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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 wish will be granted. Rookie Gets His Shot After Eight Years as JFR Crewman(1-15-2003) – Twelve-time NHRA Funny Car Champion John Force confirmed Thursday that rookie Eric Medlen will be at the wheel of the POWERade Championship-winning Castrol SYNTEC Ford Mustang when the 2004 season begins next month (Feb. 19-22) at the K&N Filters Winternationals at Pomona Raceway. "We talked to a lot of very talented drivers," Force said of his search for a replacement for the departed Tony Pedregon, "but, bottom line, we had an opportunity to give a young driver a chance and, after talking to all my Crew Chiefs, that's what we decided to do. "Eric has been here for the last eight years," Force continued. "He knows our routine. He knows what we expect. He tested in my car (the Castrol GTX High Mileage Ford Mustang) after Vegas (last October) and that really is what told us that he had the potential to do the job." Medlen, 30, is the son of John Medlen who, as Crew Chief on the SYNTEC Ford, directed Pedregon to eight victories in a spectacular 2003 season and to 27 wins in his eight years at John Force Racing. "We are extremely pleased to have Eric Medlen coming on board to represent Castrol and the SYNTEC brand," said John Cronin, sponsorship manager for Castrol. "It's exciting for Castrol to play a role in the development of such a talented young driver, one we believe will immediately compete for the NHRA POWERade Championship." A native of Oakdale, a northern California community in the heart of "cowboy country," the younger Medlen was preparing for a pro rodeo career as team roping partner to 1975 World Champion Jerold Camarillo when he was contacted by his father about a crew position at JFR. "I always wanted to work with my dad," said the former high school rodeo champion, "but I didn't want to let Jerold down, either, because it got to be where he was kinda like my dad, too. "So I talked to (Jerold) and asked him what he thought I should do. He said, 'well, you know (that) 80 per cent of World Champions in roping are 30 and older, so you can always come back and do this. If I was you, I think I'd go (to JFR). If it doesn't work out, you can come back and this will always be here. But if you pass it up, (the opportunity) might not ever come around again.'" As a result, Medlen opted to join his father, working during the 1996 season as a crewman on the Pedregon-driven Funny Car that ultimately finished second in points behind the companion car driven by Force. The next year, he moved over one pit space to work with Austin Coil and Bernie Fedderly on Force's Castrol GTX entry. After serving as Force's supercharger specialist for five years, Medlen was the "clutch guy" on the national record-holding Ford each of the last two seasons. Now, little more than eight years after contemplating a career astride one horse, he tries to ride herd on almost 7,000 as the new driver of a hybrid Ford Mustang that has covered the standard quarter mile in as few as 4.721 seconds. Although he is licensed in the Top Alcohol Dragster class and has made test laps in both the SYNTEC Ford and in Force's Mustang, most of Medlen's actual driving experience has come at the wheel of modified go-karts, including 120 mile-per-hour shifter carts of the type used by Indy Car drivers to keep themselves sharp during the winter off-season. At one time, Medlen owned three such shifter-karts, but he sold all of them along with a self-built "chopper" motorcycle to buy seat time in a Top Alcohol Funny Car at Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School in Gainesville, Fla. His "cowboy" biography notwithstanding, Medlen always has been mechanically inclined. "Growing up, my dad had a machine shop and we always raced something," Medlen said. "Stock cars, hydroplane boats, alcohol cars. When I was in fifth grade Dad got us a go kart that he converted to alcohol. "I was so little they had to have two pillows behind the seat and the pedals kind of arced up so that I could barely reach the arc, but I could get it to go full throttle, although just barely. So we'd go out and mess with those karts and the boats. >From kindergarten on up I was gone from school all of the time. We were always racing something so, when my dad and mom split up (in 1987), for awhile I was kinda lost. "I wanted to go (to Arkansas) with him, but then I felt bad about leaving my mom and all my friends were in Oakdale. That's when I started taking up roping." Although his driving resume may be lacking, Medlen is an accomplished machinist who spent two-and-a-half years studying mechanical engineering at Terra Technical University in Fremont, Ohio, and two years working for Callies Crankshafts, Inc. "In John Force and Eric Medlen, we believe we have the most formidable 1-2 punch in motorsports," Cronin said. "John's experience coupled with Eric's youth and enthusiasm put Team Castrol in a position to outperform the competition in pursuing a 12th straight NHRA Championship. It should be a great ride." Castrol is the global leader in marketing premium automotive product brands such as Castrol GTX, Castrol GTX High Mileage, Castrol SYNTEC, Castrol SYNTEC Blend and Castrol Super Clean. Castrol North America markets its lubricants and services to lube operators, automotive service providers and select retailers in North America. Castrol, the automotive marketing and technology leader with more than 100 years' experience, offers world-class retailer and installer support under one united global brand. Call 1-888-CASTROL or visit www.castrolusa.com. (courtesy of John Force Racing.com) Virginia Motorsports Park begins track preparation for fourth annual CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open
(1-15-2003) – Virginia Motorsports Park has taken the first steps toward preparing for the official IHRA preseason test session during the weekend of March 11-14 in Dinwiddie, Va., located outside of Richmond. The award-winning drag racing facility, which hosts the IHRA ACDelco Nationals in late-May, is undergoing improvements to its existing record-setting surface. Freeburn Track Grinding was retained to grind the entire quarter-mile and work began this week. “It’s all about staying ahead of the game,” explained Pierce. “We take pride in our racing facility and it’s our objective to always keep Virginia Motorsports Park better than it has to be. This week’s work is laying the groundwork for a velvety smooth track surface. With that said, we expect even quicker times and faster speeds. “In a little over sixty days, we will open our gates for the official IHRA preseason test event – the CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open, and we are going to make sure that the top professional and sportsman drivers have the necessary testing they need headed into the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals in San Antonio.
“Of course, it won’t hurt them whe they run the ACDelco Nationals here a couple of months later. Each week that we run on this surface makes it even better.” IHRA’s master track prepsman Jim Weinert is quick to point out that VMP is taking steps to make a good track even better. He is expected to be on hand at the CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open where 6.0s in Pro Modified and 6.4’s in Sunoco Pro Stock are expected to be common. “The work they are doing will help in getting rid of some of the grooves on the top end,” explained Weinert, who track-prep prowess is largely regarded in the sport. “This will help in getting a better glue application on the top end. There’s a very good chance that we’ll see some records.”
In 2002, the CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open yielded tremendous elapsed times in the Pro Modified and Sunoco Pro Stock ranks. Pro Modified racer Al Billes recorded a 6.112 and former IHRA Pro Stock World Champion Gene Wilson blasted out a 6.51 in Charlie Hunt’s Cougar. Pre-enter for the 4th annual CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open. Professional teams are given free testing in exchange for participating in a special “Chicago Style” Shootout on Saturday. The Spring Open will provide professional drivers the opportunity
to test provided that they participate in a special "Chicago
Style" eliminations program on Sunday. Pre-entry is encouraged
for the professionals as it not only assists the VMP crew with determining
parking space as well as publicity for the event. If you have a
sponsor, this would be a great way to garner publicity for them.
