Competition Plus.com - Drag Racing's Internet Magazine

Feel left out of the loop? Wondering when breaking news is going to happen? Can't wait for the new issue? We have the answer. CompetitionPlus.com is compiling a mailing list to keep you informed of what's going on. It's a simple process. Send us an email at CompetitionPlus@aol.com, put in the title and the body, "Sign Me Up" and your request will be granted.

AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR to feature 14 events in 2005 with over $660,000.00 in prize money up for grabs; Rules changes sure to produce quickest and fastest runs in Pro Mod History

(11-19-2004) - The AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR will consist of 14 events in 2005. Of the 14 scheduled, and to be scheduled events, 10 will be conducted at NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events. The remaining 4 event dates and locations will be announced very soon.

Dave Wood, President and founder of AMS Staff Leasing, is pleased with the direction the series is headed in for 2005.

“From day one of our program, our goal has been to take the Pro Mod class to the next level. I feel that we have done just that with our new program for the 2005 season.” Wood said.

Joining Dave Wood and AMS Staff Leasing in 2005 will be presenting sponsor Tommy Lipar Racing. Tommy Lipar, a Texas-based businessman and Pro Mod team owner, is eager to begin his association with the AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge.

“The opportunity to join Dave Wood and AMS Staff Leasing in sponsoring the Pro Mod class is something that I am thrilled to be a part of,” Lipar added. “2005 is going to be an exciting year for everyone involved.”

Kenny Nowling, President of Nowling Motorsports Management, a St. Louis, MO based motorsports marketing firm, will once again administrate the series in 2005. “I am honored that Dave Wood and Tommy Lipar have put their faith in me to manage and over see this series again in 2005,” Nowling said. “With the additional four races, a sixteen car field, increased payouts and a championship purse 2005 is going to be undoubtedly the best the Pro Mod class has ever seen”.

The rules structure for the AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR will be different from that of the previous years of involvement. The highly volatile category will have a rulebook of its own as written by a special committee. In the past, the rules had mirrored that of the International Hot Rod Association.

The AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR will most likely produce the first ever legal five second by a doorslammer by removing many of the performance limiting factors the IHRA has added in the past two seasons. While AMS/TLR Pro Mod Challenge administrators have yet to print the official rulebook, the current plans are to increase the supercharger overdrive back to 29% for blown cars. Nitrous-injected doorslammers will have unlimited cubic inches. For the first time in the history of the class, turbocharged entries will figure into the equation.

Additional rules amendments will reward drivers of pre-1972 model entries, with the exception of the 1963-1967 Corvettes, with a 100 pound weight break. The 1963-1967 Corvettes will receive a 50 pound weight break.

The AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR will further expand in 2005 to include a sixteen-car field. Qualifying will be reduced to three attempts, two on Friday and one on Saturday, with the first round of eliminations scheduled for Saturday and the remaining three rounds of eliminations on Sunday. All 10 AMS/TLR Pro Mod Challenge races held at the NHRA POWERade events will conform to an invitation only basis as determined by a special committee.

The ten-race schedule at NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events will remain the same as 2004, with the exception of one event. The AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR will now feature two events in Las Vegas. The traditional stop in Memphis has been removed from the 2005 schedule.

For the first time since the introduction of the category in 2001, a $100,000 points fund will be in place to reward the world champion with a $50,000 prize.

Formally known as the AMS Pro Mod Shootout, the renamed AMS Pro Mod Clash will move back to Dallas in 2005. The purse has been increased from $10,000 to $44,000 with the winner receiving $25,000. Anyone to win both the event and the Clash would also receive a $5,000 “double up” bonus.

2005 AMS Staff Leasing Pro Mod Challenge presented by TLR Schedule. (10 of 14* Races to be held at NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events listed below.)

Mac Tools NHRA Gatornationals, Gainesville, FL, March 17 – 20

Veteran tuner Jimmy Rector joins Trussell Motorsports as tuner

(11-18-2004) - Trussell Motorsports has announced the hiring of former Alcohol Funny Car champion and veteran tuner Jimmy Rector for the 2005 season. Rector formerly tuned 2003 World Champion Mitch Stott and IHRA Funny Car veteran Mark Thomas.

Team owner Paul Trussell is pleased about the new direction his team is heading.

"I couldn't have asked for a better individual to pair with Ed," Trussell said of driver Ed Hoover. "We will begin testing soon, but I can tell you that both Ed and I are very happy. His work ethic is what breeds a championship attitude."

"I'm looking forward to it," Rector said. "Paul and Ed are two of the finest individuals that you can find in this industry."

Trussell would not comment as to whether the team will devote their resources to running Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified on the IHRA Hooters Drag Racing Series or the AMS/TLR Series contested at NHRA POWERade events.

Trussell did admit that his team has signed up for at least ten of the AMS TLR events. He did admit they'd most likely run both schedules as much as they could.

Oddy Signs Al Billes to Create IHRA Pro Mod “Superteam”; Team to Concentrate on Winning 2005 Torco Race Fuels Pro Mod Championship

The Summit Racing Equipment-sponsored Jim Oddy Pro Mod racing team is proud to announce that they have come to terms with veteran Canadian Pro Mod team owner and driver Al Billes to replace the retired Fred Hahn as driver for the team.

"I just can't imagine a better person or driver to fill Fred Hahn's position on the team," said team owner Jim Oddy. "I've known Al since he started driving, I sold him engines when he first started and watched him become one of the best drivers and tuners in Pro Mod. The fact that he finished second in IHRA and NHRA Championship points this season and currently holds the IHRA ET record tells you all you need to know about his talent both as a driver and tuner."

Billes will be much more than just the new driver of Jim Oddy's Summit Racing Equipment-backed car. The 2005 season will see a two-car effort for the Jim Oddy Racing team. Billes' '53 Corvette will be painted identical to Oddy's new 2005 Dodge Stratus and will have sponsorship from Oddy Racing's primary sponsor Summit Racing Equipment and major associates Isky Racing Cams and Blower Drive Service and all other associates.

"We will race both cars but our main efforts will be to win the 2005 IHRA Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified World Championship for Summit Racing Equipment and all of our other sponsors," said Oddy.

Billes will drive the Stratus and compete for the IHRA Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified World Championship and have a dedicated engine program based on IHRA rules. The Corvette will compete in selected races on the AMS/NHRA exhibition circuit and in Canada. Billes will drive both cars.

Oddy, based in Elma, NY, and Billes, from Barrie, Ontario, Canada, both will retain their own races shops and dyno facilities in order to prepare and maintain both cars at championship levels.

"I can't tell you how excited and proud I am to be chosen by Jim to drive for his team," said Billes. "I just want to race and win a World Championship. I think driving and working with Jim and the rest of the Summit Racing Equipment team gives me the best opportunity to do that I've ever had. I do have one personal goal and that is to be the first Canadian Pro Mod driver to win a World Championship. I think driving for Jim can make that happen."

The team plans to get both cars and engine programs race ready then begin pre-season testing early in 2005 to get Billes and the team comfortable and familiar with each other. The new Stratus will debut at the first IHRA race of the season, March 31 in San Antonio, Texas.

