Jimmy Whitehead - Since the death of my cousin/partner Jerome Knotts its been hard to keep on track and continue with the tradition,but in 2009, Knothead Racing (Jimmy Whitehead and crew) will start a new program, the 67 Camaro will be running a 502 to compete in the 5:30 and 6:0 heads up class and the 92 Beretta will run a 406 to compete in the 7:0 heads up class. If all goes well both cars will have female drivers, Mother and Daughter. Synder Crashes while test @ SGMP Mar.10
Nick Synder Crashes at South Georgia Motorsports Park While Testing Photos by Marvin Smith
Nick Synder did not have the start he anticipated this 2010 season. The young driver crashed while testing at SGMP last week. Synder teamed with Scruggs in 2010 and was set to campaign Scruggs' previous 1963 corvette. Unfortunately, Synder will not make his debut, March 19-20, at the opening ADRL Universal Technical Institute Dragpalooza VI.
Jones Paint and Design Completes Kenny Acree’s Promod Camaro Mar.10
Jones Paint & Design Completes Kenny Acree’s Promod Camaro By Agent DC on March 10, 2010
Jones Paint and Body is on a mission. The artist "lil" Jones has definitely become dynamic with paint schemes and airbrushing. Agent DC received these spy photos of Kenny Acree’s new Promod Camaro. The Outlaw Racing Street Car Association (ORSCA) racer purchased this bad to the bone hot rod last year some time, exiting his Chevy Lumina. Casey Prince has obtained driving duties of Acree’s Chevy Lumina and will compete in 5.30 and 5.00 events. Acree will now complete in the 4.70 Heads Up Class and various heads up events.
John Sullivan Gets a New Ride Mar.10
PHOTOS: New Hot Rod in John Sullivan's Stable; Dodge Stratus by TJ Pruitt on March 10, 2010
DragCoverage.com member John Sullivan, aka "lil john," has posted pictures of the new hotrod that has entered their stable. "Lil" John Sullivan will be behind the wheel of this beautiful Dodge Stratus in 2010. The Sullivans compete in various Heads Up Races across the South East and are known to turn the win light on quite often.
Solid Rock 1971 Mustang Mach I Nostlagia Funny Car Complete Mar.10
PHOTOS: Solid Rock 1971 Mustang Mach I Nostlagia Funny Car Complete by TJ Pruitt on March 10, 2010
The final touches to the Solid Rock 1971 Mustang Mach I nostalgia funny car have been completed. DragCoverage.com received these photos from Rocky Ausec and this is one bad to the bone hotrod. The funny car will be on display at the Race and Performance Expo at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL. on March 6th & 7th. It will be displayed in conjunction with the Engine Challenge that is put on by the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow organization
More Technology Launches MoTecOnline.com Mar.10
Will Bringing New and Innovative Tools to Motorsports
More Technology, MoTec, was created to facilitate the implementation and distribution of new, innovative, and useful tools to the motorsports industry. With the slogan, putting More Technology in your hands, MoTec will do just that.
The leadership team is comprised of entrepreneurs with a variety of experiences in motorsports, government, marketing, finance, and consulting. This valued knowledge allows MoTec to provide technological advancing tools to the motorsports industry. These tools have been utilized in other industries with great results.
MoTec will provide a variety of instruments that will increase on track
performance through gathering clear and precise visual data. When races
are won and lost within a blink of an eye, technological innovations
make the difference. MoTec understands the motorsports industry and the
mindset of all racers, professional and sportsman alike.
Beal Racing Engines team up with EOPM Mar.10
The Extreme Outlaw Pro Mod club is proud to officially announce Beal Racing Engines as an associate sponsor for the 2010 season. Talking with Andy Beal owner of Beal Racing Engines, Stuart Williams learned that Beal has been building engines for over 15 years. Beal Racing Engines build all type of engines for nitrous horsepower, supercharged horsepower, and naturally aspirated horsepower combinations. Beal Racing Engines specialize in bracket racing 565 engines to doorslammer racing 738 nitrous engines. Beal Racing Engines handle all machine work in house.
They are located in Thomasville, NC and can be reached at 1-336-476-5410. The Extreme Outlaw Pro Mods are thrilled to have Andy Beal Racing Engines support for the innagural 2010 season with the long term goal of helping each other grow. Look for more news soon as Beal Racing Engines could be named as the title sponsor of the EOPM race at Richmond Dragway.
A Pro Mod dream becomes a reality Mar.10
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 8) -- After a decade of existence as an exhibition class, the Pro Mod cars are now a fully sanctioned NHRA class, and team owner/driver Roger Burgess couldn't be happier.
"A lot of people contributed a lot of time and effort to make this happen," Burgess said. "By becoming an official class it legitimizes everything we've been doing. Racing for Wally (trophies) is going to be very exciting. Everyone wants one of those little gold men. They are the NHRA's iconic symbol of success.
"Being on ESPN2 also will help tremendously, especially with bringing corporate sponsors to the table for all of our competitors. This is big year for us."