Professional teams that pre-enter will be given free entry for three
crewmen. Checks or money orders must be made payable to Virginia Motorsports Park. They may be sent to the following address: Virginia Motorsports Park Deadline for pre-entry is March 4, 2004 A special e-mail address has been set up for those that wish to pre-enter online. Online pre-entries can be e-mailed to springopen2004@aol.com. The following information must be included with each pre-entry. The FastNews Network and DragRaceCentral.com will provide daily coverage of the event. Pontiac's Bruce Allen Prepares for 20th NHRA Season (1-15-2003) -- With the beginning of another
race campaign set to take off in just a few short weeks, Pontiac's
Bruce Allen has every reason to be excited, if not somewhat optimistic,
about the upcoming NHRA POWERade tour. The timing of a late surge
in '03 by Allen's Speedco Grand Am couldn't have come at a better
time, and helped lock in another top-10 points finish for the Pro
Stock veteran. As the new season gets underway, last year's rally
may also provide the pivotal launching pad the Reher-Morrison team
needs to be successful again in '04. "After the first race everything will shake out and all the hoopla and hype over the winter will wear off. Over the years I've learned to ignore all the preseason anticipation and just concentrate on what we have to do to be successful." Like everyone else in the Pro Stock category, the Reher-Morrison team has spent time adapting to the new 16-inch beadlock tires, rules put in place by the NHRA to enhance the safety of the sport. Although adjustments will be required on the Speedco Pontiac to sustain last season's performance level, Allen feels changes made in other years have had a more dramatic impact on pre-season preparation. "There was a bigger change last year with the LED lights than anything that's happened in the last 10 years," said Allen. "People look at a situation, find what they want to find and come up with their own conclusions. But when you look at the big picture, most of the time it's not that significant from a performance standpoint. "Over the years, we've changed from Pontiac Firebirds to Grand Ams, and from Chevy Camaros to Berettas, and if you think about it, those changes with the car were huge, significantly more dramatic than the adjustments we have to make this year with the beadlock tire. The rules are what they are, they're the same for everybody and we'll make it work. The key will be getting comfortable with the new tire, getting used to how it feels and figuring out what gear ratios to run with it." Time flies when you're racing, and with just a blink of an eye Bruce Allen finds himself in his 20th season as an NHRA Pro Stock competitor. Among active, full-time drivers, only Warren Johnson has raced longer, and Allen's ability to compete at such a high, competitive level for so long is a testament to the Reher-Morrison organization. "Part of it has been getting the necessary funding to be able to race this long," said Allen. "But it also takes a considerable amount of drive to want to stay competitive. I've been fortunate that we've had great sponsors like Pontiac, that I've been healthy enough to keep racing, and I'm also thankful that we've been good enough to want to continue. On the other hand, Dave's (Reher) been doing this longer than me. They started racing Pro Stock in 1976, so he's got another nine years on me. Racing for that long says something about the entire Reher-Morrison program and what the organization has been able to accomplish over the years. In any form of motorsports, whether it's NASCAR, IRL or NHRA, it's very rare, to find a team or an individual that's been able to compete at that high of a level for so long, and Dave's been able to do just that. "You look at what Dave's been through in both the loss of Lee (Shepherd) and Buddy (Morrison), and you couldn't blame him for walking away and going to do something else. That's a lot of stamina on his part, and being partners, we've been able to keep one another going when maybe the other guy wanted to step away. When you get to be our age though, we're at another place where we have to ask ourselves, 'what else would we do?' Sure, we build engines at the shop, and we could do just that, but would we be happy and would that be enough, just getting up and going to work? Probably not. During tough times you forget that, but you have to always keep in perspective that racing is fun. Not too many people get to compete like we do and you have to always keep that in mind." A lengthy bio on the back of Bruce Allen's collector card lists an impressive score of accomplishments accumulated over the years. Since 1985, the Arlington, Tex., resident has won 16 national events, raced in 38 final rounds, scored seven top-five, and 13 top-10 finishes. Allen's best points finish was in 1989 when he posted a second-place showing and captured four national event victories in seven final rounds. Heading into the season-opening Winternationals at Pomona he has 296 round wins for a career batting average of .527. Among active full-time drivers only Warren Johnson (772), Jim Yates (358) and Kurt Johnson (347) have won more. "The most important thing in Pro Stock is the consistency of your level of performance," explained Allen. "If you're good enough to win a couple of rounds a race for the entire season, that's usually good enough to win the championship. Last year was the exception and you would have had to have done better than that. If you can also do better than what you anticipate at a race, if you can win a couple of rounds when you didn't expect to, you feel much better doing that than getting beat in the first round when you may have the best car. The key is to be realistic and do the best that you can. When you've been racing as long as I have you understand the importance of finding a little good in what otherwise would be a bad situation. When things are going good, enjoy it because it won't last forever. And when you're running bad, stay positive because getting back on track can be just around the corner." Allen's charge to third place during the final half of the 2001 season is the performance template Reher-Morrison has set out to duplicate in recent years. Allen won a pair of national events that year and 20 rounds of eliminations after the season's midpoint - the most of any driver in the category. "By the end of June, people usually do one of two things," explained Allen. "They either decide they're not capable of improving and they back off, or the cars that are really good and in a position for a strong finish start to step it up. There may be more testing or more work to find more horsepower, but the key is not to burn yourself out early chasing things that aren't there. This year I think we can be as good as we were at the end of '01. Our goal is to start out strong, get through that tough spot in the middle and try to build toward that top-five finish. "From about Columbus on, that's where you'll need to make your move. That's where you'll have to go to work and press it that much harder. If you're in good shape after the Pontiac Excitement Nationals, you'll have to work a little harder to stay there." Although winless in '03, the Reher-Morrison team scored a pair of back-to-back low-qualifying efforts at Phoenix and Gainesville and battled its way to an eighth-place finish. It marked the fourth time in the last five race seasons that Allen had scored at least one No. 1 qualifying effort. Three consecutive races at the end of the year qualifying his Speedco Pontiac Grand Am fifth or higher, as well as a trip to the semifinals at the NHRA Finals has Allen enthusiastic about competing again in '04. "I'm getting more and more excited about it as we get closer," said Allen. "I'm ready to go. The schedule doesn't get too hectic until around May and June, and if you're running good, then you look forward to each new event. It's not only the challenge but the fact that you're meeting your goals. And even if things aren't going well, you need to stay positive because there's always an opportunity to get things turned around. "A top-five finish is the minimum that is acceptable to this
team and I think we're more than capable of doing that. Whether
or not we're good enough to win the championship, I'm not going
to sit here and say that. When you get a string of races together
where you're running strong, then you realize that all of a sudden
you are in the hunt. At the beginning of the season everybody sets
that as their goal. In our case I'm confident that we're a top-five
car, our program is that good and we have the funding to be that
successful. At the same time, I think it will be another one of
those years where it's a battle all the way to the very end." Hedman Hedders Wild Street Schedule for 2004 Full Wild Street rules can be found at http://www.nmraracing.com NMRA Hedman Hedders Wild Street Schedule April 30, May 1-2 June 4-5-6 June 18-19-20 July 23-24-25 August 13-14-15 September 30, October 1-2-3 PRO Edelbrock MSD Wild Street Schedule April 16-17-18 May 21-22-23 June 11-12-13 July 9-10-11 July 30-31 August 27-28-29 September 17-18-19 October 8-9-10 For more information, visit the NMRA website at www.nmraracing.com or contact us at: NMRA/ProMedia Events
NMRA to Increase Contingency Amounts in 2004 season in Drag Radial, Open Comp, and Truck & Lightning For the most current contingency listing visit us on the web at http://www.nmraracing.com
Scotty Cannon issues challenge to IHRA World Champion Mitch Stott(1-13-2004) – Scotty Cannon has never been a man to mince words. The Oakley-sponsored driver from Lyman, SC., has always had the reputation of speaking his mind. This time the six-time Pro Modified World Champion has every intention of reclaiming the glory he once owned in Pro Modified and he has no problem doing it at the expense of 2003 IHRA Hooters Pro Modified Champion Mitch Stott. Just winning isn’t enough for the winningest driver in Pro Modified. Cannon intends to take aim at a title that Stott holds dear to his heart – the World’s Quickest Doorslammer. He will not stop until he gets what he wants. Cannon admits that he may have taken his drag racing program in a different direction in the last six years as a Funny Car pilot, but he never left his roots of Pro Modified. With Stott being the biggest man in the proverbial Pro Modified bar with the outlaw doorslammer record and his status as a world champion, Cannon feels that it’s the best place for him to start. “People must think that I went into a cave and forgot how to run Pro Modified,” explained Cannon, who has already filled every weekend from February until June with match races or national events. “Mitch seems to be the biggest one out there and well in a barfight, you pick the biggest one and knock them out first. All I can say is that he better come to Darlington in a few weeks with his ‘A’ game cause ‘Daddy’ is certainly back.” With the mention of Darlington, Cannon is one of four supercharged cars setting their sights on Darlington Dragway during the weekend of February 19 – 22 for the Darlington Winternationals presented by Sunoco Race Fuels. Of course the goal first is to give the thousands of fans their money’s worth, but the underlying objective is to make his 1953 Studebaker reel off a five-second run. Taped to the dash of his classic hot rod is a piece of tape bearing Stott’s infamous numbers from last year’s event – 5.985. “I really like the people at Darlington and like to hang out with them,” explained Cannon. “I couldn’t think of a better place I’d like to confront Mitch than at Darlington. I’m coming to his five-second turf and it’s put up or shut up time. It’s about time we stood the Pro Modified class on its head again. It’s been too quiet.” Cannon remains the winningest driver in Pro Modified despite a six-year layoff. In his first test session with the same car that he drove to the 1998 crown, Cannon made four runs at Bradenton Motorsports Park and two of them were quicker than the 6.14 best posted after the latest rules revision limiting supercharger overdrive to 25%. He made several runs the week before with Mike Ashley’s InfiNet-sponsored Willys with positive results. Ashley and Cannon had formed an alliance for the 2004 season. Also joining Cannon and Stott at the annual Darlington Winternationals presented by Sunoco Race Fuels will be Tommy Mauney behind the wheel of the Mike Prockish Corvette and Ed Hoover piloting Paul Trussell’s classic Chevrolet hot rod. Track promoter Larry Hensley expects a large number of professional cars to test over the course of the weekend as well. A special 10.5-inch tire shootout has been planned as well as a 6.00 and 7.00 bracket race. For more information, visit Darlington Dragway’s website
at www.darlingtondragway.com.