"Our goals for next season are the same as they were last season and every season that I have raced," said Oddy. "To win races, have fun and if possible win a championship for our sponsors."

DON PRUDHOMME RACING ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION OF RON CAPPS

(11-17-2004) – Don Prudhomme Racing announced today the resignation of driver Ron Capps.

“Our plan is to continue racing with Tommy Johnson Jr. and Larry Dixon next season, while also considering other opportunities that would allow us to field either an additional Top Fuel dragster or Funny Car in 2005,” Prudhomme said.

“My relationship with Ron (Capps) is more than just a driver/owner relationship. More importantly, we are very close friends and will remain that. I wish Ron all the success at whatever venture he decides to pursue.”

“This was a very difficult decision for me to make because Don and Lynn Prudhomme have been more than just an employer, but rather a family to me,” Capps added. “I share those same sentiments for those at U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company and the entire Skoal RacingSM team. Being teamed with both Larry (Dixon) and T.J. (Tommy Johnson) was more than I could have ever imagined as a driver.

“Snake took a chance on me eight years ago and I owe every bit of that success to him and the Prudhomme family. My personal relationship with Snake has and will continue to remain solid at and away from the race track.”

IHRA and Lenco Announce Formation of the Lenco 6.30s Pro Stock Challenge

(11-17-2004) - IHRA and Lenco Transmissions have announced the formation of the Lenco 6.30s Pro Stock Challenge, to recognize the first 16 racers to make a qualifying or elimination pass in the 6.30s. The formation of the Lenco 6.30s Club comes with the successful closing of the Quarter-Max 6.40s Club.

“First of all, we have to tip the IHRA cap to Rick Jones and Quarter-Max,” said IHRA President Aaron Polburn. “The Quarter-Max 6.40s club was a great initiative for our Pro Stock class, just as the Lenco 6.30s Club is. With the formation of this club, we’ll see our Pro Stock drivers be rewarded for the performances I know that they’re capable of. And wouldn’t it be great to see Rick Jones himself get into the 6.30s club?”

The first member of the club will receive $2,500, while members two through 16 receive $1,000 each. All members also receive a special club jacket and a plaque supplied by Lenco. The Lenco Pro Stock Challenge will automatically continue until the 2006 season and/or until the 16 member club is filled.

With the formation of the Lenco 6.30s Pro Stock Challenge, racers and fans are seeing times dropping quicker than anyone thought was possible. “Our Pro Stock class is making faster gains in performance than any other class in IHRA,” said Director of Racing Operations Skooter Peaco. “Nobody thought the Quarter-Max 6.40s club would be filled as fast as it was, and now we’re already talking about getting cars in the 6.30s. Depending on this winter’s research and development, we may see the first member of the club by the end of this season or early next season.”

Lenco Transmissions has a relationship with IHRA that dates back to the early 70s, and their quality components are a mainstay in IHRA Torco Race Fuels Pro Stock and Pro Modified. “Lenco is an established name in the world of drag racing. I am very pleased to have Lenco on board with the 6.30s club,” stated IHRA Director of Competition and Technical Services Mike Baker. “Their decision to increase their involvement as the sponsor of the 6.30s club further solidifies their commitment to IHRA and particularly IHRA Pro Stock.”

2004 NHRA POWERade WORLD CHAMPIONS CROWNED IN THE DESERT

(11-16-2004) - Tony Schumacher headlined four world-championship-winning drivers crowned Monday evening during the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series awards ceremony at the spectacular Westin Mission Hills Resort near Palm Springs.

The three other NHRA POWERade world champions – John Force, Greg Anderson and 21-year-old Andrew Hines, the youngest champion in NHRA history -- also were presented checks and trophies for their achievements in their respective pro categories as the NHRA celebrated the 2004 season.

In a special moment during the ceremony, the late Darrell Russell was honored with a moving video tribute as those in attendance remembered the personable young Top Fuel driver. Russell died as a result of injuries sustained in a racing accident in June in St. Louis.

Schumacher, who raced to a category record 10 victories in his U.S. Army dragster, received a check for $400,000 for his second Top Fuel world championship from NHRA President Tom Compton and POWERade representative Katie Bayne, senior vice president of integrated marketing for Coca-Cola North America.

Force also received a check from NHRA and POWERade for $400,000 for winning a record 13th Funny Car crown in his Castrol GTX Start Up Ford Mustang. Anderson earned $200,000 for earning his second consecutive NHRA POWERade Pro Stock title in his Summit Racing Pontiac Grand Am, and Hines, rider of the Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson, was presented a $50,000 check from NHRA and POWERade for claiming his first Pro Stock Bike championship.

Pro Stock driver Jason Line headed the list of special award winners with the $20,000 Automobile Club of Southern California Road to the Future Award, which recognizes NHRA's rookie of the year. A distinguished panel of auto racing journalists selected Line, who won four races in eight final-round appearances and claimed two No. 1 qualifying positions en route to a second-place finish in the POWERade Pro Stock points standings behind the wheel of his KB Framers Grand Am.

The Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW) was presented the Blaine Johnson Award for the organization’s continued efforts to provide financial and emotional support to the drag racing community.

Pontiac was awarded the NHRA Manufacturers Cup for the eighth time, and the Newark (Ohio) Advocate was presented the NHRA Media Award.

The future stars of the sport, drivers in seven categories in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, also were recognized as 2004 champions: Mitch Myers (Top Alcohol Dragster); Cy Chesterman (Top Alcohol Funny Car); Dean Carter (Competition Eliminator); Larry Stewart Jr. (Super Stock); Lee Zane (Stock Eliminator); Lyndon Rutland (Super Comp) and Jonathan Womack (Super Gas).

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Rob Atchison!

(11-15-2004) - 2004 IHRA Funny Car Champion Rob Atchison and his lovely fiancée Julie Evans became Mr. and Mrs. Rob Atchison in a beautiful ceremony in London, Ontario on November 13th.

Julie, a local television personality, was stunning in her wedding gown and Rob was extremely handsome in his tuxedo. Crew member Pat Ryan was best man and fellow crewman Les Mellows was also in the wedding party as an usher.

After their honeymoon the couple will reside in London, Ontario, where Rob is employed in the family machine shop business. Rob and crew are already preparing for the 2005 IHRA season where they will return with Erickson Manufacturing as their primary sponsor to defend their "Back to Back" Funny Car titles.

Final NHRA POWERade Point Standings

BPoint standings (top 10) for NHRA professional categories following the 40th annual Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals at Pomona Raceway, the final of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series -

1. Tony Schumacher, 1,994; 2. Doug Kalitta, 1,668; 3. Brandon Bernstein, 1,531; 4. Scott Kalitta, 1,440; 5. David Grubnic, 1,368; 6. Larry Dixon, 1,242; 7. Cory McClenathan, 1,152; 8. Doug Herbert, 1,098; 9. Rhonda Hartman-Smith, 840; 10. Scott Weis, 803.