Since the announcement of the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, the requests for a spot in the elite field have gone off the charts. NHRA LODRS Results from Atlanta Mar.10
COMMERCE, Ga. (March 8, 2010) – In the final results from Atlanta
Dragway and the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Duane Shields,
Bolder City, Nev., and Jay Payne, Claremont, Calif. took home the wins
in Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car respectively. COMP ELIMINATOR
Frank Aragona Jr., Freehold, N.J., dragster, F/ED, 8.193, 159.72 def.
Grant Lewis, Jesup, Ga., '05 Grand Am, H/AA, 8.606, 155.65.
SUPER STOCK
Mike Tueffel, Browns Summit, N.C., '98 Grand Am, SS/BM, 8.658, 159.36
def. Jeff Strickland, Red Bay, Ala., '95 Camaro, SS/JA, foul.
SUPER COMP
Ray Miller, Spring Hill, Fla., dragster, 8.931, 171.90 def. Larry Roberts, Laurens, S.C., dragster, 8.958, 179.73.
SUPER GAS
David Tatum III, Palmetto, Ga., '05 Cavalier, 9.945, 163.87 def. Bruce
Duncan, Crawfordville, Fla., '03 Cavalier, 9.925, 160.65.
SUPER STREET
Donnie Gibbs Jr, Mooresville, N.C., '71 Nova, 10.920, 124.82 def. Bobby Taylor Jr, Orlando, Fla., '89 Camaro, 10.947, 128.64.
TOP DRAGSTER
Phillip Oakley, Owensboro, Ky., dragster, 6.849, 181.81 def. Steve Furr, Harrisburg, N.C., dragster, 7.138, 183.89.
TOP SPORTSMAN
Billy Vaughn, Knoxville, Tenn., '95 Monte Carlo, 7.025, 193.43 def. Jeff Pittman, Conover, N.C., '68 Chevelle, 7.035, 190.59.
Pro Slammers, On Fire with $5000 Payout Mar.10
The
7 Second Pro Slammers Association is gaining momentum as the word of
the $5000 guaranteed payout at the first event spreads. With a
guaranteed purse to the winner and runner up; it’s no wonder why this
association has spread like a wild fire. At the request of multiple
teams, Pro Slammers will have a special test session held at Sacramento
Raceway on March 27th in preparation for the first race, “Funny Car
Fever” hosted by 619 Promotions. Since its inception, the newly formed
class has drawn a lot of interest from teams in and around California,
Arizona and even as far as Alaska. “In today’s economy if you want to
make it you’d better give something to the racers or they will park
their cars and that’s what Pro Slammers is here for. We didn’t have a
choice we had to start this association because of a need to fill the
gaps of classes falling off, others having too many rules and let’s
face it the fans want “heads up” 7.0 racing. Just look at the trend of
the TV shows and most track formats, it’s clear to see where the demand
is”, says the PDSCA.
Teams are signing up from Nevada and Oregon that are going to run with
the Pro Slammers and that is great news for a new association. Daryl
Jensen’s 59 Corvette; John Overholser’s beautiful 1956 Chevy ; along
with Howard Anderson’s 38’ Chevy Coupe; and The Mallicoat Brothers 68
Cuda are just a few of the guys that support this class. The emails
and calls are rolling in and we believe that Pro Slammers will be a
premier class on the West Coast. There are a lot of guys who needed
this to happen, either because of finances or just wanted to try
something different.
Kurt Busch to compete in the Gatornationals this Weekend Mar.10
Kurt Busch is Drag Racing This Weekend by Agent DC on March 10, 2010
2004 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Kurt Busch will return to his drag racing roots during the 41st running of the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals March 11-14 at historic Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway. The driver of the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge for Penske Racing is set to get behind the wheel of his rebuilt 1970 Dodge Challenger next weekend to compete against a field of between 70 and 90 veteran “Super Gas” racers who no doubt will be champing at the bit to line up against one of the biggest names in motorsports.
Mike Hill Vs Edmund Hall Part II Coverage Mar.10
Mike Hill VS Edmund Hall Part II Coverage March 6, 2010 (Montgomery, AL) -- Mike Hill and Edmund Hall could not have asked for a better day to grudge race. The weather was beautiful! DragCoverage was planning to cover the race live, but I (TJ) decided to try my luck in the 6.00 Heads Up Class. NHRA Announces Pro Mod Tv Schedule Mar.05
GLENDORA, Calif. -- The inaugural NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, which begins at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals March 11-14, will be featured on ESPN2 and ESPN2HD.