Prestige Hobbies features driving signing prior to NHRA Winternationals
(1-13-2003) - There will be a driver signing at Prestige Hobbies located in Anaheim on February 18th the Wednesday right before the Winternationals. The signing is from 7pm to 9pm. Confirmed to attend will be Tom "The Mongoose" McEwen, TV Tommy Ivo, Bob Gilbertson, Clay Millican, Jim Dunn and Tony Bartone, Dale Pulde and Valerie Harrell (Dick Harrell's Daughter) and Tom West will be there from Milestone Development. On sale will be the Gilbertson 1/16 Jungle Jim Cars with all 3 colors for sale as well as the Werner Dragster and Goose's 57 Chevy. Prestige Hobbies is the parent company of Prestige diecast. For more information, visit www.prestigediecast.com.
Auto Club and Force ink multi-year deal; Densham to return as driverCourtesy of Dave Densmore and NHRA.com
The popular and likable Densham will be re-united with crew chief Jimmy Prock and the experienced duo will race together for one more year, after which time Densham hopes to once again field his own race team. "I'm glad to have Gary back," Force said. "We're looking forward to another great year for the Auto Club team and all three of my cars." Densham, who was scheduled to leave John Force Racing at the end of the 2003 season, returns in large part to provide continuity in the wake of Tony Pedregon's unexpected departure from the team after eight seasons at the wheel of the Castrol Syntec Ford. Although he'll drive the entire 23-race POWERade Drag Racing Series for John Force Racing and the Automobile Club of Southern California, Densham acknowledged that throughout the year he actively will be seeking the sponsorship necessary to field his own car in 2005. "John and I have been friends for nearly 30 years," Densham said, "but he has long-term goals for his team and I have some of my own. I believe I have a few good years left as a driver, but then I would like to move on to become car owner and crew chief for my son Steven. I'd like to give him a chance to drive." The younger Densham, 21, is studying mechanical engineering at California Polytechnic University in Pomona, Calif. A former NHRA Jr. Dragster champion, he is licensed in Top Alcohol Funny Car but has not yet raced competitively. "Unfortunately, the cost of running a Funny Car has become so great that a young person has little or no chance of getting involved unless he is born into wealth or works his way up the ladder with an existing team," Densham said. "That's how Steven is going to have to do it and I hope to have that team in place by next season. "John and I share two main goals. One is winning another championship for Auto Club, Ford, and Castrol and the other is providing opportunities for second-generation racers like Steven, John's daughter Ashley, and others. "Besides, staying with John for one more year means I can continue to do my school program with Auto Club (which includes more than 60 appearances each season at high schools, primarily in Southern California) and show these kids that there are a lot of opportunities out there for them in the technical field." A longtime privateer, Densham has raced to six wins in his first three years with John Force Racing. A former auto shop teacher at Gahr High School in Cerritos, Calif., the 57-year-old Densham won two races each of the last three years in the Auto Club Mustang. Before joining John Force Racing in 2001, he had successfully campaigned his own Funny Cars for 29 years. Last year he posted the fastest speed ever attained by a Ford racecar when he was clocked at 327.27 mph at the wheel of the blue-and-white Mustang prepared by Prock. "I was going to form my own team in 2004," Densham said, "but when Tony left, John asked me to consider staying for one more year to help bring home another championship for Castrol and the Auto Club. "Maybe I'll get another opportunity to set the national record we just missed last year (with quarter mile times of 4.723 and 4.728 seconds)," he said. "Maybe we'll even be able to get the speed record back (from Gary Scelzi). With Jimmy Prock tuning the car, anything's possible." The Auto Club Mustang again will be part of a three-car team that
will include Fords driven by Force, the 12-time NHRA Funny Car champion,
and a driver to be named. The new agreement calls for the Auto Club
logo to be more prominent on other Fords, thus reflecting the company's
long-term commitment to the team that has won 11 straight NHRA championships
and 142 tour events.
Eleanor primed for Pro Modified's First Lady Status; Promises to be the hottest Filly in doorslammer racing
(1-10-2003) - The men had better take notice because there's a new girl in town, or let's rephrase that and say there's a new girl in the City…as in Gotham City. No, it's not Catwoman or any of the other high-profile females associated with the Gotham theme. Her name is Eleanor and she's the newest creation of New York Mortgage Banker Mike Ashley and this prize-winning catch is currently undergoing the final stages of completion at Alan Pittman's AP Race Car shop located in Pelzer, SC. If the name "Eleanor" has a familiar ring to it, it's because Ashley's sleek Pro Modified entry is themed after the familiar '67 Shelby GT 500E that was elevated to legendary status through the major blockbuster film "Gone in 60 Seconds." The movie was originally produced twenty years ago and remade in 2000. Ashley has nicknamed his next-level musclecar legend, "Gone in 6.0 Seconds." The driving force behind Ashley's new entry is Unique Performance, the sponsor on the special edition musclecar, acquired the exclusive rights to reproduce the Shelby GT 500E version for car collectors worldwide. This special G.T. 500E is the culmination of a project spearheaded by Carroll Shelby, Shelby Licensing and Unique Performance. Businessmen Doug Hasty, Richard Kearby and Chris Lane created Unique Performance in an effort to both preserve and create history for customers nationwide that seek vehicles offering exclusive performance and creativity. Ashley will begin a rigorous testing schedule next week although he has yet to determine who will drive "Eleanor" or the team's popular Gotham City-themed 1941 Willys. Either way "Eleanor" will gain a national event winning driver in either Ashley or newly added teammate Danny Rowe.
"We plan to do lots of testing because we are committed to winning," explained Ashley. "I honestly believe that this will be the most difficult season ever because of the increase in quality teams participating in the NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge and the limitation of an eight-car field. "We are looking to gain an edge. We haven't found it yet. We will continue to flog the motor and blower combination looking for it. Our cars will have plenty of runs on them by the time the season starts." The extended pre-season testing schedule, which will conclude in mid-March at the CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open at Virginia Motorsports Park, gives Ashley the opportunity to refine a new supercharged Hemi engine program. Along with teammate Scotty Cannon and Rowe, Ashley's InfiNet/Unique Performance/Oakley alliance expects to log nearly 100 - 150 laps on the car before the season-opening NHRA MAC Tools Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla. Ashley and his Gotham City entourage can't help but brim with excitement at the addition of former NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals champion and U.S. Nationals finalist Danny Rowe of Laguna Beach, Ca. In addition to Rowe, the team has expanded to include a Pro Stock Bike with Lloyd Straus. The association with the six-time World Champion Cannon has also been well documented over the course of the last two months. The Lyman, SC-based driver scored a huge feather in his cap by posting the two-quickest elapsed times since the 25% supercharger overdrive implementation. The Gotham City team has taken delivery of a new transporter and plans to use the new equipment make a high quality presentation for not only the team, but also for the sponsors and the Pro Modified division as a whole. However, until the final testing event, the car will be run in primer. At the Virginia Motorsports Park outing, the new paint scheme from Illusions Paint & Body will be unveiled. Veteran tuner Chuck Ford will serve as crewchief for both Ashley and Rowe, while consulting with Cannon on the Oakley-sponsored '53 Studebaker. Additional support for the radical new Shelby GT500E comes from KHL Entertainment, KHL Enterprises, Carol Shelby Enterprises and Mike's Company Lend America. InfiNet Insurance will be the primary sponsor on the 1941 Willys. For more information, visit www.gothamcityracing.com. |
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CARPENTER CELEBRATES 30 YEARS IN ’55 CHEVY
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(1-11-2003) -- In 1974 a young, 15-year old Charles Carpenter first strapped into a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air and began his drag racing career. Since then, there have been 30 Super Bowls, six Presidents (two named George Bush), the end of the Cold War, two Gulf Wars, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the introduction (and quick demise) of New Coke. During all this time, one thing has remained constant -- Carpenter’s involvement in drag racing behind the wheel of his beloved ’55 Chevrolet.
