IHRA makes their first stop on the Nitro Jam Tour at San Antonio Raceway in San Antonio, Texas. Despite morning rain, the first day's qualifying sessions were completed on schedule and the first "Last Man Standing" Champions of 2008 were crowned Friday night.

 

Frank Gugliotta claimed the rights to "Last Man Standing" in the Pro Stock Category, securing five bonus points and a plaque and check from Quarter-Max Chassis and Racing Components – sponsor of the "Last Man Standing" through the Quarter-Max Pro Stock Challenge.  Gugliotta ran an elapsed time of 4.117 to gain the title over Pete Berner's 4.119. With a new car and team together, he was surprised, but very pleased with the results:

 

"We're actually shocked that we won the Pro Stock Challenge Friday night. We don't have many runs on this car. We tested at Valdosta and then earlier this week at Houston, where the car started to show more promise, but we really didn't expect to come out here and be this quick. I have to say thanks to Rick [Jones] for putting this deal on. He's my car owner from last year and he's a really great guy. We can't thank him and the guys at Quarter-Max enough.  This year I'm running for Bob Yoak, and we've got a great car and a great team. I'm really excited about this season."

 

Rick Jones was on hand to present the award to his driver from last year:

 

"I am pleased with the 'Last Man Standing' program. I think it adds a lot of excitement to qualifying and gives the racers extra incentive. I'm happy to be a part of it. Frank drove for me last year and I was glad to see him win the first Pro Stock Challenge of 2008. RJ Race Cars finished number one and two after Friday's qualifying. It's good to see my cars out here running well and taking the lead in Pro Stock. Hopefully we can continue this trend throughout the season."

 

Saturday's Pro Stock Challenge "Last Man Standing" will be crowned after the final qualifying session. With better air and sunny skies, the stage is set for quick elapsed times and great racing.