ESPN2 and ESPN2HD will televise ten 30-minute highlight shows of the racing action from select NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events. The shows, to be aired on a taped delay basis, will recap the weekend’s events including final elimination coverage of the 16-car fields. BRODIX Presents TIBR “Live” in 2010 Mar.05
BRODIX Cylinder Heads Presents ThisIsBracketRacing.com “Live” in 2010
Woodville, AL: ThisIsBracketRacing.com has announced it’s 2010 schedule of “Live” at-track sportsman drag racing schools. This season’s TIBR “Live” schedule is presented by BRODIX Cylinder Heads and will feature seven separate venues throughout the United States. Six of the schools are standard on-track driving courses for competitors in Box, No Box, and Footbrake competition; with one school reserved for Junior Dragster competitors specifically
The 2010 schedule of ThisIsBracketRacing.com “Live” Driving Schools presented by BRODIX Cylinder Heads kicks off March 31-April 1 at Atco Raceway in Atco, NJ where ThisIsBracketRacing.com’s own Luke Bogacki will be joined by 5-time NHRA World Champion Peter Biondo. A few weeks later, on April 16-17, TIBR “Live” will return to Mo-Kan Dragway in Joplin, MO for the third annual school at the fabled facility. There, Bogacki will be joined by Super Class standout Tommy Phillips.. Huntsville Engine King of the Coast Kicks off with over 200 entries Mar.05
Huntsville Engine King of the Coast Kicks off with over 200 entries by K.O.C. Media
Feb. 20 & 21, 2010. The Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Bracket Series Kicked off it's 6th Season of racing this past weekend as the Bracket Bash invaded Gulfport Dragway in Gulfport, MS. With a good weather forecast in store racers from Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky and Texas made the trip to Gulfport Dragway hoping to cash in on the $26,000 Weekend Purse
Solid Rock '71 Mustang on Display at Exp Mar.05
The Solid Rock, a 1971 Mustang Mach I nostalgia funny car will be on
display at the Race and Performance Expo at the Pheasant Run Resort in
St. Charles, IL. on March 6th & 7th.
It will be displayed in conjunction with the Engine Challenge that is put on by the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow organization.
The Engine Challenge is a high school competition where teams of five
students compete against the clock. They compete with identical small
block Chevy engines "dressed out" as to replicate engines found in
today's muscle cars and hot rods. They work with hand tools using
proper tear down and reassembly techniques.
Team Frantic Ford featured on cover of DRM Mar.05
"Team Frantic" is very honored to announce that the Frantic Ford AA/FC
will be featured in the upcoming issue of Drag Racer Magazine as well
as future issues to follow.
This multi-issue series is titled "The Frantic Ford Rides Again-A Historical Perspective"(Part 1 of 3)
Travel through time and experience the evolution of the Frantic Ford AA/Fuel Coupe. This exciting series will take you from the very beginnings right up to our current day operation.
Goodyear's D4305 Drag Radial Takes Victory in Georgia Mar.05
Goodyear's D4305 Drag Radial Takes Victory in Georgia by Agent DC on March 10, 2010
Sometimes tires scream and sometimes they screech. But Sunday, at the ORTC/UORS Night The Lights Went Out Outlaw Radial Tire Championship at South Georgia Motorsports Park, Goodyear’s D4305 DOT drag radial tire made a statement. The race drew cars with wildly differing drag racing applications and matched purpose-built drag racing slick tires
Antrown Brown Speaks... Mar.03
Antron Brown Statement on Feb. 21 Accident by Schumacher Racing on March 3, 2010
Don Schumacher Racing Top Fuel driver Antron Brown would like to extend his condolences to the family and friends of a woman who was killed on Sunday at Firebird International Raceway in Chandler, Ariz. on Feb. 21. Brown said "My heart and my prayers go out to the woman's family and friends," Brown said. "Our focus is on the family's well being during this very challenging time.
VP Racing Fuels Statement on Phoenix Mar.02
VP Statement on Phoenix Traction Issues; It's Not Our FAULT In response to several queries we've received and blogs that have been posted regarding the traction compound used at Firebird International Raceway which led to the postponement of the NHRA races there this past week, we want to confirm that VP's Lane Choice was not involved in any way. VP's Lane Choice traction compound has never been purchased or used at Firebird. Hinds Motorsports back with lots of updates for 2010 PMRA tour Mar.02
New Look for Hinds Motorsports in 2010 by PMRA on March 2, 2010
Al Hinds Motorsports is very excited to announce its return to Pro Modified Racing Association competition for the 2010 season with major backing from Wakefield Canada, under the Castrol SLX banner. ADRL Bans Use of Titanium Studs Mar.02
ADRL Bans Use of Titanium Wheel Studs; Issues Other Rules
The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) announced today that titanium wheel studs are prohibited in all professional classes, effective immediately, and the rule will be checked for compliance beginning Mar. 19-20, at the season-opening Universal Technical Institute Dragpalooza VI presented by Safety-Kleen.
“The ADRL has been monitoring this issue for the past year and last week during our monthly Rules Committee meeting, committee members voted unanimously to ban the use of titanium wheel studs in all professional categories,” Tom Grooms of the ADRL Technical Services division said. “So, all ADRL competitors are advised to make this immediate change.”
Additionally, ADRL Technical Services reiterated that all Pro Extreme
and Pro Nitrous entries are required to have full-floating rear-end
housings this season, as per the 2010 ADRL rules. However, recognizing
that certain teams may still need time to comply, Grooms said a
one-event extension to rule implementation has been granted.