Today, at 45, Carpenter is older but far from slower. In fact, he is now running the best times and fastest speeds of his three-decade-long career.
"When I first got started in racing we were running 11-seconds and around 100 mph for a quarter-mile pass and thought we were really flying," said Carpenter. "At Rockingham (N.C.) last October I laid down my best runs ever, clocking a 6.247 ET and more than 224 mph."
Over the years, Carpenter has owned five different drag cars, each of them a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. Today, his claim of owning "The World’s Fastest ‘55" is valid and the current model, adorned in purple and yellow, is among the most popular on the Pro Modified circuit. And while many of his competitors use the same body style, such as a Corvette or Camaro, Carpenter remains the sole ’55 Chevy in Pro Mod competition.
Because of his devotion to this car, Carpenter has been named by many as "Father of the Pro Mod."
"The ‘Father of the Pro Mod’ really was an accidental thing," explained Carpenter. "When I started racing the ’55 Chevys, they were still popular in class racing. We ran in many different types of class competition and the car was still an accepted body style (used by other competitors). Then in the mid to late ‘70s, more aerodynamic and smaller cars started appearing on the race tracks – the Vegas, the Monzas – cars like that. There were also Camaros, of course.
"Finally, it got to a point that my car was almost not competitive and then IHRA allowed us nitrous oxide. That was in the early ‘80s and when we started using the nitrous it suddenly caught me up with these smaller, more aerodynamic cars. Then the media picked up on it and they loved it. They liked that a ‘shoebox’ -- a big, boxy car -- was out here racing with these little sleek cars and that started the Pro Modified drive."
No slouch behind the wheel, Carpenter really can’t tell you the number of victories he has captured over the years, but estimates them at more than 200. He was twice national points champion in the Super Chevy Series (1988, ’89) and was the 1992 United States Super Circuit champion. Carpenter was the first of the nostalgia car drivers to break the 200-mph barrier, as well the first to break into the seven-second and six-second elapsed times. Carpenter has set more than 20 track records, as recently as this past August at Eddyville (Iowa) Raceway.
Carpenter has developed a legion of fans over the decades, some with personal memories of the ’55 Chevy, others from watching his career over the years.
"I’ve developed quite a following over the years," Carpenter admitted. "Everywhere I go people come up and tell me that they watched me race at some little track, like Shuffletown, years ago and have been a fan ever since. I have to laugh because quite a few of those tracks that I used to race at are no longer even around -- most have been turned into housing developments."
It is not just the fans that have been loyal to Carpenter, either. He has had several sponsors remain with his program for a number of years, including Custom AutoSound and Buddy’s Automotive Concepts.
"I’ve had some sponsors come and go like every race team," reflected Carpenter. "Custom AutoSound and Buddy’s are unusual in that they have stuck by my side through thick and thin for nearly 15 years. Now I’ve got some new sponsors, such as Embee Performance Coatings and Country Motors Trailer Sales that are excited about using racing to market their products and their enthusiasm is motivating me to have 2004 be my best season yet."
When asked about the most significant changes that he has noticed over the years, Carpenter replied with an unexpected answer. "Now you can buy everything," said Carpenter. "You can even go out and buy a complete race car and head straight out to the track. Thirty years ago that was impossible. Back then we adapted things, fabricated and reworked almost every part that went on the race car."
While cruising the pits at the races, spectators often see the drivers off to the side watching as their crew prepares the car. Today’s teams often divide up the duties so that the driver does little else. On the other hand, Carpenter is a throwback to the "olden days" and takes a hands-on approach to setting up his car. Fans asking for his autograph at the races are likely to get some clutch dust along with a signature. After 30 years of doing things himself, it isn’t likely that Carpenter is going to give up turning a wrench anytime soon.
And since Carpenter has no plans to hang up his helmet anytime soon, fans of the "World’s Fastest ‘55" can look forward to watching him for years to come. Could we see a 50th Anniversary for Carpenter in the future?
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Darlington preparing for Winter Nationals, Cannon and Stott to headline show
(1-10-2003) - As the 2004 season starts, all eyes
will be on Darlington Dragway as they host the 31st running of the
Darlington Winternationals, featuring the Groundhog Warmup on February
19 - 22.
The yearly gathering of the stars of the sport is a springboard
into the season and racers who do well at this race usually have
the momenton to carry them to a good season.
Case in point is the current Pro Mod world champion Mitch Stott.
Mitch started the '03 season with the shot heard around the world,the
first 5 second pass by a doorslammer and used that momentom to win
his first world championship.
Mitch will be back to try and lower the 5.98 mark set at last years
race, but there will be a different set of factors at this years
running.
Namely,Scotty Cannon.Scotty is returning from a 6 year term where
he was a factor in NHRA Funny Car Racing and is returning to the
place where he achieved his legendary status.The 6 time Pro mod
world champion is back in a Pro Mod car and has already predicted
he will lower the year old all time low ET for a doorslammer.
If this weren't enough to whet the appetite for fast Pro Mod race
fans, Tommy Mauney, the only person to win a championship in both
Pro Mod and Pro Stock,promises to add some more controversy to an
already controversial race. Tommy will be piloting the Alaska-based
Mike Prockish Motorsports 63 Corvette that his TM race cars built
last year.The Vette has already posted some impressive numbers in
early season testing
New Pro Stock team coming to IHRA Sunoco Pro Stock in 2004
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(1-10-2003) - “If a tree fell in the forest and no one was there to hear it, would it still make noise?”
If you're Tappahannock, Va. logger, Talmadge Wood, you may say yes, but even he wouldn't be certain of the tree's noise. One thing for certain that Wood knows is his intention of making some noise in the 2004 IHRA Pro Stock season. It has been a life long dream to own and drive a pro stocker. At age 50, Talmadge Wood is drag racing for the first time! The critics have said he needs to start with a bracket car, he needs to hire a driver, but as Talmadge says he wants to go Pro Stock racing and that means starting with a Pro Stock car.
His Wally Stroupe Race Cars built 2002 Ford Mustang and Jon Kaase power will get him on his way. The team came together in 2003 when Wood met Richard Peyton at the IHRA AC Delco Nationals in Dinwiddie, Va. They both realized early on that they had a lot in common, they knew a lot of the same people and both loved drag racing and Pro Stock in particular. Richard Peyton from nearby Fredericksburg, Va. had a history with IHRA Pro Stockers, having helped the likes of Lee Edwards, Carlton Phillips, and Frank Snellings. Richard Peyton brought his son Rich Peyton on board and the new team went testing. "We went to Maryland International Raceway and Virginia Motorsports Park every opportunity to the test and tunes they held. It was hard and frustrating when the information we received from those in the know wouldn't get us down the track, couple that with our inexperience as a team and driver, the end of the quarter mile seemed endless", Peyton said. The 2003 season was a trial and error (mostly error) time for the team; however, they came through the year with newer parts, fresher ideas, and a more determined mindset than ever before.
The team plans to attend four or five IHRA National Events, in addition to local and regional Frantic 7, Outlaw Pro Stock, and Quick 8 shows. Plans are to attend the CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open in March at Virginia Motorsports Park in preparation for the IHRA season opening 34th annual IHRA Spring Nationals at Rockingham in April.
