, we are going to do whatever we can. A lot of us are parents and if you can help children, you will."

Scelzi has the provisional No. 1 qualifying position in Funny Car after he ran a 4.765 at 316.01 in his Oakley Dodge Stratus. His first pass of the day ended in smoke. With uncertain weather ahead, Scelzi said the team felt the pressure to get qualified on the second pass.

"If we smoked the tires again during the second pass, I was going to pedal it until we could get it qualified," Scelzi said. "You have to get in the show. There is just something about Indy. There is a mystic about this place when we roll into the gates."

If Scelzi can hold onto the top spot, it will be his third Funny Car No. 1 qualifier and 36th of his career. Scelzi is coming off his first career Funny Car victory in Sonoma, Calif. (Aug. 3). Scelzi, a three-time Top Fuel champion, has 25 career victories.

Greg Anderson drove his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am to a track record run of 6.799 at 202.18..

"Since the first round loss in Denver last month we have started to get in a pattern of what this car likes and doesn't like," Scelzi said. "Everything is just starting to come along. It's a beautiful thing."

Anderson drove his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am to a track record run of 6.799 at 202.18. Anderson, the Pro Stock points leader, has been the No. 1 qualifier nine times this season.

"It feels good to be on top of the Pro Stock list in Indy," Anderson said. "This is the most prestigious race of the year for us. It's would be nice to have (teammate Jason Line) in the field and I think I could have gone quicker during the run too.

"We'll have to stay at the top of our game if we want to keep the pole. Kurt Johnson is just a whisper behind us."

Savoie went to the top of the Pro Stock Bike class when she rode her U.S. Army Suzuki to a 7.172 pass at 189.12.

Results Saturday after qualifying for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park, 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Sunday for Monday's final eliminations.

Top Fuel -- 1. David Baca, 4.504 seconds, 326.32 mph; 2. Larry Dixon, 4.537, 319.29; 3. Doug Kalitta, 4.555, 327.03; 4. Tony Schumacher, 4.566, 324.75; 5. Paul Romine, 4.578, 313.95; 6. Cory McClenathan, 4.591, 293.47; 7. Scott Kalitta, 4.598, 320.36; 8. Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 4.635, 305.08; 9. Clay Millican, 4.667, 313.37; 10. Scott Weis, 4.682, 310.05; 11. Kenny Bernstein, 4.696, 310.77; 12. Bruce Litton, 4.707, 312.35; 13. John Smith, 4.714, 310.34; 14. Darrell Russell, 4.723, 304.25; 15. Doug Herbert, 4.733, 299.53; 16. Jim Head, 4.741, 294.50.

Funny Car -- 1. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 4.765, 316.01; 2. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.767, 323.74; 3. John Force, Ford Mustang, 4.780, 317.94; 4. Johnny Gray, Pontiac Firebird, 4.821, 321.27; 5. Ron Capps, Chevy Camaro, 4.821, 318.32; 6. Tommy Johnson Jr., Camaro, 4.828, 304.94; 7. Dean Skuza, Firebird, 4.834, 314.97; 8. Phil Burkart, Firebird, 4.838, 318.47; 9. Bob Bode, Firebird, 4.853, 302.28; 10. Tim Wilkerson, Firebird, 4.864, 317.64; 11. Gary Densham, Mustang, 4.878, 315.71; 12. Tony Pedregon, Mustang, 4.879, 313.22; 13. Scotty Cannon, Firebird, 4.880, 313.07; 14. Dale Creasy Jr., Firebird, 4.947, 307.09; 15. Bob Gilbertson, Firebird, 5.023, 309.56; 16. Terry Haddock, Camaro, 5.043, 297.09.

