While the decision to cut Alcohol Funny Cars from the 2009 Nitro Jam schedule was not an easy one, the IHRA welcomes its alcohol burning floppers back to the fold this weekend at the Rocky Mountain Nationals at Castrol Raceway.

Well over a dozen Alcohol Funny Cars are on hand for this weekend’s event including one of the greatest in the history of the sport – Rob Atchison.

The Canadian born wheelman is second all-time on the IHRA charts in wins (20) and has three championships to his credit all gained back-to-back-to-back during the 2003, 2004 and 2005 seasons.

While the decision to cut Alcohol Funny Cars from the 2009 Nitro Jam schedule was not an easy one, the IHRA welcomes its alcohol burning floppers back to the fold this weekend at the Rocky Mountain Nationals at Castrol Raceway.

Well over a dozen Alcohol Funny Cars are on hand for this weekend’s event including one of the greatest in the history of the sport – Rob Atchison.

The Canadian born wheelman is second all-time on the IHRA charts in wins (20) and has three championships to his credit all gained back-to-back-to-back during the 2003, 2004 and 2005 seasons.

While Atchison has been able to keep the tires spinning on his Ace sponsored car, the 35-time final round participant is thrilled to be able to return to IHRA competition this weekend.

“It is a great opportunity to be able to come back and run at the Edmonton track. For me I was fortunate to have Ace Manufacturing step up and sponsor my west coast car and I have been able to run a few more races in Canada giving me an opportunity to see a little more of my Canadian fans,” Atchison said. “This is a beautiful facility. They work hard at accommodating the racers and making it the best they can. This is usually the best weekend of the year for drag racing.”

While Grand Bend is considered Atchison’s home track, Castrol Raceway has a special place in his heart. Along with a win in 2005, Atchison has seen plenty of success and has one of his biggest followings right here in Edmonton.

“Other than Grand Bend our biggest following is here. Alberta fans really support this event and that is why we are here,” Atchison said. “We are here to put on a show and entertain a full crowd. It is nice to be able to do this in front of 30,000 screaming fans. It is a place where you can here them cheering on you even from the other end of the track.” 

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