“Our
Rules Committee voted to allow ADRL teams a one-race exemption, but we
want to make it very clear that everyone must be in full compliance
with this rule by Apr. 23-24, at the Hardee’s Georgia Drags VI at
Valdosta, Georgia,” Grooms stated. “There will be no exceptions made
once we get to Georgia.” Have You Considered Race Car Insurance? Mar.02
Have you considered purchasing Race Car Insurance? Race car driving has always been a popular sporting event in the United States. When driving at such high speeds, there are many things that can happen that could cause an accident. Because car racing is such a high risk sport and race cars are very expensive, drivers understand the risks involved with the sport. DragCoverage.com Media Feb.28
VIDEO: DragCoverage.com takes a ride with Timmy Smith - In-Car Video by T.J. Pruitt on February 29, 2010DragCoverage.com took a ride with Roanoke Mafia racer Timmy Smith at the Super 7 Series opener on February 27, 2010 at Montgomery Motorsports Park. The big dollar bracket race winner took DC for a ride at nearly 140 mph during time trials of the $20,000 to win bracket race. DC will feature more in-car videos throughout the year. 2010 Million Dollar Race at Indy Feb.27
Randy Folk has announced the location for the 2010 Million Dollar Race. The popular Bracket Racing event founded by George Howard will be helnd at O'Reilly Raceway Park in Indianapolis, IN. O'Reilly will provide the facility and track.
Parking for the event will begin on Wednesday, September 8, 2010. The races will start on Thursday September 9th through September 12th.
ADRL Offering Printable Tickets Online Feb.27
Beginning today, the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is providing
race fans the ability to print tickets to its national events from the
comfort and convenience of their own computer.
“This new online service will ensure that anyone with a computer and
printer will be able to obtain tickets to our events. We have thousands
of fans who travel to see each of our events and they don’t want to
wait until they get near the track to pick up their tickets. It will
also be easier for teams and sponsors to get tickets without having to
track them down in-market,” Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune
explained. “Basically, this program is being offered as a convenience
for our fans and track partners and we’re confident it will make things
easier for everyone involved.”
ADRL and House of Hot Rods Present ‘Eye Candy’ to Dallas Car Show Goers Feb.27
ADRL and House of Hot Rods Present ‘Eye Candy’ to Dallas Car Show Goers by ADRL Media on January 28, 2010
The House of Hot Rods “Eye Candy” display at this weekend’s O’Reilly
Auto Parts Autorama Car Show in downtown Dallas, Texas, will feature
sweet rides and sweet treats, courtesy of the American Drag Racing
League (ADRL), which will be providing complimentary candy to Dallas
Autorama fans.
NHRA Statement on Phoenix Crash Feb.22
Woman Killed By Debris After NHRA Crash by Agent DC on February 22, 2010
A woman who was struck by a tire earlier today at the NHRA Arizona Nationals at Firebird International Raceway was pronounced dead at Good Samaritan Hospital this evening. The tire became detached from Antron Brown's dragster following an incident during the first round of eliminations. Brown was not injured.
NHRA is investigating the incident. The entire NHRA community is deeply saddened by today's incident and sends its thoughts and prayers to the woman's family and friends.
Prostock Eliminations to run during Gatornats Feb.22
ELIMINATIONS FOR PRO STOCK CATEGORY TO BE RUN DURING QUALIFYING AT THE TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS
CHANDLER, Ariz. – The quarterfinal, semifinal and final rounds of Pro Stock for the NHRA Arizona Nationals will be run during qualifying at the 41st annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway, NHRA officials announced today.
Due to forecasted cold weather and persistent rain, the unfinished rounds will be completed during the second, third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the event in two weeks at the historic Florida dragstrip.
The quarterfinal pairs will be matched up during the second round of qualifying Friday, March 12, with the semifinal pairs matched up during third round of qualifying and the final round matched up during the final round of qualifying Saturday, March 13th. The runs will occur during the scheduled qualifying sessions of the event and the times posted during those runs will count toward qualifying for the event.
The completion of the NHRA Lucas Oil Series portion of this event will be conducted during next weekend's NHRA Division 7 event here.
Mountain View team regroups after Phoenix accident Feb.22
Deceglie regroups after Phoenix accident Mountain View Racing driver Vinnie Deceglie emerged unhurt following a high-speed accident during Pro Stock qualifying at this weekend’s Arizona NHRA Nationals in Phoenix. Deceglie was in the left lane, attempting to better an earlier 6.66-second run, when the team’s Dodge Avenger lost traction and made contact with the left side retaining wall. The car turned over and slid across the finish line on its roof before coming to a stop in the shutdown area. Force Continues Early-Season Resurgence in Arizona Feb.22
Force Continues Early-Season Resurgence in Arizona; NHRA Arizona Nationals by NHRA on February 22, 2010
NHRA icon John Force continued his early-season resurgence by reaching his second straight final round before racing was postponed Sunday at the 26th NHRA Arizona Nationals.
Weather delays moved racing into the early evening and deteriorating conditions forced the postponement. Racing will resume Monday at 10 a.m. MT with finals in Top Fuel and Funny Car and quarterfinals in Pro Stock.
NHRA Statement Feb.21
CHANDLER, Ariz. -- A woman who was struck by a tire earlier today at the NHRA Arizona Nationals at Firebird International Raceway was pronounced dead at Good Samaritan Hospital this evening. The tire became detached from Antron Brown's dragster following an incident during the first round of eliminations. Brown was not injured.