"We plan to get as much seat time and experience as a team in 2004 as possible", Wood states, "Our freshman season is going to be an exciting one, we're poised to make some noise, everyone wants to win, we want to be a contender, and we will settle for nothing less, if we get knocked down, we'll get up and keep going, we will make it." Adds Peyton, "This is a dream come true, maybe it's like Paul Bunyan meeting Goliath, there's the forest, we can see the trees, and down the middle is the end of the quarter mile!"
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Henkelman & Baca add Larry Meyer to team for 2004
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(1-9-2004) - David Baca, partner and driver of the Henkelman & Baca American Racing Top Fuel Dragster, announced today the addition of tuner and former driver Larry Meyer, from Argyle, Texas, as a consultant for the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.
"I am more than pleased to have Larry Meyer onboard to work with and assist crew chief Johnny West," said Baca. "As competitive as Top Fuel was last season and the way performance picked up as the season progressed, in 2004 you'll need a lot of brainpower to get one of these car down the track and be competitive. You need more than one person handling the tuning calls. Therefore, to reach our goal of finishing in the top five in points and ultimately winning the championship we went out to get the best person available to fill that role. We found that man in Larry Meyer. His reputation speaks for itself. We feel that with him working with Johnny, we'll be able to compete at a higher level and meet the goals that we have established for this team. With all the other teams upping the ante, we feel we better load our guns too."
A veteran of four decades of drag racing, Meyer began his career as a driver in 1963 in an injected fuel car, followed by a blown alcohol car. His driving days ended in 1977 and since that time he has turned the wrenches on a long list of standout drivers and teams.
Meyer is best known as the crew chief that spoiled John Force's 100 percent domination of the Funny Car titles in the 1990s, when he tuned rookie Cruz Pedregon to the 1992 Funny Car championship. He finished the 2003 season assisting newcomer and former alcohol dragster driver Bill Ancona, tuning him to career best times and speeds. Other notable drivers and teams that have benefited from Meyer's expertise include Tommy Johnson, Jr. and Don Prudhomme's Snake Racing, Gary Densham, Darrell Gwynn Racing with Mike Dunn handling the driving duties, Shelly Anderson, Brad Anderson, Chuck Etchells Racing, Lori Johns and Tom "the Mongoose" McEwen.
On his new position, Meyer had the following comment, "I'm looking forward to working with both Johnny West and David Baca. They have developed an outstanding program in a very short amount of time and I think we'll have a good year in 2004. I'm going to bring some engineering knowledge to the table. I've learned over the years things you can get away with and things you can't. Hopefully, between Johnny and myself we can take this dragster to the next level and compete with the big money teams out there."
Added Henkelman & Baca crew chief Johnny West, "Larry will bring to the camp more technical knowledge, especially in the areas of the finer tuning parts of the race car -- clutch, fuel system, engine combination and blowers. This will give the car more consistency. Although we ran well this past season, there were times we were inconsistent. With Larry onboard we should be able to monitor the function of the car better than in the past."
David Baca and the Henkelman & Baca team finished seventh in the final 2003 NHRA POWERade point standings.
The team will begin testing for the 2004 season starting with the Las Vegas Blast-Off at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, January 29-31, followed by the National Time Trials at Firebird International Raceway in Chandler, Ariz., just outside Phoenix, February 7 and 8.
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Weiss & Stanley Team Girding for Battle with new Pro Outlaw Camaro
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(1-9-2004) - In 2003, rookie National Street Car
Association driver John Stanley raised a lot of eyebrows as he skillfully
piloted an admittedly "old school" race car to third spot
in Accel DFI Pro Outlaw competition. In addition, Stanley, 31, added
a third place finish in Pro-Filer Performance Shootout points on
his way to becoming the NSCA Rookie of the Year.
Many people openly wondered what the second-generation racer could
do with some state-of-the-art equipment under him. Generating the
kind of power necessary to go after the top guns in the class was
never really an issue - after all, his father is the redoubtable
Camp Stanley, a drag racing legend known for his ability to coax
every bit of horsepower out of a supercharged engine combination.
No, it was the often-altered chassis that most often thwarted the Maryland-based team's efforts to run with the all-important consistency necessary to go rounds on race day. Now, however, thanks to the efforts of a pair of enterprising young chassis builders, the Weiss & Stanley team is looking forward to putting their full potential on display when the NSCA season kicks off in March.
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Randy Jewell and Pat Budd of Pro Car Performance recently moved
their chassis shop to a new and larger facility in Greece, NY, and
one of the first projects they took on was breathing new competitive
life into the Weiss & Stanley team's blaze orange '69 Camaro.
Originally the mission plan called for the construction of a new
chassis only, but things have changed over the course of the last
month or two, as Camp explained. "After the World Street Nationals
in Orlando last October, we finally realized we needed a new chassis
- there just wasn't any way around it. The car, which was built
in a garage from a Jerry Bickel kit over seven years ago, had double
frame rails added to it two different times over the years, as well
as other alterations, so it was pretty well used up.
"Our original plan was to have a new chassis built and bolt our body and other components to it," Camp added. "But as the project went on, Pat was pretty adamant that we needed a new body as well. It really wasn't in the budget, but he cut us a real good deal with Richard Earle at Suncoast Race Cars and Advanced Fibre-Glas Concepts in Florida, and we decided to go for the whole package. I'm real happy those guys were all willing to work with us, because we should have one heck of a car when the work is done."
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To go with the new-from-the-ground-up Camaro, Camp naturally has some things on the go for the engine compartment as well, but those plans are being kept under wraps for the time being. Based on his history, however, rest assured that the new hot rod will crank out plenty of horsepower.
"I'm confident that the new piece Pat and Randy are building will handle well, run straight and give us the consistency we need," Camp said. "Hopefully all the irritating gremlins we had last year, which were mostly due to the chassis, will be gone. We should be able to put some pretty good numbers on the board this season - we ran a best of 6.72 at 210 in 2003, and we're expecting to improve on that a fair bit.
"Oh yeah - the car will be bright orange with purple stripes again - they won't have any trouble seeing us coming, or hopefully going, and it should make for some great winner's circle photos!"
Dixon to be honored at AARWBA Banquet on Saturday
(1-8-2004) – Two-time consecutive NHRA POWERade Top Fuel champion Larry Dixon will be honored by the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association (AARWBA) during the annual AARWBA banquet on Saturday, Jan. 10 in Pomona, Calif. Dixon was named to the First Team of the 2003 Auto Racing All-America Team. This marks the second straight season Dixon has received First Team honors.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the motorsports media for what we have accomplished as a team over the past two seasons,” said Dixon. “This is one of those awards that you’re excited to receive because it reaffirms the fact that we had a great season.”
Two drivers from each of seven racing categories – Drag Racing, Stock Car, Open Wheel, Road Racing, Short Track, Touring Series and At Large – are selected to the First Team by members of the motorsports press association, while two drivers from each category will earn Second Team honors. The remaining drivers in each category receiving five percent of the vote will receive honorable mention status. The driver receiving the most votes overall will be presented the prestigious Jerry Titus Award, recognizing the AARWBA’s Driver of the Year.
Dixon and fellow 2003 NHRA POWERade champion Tony Pedregon (Funny Car) are joined on the 2003 First Team by: Ryan Newman and Matt Kenseth (Stock Car), Gil de Ferran, Scott Dixon and Paul Tracy (Open Wheel), Scott Pruett and Ron Fellows (Road Racing), J.J. Yeley and Steve Kinser (Short Track), Brian Vickers and Frank Kimmel (Touring Series), and Mark Taylor and A.J. Allmendinger (At Large).