Pro Stock -- 1. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.799, 202.61; 2. Kurt Johnson, Chevy Cavalier, 6.800, 202.30; 3. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.825, 202.18; 4. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.827, 201.04; 5. Steve Schmidt, Cavalier, 6.830, 201.37; 6. Troy Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.833, 201.79; 7. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.833, 200.38; 8. George Marnell, Grand Am, 6.834, 200.83; 9. Bruce Allen, Grand Am, 6.835, 201.43; 10. Jason Line, Cavalier, 6.836, 202.09; 11. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.836, 201.28; 12. Terry Adams, Cavalier, 6.836, 200.56; 13. Taylor Lastor, Cavalier, 6.851, 200.83; 14. Tom Martino, Grand Am, 6.852, 200.44; 15. Larry Morgan, Dodge Stratus, 6.852, 200.95; 16. Bo Nickens, Dodge Neon R/T, 6.856, 200.50.

Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.172, 189.12; 2. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.198, 185.38; 3. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.205, 185.33; 4. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.210, 183.44; 5. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.212, 187.55; 6. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.224, 183.69; 7. Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.229, 182.58; 8. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.261, 184.07; 9. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.261, 182.43; 10. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.282, 184.32; 11. Tommy Grimes Jr, Suzuki, 7.295, 182.35; 12. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.306, 189.15; 13. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.318, 180.14; 14. Chris Reuter, Suzuki, 7.325, 181.96; 15. Matthew Smith, Suzuki, 7.329, 180.33; 16. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.332, 181.52.

SATURDAY - Action underway with Fire, Impressive Returns and a Tribute to "Da Grump"

Chris Vandergriff debuted the Efans.com Top Fueler with plenty of fire. (Cory Janssen Photo)

Trial by Fire – Chris Vandergriff got off to a hot start in his Top Fuel Indy debut – literally. About 200 feet into the initial qualifying run, the engine burst into flames and entered the cockpit before he could safely bring the car to a stop. Vandergriff emerged unscathed except for some singed eyebrows and minor burns. The cause of the fire was traced to a pushed out head gasket.

Like riding a bike – One week after making his return to Top Fuel in Norwalk, Ohio, Scott Kalitta debuted his Jesse James West Coast choppers dragster during the first session with a run that caught the attention of the masses at IRP. The second-generation Kalitta made a solo run to open the session. Kalitta’s 4.598, 320.36 gave many the impression that he’d not missed a beat since he last race in 2000. He added, “We practiced some last week, but it’s just like riding a bike – you never forget. I just wanted to go from A to B. To an extent, it’s like I never left. It’s going to be fun.”

Jack Wyatt lit his flopper up during the evening session.

It’s gotta be the wheels man – When a member of Scott Kalitta’s crew and Weld Racing’s Carl Robinson exchanged ideas for a set of cool looking wheels to go on the Jesse James dragster, the end result was possibly the most unique front wheels adorned by a Top Fueler. Robinson had been friends with crewman John Oberhofer for many years. The idea was passed on to Robinson and he accepted the challenge. Robinson added, “It’s not as easy as it looks. What we did was take an original lathe form for the wheels that we have now and did special design work.” The wheels were put through special tests to ensure that they were structurally sound and also passed S.F.I. tests as well.

“It was a pretty big project that we undertook in a short amount of time. The way it looks speaks for themselves.”

Shirley versus Big, the last time at Indy? – In a double-tire smoker “Big Daddy” Don Garlits topped Shirley Muldowney in the first session of qualifying. Neither driver managed to get in the field at the conclusion of the first day.

Here's a close-up of the new front wheel on Scott Kalitta's Jesse James-sponsored fueler.

GM teams with Y.E.S. - Working in conjunction with the NHRA Youth & Education Services, the GM Automotive Service Educational (ASEP) and Body Service Educational (BSEP) Programs will begin an on-site, trackside national awareness campaign beginning with the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals on Aug. 28 - Sept. 1 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

"The National Hot Rod Association has always been about the hands-on, do-it-yourself, grassroots automotive technician," said Christine Mason, GM ASEP/BSEP Support Coordinator. "Working with NHRA Youth and Education Services, we feel that our NHRA trackside presence will allow us to reach individuals who may be looking to begin an automotive technical career, but they aren't sure or may not have the resources to get started. The GM ASEP/BSEP can provide that stepping stone, and our goal working with NHRA is to disseminate information about our programs to as many individuals as we can who may be interested in this wonderful opportunity."