1. John Force, 1,883; 2. Del Worsham, 1,586; 3. Gary Scelzi, 1,565; 4. Gary Densham, 1,405; 5. Eric Medlen, 1,375; 6. Whit Bazemore, 1,338; 7. Tim Wilkerson, 1,218; 8. Tony Pedregon, 1,192; 9. Cruz Pedregon, 1,188; 10. Phil Burkart, 1,159.

1. Greg Anderson, 2,402; 2. Jason Line, 1,660; 3. Dave Connolly, 1,526; 4. Larry Morgan, 1,256; 5. Kurt Johnson, 1,245; 6. Jeg Coughlin, 1,109; 7. Bruce Allen, 1,088; 8. Steve Johns, 1,042; 9. Kenny Koretsky, 961; 10. Rickie Smith, 911.

1. Andrew Hines, 1,184; 2. Angelle Savoie, 1,146; 3. Antron Brown, 1,131; 4. Shawn Gann, 945; 5. Craig Treble, 928; 6. GT Tonglet, 855; 7. Geno Scali, 836; 8. Steve Johnson, 731; 9. Michael Phillips, 652; 10. Karen Stoffer, 625.

Warren Johnson To Retire From Driving Following 2005 Season; GM Performance Parts Announces "The Professor's School's Out" Tour

(11-14-2004) - Warren Johnson has been a mainstay of the National Hot Rod Association's Pro Stock division virtually since its inception in 1970. For over 31 years, he has taken on all challengers, including such legends as Lee Shepherd, Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins and Bob Glidden, rising to the top of what is arguably the most competitive category in motorsports. With six championships, 92 national event wins, 130 No. 1 qualifying performances and countless records, "The Professor" has firmly established himself as one of drag racing's legends.

However, Johnson's contributions to the sport extend well beyond his achievements on the race track. For example, he has played a vital role in the evolution of the Pro Stock race car from a modified version of a production vehicle to the purpose-built thoroughbred currently used in competition. From his tireless dedication and work ethic to his many technological advances, the man known simply as "WJ" is a competitor unlike any other.

Therefore, an era will come to an end following the completion of the 2005 season, as Johnson today announced that he will step out of the GM Performance Parts Grand Am's driver's seat after the next POWERade Drag Racing season.

"I've never had any qualms about stepping out of the seat, as long as it was the best approach for our organization, and this seems like the right time," said Johnson. "Naturally, I will still be involved in racing. It's just gotten to the point lately that I'm wearing too many hats, which prevents me from doing the job as well as I would like to. Therefore, if I can eliminate one assignment and make our operation more successful, it's a positive move. By not driving, I will have more time to spend on some very important projects.

"Of course, I still have one full season behind the wheel, and both Kurt (son and fellow Pro Stock competitor) and I will both be trying to win the championship, and based on some of our recent developmental work, I believe next year could be our best in terms of competitiveness. I know that's a pretty bold statement considering how many good cars there are in Pro Stock, but I think we're going to step up and raise the bar."

Throughout his career, a key component to Johnson's long-term success has been his relationship with General Motors' Service Parts Operations (GM SPO) through their GM Performance Parts, ACDelco and GM Goodwrench brands. From his black and silver GM Goodwrench Performance Parts Olds Firenza in 1986 to the current GM Performance Parts Pontiac Grand Am with the distinctive yellow paint scheme and the star-spangled tail, WJ's race cars have not only carried the company's colors on the track, but they have also served to develop components for the automotive performance enthusiast.

GM Performance Parts announced plans to mark Johnson's final season with "The Professor's School's Out" tour, a multi-faceted marketing program designed to commemorate his legendary career, as well as his many contributions.

"Warren Johnson has been a valued member of the GM SPO family since 1986, but unfortunately, all good things must come to an end," said Jim Moloney, Director of Marketing for GM Accessories. "Therefore, throughout the course of the 2005 season, GM Performance Parts will celebrate Warren Johnson's illustrious career with "The Professor's School's Out" tour, which will be a year-long celebration of the man and everything he has done, not only for the sport of drag racing, but for GM Performance Parts.

"We will be releasing the details of the School's Out tour at a later date, but for now, we are looking forward to riding along for one final exciting season with The Professor, which we hope will end with his seventh Pro Stock championship."

HINES BECOMES YOUNGEST NHRA POWERADE SERIES WORLD CHAMPION

(11-13-2004) -- Andrew Hines, 21, became the youngest NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series world champion in history Saturday by qualifying for the Auto Club NHRA Finals, the 2004 season finale.

To earn his first series crown, Hines, from Indianapolis, rode his Screamin' Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson to a time of 7.184 at 185.23, good enough for the 12th qualifying position in the 16-bike eliminations lineup. After experiencing several malfunctions during the first three qualifying rounds, including a broken chain that damaged his bike, Hines came back on the final attempt and posted his quickest run
of the weekend and secured the title.

"The first thought I have is what an outstanding accomplishment for my dad (Byron) this championship is," Hines said. "He's been in this sport for a long time and he's won a bunch of championships but to take this program with Harley-Davidson and build it up to a championship level
this fast is really something.

For winning the championship, Hines earns a $50,000 bonus from NHRA and POWERade. Hines joins Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) as NHRA POWERade world champions for '04.

"I'm so happy that I'm the guy on the seat," he said. "I have an outstanding team around me. From my dad and my brother Matt, to Joe Vanderbrink, Greg Cope, Meredith Schultz, and Ray Veirs, I'd take this group over anyone. There isn't a better team in all of motorsports in my
opinion. I'm really just another name on the Vance & Hines roster of champions."

This is the fourth NHRA Pro Stock Bike world championship for the Hines family, as Andrew's older brother Matt won three championships from 1997-'99. Matt was previously the sport's youngest champion, as he was 25 when he claimed his first title in '97.

"It's neat to be the youngest POWERade champion ever," Andrew said. "I certainly never thought I'd have this much success this early in my career. This is just my third year out here and my second full season of competition. Again, I have to point to the team. I probably won't give Matt too much grief over replacing him as the youngest champion in NHRA
history because I wouldn't have won it if he wasn't tuning this bike."

The younger Hines won three national event titles in four final rounds and earned eight No. 1 qualifying awards to outdistance primary challengers Antron Brown and Angelle Savoie for the title.

"They say the first championship is the easiest one to win," he said. "Now we need to back it up and prove this one was no fluke. I don't ever think it's been easy and I don't think the NHRA will ever allow us to dominate like we did earlier this year. But we're still going to work like crazy this offseason and try to make the gains we need to make to back it up in 2005."

It is also the first NHRA Pro Stock Bike championship title for Harley-Davidson.

"Harley is extremely happy with what we've done," Hines said. "I know they're already excited about next year and the year after that. Maybe we've started a new era of dominance by Harley-Davidson motorcycles. That would be awesome."

The Eagle Soars Again; Second-generation Hedgecock establishes new mark

(11-12-2004) - Many will recall Eagle Racing Engines and Mike Hedgecock as the official supplier of engines in Scotty Cannon's Pro Modified championship seasons in the 1990. Mike's son Chad has put the company's name back in the spotlight.

