Top Sportsman racer Randy Alexander was transported to a hospital Saturday afternoon from Atlanta Dragway during the first round of NHRA Southern Nationals eliminations for the Top Sportsman class following a high-speed crash that caught up opponent Bob Mandell. 

The accident, reminiscent of the Dallas collision of Pro Stockers Kenny Koretsky and Bruce Allen, occurred about 100-150 feet past the finish line, in the shutdown area. 

Mandell, of Culleoka, Tenn., exited his Bob’s Pro Fab Chevrolet on his own power.

“I’m 100% okay,” said Mandell.

Alexander, of Harvest, Ala., lost control of his Wilkerson Racing Engines ’63 Corvette in the right lane. His car made a hard left after he crossed the finish line at 160 mph and crossed into the left lane in front of Mandell.

Mandell T-boned Alexander’s car only slightly slower than the 203 mph he clocked as he completed the run.   

Upon impact, Alexander’s car flipped over and landed on the guard wall.

An emergency medical helicopter was summoned, but onsite EMT officials determined the best way to transport Alexander was by ambulance.

Racing was interrupted for more than an hour.