The GM Automotive Service Educational Program, originally started in 1979, is a strategic alliance between GM, GM dealers and carefully selected colleges and universities throughout the United States and Canada. Because of the overwhelming success and response of the ASEP program, GM started the Body Service Educational Program (BSEP) in 1989. Both curriculums incorporate the most advanced automotive/body technical training with a strong applied academic foundation of math, electronics and analytical and technical skills.

Bruce Dickson got out of shape during the second qualifying session for Pro Stock Motorcycle.

Students enroll in a GM ASEP/BSEP-partnered college or university, and alternate classroom instruction while working in a GM dealership for approximately two years, leading to an associate's degree. Classroom instructors are trained by General Motors and are well versed with the latest trends in automotive technology. GM provides new vehicles, training components and training aids for students to work on and learn from in a closely supervised and structured environment. The results are better trained automotive technicians who can identify and analyze problems and apply solutions.

Baca and Hunter’s Hope - Baca's Henkelman and Baca Motorsports headed to Indy sporting a new look for this weekend's event. Baca joined forces with the Hunter's Hope Foundation for this race to raise awareness, call attention and raise research dollars so that the Foundation might continue their work to find a cure for Krabbe Disease.

"It's such an honor to be chosen to represent (former Buffalo Bills quarterback and NFL Hall of Fame inductee) Jim Kelly and his family and the foundation he and his wife Jill have established for their son Hunter, who has Krabbe Disease," reflected Baca. A disease such as Hunter's is just crushing to any and all of us, especially to those that have children. I hope through this association between Henkelman and Baca Motorsports and the Hunter's Hope Foundation that we can bring some awareness to this terrible disease.

"Donation boxes are set up in our pit area and the POWERade area. Please come on by. We're going to do a special Hunter's Hope t-shirt and sell it at the American Racing merchandise trailer, of which part of the proceeds will go to the Hunter's Hope Foundation as they continue to do research leading to a cure for Krabbe.

"We'll kick off the awareness campaign today at Kroger's on Rockville Road. Throughout the weekend we'll have autograph signings in the POWERade Experience and our pit area.”
Former NFL quarterback Jim Kelley will be on hand all weekend.

Dave Connolly's tribute to Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins has been a hit with the fans.

Grumpy’s Toy flies again – Bullet Motorsports Team Owner David Dzurilla decided to commemorate one of the most famous Pro Stock drivers ever at Indy and in doing so, had the team’s Cavalier, driven by David Connolly, painted in the Grumpy’s Toy paint scheme.

“I thought it would be a great way to honor Bill for all he has done for the sport and our team. Since Indy is the NHRA’s marquee event, we decided to race the car here so Bill’s many fans could enjoy it.”

So what did Jenkins think? He added, “I think it’s an all right deal. It should generate noise and good publicity. It’s good for them and good for me.”

The interesting thing about Connolly and the team’s tribute to their engine builder is that he was born three years after Jenkins retired and never got to see him race.

Schedule goes public - 2004 POWERade Drag Racing Series schedule, which features a return to all venues on the 2003 schedule.

Bob Gilbertson debuted his Goldmember "Jungle Jim" body style at Indy.

Highlighting the 2004 schedule is a move to a later opening date. The K&N Filters Winternationals will kick off the season Feb. 19-22 at Pomona Raceway.

Another change is the date of the K&N Filters NHRA SuperNationals in Englishtown, which will move from mid-May to June 17-20.

The Western swing, which features events in Denver, Seattle, and Sonoma, highlights four individual sets of three consecutive weekends of racing.

"The biggest change in the 2004 NHRA POWERade Series schedule is the move of the opening race weekend to the middle of February," said Tom Compton, NHRA president. "By doing this, it will allow the teams more time during the off-season to prepare for the NHRA POWERade championship chase."