Hedgecock established a new eighth-mile mark for the ORSCA World Challenge in Huntsville, Ala., by running a 4.248, 168.79. The impressive part is that Hedgecock is running an automatic transmission in his David Monday-built Camaro. (Photo by David Anderson)

Torco Race Fuels president injured in automobile accident

(11-12-2004) - Torco Race Fuels president Evan Knoll was involved in a single-car accident on Thursday afternoon. He suffered a few lacerations that required stitches. Knoll, who had been nursing a shoulder injury prior to the accident, is admittedly sore.

A passenger riding in the car with Knoll also suffered non life-threatening injuries.

Famed drag racer Tony Nancy passes away

(11-12-2004) - Famed drag racer Tony Nancy, whose beautiful cars and famed upholstery work on machines for street and strip made him a revered name in the motorsports world, passed away Nov. 11 after a long illness.

Nancy, whose only national event title came in Competition Eliminator at the 1963 Winternationals, was known for a sanitary collection of machines, from his famed 22Jr. roadster through a string of colorful Top Fuel dragsters.

Nancy, a graduate of Hollywood High, began his quarter-mile racing career after first pursuing speed on the El Mirage Dry Lakes during his formative years. He was a member of the famed Throttle Merchants of the San Fernando Valley along with George Bolthoff and the Hampshire brothers.

Nancy's Pomona-winning entry was a blown and injected Plymouth-powered AA/C '23-T Modified roadster, but he also won Best Engineered at the same event with his first dragster, a Top Gas wedge-powered car with which he held the Drag News No. 1 spot for nearly a year. Throughout his career, Nancy would travel far and wide to help promote the sport. He raced in Australia, Japan and Germany, and was the captain of the U.S. team that toured Europe in 1964.

Nancy, whose nickname was "The Loner" based on his ability to practically field a car by himself, entered the Top Fuel ranks in 1970 and was runner-up to Larry Dixon at that year's Winternationals. Two months later, he defeated a strong 32-car field to win the prestigious Bakersfield U.S. Fuel and Gas Championships. Nancy, who fielded cars sponsored my Revell and Wynn's, among others, also was runner-up in Bakersfield in 1974 and 1976.

According to Nancy, he set at least one record or Drag News 1320 mark in every class in which he competed, which encompassed cars such as a V/Fuel Dragster in 1957 through Top Fuel, where he held the national speed record at 236.22 in 1971.

Nancy retired from the cockpit after the 1976 March Meet to concentrate on Tony Nancy Enterprises, his famed Sherman Oaks, Calif., upholstery business that beautified the interiors of everything from Ferraris to Top Fuel dragsters and the cars of many Hollywood stars, including Clark Gable, James Garner, Steve McQueen, and Burt Reynolds. Nancy, who was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1997 California Hot Rod Reunion, also was an accomplished stunt driver for motion pictures. - Phil Burgess, NHRA.com

Jeg's to sponsor Finals audiocast

(11-11-2004) - Jeg's Mail Order has partnered with NHRA.com to present a special three-day live internet audiocast of the Auto Club NHRA Finals.

Visitors to NHRA.com can listen in for Friday and Saturday's Professional qualifying rounds and Sportsman eliminations as well as Sunday's traditional eliminations audiocast.

"Jeg's is excited to help bring the great side-by-side NHRA Drag Racing action to the fans that can't be at the event personally," said Jeg's Scott Woodruff. "Our sport has a huge following and this is another way to make sure the fans stay informed no matter where they are in the world."

These additional details were furnished by NHRA.com: This weekend during the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals, NHRA.com visitors can tune in to the live event audiocast not only for Sunday's eliminations, but also for Friday and Saturday's dramatic qualifying. This one-time, all-access event lays the groundwork for a new membership benefits to be introduced online by NHRA later this month along with a fresh new look for NHRA.com.

The extended audiocast and other special user features will be available exclusively to NHRA members, and this weekend's special event should give all NHRA.com visitors just a small taste of what's in store for NHRA members in the future.

Jason McNeil and Hardcore Performance Trans Am take Southern Shootout victory

(11-11-2004) - One of the most awesome LS1-equipped street cars in the country is the 2002 Pontiac Trans Am fielded by Hardcore Performance and driven by Michigan’s Jason McNeil. In fact, up until recently, the car was recognized as the World’s Quickest Street Legal LS1, and at the recent Thunder Racing Southern Shootout event at No Problem Raceway Park in Louisiana, McNeil showed just why this car is so well respected by the competition.

Jason qualified in the No.1 position in Modified Stock Power Adder with a mark of 8.930, 153.09 on Saturday and then wheeled the sleek Firebird to a best pass of 8.88, 154.00 during eliminations to take his place in victory lane.

The rapid Firebird is powered by a 408-cubic-inch LS1 powerplant equipped with an F1 ProCharger supercharger. The car, which sits on stock suspension and weighs 3,450-lbs, features a number of Hardcore Motorsports carbon fiber body components, including hood, doors and front and rear fascia. In addition, EMR Chassis components were also utilized on the car for this particular event

The car is owned by Ronnie Duke and is one of the cars built and campaigned in fast street car competition by Flint, Michigan-based Hardcore Motorsports, of which Duke is a part owner. The company is housed in a 50,000 square-foot facility which includes a 10,000 square-foot retail showroom and a complete race and street car fabrication operation. In addition to a state-of-the-art chassis fabrication center, the facility also houses engine building and chassis and engine dyno operations.

Pleased by McNeil’s victory in Louisiana, the Hardcore Performance folks are nevertheless not so happy that their world record of 8.62, 168 has recently been eclipsed, so the car is being thoroughly massaged, and plans are in the works for the team to go to Florida in December in an attempt to regain the mark. In fact, they’re aiming to put plenty of distance between themselves and the rest of the pack by smashing the vaunted 7-second barrier, so stay tuned to CompetitionPlus.com for future updates as this impressive street legal hot rod is put through its paces in the Sunshine State.

GALA RECEPTION IN HONOR OF EDELBROCK SET FOR DEC. 2 AT THE WALLY PARKS NHRA MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM

(11-11-2004) - The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is throwing a party to honor and celebrate an American icon: The Edelbrock family and corporation. The gala event, set for Thurs., Dec. 2 at the Parks Museum, coincides with the Museum’s latest exhibit, “Edelbrock: A Performance Legacy,” which runs through Feb. 14, 2005.

On hand at the special reception will be friends, family and special guests of Vic Edelbrock Jr., president and CEO of Edelbrock. The event runs from 7 p.m. to 10 and is also a fundraiser for the Parks Museum. A limited number of tickets are available to the public for $50 per person. For ticket information, contact Kat Lotz at 909/622-8562.

“When it comes to American racing and performance, the name Edelbrock has stood out for almost 67 years,” said Sam Jackson, executive director of the Parks Museum. ‘The Edelbrock story is remarkable because they helped shape the hot rod culture and launch an industry. The reception honoring them is very fitting, plus it will help raise funds for the Museum.”

“This is quite an honor for my family and everyone at Edelbrock,” said Vic Edelbrock Jr. I’d like to thank Wally Parks and the folks at the Museum for this great tribute.”