NHRA is investigating the incident. The entire NHRA community is deeply saddened by today's incident and sends its thoughts and prayers to the woman's family and friends.
No Joke: Nostalgia Funny Cars Serious Business at March Meet Feb.18
No Joke: Nostalgia Funny Cars Serious Business at March Meet by Rob Gibson
A funny thing is happening on the way to the 2010 March Meet nostalgia
drag race: Funny Cars are having the last laugh - seriously. With 32
entries - the largest field since 1980 - and 14-time NHRA Funny Car
champion John Force tabbed as this year's Grand Marshal, Nostalgia
Funny Cars will indeed reign supreme at the 52nd running of the March
Meet, Mar. 5-7 at historic Auto Club Famous Raceway in McFarland, Calif. Pacific Street Car Association (PSCA) News and Rumors for 2010 Feb.18
Pacific Street Car Association (PSCA) News and Rumors for 2010 The PSCA is a West Coast heads up association that is, in my opinion, one of the most unique Drag Racing organization. The cars and entries are some of the baddest hotrods on this planet. Attending a PSCA event in Las Vegas is on the "to-do" list for DragCoverage.com. The following are PSCA news and rumors for 2010. ParkerTech Racing's New Direction for 2010 Feb.18
Milford, Michigan: Driver Bobby Martin called Frank and Dan Parker
“One of the most powerful tuning duos in the sport.” Team Patriarch
Dan Parker said, “We’re tickled to death with Bobby’s performance.”
This isn’t exactly a war of words. It’s about the potent combination
of Parkertech Racing and Bobby Martin that produced a U.S. Nationals
win, a Division 3 Championship with the Spitzer Cup as a bonus, a top
ten national finish, and a Division 3 Pro/Sportsman Driver of the Year
award, all in just two seasons. ParkerTech and Martin will go in
separate directions in 2010.
NHRA Member Tracks to Host State Champs Feb.18
NHRA MEMBER TRACKS TO HOST NHRA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
GLENDORA, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2010) -- The National Hot Rod Association is pleased to announce the formation of the NHRA State Championship, a new special event program for its member tracks and E.T. Bracket racers beginning in the 2010 season. With member tracks across the country as well as in Canada and Puerto Rico, the program will recognize and award grassroots racers with a unique specially designed NHRA State Championship “Wally” plaque.
Much like State High School Athletic Associations that conduct state championships in various school sporting events, the NHRA will designate and recognize one annual event per state where NHRA member tracks are present as the official “NHRA State Drag Racing Championships.”
NHRA State Championship events will be held at Silver Dollar Raceway in Reynolds, Ga., Sept. 5; Coles County Dragway USA in Charleston, Ill., July 12; Great Lakes Dragaway in Union Grove, Wis., July 17; and at Kearney Raceway Park in Kearney, Nebr., July 31 and Aug. 1. Other state and province will be listed on the NHRA divisional Web sites and NHRA.com.
E.T. Bracket categories that are part of the NHRA Summit Racing Series and a Jr. Dragster class contested within the state and NHRA geographic division will receive “Official NHRA State Championship” designation.
The new program will join NHRA’s current National DRAGSTER Challenge, NHRA Aerospace Components King of the Track and NHRA Jr. Drag Racing League Challenge line-up of special events.
Bo Simpson's Nova gets a Makeover Feb.17
Bo Simpson's Nova Gets a Make-Over! by Agent DC on February 17, 2010
Now this has to be the make-over of the year. Knoxville, TN racer and DragCoverage.com user Bo Simpson decided to paint his 4.70 Promod Nova over the offseason. The racer transformed this maroon hotrod into a blue dynamite machine that can be entered into any car show. Simpson plans to compete in several 4.70 Heads Up Promod events across the South East in 2010.
Johnny Gray signs major sponsorship contract Feb.17
Johnny Gray signs major sponsorship contract by Agent DC on February 17, 2010
Johnny Gray has signed an agreement with TBC Retail Group as the major sponsor of the SKI Racing Inc. two-car Gray Motorsports Pro Stock team.
TBC Retail Group, headquartered in Juno Beach, Fla., operates more than 1,250 automotive service centers in 40 states. United under Service Central, the brand name of the automotive services offered exclusively at Tire Kingdom, NTB-National Tire and Battery
Good Start for Luke Bogacki; Wins Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Event in Bradenton Feb.17
Good Start for Luke Bogacki; Wins Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Event in Bradenton BY LUKE BOGACKI ON FEBRUARY 17, 2010
Luke Bogacki earned the first Super Comp Lucas Oil Divisional trophy of the 2010 season at the NHRA Division 2 opener at Bradenton Motorsports Park last weekend. Bogacki, at the wheel of his ThisIsBracketRacing.com backed, American Race Cars built dragster, took the title in odd fashion. As he completed the burnout prior to his semi-final bye run, Bogacki watched in horror
Mardi Gras Explosion Race This Weekend! Feb.16
Due to the Rain, Snow, and other crazy weather in Alabama, race promoters were forced to reschedule the 1st Annual Mardi Gras Explosion to this Weekend at Montgomery Motorsports Park. The classes will remain the same.