Dixon drove his Don Prudhomme-owned Miller Lite dragster to a category-best eight victories in 13 final round appearances en route to earning his second straight NHRA championship. His 33 career Top Fuel victories ranks fourth all-time in NHRA competition and Dixon sits ninth on NHRA’s all-time professional victories list. Dixon began the 2003 season with a victory at the K&N Filters Winternationals, becoming the first Top Fuel driver to win the historic season-opening event in consecutive seasons. Dixon also earned a $100,000 bonus during the Winternationals after winning the Top Fuel Shootout bonus event for the third time in his career. He went on to win seven more races, including a sweep of the ‘Western Swing’ (Denver, Seattle and Sonoma, Calif.), becoming just the fourth driver in NHRA history to do such. He also set the Top Fuel speed record (332.75 mph) at Las Vegas in April. In 2004, Dixon’s 10th season as a driver, he will attempt to become just the second Top Fuel driver in NHRA history to win three consecutive series championships. The only driver to accomplish the feat was Joe Amato (1990-92).
Don Prudhomme Snake Racing is headquartered in Vista, Calif., with
a second shop - Don Prudhomme Racing, Indianapolis - serving as
the base for racing operations. Drivers Ron Capps, Larry Dixon and
Tommy Johnson Jr. complete the roster of Prudhomme’s stable
of drivers and proudly represent such racing partners as Miller
Brewing Company, United States Smokeless Tobacco Company, Lucas
Oil Products and Raybestos.
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IHRA Restructures for Future Growth
(1-7-2004) – With the continual growth of IHRA/Clear Channel Entertainment - Motorsports, IHRA has restructured to better serve its clients and customers. The restructuring consists of four departments – Sales, Race Operations, Marketing, and Finance – reporting to President Bill Bader and General Manager Deb Bader.
“This has been a long time coming for IHRA,” said Bill Bader. “We have set goals for where the company will be in the coming years, and this restructuring will allow us to utilize our most important resource, which is our people.”
The Sales Department will report to Director of Sales David Thompson, who will be based in the Aurora, Ill., office. He will be responsible for all sales development for IHRA and will work closely with Clear Channel Entertainment – Motorsports’ sales team.
"I'm very excited that IHRA is now fully integrated with Clear Channel Entertainment,” said Thompson. “Having the assets of Clear Channel Worldwide at it's finger tips, IHRA can now take it's marketing partnerships to the next level.
“IHRA’s partners can benefit from additional marketing opportunities with Clear Channel’s entertainment, radio, outdoor, television and international companies. With Clear Channel’s thousands of live events and the millions of impressions each year there isn't a better tool for IHRA to use to accomplish the goals and objectives of our partners. We are truly growing the awareness and reach of IHRA."
Race Operations will report to Director of Race Operations Skooter
Peaco. Working with him:
Mike Baker, responsible for competition and technical services
Tom Kreager, responsible for track development services
Phil Gingerich, responsible for southern and western track development
Sherrie Barbour, responsible for membership
Jim Weinert, responsible for field operations services
“The new structure of IHRA will allow the Racing Operations group to take much of the day to day business of class and event related details off of President Bill Bader's shoulders,” said Peaco. “The reorganization will allow Bill the flexibility to do what he needs to do to direct and grow the organization as a whole.
“Our racers can expect to see an overall improvement in the planning and execution of our Hooters National, Pro Am and Summit SuperSeries programs. The quality and timeliness of our events for both professional and sportsman participants is our top priority as we move forward.”
The Marketing Department will report to Vice President of Marketing Aaron Polburn. Working with him:
Jim Marchyshyn, responsible for advertising and promotions
Travis Reynolds, responsible for media, public relations and publicity
Jeff Lee, responsible for Internet and creative services
Pam Marchyshyn, Drag Review Assistant Editor, currently the acting
Editor
Editor of Drag Review, yet to be named
Kim Parsons, Drag Review graphic designer
Bryan Britton, Drag Review assistant graphic designer
Tom Roman, responsible for Drag Review advertising sales
A Director of Contingency, yet to be named
"The ‘new look IHRA’ gives the Marketing Department more tools and a clear focus to sell more tickets and better integrate our sponsors into every fabric of IHRA,” Polburn. “Besides that, it's a lot more fun and fun is good."
The Finance Department will report to Director of Finanace Debra
Sue Tobak. Working with her:
Cindy Collins, responsible for bookkeeping
Donna Harper, responsible for administrative assistant duties
“The restructure was the next natural step in IHRA's continued
growth,” said Tobak. “The new organizational flow will
allow me to develop and fine tune existing procedures in the finance
and operational areas of the IHRA. It is a very exciting time at
IHRA.”
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2004 Corteco NSCA Schedule Announced
(1-08-2004) - The National Street Car Association is pleased to present the 2004 Corteco NSCA Drag Racing Series schedule. With 15 classes of thrilling heads-up and index racing on tap this season, the NSCA continues to lead the way in North American Street-Legal competition.
For further details, including motel information, updated rules and lots more, log on to www.nsca-racing.com
March 20, 21 – No Problem Raceway, Belle
Rose, Louisiana
Track Website: www.noproblemraceway.com
May 1, 2 – Atlanta Dragway, Commerce, Georgia
Track Website: www.atlantadragway.com
May 15, 16 – Cecil County Dragway, Rising
Sun, Maryland
Track Website: www.cecilcountydragway.com
June 12, 13 – Milan Dragway, Milan, Michigan
Track Website: www.milandragway.com
July 17, 18 – Quaker City Raceway, Salem,
Ohio
Track Website: www.quakercityraceway.com
July 31, August 1 – Maryland International
Raceway, Budds Creek, Maryland
Track Website: www.mirdrag.com
August 28, 29 – Mid-Michigan Motorplex, Stanton,
Michigan
Track Website: www.midmichmotorplex.com
September 17, 18, 19 – National Trail Raceway,
Hebron, Ohio
Track Website: www.nationaltrailraceway.com
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John Cowin Dominating Top Fuel in 2003/2004 Australian Championships
By Grant Stephens, www.dragster.com.au
(1-07-04) - Rocket Industries Top Fuel driver Johnny Cowin has shown a distinct liking for the revamped Willowbank Raceway surface, recording back-to-back successes during the first two rounds of the Australian Championships at Queensland’s home of drag racing.
The recent running of the National Open featured the greatly anticipated
Top Fuel showdown between 23-year-old Johnny Cowin and the elder
statesman of the class, reigning National Championship title holder
Jim Read.
Cowin, a second-generation racer and brother of Andrew Cowin, has
claimed two wins from two starts in the 2003/04 Australian Top Fuel
Championship.
The finale lived up to all expectations as Cowin turned in a 5.16 second pass to defeat Read by just four one hundredths of a second and take the outright lead in the 2003/2004 Championship.
Both drivers had earlier placed themselves as the front-runners, setting up the much-anticipated duel in grand style. Cowin’s 5.12-second top qualifying pass was bettered by Read’s 5.11-second blast recorded during a solo run in the second round of eliminations. Cowin rebounded with vengeance just moments later, however, responding with a mind blowing pass of 4.88-seconds.
As well as the win, Cowin picked up bonus points for low elapsed time and top speed, thanks to his 4.88 at 291.84.
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Samuel J. Richards, Father of Roger Richards, Passes at Age 77
(1-06-2004) - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Samuel J. Richards, father of CompetitionPlus.com’s Roger Richards.
Mr. Richards, who had suffered heart problems for the last several years, passed at 10:38 on Monday evening, January 5, 2004.
His friends at CompetitionPlus.com wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the Richards family at this time, and those wishing to do the same may contact Roger at photobyrr@aol.com
A special book has been set up for Roger at RacersPrayer Guest Book.
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Atchison signs new associate sponsors
(1-6-2004) - Rob Atchison, 2003 IHRA Funny Car Champion driver of the Erickson Manufacturing Pontiac is pleased to announce the addition of Mattress Depot as associate sponsor and the renewal of Aeroquip Performance Products and Toolex International as product sponsors for the 2004 IHRA / Hooters racing season.
Mattress Depot is a retail sales facility that specializes in King Koil and Restonic Mattresses with stores in London,Ontario and Calgary, Alberta. Mattress Depot had previously been an single event associate sponsor on the Atchison Racing Firebirds.
IHRA Contingency Sponsor Aeroquip Performance Products and Eaton/Aeroquip are widely recognized as a world leader of fluid power components and extruded plastic products while employing 8,000 people in 11 countries.
For more info visit their Website http://www.aeroquip.com . Toolex International is a Manufacturer of Professional Quality Tools and Machines used in Automotive, Industrial and Woodworking industry. Toolex Internationals Website is www.toolex.ca .