Wally Parks, NHRA Founder and the Museum’s Chairman of the Board, has known the Edelbrock family for more than half a century. “The contributions they have made to racing and performance are unmatched,” he said.

The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, presented by the Automobile Club of Southern California, houses the very roots of hot rodding. Scores of famous vehicles spanning American motorsports history are on display, including winning cars representing 50 years of drag racing, dry lakes and salt-flat racers, oval track challengers and exhibits describing their colorful backgrounds.

The Parks Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST, with extended hours during NHRA national events. Current NHRA members are admitted free. Admission for non-members is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors 60 and older, $3 for juniors six through 15, and free for children under the age of five. The Parks Museum is also available for private parties, meetings, corporate events, weddings and special group tours. The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is located at Fairplex Gate 1, 1101 W. McKinley Ave. in Pomona. For further information on special exhibits, museum events or directions, call 909/622-2133 or visit Parks Museum

Founded in 1938 by Vic Edelbrock Sr., Torrance, Calif.-based Edelbrock Corp. (NASDAQ NM: EDEL) will soon celebrate its 67th anniversary of manufacturing and marketing the highest quality aftermarket performance automotive and motorcycle products.

Edelbrock’s ever-expanding product line now features more than 8,100 performance products for domestics and imports, including nitrous systems, fuel rails, throttle bodies, exhaust headers, camshafts, fuel pumps, aluminum manifolds, turbos, exhaust systems, suspension and shocks, EFI systems, aluminum cylinder heads, water pumps, crate engines, brake and fuel lines and fluid transfer products. Edelbrock also manufactures aftermarket parts for Harley-Davidson and other motorcycles, plus ATVs.

Edelbrock is recognized as a driving force in the $29 billion specialty equipment industry. In addition to four production facilities in Torrance, the company owns and operates a state-of-the art foundry in San Jacinto, Calif.

Edelbrock’s core product line of performance-enhancing engine, suspension and exhaust system parts, which make up The Total Power Package®, are made in the USA. Edelbrock is also a manufacturer of racing products and a sponsor of several racing organizations, including NASCAR, the NHRA and the PRO-Edelbrock Race Series.

IHRA Professional Drag Racing 2005 Races to Retail Stores; next generation of drag racing comes to PlayStation®2, Xbox®, and PC

(11-10-2004) - Bethesda Softworks® announced it has shipped IHRA Professional Drag Racing 2005 PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft. It will be available in retail stores everywhere at an estimated retail price of $19.99. The PC version will ship to stores in two weeks.

IHRA 2005 marks a new direction for the IHRA Drag Racing – the best-selling drag racing series of all time – with its new racing engine and game play that have been completely redesigned from the ground up to simulate the thrill and excitement of racing a 6,000-horsepower dragster.

Utilizing the IHRA (International Hot Rod Association) license to its full potential, IHRA 2005 features the top professional drivers and all 11 IHRA-sanctioned tracks from the 2004 Hooters Racing Circuit. Using NDL’s Gamebryo™ graphics engine to render the tracks and cars in stunning detail, IHRA 2005 features broadcast style race presentation with TV-style camera fly-bys and color commentary to fully immerse the user in the on-track and trackside environment.

“We’re very excited that IHRA fans finally have the opportunity to get their hands on IHRA 2005,” said Aaron Polburn, president of the IHRA. “The response so far has been overwhelming. The drivers and fans that have gotten to see and play the game are just incredibly excited about how good it looks and how much fun it is to play.”

Designed to appeal to the casual racer along with the drag racing enthusiast, the game will offer a quick play Arcade mode along with a detailed simulation mode where players can build a top racing team and compete in the 12-event National IHRA Professional Drag Racing Championship.

Accurate and detailed vehicles will be fully customizable in the games garage and paint shop. All new off-track options like the parts shop, garage, and trophy room along with detailed weather/atmosphere dynamics and day and night racing ensure endless hours of game play.

Morton and Seward start early for 2005 Pro Stock assault.

(11-10-2004) - A perfect autumn day at Rockingham Drag way provided ideal conditions (adjusted air was 30 feet with track temperature near 80 degrees) for a representatives of the NHRA and IHRA Pro Stock classes to get an early start for 2005 testing. Elijah Morton and Bryan Seward both managed to leave the Tuesday test session encouraged by their results.

Seward, in his black Mustang with its 500-inch NHRA powerplant ran a personal best in the new car in which he has only made approximately 30 passes. Seward made appearances in only three events during the 2004 season after getting his Pro Stock license as business responsibilities and family health problems prevented him from participating in as many events as planned during 2004. Promising to test as often as possible to increase his comfort level in the car, Seward, who had a 1.00 sec. 60 foot time, still managed a 6.88 @193.93 after drifting around a bit and lifting well before the quarter-mile mark.

Morton was smiling all afternoon after running several passes between 6.50 and the mid-6.40s. His biggest smile came after his last full pass netted the third fastest time in Pro Stock history, however. With the big 800-inch mountain motor in the Rising Storm Mustang exhibiting a slight miss in high gear, Morton still went through the lights in 6.433-seconds at 213.3 mph.

While disappointed that the motor had the miss at the top end, Morton and crew chief Gary Henry were still excited with the 4.157 1/8 mile time. Henry could not recall any faster 1/8 times in his memory of Pro Stock. Henry, who believes that 6.30’s are reachable in competition next year, has promised to test until he runs the hooves off of the Kaase-powered Mustang during the off-season. He stated: “I have a few good ideas that I want to try and I think I have found something. The results today prove that I am on the right track.”

Corteco NSCA Drag Racing Series releases 2005 event schedule

(11-10-2005) - Next season's eight-race schedule for the National Street Car Association has just been released. For 2005, events will take place as follows:

LEM teams with Jack Wyatt for World Finals in Pomona

(11-10-2004) - Double Exposure Motorsports is proud to announce that we have secured sponsorship for Jack Wyatt Racing at the upcoming NHRA World Finals in Pomona California, November 11-14 2004.

Jack Wyatt runs a Nitro Funny Car in NHRA competition, and is very excited about the opportunity to showcase a company called LEM, at this race, and possibly beyond.

LEM is the global leader of on board automotive battery condition monitoring solutions.

LEM high performance devices are used to optimize existing automotive 12 volt architecture, and offer innovations to reduce fuel consumption.

The association with Jack Wyatt Racing is an opportunity to link and identify LEM with power and performance.

With offices around the world, LEM is closely aligned with all major automobile manufactures.

LEM USA is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and corporate headquarters are in Geneva Switzerland.

Pedregon Brothers Recreate ‘Coupe’ Memories

(11-10-2004) - Brothers Tony and Cruz Pedregon are trying to bring their father’s legacy back to life, by recreating the famous ‘Fiat Coupe’ front-engine dragster that made ‘Flaming’ Frank Pedregon the talk of hot rodders throughout the 1960s.