Additional three race swings will take place in May, June, and September. In May, the three-race swing is made up of the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals May 13-16 in Atlanta; the Lucas Oil NHRA Route 66 Nationals in Chicago; and the O'Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals on Memorial Day weekend in Topeka.

The June trio features the Pontiac Excitement NHRA Nationals June 10-13 in Columbus; the K&N Filters NHRA SuperNationals; and the Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals in Madison.

The September swing begins with the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals Sept. 16-19 in Reading, which will be followed by the O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals in Memphis and the CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals in Chicago.

The Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, the most prestigious championship drag racing event in the world, will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2004. The race will be held at Indianapolis Raceway Park Sept. 1-6.

All NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events will feature competition in Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock. Pro Stock Bike will again be featured at 15 events, in Gainesville, Houston, Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Englishtown, Madison, Denver, Sonoma, Brainerd, Indianapolis, Reading, Memphis, Las Vegas, and Pomona.

Showers wins K&N Pro Bike Klash

(8-30-2003) - Reggie Showers - a double amputee - raced to victory Saturday, winning the K&N Filters Pro Bike Klash at Indianapolis Raceway Park while qualifying started for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals.

Showers earned a $15,000 check for winning the event that featured the top eight riders in qualifying throughout the last calendar year.

Showers beat current Pro Stock Bike points leader Geno Scali in the final when Scali fouled at the start. Showers, injured in a childhood accident, was amputated below both knees and wears prosthetic legs.

"I saw right away that Geno left early," Showers said. "I was immediately ecstatic, but I had to finish the race. This is a testament to what the disabled community can do. This has been an amazing day."

Showers beat defending Klash winner Craig Treble in the first round and Klash No. 1 qualifier Shawn Gann in the second before facing Scali.

Saturday's final results from the 12th annual K&N Filters Pro Bike Klash, a special bonus event for qualified Pro Stock Bike competitors at the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

ROUND ONE -- Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.205, 185.33 def. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.282, 184.32; Reggie Showers, Suzuki, 7.229, 180.12 def. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.210, 183.44; Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.172, 189.12 def. Andrew Hines, Harley, 7.306, 189.15; Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.198, 185.38 def. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.261, 182.43.

SEMIFINALS -- Showers, 7.263, 182.67 def. Gann, 7.284, 182.26; Scali, 7.213, 189.18 def. Savoie, broke.

FINAL -- Showers, 7.282, 182.58 def. Scali, foul.

Super Stock Class Winners from Indy

(8-30-2003) – Thanks to Larry Sullivan and Rick Green at the Fast News Network for providing us with the list of Super Stock class winners.