Janzen and Buckley Team Up for 2004
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(1-06-2004) - Canadian Top Sportsman and Pro Mod racer Kasey Janzen announced today that Joe Buckley’s Not Guilty Racing will join the KC Motorsports team for an assault on Outlaw Pro Mod and Outlaw Street competition in 2004. Buckley, who is based in Pennsylvania, purchased Janzen’s Beretta several years ago.
With this new partnership, the combined teams will run three cars this season – Buckley’s Beretta and new Wally Stroupe-built 1963 Corvette, to be driven by Janzen, will run in Outlaw Pro Mod, while Janzen’s Lumina will be retrofitted for Outlaw Street.
“The Corvette will be powered by our trusted Jim Oddy-built supercharged combination and will be sponsored by the Alaskan State Troopers,” said Janzen. “We’ll run it in the Outlaw Pro Mod wars as well as local top sportsman events. The Beretta will be piloted by Joe Buckley and will also compete in Outlaw Pro Mod and local top sportsman events.
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“The third car in our stable is the Lumina we've raced the past several seasons,” Janzen added. “It’ll be fitted with mufflers, head lights, and tail lights and race in the Outlaw Street category in the OSCA and Canadian Fastest Street Car Shootout.
“We are looking forward to great performances with the addition
of Joe and his team; this year promises to be our best yet. Our
first test session will be in March at the CompetitionPlus.com Spring
Open at Virginia Motorsports Park.”
IHRA ANNOUNCES 2004 HOOTERS IHRA DRAG RACING SERIES SCHEDULE CHANGE; VMP Moved to Earlier Date
(1-06-2003) – IHRA announced a change to the 2004 Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series schedule to benefit fans and racers.
In order to avoid placing the 4th Annual ACDelco Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park (VMP) the weekend after the NASCAR race at Richmond International Raceway, the event will be rescheduled for May 28 – 30, 2004, one week later than originally scheduled.
"This change will place the race at VMP a few weeks away from the NASCAR race," said IHRA Director of Race Operations Skooter Peaco. "We’ve now given the fans a chance to experience both events with a break in between. Memorial Day weekend fit nicely in the overall IHRA schedule."
The 2004 Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series kicks off March 26-28 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals presented by Ancira Cars, Trucks and RVs. The ACDelco Nationals at VMP is the third event of the twelve-race series.
Change to 2004 IHRA Pro-Am Schedule
The IHRA Pro-Am Tour Division 2 event in Kinston has been moved one week earlier to May 21-23.
The IHRA Pro-Am Tour Division 5 event at Cedar Falls has been changed to July 23-25
For more information, check out IHRA’s Web Site at www.ihra.com.
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CompetitionPlus.com launches new Custom Bike e-zine – VtwinPlus.com
(1-04-2004) - Do you like Custom Motorcycles and bad-to-the-bone street Harley-Davidson motorcycles? If so, we have just the thing for you. After a year of preparation, CompetitionPlus.com has finally launched its latest electronic magazine dedicated to the two-wheeled wonders.
Make yourself a regular and become interactive while you’re at it. Send us a photo and some information on your bike.
Drop in at www.VTwinPlus.com. You can send the info and pics of your bike to VTwinPlus@aol.com
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Cannon and Patrick plan new season with an appearance at 4th annual CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open
(1-5-2004)– Pro Modified’s winningest Pro Modified driver Scotty Cannon and veteran Pro Stock runner Robert Patrick are among the early pre-entries for the 4th annual CompetitionPlus.com Spring Open hosted by Virginia Motorsports Park located outside of Richmond, Va. Both drivers are returning to familiar territory during the weekend of March 11 – 14 after branching off into new areas of competition.
Cannon, of Lyman, SC, left the Pro Modified ranks after claiming his 6th IHRA World Championship in 1998 to pursue a career behind the wheel of a Nitro-burning Funny Car. At the conclusion of the 2003 season, he announced his intentions to return to the class that he helped to pioneer in the late-Eighties. Oakley will sponsor his Hemi-powered 1953 Studebaker.
Cannon is excited about returning to VMP, this time behind the wheel of a doorslammer.
“I’ve wanted to run this event for the last few years,” explained Cannon. “Bobby Bennett has been on me for a few years to come down and run, but it never worked out with our Funny Car schedule. Our schedule will be pretty full for the next few weeks with testing and match races. This will be our final warm-up before headed to Gainesville and then on to San Antonio.”
Patrick, of Fredricksburg, Va., will be making the trek to VMP in order to put a new Jon Kaase powerplant residing between the fenders of his Ford Escort through its paces. Almost a decade ago, the former multi-national event winner crossed the tracks into the 500-inch Pro Stock arena. He recently made the announcement to return to the Sunoco Pro Stock ranks.
“The testing time will no doubt help us out a lot,” explained Patrick, who campaigns the team along with his father Eli Patrick. “I’ve always loved Virginia Motorsports Park and I’m really happy for the chance to run down there again.”
The mountain motor division has also received entries from former
Pro Stock world champion Mike Bell, Frank Gugliotta and John Montecalvo.
In Pro Modified, Cannon will be joined by local favorite Mike Johnson,
Joe Boniferro and Ralph Andreacchi. Also testing that weekend will
be nitro flopper driver Frank Jonkman and Pro Street racer Mike
Moran.
Deadline for pre-entry is March 4, 2004
A special e-mail address has been set up for those that wish to
pre-enter online. Online pre-entries can be e-mailed to springopen2004@aol.com.
The following information must be included with each pre-entry.
Car Number:
Classification:
Driver Name:
Team Owner Name:
Address
City, State & Zip
Phone Number You Can Be Best Reached At:
Car Make:
Sponsor (if applicable):
Days you plan on attending - NOTE - If you plan on attending the
complete
event, please list - COMPLETE EVENT
The FastNews Network and SummitRacing.com will provide daily coverage
of the event.
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The Great Ones go on Forever
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(1-5-2004) - Believe it or not, the car that qualified on the pole for the first Pro Mod race in history way back in 1990 lives on today in competition in Puerto Rico.
On an island that is only 100-miles long, 35-miles wide, and 60% covered by mountains, Puerto Rico has 6 drag strips and a tremendous following of the sport.
One of the popular things within the drag racing community in Puerto Rico is keeping cars in service that were retired in the USA.
Mike Ashley's former Beretta is currently campaigned by Angel Garcia,
and continues to post competitive numbers. Garcia's best numbers
in the Ex-Ashley Pro Mod are 6.52 @ 216mph.
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Classic Thunder and Southern Fuel Coupe cars are the Highlight of the World Drag Expo in Atlanta
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(1-04-2003) - Several outstanding examples of the cars that participate in the Classic Thunder and Southern Fuel Coupe series were on display. The cars and drivers proved to be the highlight of the World Drag Expo that has begun to attract attention in the Southeast. Vendors and swap meet enthusiasts from throughout the Southeast gathered at the Georgia International Convention Center to exhibit new products and swap goods with other racers.
A complete photo gallery by Roger Richards can be found at Drag Racing Expo.
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Danish Top Fuel Dragster racer Kim Reymond retires from European Top Fuel
(1-3-2003) - Danish Top Fuel Dragster racer Kim Reymond has put his operation up for sale after retiring from driving on medical advice. Kim won the 2002 FIA European Top Fuel Dragster Championship and in 2003 stunned the European drag racing community with a 4.7-second pass at Gardermoen in August and then a 4.645/317.56 in qualifying at the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod. Kim sustained a broken breastbone when his parachutes opened, and his doctor has called time on his driving career.
"I have everything I need to race this year, but I have to follow the doctor's advice", Kim told Eurodragster on the phone yesterday. "It's frustrating because you know how long it took us to get that combination together. Now it's perfect and I can't race!"
Tales of bruised or cracked ribs are common as a result of the vicious deceleration when two parachutes open, but Kim has suffered more than most. "I've had broken ribs, a few broken ribs is nothing", he said, "but believe me a broken breastbone hurts. You can't do anything - it hurts whether you lie down, stand up, or sit down. I think I broke it first at Gardermoen in 2002, I think maybe my belts were a bit loose. I have broken my breastbone twice now and the doctor said that one day I'll end up with a rib through my lungs. I hate to quit, but you have to think of your health and your family."