Despite ‘Flaming’ Frank’s untimely death while in his early 40’s, the Pedregon brothers still have fond memories of those days. But memories are just that – memories. The duo wanted something a little more tangible to remember their father. So, they began an adventure to recreate that remarkable race car. With the help of Pat Foster, owner and chief builder of Foster Slingshots, and legendary engine builder, crew chief and driver Dale Armstrong, that memory will become a reality as the car will make its on-track debut during the 2005 NHRA Winternationals at Pomona Raceway next February.

“My dad’s car was very unique,” Cruz continued. “With all of these older cars being reconstructed and some being restored, we got the bug to recreate the car. We searched around for the original and didn’t have any initial luck. So we decided, after many years of wanting to do it, to recreate it.

“It was truly unique in the way it looked and the way the tires burned going down the track – it was the one and only cars that went down the track like that,” Cruz continued. “It really became a fan favorite as he raced a lot of the local tracks around Southern California.”

His brother Tony expressed a similar sentiment; “To continue what my father started in memory and tribute to my dad is very important. Dale Armstrong will be building the engine, which is so important because they were good friends and raced together years ago. To have Pat Foster actually build the car – and the two of them working together with us – is really amazing. I think it’s amazing to pool this talent together on a project like this. I think that is why this project is even going to be that much more special.”

At the beginning of the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series season, Tony left John Force Racing after winning his first championship to form his own race team. The opportunity to join brother Cruz was too much to pass up when Quaker State came calling as the title sponsor. The move has brought the two even closer together, which cemented the idea to build the car.

“My dad was very motivated,” Tony said. “He was resourceful, intelligent and he made a lot of what little he had. I think that really said a lot about him. Drag racing, even 30 years ago, was still racing.

“I was born in 1965 and that car ran to the end of 1968,” Tony added. “My memory goes back to when my dad drove for Don Madden in the Howard Cam Special Top Fuel Dragster. I don’t remember much of the Coupe except, when it was retired. It sat in the back of our house in Chino (Calif.) and chickens lived in it. That’s why we called it the ‘Chicken Coupe.’”

Both Tony and Cruz wanted to make the car really reflect their father, both in mind and in heart. He was considered one of the most innovative racers of his time.

“We know, through watching our dad throughout his racing career, what kind of craftsman he was,” Cruz said. “We knew how detail-oriented he was. We’re going to do that to this car. We’re going to make it nicer, shinier than it was. This car will really reflect what ‘Flaming’ Frank Pedregon was all about.”

Mohegan Sun Top Fuel car to be part of March of Dimes event in Hartford, Connecticut

(11-9-2004) - The Mohegan Sun Top Fuel team of Paul Athey and Grant Flowers will have their car on display at the Gourmet Gala which benefits the March of Dimes. The event will take place at the Hartford/Windsor Marriott on Thursday, November 11, 2004 from 6pm to 9pm.

Premier chefs from the Hartford area will be on hand to prepare signature dishes and local wines and beers will be displayed by the many local wineries and breweries. The evening will culminate with silent and live auction excitement. Business attire is requested.

Red Eagle Racing will be donating a weekend at the races which will be raffled off at the event. The lucky winner will be an honorary crew member for any weekend they choose. The package includes race tickets for the winner and guests, starting line credentials, crew uniform (which will be signed by the team after the weekend for the winner to keep), food provided by the team and an unforgettable experience.

All proceeds from the event benefit the March of Dimes, working together to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality.

Rain fails to dampen Top Doorslammer debut of Kath Stevens at Nationals

(11-8-2004) - The much anticipated debut of Kath Stevens in the male dominated National Drag Racing ranks drew to a climax on the weekend during the Australian Drag Racing Nationals at Willowbank Raceway, despite rain forcing the postponement of the finals until January 1 next year.

Kath, driving her immaculately presented 3000 horsepower Jack Daniel’s 63’ Corvette became the first female in history to compete in the professional Top Doorslammer Championship, and didn’t disappoint the fans with a solid start to her racing career.

“It’s a great relief to finally get my first Championship pass down in front of a crowd,” Kath said.

“The pressure had been building since the East Coast Nationals in September when I was supposed to race but was unable to due to a fractured ankle.”

“Debuting on my home track here in Queensland was great though, I managed a PB in my second qualifier and would have really liked to get another go at making the field, but the rain made sure that was never going to happen.”

“Every run I make is building my confidence and my times are getting faster and faster.”

“I’d like to thank all of my friends, family, sponsors, my crew and especially my husband Brett for getting me to where I am, it would have never been possible without them.”

“I would also like to thank the fans for their encouragement, they have been great.”

Kath’s husband and team boss Brett Stevens, who is the current Australian Top Doorslammer Champion, also had a busy weekend racing managing to qualify in an unbelievable three professional categories at the one event, equalling the record he set in Sydney in September.

Racing in the Top Doorslammer, Top Alcohol and Top Fuel Bike classes he managed to juggle his racing, along with handling the rest of teams activities over the weekend to top qualify on his Nitro Harley and also make the finals in the other two categories.

Also adding to the team’s success Aaron Lynch’s sensational number 2 qualifying position in Top Doorslammer in only his second ever event. Lynch races a B&L Steel 63’ Corvette, which was built and prepared by Stevens and runs out of the Brett Stevens Racing pits.

Erica Enders successfully upgrades to Pro Stock license

(11-7-2004) - Junior Drag Racing League alumna and decorated sportsman racer Erica Enders successfully upgraded her competition license to include Pro Stock car Monday in Las Vegas. By rule, Enders needed one "moderate" pass and two full runs within 10 percent of the national elapsed time record of 6.661 seconds, which she easily completed during a busy day of testing.

Enders preparation for a full-time ride in one of Victor Cagnazzi's Pro Stock cars began a few weeks ago in a test session at a track near the team's Charlotte-based race shop. While there, the 21-year-old Texas A&M University student made numerous "get acquainted" runs including 12 burnouts, a handful of launches, several 330-foot and half-track pulls, and ultimately six full passes.

"It was a lot harder than anything I've driven in the past, including a Top Alcohol Funny Car," said Enders, who routinely competes in Super Gas, Super Comp, and Super Street. "But at the same time it was also a lot more fun than anything I've ever driven. Grabbing gears is a blast.
"Making a full run is an awesome feeling. I was impressed by the power. It pulls really hard and never stops pulling all the way down the track. It feels very cool, and when you pull the 'chutes, that's a pretty wild deal also. It definitely throws you forward. You can feel it."

To date, Enders' best run came in her first test as she topped out at 7.00 seconds at 193 mph. In licensing at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, she ran successive 7.08-second, 193-mph passes with the team's 7-year-old test motor in the car. Crewmen and fellow Pro Stock drivers Tom Lee and Steve Cultrera, as well as track manager Chris Blair, signed off on her license to make it official.

"I've driven race cars my whole life," Enders said. "But I'm entering this phase of my career with a different mindset. It's still so much fun but it's also a job now and I know that a lot of people are watching me and depending on me to do well. I don't want to let any one down.

"I've always wanted to get to this point where I'm driving a race car professionally. Now that I'm this close I don't want to do anything to screw it up. I think that's helped me prepare even harder than before because I want to be perfect.
"When we tested the first time I went into it feeling a little nervous. I wasn't intimidated because I've been in fast cars before but it was still an unknown. By the time we left there two days later I had my head held high because I felt confident that I could learn how to drive one of these cars. You think about it a million times but until you do it, you don't really know what it'll be like."