Heads Up Racing Action in the Place this weekend! Ken Grant's Heavy Chevy 1500 Feb.16
C1500 Sleeper: Ken Grant's Heavy Chevy 1500 For this month’s DragCoverage.com “Featured Ride,” we decided to pay homage to one cool garage-built Cheverolet Silverado. Ken Grant, Americus, GA, has definitely built one unique sleeper, weighing in at nearly 3,900 lbs. Jeff Rodger's Huge Nitrous Explosion Feb.16
VIDEO: Huge Nitrous Explosion; Shakes the Glass in the Tower by T.J. Pruitt on February 16, 2010
Check out this video from Sunday's race at Shakedown at Etown 2009 at Raceway Park in Englishtown, NJ. After a long smokey burnout and nitrous purge, Jeff Rodger's Executioner Mustang had a huge Nitrous Explosion. The announcer said that he has never ever seen a nitrous explosion this bad. It shook the glas in the tower. There is no doubt that the this explosion could have been much worst, but fortunately the crew were able to kill the source. Derek Hawker team ready to debut Corvette for PMRA season Feb.16
Derek Hawker to debut '63 Corvette for 2010 Season; Gets Rid of Nitrous adds Super Charger by PMRA on February 16, 2010
After running just one year in the Quick 32 Sportsman Series, Derek Hawker decided to upgrade and increase his racing effort, with the Pro Modified Racing Association.
So the Hawker Racing Team, based near Belleville, Ontario, took his two-year old 1963 Corvette Sting Ray, removed the tunnel ram-injected engine, and replaced it with a 526-cubic inch Alan Johnson supercharged unit complete with a PSI Supercharger, Atchison Fuel System, and a Lenco three-speed on the back of the engine. Results from Bradenton NHRA DIV Race Feb.16
Luke Bogacki Scores in Super Comp! BRADENTON, Fla. (Feb. 14, 2010) – In the final results from Bradenton
Motorsports Park and the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Duane
Shields, Boulder City, Nev., and Mickey Ferro, Stamford Conn., took
home the wins in Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car
respectively.
Shields worked his way through the field and ran 5.384 seconds at
2.72.97 mph in his final round victory over Darren Nicholson, Mission
Viejo Calif., who clocked in at 5.391 seconds, 262.31 mph.
NHRA's Environmental Management Feb.16
NHRA announces environmental management responsibility for all participants
Recognizing the need to further protect the environment at racing venues, NHRA has announced a new environmental management policy for all NHRA events and/or facilities, effective at all NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events beginning with the NHRA Gatornationals, March 11-14.
The program involves three primary rules that must be followed regarding the use, possession, and disposal of regulated waste. First and foremost, each participant must participate online in a mandatory training session regarding environmental uses as they relate to racing. The training presentation will be available on the National Event Registration Web site after participants log in to their account. Second, no halogenated or chlorinated brake cleaners may be used at NHRA events or facilities. And, finally, the responsibility of compliance with federal, state, and local regulations belongs to the participant.
NHRA will post information provided by tracks on the national registration Web site when provided by the national event facilities.
NHRA intends to work with government entities, agencies, and tracks to monitor and enforce the new environmental management program. Penalties, for noncompliance, will be assessed by NHRA, with a minimum $1,000 fine imposed for any violation.
The entire environmental management responsibility program as well as the training session will be posted on the registration Web site. When competitors log in to their account, they will be required to complete the training and sign the agreement before they can complete the registration process.
Force Ends 40-Race Winless Streak with 50th Winternationals Win Feb.16
Force Ends 40-Race Winless Streak with 50th Winternationals Win by NHRA on February 16, 2010 POMONA, Calif. – On a weekend in which NHRA paid tribute to its rich history during the 50th running of the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals, NHRA legend John Force turned back the clock himself by winning for the first time in a year-and-a-half.
The other winners at the season-opening event in the 23-race NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series season were Larry Dixon (Top Fuel) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). All three final rounds featured drivers who ranked in the top-10 on the all-time wins lists in their respective classes. Waters Extends Agreement with Moser Feb.12
Waters Motorsports and Moser Engineering Announce Agreement Extension and Gear Up for 2010 Season.
After 3 amazing years of partnership, Moser Engineering announced this week it would be extending it's promotional support of multi-time IHRA National and Divisional Champion Danny Waters, Jr. "I don't even know where to start. The Moser Engineering family is compiled of just an outstanding group of people. That goes all the way from the Moser family themselves, to their supportive and well educated staff. Not only am I a racer for Team Moser, I am a dealer for them as well. Their customer support is second to none, as is their product" stated the most excited Waters.
Once again, the Waters Motorsports arsenal of race vehicles will include the family's 2008 American Racecars Patriot Swing-Arm Dragster as well as their 1966 Chevy II. Both of the team cars are loaded with Moser Engineering's finest of parts and Waters will keep a small supply of support parts and products on hand in the race trailer. Contingency decals will also be available there at the track. Please stop by and see them at an IHRA race near you. Al-Anabi to Back Matt Smith; Prostock Bike Heading to Quatar? Feb.09
Al-Anabi to Back Matt Smith; Prostock Bike Heading to Quatar? BY NHRA ON FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Former Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Matt Smith has signed a major sponsorship deal with Al-Anabi Racing for the 2010 season. Smith confirmed that he will return to his Buell this season and resume
his engine research and development program which he suspended with the
end of the Torco sponsorships.