Kim broke the news to his team in a very emotional get-together. "The crew were very understanding when I told them that I had to quit", he said. "Everyone was very sad, I wanted to cry because those guys are like family to me. Actually I think it would have been easier for me to say I wanted a divorce! But the guys will be as good for the next owner as they have been for me."
Kim's entire operation is for sale including tractor, trailer and spares, and can be viewed on his web site at www.usa-autodele.dk. "The only thing I am not selling is some of my own tools", says Kim. "It's a good car and a perfect team. You will be able to get in the car and go 4.7 or 4.8 no problem. I will sell it as cheaply as I can because I want the car out there racing. I also want to sell the car complete because the combination, including the crew, is perfect and should not be broken up."
Kim said that he will not be walking away from the sport, and although
a return is not completely out of the question he has invested in
another large piece of kit. "I don't want to take any chances,
so I have bought a boat", he said. "But should the doctor
tell me that l am cured then I'll be out there again, and maybe
I will do my belts tighter next time!"
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DENSO Iridium Power Spark Plugs and NMRA Ford Nationals Series Announce 3-Year Title & Presenting Sponsorship
(1-02-2004) - ProMedia Events is proud to announce
that DENSO Sales California, Inc. has signed a 3-year agreement
to be the presenting and title sponsor of the NMRA through the 2006
racing season. The 2004 DENSO Iridium Power Spark Plugs NMRA Ford
Nationals will mark the sixth year for the NMRA Ford Nationals event
series, which now spans 9 national events. After adding races in
Kansas City, MO and Martin, MI, the NMRA Ford Nationals, with the
partnership of DENSO, is looking at a bright future for the 2004
Season.
According to Charlie Harmon, ProMedia’s V.P. of Business & Event Development, “We are proud to have a sponsor of DENSO Spark Plug’s caliber associated with NMRA Ford Nationals event series. DENSO has been a great partner with the NMRA sponsoring the Top Qualifier program, and we couldn’t be more excited for 2004 and beyond as DENSO becomes the 2004 title sponsor for both the NMRA DENSO Spark Plugs Ford Nationals and the NMRA DENSO Spark Plugs Ford Drag Racing Series.”
Peter Klotz, Sales Group Vice President for DENSO Sales California, Inc., said, “Mark Brown, myself, and our entire DENSO marketing crew are proud to be associated with the NMRA. From ProMedia management to the racers and fans, the organization is top class all around. There is a real synergy between our groups and this has helped us gain the exposure that our Iridium Power spark plugs deserve."
DENSO Sales California, Inc., established in 1971 as an overseas subsidiary of DENSO Corporation, has become a leading source for a myriad of automotive products, from OEM to performance aftermarket. One of DENSO’s hottest products are its Iridium-tipped spark plugs that provide a hotter spark and allow for a more complete burn even when an engine is running lean. DENSO Iridium Power Spark Plugs have become one of the favorite spark plugs of NMRA competitors, and of street legal enthusiasts all across the country.
For the Love of the Game
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(12-31-2003) - Enoch Love is feeling lucky, and why shouldn't he be? The veteran IHRA Pro Stock team owner will unveil the 2004 paint scheme on his Chevy Cavalier this coming week at the Washington, DC, International Auto Show.
The car features a brand new paint theme called the "Lucky Draw". Beltsville, Maryland’s Banshee Studios created the new paint scheme. Veteran air brush artist Chuck Buckler brilliantly painted a playful joker on the doors of the car to demonstrate Love's passion for the competition that Pro Stock racing offers.
The car is part of a display demonstrating the types of racing
that
have an impact on the motorsport scene both locally and nationally.
The
Cavalier will compete at the national event level on the Hooters
IHRA Drag
Racing Series.
Diversity is a big part of the E Love Racing team's marketing program.
"As
one of the only all-African American Pro Stock race teams in the
country, we have veteran driver Bert Jackson behind the wheel, as
well as Chris Johnson as our crew chief. Both of these young men
posses unique talents and add significant depth to our operation."
stated Love. "The dream I had in the 70's was shelved as I
focused on career and family. Now it's time to put the dream of
owning a successful Pro Stock team back on track."
"We hope to be part of intercity youth programs throughout
the country and
introduce our young fan base to the teamwork involved in operating
a major race team. Without dedication and focus we cannot survive
in the highly competitive Pro Stock series" stated Johnson.
Love further said "we want to emphasis to our young ones that
hard work
and perseverance pays off in the long run. We are sure our team
will relay
this message as we cross the country."
The DC show starts on the 26th and runs until January 4th.
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Dennis Taylor signs Plumbing Concepts as primary sponsor for 2004
(12-31-2003) - NHRA Top Alcohol Funny Car veteran
Dennis Taylor has announced the signing of Plumbing Concepts as
the team's primary sponsor for the 2004 season. Ken Meadows, owner
of Plumbing Concepts has been a long time associate backer of Taylor
and stepped up to primary sponsor for this season.
Taylor, who runs his racing safety equipment company, Taylor Motorsports
Products in Anaheim, Calif., is excited about having Plumbing Concepts
on board as a major sponsor. He feels the additional backing will
help his team lead by veteran tuner Ora Vasquez reach the next level.
"We're pretty pumped up about Plumbing Concepts stepping up
to major sponsor," said Taylor. "This is just another
big step for the team. At our last event, we made it to the finals,
and then to ink a deal like this in the offseason definitely has
us fired up about 2004. Plumbing Concepts has been a long time associate
sponsor of our team, and we fully intend to do the best for them
next year."
"Cooner Wire, who has been a great primary sponsor for the
past two years will still be with the team as a major associate
sponsor," Taylor continued. "We have had a great relationship
for the past two years, and I'm very pleased they are back on board."
"We have also signed a new associate sponsor, Metro Molded
Parts out of Minnesota," Taylor added. "They make weatherstriping,
door seals and moldings for vehicles produced from 1918 to present.
We're very happy to have them on board in addition to our other
great associate sponsors Valvoline, Pepsi, Shaker Shirts, Ultimate
Designs, Bear State Heat and Air, Adam's Polishes and Taylor Motorsport
Products."
Plumbing Concepts president Andy Carlson is excited about next season
as well.
"Shared values of competitiveness, teamwork and the relentless
pursuit of excellence make for a great fit with Plumbing Concepts
and the Way Cool team," commented Carlson.
"With Plumbing Concepts stepping up, we plan to run 12-14 races
and make a serious run for the Division 7 Championship," stated
Taylor. "We feel with the level of performance we found last
season and the progress we made at the end of the year with that
performance, those are attainable goals. It's going to be tough
because there are so many good cars out here in Division 7, though.
Don't get me wrong, there is tough cars in every division out there,
but there are a lot of tough cars out here. It should be an interesting
year."
Taylor and the Plumbing Concepts team will open the year at the
K&N Filters Winternationals Feb. 19-22 in Pomona, Calif.
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• Remember, if you have a story lead or news that you would like to share with us, or even some good old-fashioned gossip, drop us a line at rumors@competitionplus.com.
• Inside sources have just informed us of a Michigan company that has been commissioned to develop a new Ford Hemi for 500 inch Pro Stock applications. The development time for the independent firm has been estimated to be 6 to 8 months due to the lack of any funding from the Ford Corporation.
• There's chatter that some of the other tire manufacturers are crying foul at what some call preferential treatment towards Goodyear tires by the NHRA. Accusations are that the other manufacturers were shut out when the new Top Fuel tires were produced several years ago. Reports are floating around that Pro Stock legend Warren Johnson was testing the beadlock wheels as early as two years ago. His tires? Goodyear.
• In some disturbing news, we caught wind recently that there's a good chance unless Funny Car racer Dean Skuza procures sponsorship that he may be on the sidelines at the season-opener in Pomona, Ca.
• Harold Robinson has organized an East Coast Mountain Mountain Motor Pro Stock Circuit. Any racer or race track wishing to obtain more information or to book an event should contact him at 276-988-7115. The first race will take place at Richmond Dragway the first w