Enders, who was the subject of the Disney Channel's most successful feature film of all time, Right On Track, will become just the fifth woman ever to race in Pro Stock. Shirley Shahan, Judy Lilly, Lucinda McFarland, and Shay Nichols all precede Enders in the class. Of those four women, only Lilly has earned a win at the national level, and she did it in Super Stock. No female racer has won or qualified No. 1 in Pro Stock's 31-year history. Earlier this season, Enders claimed the Super Gas crown at the NHRA national event in Houston.

"I got my first little taste of what it will be like in Vegas because there were a lot of people up there watching me," Enders said. "There was some pressure there but I've always been able to take pressure and use it to help me focus and drive better. I know there are those people that want me to screw up so they can say, 'I told you so,' or 'there's a reason girls don't drive these cars.' I want to prove them all wrong so much."

Up next, the group plans for a week-long test session in South Florida in late November. They will proceed forward from there until Enders feels completely comfortable in the 1,300-horsepower race car.

"I have such a great group around me and they seem real happy with how my driving is coming along," Enders said. "There's no pressure from them. They all want me to be the best I can be and I can't thank them enough."

U.S. Army race team to salute WWII veterans

(11-6-2004) - Coinciding with this year's Veterans Day celebrations, the U.S. Army race team will carry a special salute to World War II vets at the historic 40th annual Auto Club of Southern California NHRA Finals at Pomona Raceway. The race, the 23rd and final POWERade Drag Racing Series event of the year, runs from Nov. 11-14.

The U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster driven by 2004 Top Fuel world champion Tony Schumacher will be dressed in green with white lettering, while the U.S. Army Pro Stock Bikes, driven by three-time series champion Angelle Savoie and her teammate Antron Brown, will be distinguished by the colors green and brown, respectively, both with white lettering.

"With the dedication of the World War II Memorial and the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Invasion of Normandy earlier this year, it seemed fitting to take this opportunity to say thanks to this special group of Veterans as well as all those who have served our nation in the Armed Forces," said Col. Thomas Nickerson, Director of Strategic Outreach for the U.S. Army Accessions Command.

"Today's soldiers are carrying on the proud tradition of those who served before them. Each generation of soldiers has made unique and special contributions to our nation and to the world. Each generation of soldier has faced the challenges of their time with honor and courage. Those serving our country today in the Global War on Terror are no different. They are truly patriots whose valor and dedication are inspiring."

Schumacher, Savoie, and Brown are all keenly aware of the significance the World War II special paint scheme has with Veterans' Day – November 11 – falling on opening day of the race weekend.

“I believe this is a great thing," Schumacher said. "We've won a bunch of races for the U.S. Army this season, but winning the season finale at Pomona carrying this special paint scheme would mean that much more to all of us."

Schumacher will be trying for his 10th Top Fuel victory of the season in Pomona, which would set a single-season record for the Top Fuel category. Currently, Schumacher's nine wins ties him with Gary Scelzi and Larry Dixon for the record.
Savoie and Brown are still involved in a heated battle for the POWERade championship in Pro Stock Bike and are within four points of one another in the standings. Brown has 1,035 points, 117 behind leader Andrew Hines, while Savoie trails the No. 1 rider by 121 points.

As much as they'd like to have a miracle run in Pomona and somehow come away with the POWERade title, their thoughts are with the veterans and soldiers they are representing.

"It's a real honor to be driving for the U.S. Army overall, but I'm particularly proud that we're going to be able to single out the World War II veterans in Pomona," Savoie said. "It will show that we haven't forgotten what they did for our country."
"Most of us know someone in our family or know someone in a friend's family who is a World War II vet," Brown said. "Like today's soldiers, they were all heroes and deserve every piece of recognition we can give them. I'm hopeful that either Angelle or I can top the weekend off with a victory. That would be a nice present for all of them."

CMKXtreme Racing announces plans for the 2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season

(11-5-2004) - CMKXtreme Racing has announced that they will be sponsoring three race teams for the 2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season. Urban Casavant, founder and current Chairman of the Board of CMKM Diamonds, Inc. (formerly known as Casavant Mining and Kimberlite International) confirmed the announcement during the recent Las Vegas NHRA Nationals.

Veteran Funny Car driver Jeff Arend will be back behind the wheel of the CMKXtreme Machine in 2005, driving for Paul Smith Racing. Pro Stock Bike rider Connie Cohen will ride the CMKXtreme Suzuki for the full season again next year. And Tony Bartone will return to pilot the Got CMKX?/Lucas Oil Funny Car for Jim Dunn Racing next season.

"We are thrilled to be entering the 2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season with such a great group of race teams under the CMKXtreme Racing banner," said Casavant. "I know that Jeff Arend, Tony Bartone and Connie Cohen will do an outstanding job representing CMKXtreme Racing for all of our shareholders around the world. We will do everything we can to support all three teams as they fight for a POWERade championship in 2005."

Arend, a former NHRA Funny Car national event champion, will be entering his first full season of competition. The 41-year-old driver burst back onto the Funny Car scene by qualifying third at the O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston back in April. Arend has qualified for 16 races in 18 starts this season, which includes qualifying for 14 NHRA national events in a row. Despite the late start to the season, the Canadian native will finish the year just outside the Top 15 in the final point standings. With a new Murf McKinney chassis and Chevy Monte Carlo body on order for the CMKXtreme Machine team, Arend is extremely enthusiastic over the prospects of the 2005 season.

"We're really excited about next year," said Arend from his San Dimas, Calif. home. "Having a new chassis and body style will enable us to be a lot more competitive in 2005 than we were this year. I felt like we did a good job this season, especially when you consider that we qualified for most of the races running an older chassis and body style. With a new chassis and the Monte Carlo body we should instantly be more competitive. We'll go testing before the beginning of the season and our goal is a solid Top 10 finish. We have two months to prepare for next season instead of throwing things together in two weeks like we did this year. You can be sure we'll begin the new season with our guns loaded."

Tony Bartone will be back in 2005, driving the Got CMKX?/Lucas Oil Funny Car for Jim Dunn Racing. The California-based team, which ran with associate sponsor support from CMKX for the last half of the 2004 season, will once again be led by drag racing icon, Jim Dunn. Dunn has been involved in drag racing for more than 50 years and was recently named to the NHRA's Top 50 drivers list. He has been a fixture in the Funny Car class for decades, as a driver and as a crew chief and team owner. Always a fan favorite, Dunn will be looking to add to his long list of accomplishments in 2005.

Bartone is a former Alcohol Funny Car standout with 29 career NHRA national event titles. His best season was in 1996 when he won eight races and set a single-season record with 37 consecutive round wins in national and divisional events. Bartone went on to win the Winston Select, the TRW Funny Car All-Star championship, four divisional events and the 1996 NHRA Alcohol Funny Car title. After finishing second in the national point standings in both 1997 and 1999, Bartone made the move to nitro Funny Car. The New York native will finish the 2004 NHRA season in the Top 15 in the Funny Car points battle.