SS/A Al Smyth III, Uxbridge MA, '68 Barracuda
SS/B Tony DePillo, Dayton OH, '64 Savoy
SS/C Jimmy Bridges, Nashville TN, '66 Corvette
SS/D Ken Vaughn, Columbia TN, '68 Camaro
SS/E Charles Ledbetter, Murfreesboro TN, '68 Camaro
SS/F Paul Anderson, Lewiston MN, '67 Camaro
SS/G Red LeBlanc, Bartlett TN, '69 Mustang
SS/I Jack Huff, Nashville TN, '66 Corvette
SS/K Robin Brown, Madisonville KY, '66 Nova
SS/L Don Sofranko, Davenport IA, '66 Nova
SS/M Mike Cates, Milan TN, '64 Comet
SS/O Richard Feldman, E. Liverpool OH, '66 Impala
SS/AA Jerry Jenkins, Modesto CA, '68 Barracuda
SS/BA Mark Howes, Rothesay NB, '64 Belvedere
SS/CA Rusty Perkins, Bowling Green KY, '71 Corvette
SS/DA Stan Perry, Nashville TN, '69 Camaro
SS/EA Kenny Schindler, Hendersonville TN, '68 Corvette
SS/FA Blair Patrick, Jasper TN, '68 Mustang
SS/GA Todd Frantz, Louisville KY, '67 Chevy II
SS/HA Bret Voges, Arlington OH, '67 Nova
SS/IA Jeff Dona, Gordonville MO, '69 Camaro
SS/JA Don O'Malley, Decatur IL, '64 Corvette
SS/KA Ken Shawver, Defiance OH, '78 Firebird
SS/LA Alex Denysenko, Lyons IL, '65 Mustang
SS/MA Greg Gay, Westminster VT, '80 Mirada
SS/NA Larry Wilson, Mt Washington KY, '66 Bel Air
SS/PA Rene Garza, Fort Wayne IN, '55 Chevy
SS/AX Tim Cole, Collierville TN, '96 Corvette
SS/AS Wes Leopold Jr, Bridgeville PA, '93 Daytona
SS/BS Mike Crutchfield, Montgomery AL, '90 Camaro
SS/DS Ronnie Dutton, Southside AL, '80 Monza
SS/AM Chuck Gallagher, Holly MI, '94 Sunbird
SS/BM Bo Butner III, Floyds Knobs IN, '02 Grand Am
SS/CM Bill Sharpe, Louisville KY, '92 Camaro
SS/DM Teresa Butner, Floyds Knobs IN, '96 Achieva
SS/EM Rod Dorsey, N. Judson IN, '95 Achieva
SS/FM Ed Matsko, Mt. Pleasant PA, '69 Camaro
GT/A Shaun LeBlanc, Bartlett TN, '88 Mustang
GT/B Larry Eagle, Bethesda OH, '91 Calais
GT/C Ronnie Courtney, Johnston SC, '02 Cavalier
GT/E Charlie Westcott, Parma MI, '98 Grand Am
GT/G Joe Mendillo, Hamden CT, '90 Camaro
GT/H Gary Tompa, Saginaw MI, '84 Firebird
GT/I Brad Zaskowski, Grand Rapids MI, '87 Camaro
GT/L Gary Russell, E. Sparta OH, '98 Camaro
GT/AA Gary Stinnett, Emporia KS, '92 Camaro
GT/BA Frank Grossi, Upland CA, '03 Grand Am
GT/CA Mark Alvey, Chesterfield VA, '88 Camaro
GT/DA Fred Bartoli, Elk Grove IL, '00 Firebird
GT/EA Joey Wilkes, Zanesville OH, '92 Camaro
GT/FA Peter Biondo, Mt Laurel NJ, '00 Firebird
GT/GA John Schiess, Tarzana CA, '98 Grand Am
GT/HA Jimmy DeFrank, Tarzana CA, '87 Camaro
GT/IA Dave Layer, Dayton OH, '87 Camaro
GT/JA Michael Volkman, Moon PA, '00 Sebring
GT/KA Bobby Dennis, Shorter AL, '97 Firehawk
GT/LA Dennis Nelson, Hugo MN, '80 Malibu
GT/MA Kevin Helms, Mineola TX, '97 Firehawk
SS/TA Gene Emes, Uxbridge ON, '02 S-10
SS/TB Billy Leber, Tonawanda NY, '03 S-10
GT/TA Charles Bohannon, Valley Stn KY, '01 S-10
GT/TB Brad Allen, Winamac IN, '03 S-10
GT/TC Robert Cruzen, Cleveland OK, '03 S-10
GT/TD Joe Scott, Sunbury PA, '03 S-10

FRIDAY - RAIN DELAYS START OF PRO QUALIFYING AT MAC TOOLS U.S. NATIONALS

As news breaks, we'll pass it on to you.

(8-29-2003) - Persistent rain showers at Indianapolis Raceway Park forced NHRA officials to cancel Friday's opening qualifying session for the 49th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, the world's most prestigious drag race. The $2.5 million race is the 17th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

Saturday's pro qualifying sessions are set for 12:45 and 6:30 p.m. The K&N Filters Pro Bike Klash, a lucrative bonus event for Pro Stock Bike competitors, will begin at 12:30 p.m., with rounds to follow at 2:15 and 4:30 p.m.