Smith said that his resumed
program will include noted mountain motor Pro Stock engine builder
Sonny Leonard. He believes that Pro Stock Motorcycle riders, primarily
those on the Buells, will begin to align themselves with Pro Stock car
engine builders. | Read More 1/24th Scale Model of a Garage Feb.09
Your Ideal Garage; Work Bench, TV, Tools, etc
Take a close look at the photo below. It is a garage with tools
scattered throughout, tires stacked, and a workbench with engine
parts. This is a pretty nice shop right? Now, would you believe that it is a 1/24th scale model? | Read More The Junk Yard - Time Forgotten Feb.09
The Junk Yard - Time Forgotten; Yard Full of Antique Cars Found BY T.J. PRUITT ON FEBRUARY 10, 2010
A SinglefingerSpeedShop user found an old junk yard somewhere in Michigan where the owner has passed and the land is being cleared. He was sworn to secrecy and would not post the location – do you blame him? Most of the metal is beyond saving, but there are several bits and pieces that can be used; tons of trim, engine parts, etc.
While reading the post, it made me think of the old junk yards or cars that are stashed in backyards that are hidden treasures. Riding down old country roads in Alabama, you are bound to come across similar findings | Read More
JEGS U.S. Open Bracket Championship Feb.09
6th Annual JEGS U.S. Open Bracket Championship: The BIG GO of Bracket Racing! Indianapolis, IN: The duo that brought you the first and longest running “By Racers, for Racers” big dollar bracket event; Dave Szerlag and Mike Fuqua, in conjunction with O’Reilly Raceway Park and presenting sponsors Steve Schmidt Competition Engines, Auto Meter, and Racecraft Chassis are proud to present the 6th annual JEGS U.S. Open Bracket Championship June 17-20 at O’Reilly Raceway Park in Indianapolis, IN. The sixth edition of bracket racing’s premier event will feature four great days of competition, and a purse in excess of $200,000.
The format of the 2010 event will be much like that of previous JEGS U.S. Open events. Thursday, action will kick-off with the American Race Cars Thursday Warm-Up. Racers will compete for a winners purse of $10,000 cash along with a 2010 American Race Cars Patriot Chassis! Friday and Saturday feature back-to-back $20,000-to-win events presented by DragstersForSale.com and the Fab Shop, respectively. Sunday, the weekend concludes with the Sullivan’s Tire $10,000-to-win event.
“The JEGS U.S. Open has established itself as one of the premier big dollar events in the country,” said co-promoter Dave Szerlag. “We’re not going to mess with a good thing. We’ve added a Door Car Only shootout, and we’re happy to have increased involvement from new sponsors; but for the most part the structure of the event is unchanged from 2009. Our goal as always, is to provide a great racing environment and give racers the opportunity to compete for huge purses without a monumental investment. Plus, I think we’ve succeeded in creating one of the most enjoyable, fun-filled events in all of sportsman racing.” The SoundRacer V8 Experience; Everyone Needs One. Feb.09
The SoundRacer V8 Experience; Everyone Needs One. BY T.J. PRUITT ON FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Call me childish, but this gadget is pretty cool. The link to this youtube video was sent in by a DragCoverage.com viewer and it is a classic! Plug the SoundRacer V8 into your cigarette lighter and your car instantly has the sound of a high horsepower V8 engine.According to the video, the sound is amplified through the sound system of your car | Read More
Photo Feature: TM Race Cars 1941 Willys Feb.09
Photo Feature: TM Race Cars 1941 Willys BY T.J. PRUITT ON FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Tommy Mauney and the staff at TM Race Cars have definitely outdone themselves with the construction of this 1941 Willys. This car, one of Mauney's finest masterpieces, features all of the latest and greatest tricks from the shop. Check out this beautiful ride within this photo feature | Read More
DieHard Backs Matt Hagan in 2010 Feb.09
Don Schumacher announced today that Sears, Roebuck and Co.'s iconic
brand DieHard will be the primary sponsor of the Dodge Funny Car driven
by Matt Hagan in the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.
The DieHard brand has been marketed by Sears since 1967. To help
promote the DieHard battery chargers, portable power and inverters, Don
Schumacher Racing will campaign the DieHard Dodge Funny Car, with
associate sponsorship from shelor.com, in the 2010 NHRA series.
"We at DSR are proud to welcome DieHard into our family of outstanding
supporters of our team," said Schumacher, DSR team owner. "The brand
has been synonymous with automobile racing for 43 years, and we expect
to continue to add to DieHard's long list of racing accomplishments
during the 2010 NHRA season."
"The agreement between DieHard, one of the most trusted names in the
automotive industry, and Don Schumacher Racing is a perfect match,"
said Erik Rosenstrauch, general manager of DieHard brand business unit,
"Our involvement with one of the premier racing teams in NHRA further
enables us to drive our business and engage consumers about the
excitement behind DieHard." U.S. Army, Antron Brown Join Forces Feb.09
The U.S. Army announced today it has expanded its relationship with NHRA Top Fuel driver Antron Brown.