Connie Cohen will be back next season, riding the CMKXtreme Suzuki at every event on the 2005 NHRA Pro Stock Bike schedule for the second consecutive year. "It's really awesome to be able to prepare for the new season knowing that we have such a great sponsor like CMKXtreme on board," said Cohen. "My husband Marc will be building a new bike during the off-season and we plan on testing before the Gatornationals in March."

Cohen will be riding a new state-of-the-art Suzuki GSXR-1000 in 2005. "Thanks to Urban and Ron Casavant and the support of CMKXtreme Racing we've had a chance to get a taste of what it takes to run the full tour this season," Cohen added. "We were able to gain data from some of the tracks we've never competed on before and I'm sure that will help us when we return next season. We're going to do everything we can to try and put the CMKXtreme Suzuki in the winner's circle next year."

Millican, Elvis, and 104+ Performance Additives to Reunite at NHRA Season Finale in Pomona

(11-5-2004) - Clay Millican, Lehman Racing, and 104+ Performance Additives will continue their partnership with Memphis- based Elvis Presley Enterprises by racing the team's special Elvis Presley-themed dragster at the final NHRA race of the 2004 season, the Auto Club of Southern California Finals in Pomona, Calif., on November 11-14.

Millican raced the Elvis dragster in NHRA competition in Memphis and Indianapolis earlier this season, advancing to the semi-finals in front of his hometown crowd in Memphis, and moving on to the quarterfinals in Indy. Additionally, the car was unveiled during Elvis Week at Graceland with Millican performing an 8,000 horsepower burnout down Elvis Presley Boulevard in his Top Fuel dragster. This was the first legal Top Fuel burnout on a U.S. city street in over 17 years.

"I am so excited that our team gets to race this Elvis dragster for the season finale," said Millican. "The relationship that we built with Elvis Presley Enterprises through this special themed car has been a lot of fun and I look forward to getting the fans in California excited about the 50 Years of Rock 'n Roll celebration."

Earlier this season, Millican and Team 104+ Performance Additives/Lehman Racing advanced to three consecutive NHRA final rounds at the national events in Houston, Atlanta, and Bristol. He has raced in nine of the 22 NHRA races that have taken place this season, holding an impressive 14th position in the POWERade Top Fuel points standings despite racing in the league on a part-time basis. Should he move up to 13th place in the points standings after the Auto Club of Southern California Finals, it would be the highest NHRA POWERade points finish of his career.

Millican is a native of the Memphis area, and is a four- time IHRA Top Fuel Champion. He recently clinched his fourth IHRA title and finished the season with a victory at the IHRA World Finals in Rockingham, N.C.

Radford and Steffey To Team Up For 2005

(11-5-2004) - Dennis Radford will join with Ed Steffey to campaign a new Jerry Haas-built nitrous-injected 1963 Corvette Pro Mod machine for the full 2005 IHRA season. "This is a big opportunity and if I do my part we should do well next year," said Radford. "Ed Steffey is a fantastic owner and we're both ready to step up to the next level."

Radford, President and CEO of Radford Trucking, was crowned the 2002 West Coast Pro Modified Association champion when he won six out of eight finals. Radford became the first man to win the WCPMA points series with a nitrous car, and he is the only person to win six Pro Mod races in a row at Firebird Raceway in Boise. Radford Trucking specializes in transporting Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Machines.

Ed Steffey has been a mainstay in Pro Modified and his cars have always been a threat to win. His most recent win came at the IHRA World Nationals in Norwalk with Pat Moore driving.

Rickie Smith will act as a consultant to the new team. Power will come from Buck Racing Engines. Ram Clutches and Nitrous Oxide Systems will be on board as sponsors.
Radford also plans to field his 2002 Dodge Viper at WCPMA races. Plans to run the AMS series are pending.

NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series announces 2005 schedule

(11-4-2004) - NHRA has announced the 2005 schedule for the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series. The 10-race schedule will be highlighted by the inclusion of the series at two NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events.

The championship categories in the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series will compete for points at the SummitRacing.com Nationals, April 14-17, in Las Vegas and the O'Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals, in Topeka, Kan., Memorial Day weekend, May 26-29. An eleventh race towards the PRO RWD NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing World Championship will be held at the world's largest and most prestigious drag racing event, the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, on Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 - Sept. 5, at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

Beyond its participation at the two NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events, the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series will make two stops in both Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. and Englishtown, N.J. Also, returning on the schedule from 2004, will be events at tracks in Atco, N.J., Denver, Pomona, Calif., and Las Vegas.

"We are excited to bring the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series championship categories to two NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events in 2004 and having them compete for NHRA Summit Sport Compact Drag Racing Series World Championship points," said Gary Darcy, vice president of marketing, NHRA. "With the support we have received from the racing community, including racers, sponsors and fans, we believe this is a logical step in the evolution of the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Series and a wonderful opportunity to introduce this exciting form of drag racing and its stars to our NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series audience."

The balance of the schedule visits markets that have a long and storied tradition in sport compact drag racing. The Southern California market, Englishtown, and South Florida are hot beds for sport compact racing and represent the biggest sport compact drag races in the world.

The season-opener will be held the first week in April at Moroso Motorsports Park in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., followed by the series visit to the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series event in Las Vegas. At the end of the month, the first of two events in Englishtown, N.J. will be contested.
The first half of the season continues in Atco, N.J., followed by the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series national event in Topeka, Kan., and concludes at Bandimere Speedway in Denver, June 11-12.

The second half of the season opens in August with the second event at Moroso Motorsports Park, followed by stops in Las Vegas, Englishtown, N.J., and the season finale at Pomona Raceway in Pomona, Calif. As in years past, the series awards ceremony will be held at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum in Pomona, Calif.

"NHRA is committed to the long-term success of the sport compact movement and we are excited about this opportunity to showcase this series at our national events for the benefit of the racing community, sponsors and our fans," said Darcy.
At the eight stand-alone events, NHRA will continue its very popular NHRA Stylefest presented by Sony Xplod, which last year featured car shows, car audio competitions, local talent performances and the NHRA Xtreme Bikini Jam.

Third Annual Southeast NHRA Sport Compact Nationals Moroso Motorsports Park
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

NHRA SummitRacing.com Nationals
Las Vegas (POWERade event-Championship categories only)

Fifth Annual Nitto NHRA Sport Compact Springnationals
Old Bridge Township Raceway Park
Englishtown, N.J.

O'Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals
Topeka, Kan. (POWERade event-Championship categories only)

Second Annual Mountain Madness NHRA Sport Compact Nationals
Bandimere Speedway
Denver

Inaugural South Florida NHRA Sport Compact Nationals
Moroso Motorsports Park
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

Third Annual NHRA Sport Compact Desert Nationals
The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas

Fourth Annual NHRA Sport Compact Fallnationals
Old Bridge Township Raceway Park
Englishtown, N.J.

Remember, if you have a story lead or news that you wouldlike to share with us, or even some good old-fashioned gossip, drop us a line at rumors@competitionplus.com.