Friday - Rain, rain go away, Our home away from home and Promoting a good cause

Our home away from is the Residence Inn - North in Indy. The staff makes it a pleasurable experience. Pictured are Dee Dee Watson, LaQuetta Frye, Brenda Ducknowski and Reggie Cheney.

(8-29-2003) - It finally happened - When three-time NHRA national champion and drag racing legend Shirley Muldowney announced that 2003 would be her final season driving a Top Fuel dragster, her husband and crew chief Rahn Tobler knew that he was not quite ready to stop doing what he has done for almost three decades – tuning an 8,000 horsepower, 330-mph Top Fuel nitro rocket. Fortunately for him and Kalitta Motorsports, he will get an opportunity to go after his fourth national championship without missing a beat.

When the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series tour begins in Pomona next February, Tobler will assume the responsibilities as co-crew chief for the Mac Tools Top Fuel dragster driven by Doug Kalitta. The current co-crew chief on the Mac Tools dragster, Jim Oberhofer, will take over the reigns as co-crew chief on the newly formed Mac Tools/Jesse James Top Fuel dragster team with driver Scott Kalitta. Both Kalitta Motorsports racecars will be overseen by crew chief and team owner Connie Kalitta.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Mac Tools dragster team next year,” said Tobler. “It is a great opportunity for me to join a championship caliber team and continue to do what I love doing. Connie approached me after the race in Gainesville this season and asked if I would be interested in the job if he were to add another car to his team. When the second car became a reality, I was offered the job and gladly accepted. This is a great team, and Doug is a great driver. I am looking forward to the challenges and the possibilities of winning championships with the Mac Tools dragster team.”

Tobler will continue as crew chief for Muldowney at her final NHRA races (Chicago, Las Vegas, Pomona) in 2003 including the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals currently underway in Indianapolis.

The rains came - In the middle of Super Stock class eliminations, about 10 AM, the rains began to fall and postponed action. As of 1 PM, the action was still on hold. The weatherman had given a 60% chance of rain for the day. The radar doesn't look promising for the rest of the day. Several hours later the rains subsided and some racing was able to get in, but by 5 PM the rain returned.

Home away from Home – Anyone who has ever completed the entire Indy experience of all day presence at the racetrack and sleep at night in the motel with diners sandwiched in the middle can attest that the trip can be grueling. However, we’ve found a group who can make the time spent away from home feel like you never left. Every year we look forward to attending the event because we stay at the Residence Inn on Founders Road.

Now why are we trying to let everyone in on our secret? It’s simple. General Manager Amy Wetzell-Chan and her talented staff including Dee Dee Watson go above and beyond to make sure guests are taking care of. We just feel that the drag racing community deserves that kind of treatment.For instance, seven days a week they offer a FREE breakfast buffet to help you start your day off right and it includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, juice and whatever you could think of. On Monday through Thursday there’s a social which offers a free evening meal offering such foods as Chicken Fettucinni Alfredo, homemade Ravioli and even burgers and hot dogs during the cookout on the patio. Okay, so there’s nothing available on Friday through Sunday at the Residence Inn, but take heed there’s an Outback restaurant right around the corner.

The Residence Inn North is located 10 miles North of the airport and 7 miles from Indianapolis Raceway Park. If you’re contemplating the PRI show in December, the property is located 12 miles from the Dome.

This is our early pick for Best Appearing Award. .

We’ve provided the link for their website at Residence Inn.com. If you want to take our word for it, call and ask for Dee Dee or Amy and ask for the special CompetitionPlus.com rate.

Racing for a Good Cause – Bob Gilbertson is carrying a decal on the front of his car that bears the logo for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The disease has hit close to home for the Gilbertson team as crewchief Nicky Boninfante’s 11-year old son was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes and since March of 2002 has had to give himself over 1750 injections, which is a tough thing for a child to have to endure. From what we hear, a walk for awareness is being planned in October. For more information, visit their website at www.jdrf.com.

Thursday - Marty Thacker and Jay Payne pace first day alcohol qualifying; Tremble, Dennis and Hodge round out sportsman low qualifiers

As news breaks, we'll pass it on to you.

(8-28-2003) - Marty Thacker was the quickest alcohol-powered race car on the grounds at the NHRA Mac Tools with his blown alcohol dragster. Jay Payne led the Funny Cars. Mike Trumble Jr., Bobby Dennis and Larry Hodge were also the tops of their respective fields after the first day.

Thacker, of Robinson, Ill., pushed his digger to the pole position with a 5.467, 262.69. Duane Shield’s was the second quickest with a 5.498, 260.46. Bill McCornack was a distant third with a 5.596, 250.55.

Dave Hirata anchored the bubble with an off-pace 6.206, 227.77.

Payne, of Claremont, Ca., was on his game by driving his Chevrolet Camaro flopper to the provisional Top Alcohol Funny Car lead with a 5.690, 256.26.

Defending World Champion Frank Manzo was second with a 5.707, 254.33.

Recent IHRA Norwalk winner Jim Sickles was third with a 5.730, 251.63.

Mick Snyder rounded out the field with a 6.565, 155.70.

The 64-entry Competition eliminator field was paced by Trumble, who was -.581 under the A/SMA index with an 8.139 in his Pontiac Sunfire. Dean Carter gave the nostalgia fans something to cheer about as he was second in his front-engine dragster with a -.569 against the A/ND standard. Santo Volpe was third in his A/SR by going -.568 under with an 8.072.

Mike Smith was 64th in his G/AA 2002 Neon with a -.066, 9.144.

A whopping 184 entries made qualifying runs in Super Stock. The GT/KA Firehawk of Bobby Dennis was the top runner with a -1.153, 10.597. He barely beat out the GT/IA Camaro of Dave Layer, who turned in a 10.359. Kerri Voges was third with a -1.120, 11.330 in SS/NA.

Fred Bartoli was 128th with an unbelievable -.825, 9.975.

Stock eliminator was impressive as well with 156 entries. Larry Hodge paced the show with his K/FIA ’85 El Camino and a -1.362, 13.788. Dennis Davison was 128th with an -.848, 10.852 blast.

Latest NHRA points standings

(8-17-2003) - Point standings (top 10) for NHRA professional categories following the 22nd annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, the 16th of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series -

Top Fuel

1. Larry Dixon, 1,540; 2. Doug Kalitta, 1,269; 3. Darrell Russell, 934; 4. Tony Schumacher, 868; 5. Cory McClenathan, 809; 6. David Baca, 765; 7. John Smith, 738; 8. Doug Herbert, 735; 9. Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 630; 10. Brandon Bernstein, 629.

Funny Car

1. Tony Pedregon, 1,283; 2. Whit Bazemore, 1,222; 3. John Force, 1,048; 4. Del Worsham, 976; 5. Gary Densham, 949; 6. Ron Capps, 840; 7. Tommy Johnson Jr., 812; 8. Gary Scelzi, 776; 9. Cruz Pedregon, 737; 10. Frank Pedregon, 735.

Pro Stock

1. Greg Anderson, 1,454; 2. Kurt Johnson, 1,296; 3. Jeg Coughlin, 1,057; 4. Warren Johnson, 1,012; 5. Allen Johnson, 738; 6. Ron Krisher, 723; 7. Mike Edwards, 682; 8. Scott Geoffrion, 670; 9. Bruce Allen, 589; 10. Greg Stanfield, 550.

Pro Stock Bike

1. Geno Scali, 818; 2. Shawn Gann, 644; 3. Angelle Savoie, 632; 4. Antron Brown, 611; 5. Reggie Showers, 560; 6. Craig Treble, 537; 7. Mike Berry, 507; 8. Andrew Hines, 488; 9. Fred Collis, 486; 10. Karen Stoffer, 467.