Brown, who piloted a U.S. Army Pro Stock Motorcycle for more than four
seasons, will make personal appearances in key markets to assist the
Army in reaching young Americans and their influencers.
"We're pleased to expand our relationship with Antron," said Lt.
General Benjamin C. Freakley, Commander of the U.S. Army Accessions
Command. "Antron did an outstanding job representing our Soldiers when
he competed with the U.S. Army Suzuki and he's continued to work with
us via the Youth & Education Services program the past two seasons Berner Unveils New Summit Paint Scheme Feb.07
Berner Completes Rendering of Summit Colors; Pontiac GXP by Lisa Collier
Pete Berner's Pontiac GXP has never looked better as it now flies the familiar red, white and blue of Summit Racing Equipment in a unique and eye-catching design by Greg Ozubko. With its new look, the GXP is sure to cause a stir with onlookers as well as with opponents | Read More Have You Considered Race Car Insurance? Get A Quote Today! Feb.07
Have You Considered Race Car Insurance? Get A Quote Today! Racing has always been a popular sporting event in the United States. When driving at such high speeds, there are many things that can happen that could cause an accident Because car racing is such a high | Read More Josh Peel's New Ride Feb.05
Agent DC received this lead on local (Florida) racer Josh Peel. The Outlaw Racing Street Car Association (ORSCA) racer has stepped up from his 1992 Limited Street Twin Turbo Camaro and purchased this 1941 Harry Glass Willys.
Debut of Frantic Ford Funny Car in 2010 Feb.05
Debut of Frantic Ford Nostalgia Funny Car The long awaited debut of the Frantic Ford AA/Fuel Coupe Nostalgia Funny Car is right around the corner. Car should be ready for active competition up and down the eastern seaboard this coming May-June 2010 | Read More The team of Freddy Frey, Bob Rosetty, Bobby Frey & "Big Al" Liebmann are set to bring you a "Blast from the Past" with the return of the legendary Frantic Ford AA/Funny Car. Limited Edition 427 Corvette Auction Feb.04
GM to Auction 427 Big-Block Z06 Corvette; proceeds go to Haiti by TJ on February 4, 2010
General Motors will auction off a limited-edition 427 Cheverolet Corvette Z06 at the Barrett-Jackson auction on Saturday in Scottsdale, Ariz. Any proceeds from the sale will help fund relief efforts in Haiti.
The proceeds will go to the American Red Cross to help fund it’s work in Haiti which was destroyed after a devastating earthquake. GM donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross | Read More Safety Shut-off Transmitter/Receiver system to debut at Winternationals Feb.03
Safety Shut-off Transmitter/Receiver system to debut at Winternationals All participants in the Top Fuel dragster and Funny Car classes will be
required to use an Electrimotion Safety Shut-off Receiver at the
season-opening 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals
presented by Valvoline | Read More The Safety Shut-off system is made up of two parts, (left) a vehicle-mounted receiver (arrow) and a guardwall-mounted transmitter (right). Johannes R builds Lego American Cars Feb.03
LEGO American Muscle Cars by Agent on February 3, 2010
Johannes R is a classic american car enthusiast and has used his creativity to recreate different cars in various scales out of LEGO, mainly in 1:20-24 scale. If you translate that, it’s about 8-10 wide for cars and 12 for trucks.
The photo above represents a 1964 Chevelle Drag car. The paint scheme was designed after the drag car “Chevelle” that competed in FHRA Drag Racing in the early 80s | Read More Statement from Sheikh Khalid Al Thani Feb.03
DOHA, Qatar - The following statement is provided on behalf of Sheikh Khalid Al Thani and Al Anabi Racing. Please direct any questions to Puvanesan Kay, Aequitas Law LLP (U.K. Barrister ) or Chris Rodi ,Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP, (U.S. legal counsel) at info@aequitaslaw.com.
It has come to my attention that my and Al Anabi Racing's relationship with Mustafa Atat has recently been the subject of considerable discussion. The comments centred on Mustafa's involvement in a race in Detroit, Michigan, in 2001 which resulted in the tragic death of an innocent bystander. As a driver of the other car in that race, I understand that Mustafa has been charged with several serious crimes in the United States.
I did not come to know Mustafa until 2007 when he settled with his new
family in Qatar. I do not know exactly what happened in Detroit, and do
not fully understand the details of American law. In particular, I only
recently learned that the murder conviction of the other driver in the
Detroit race did not preclude Mustafa's being found guilty of that same
crime, an unfamiliar notion in my country. As such, I do not think it
is appropriate for me to attempt to respond to the many allegations
that have been made about Mustafa.
There have also been
allegations made about the integrity of our team and other members of
the Al Thani family in Qatar. These comments have been categorically
untrue and unnecessary. Some have even bordered on racist. Luckily, I
know that the overwhelming majority of race fans are above these types
of ad hominem attacks. I hope that, in the future, anyone who does not
know me, my family or my team personally will attempt to do so before
making baseless personal attacks.
Although I do not think my
commenting on Mustafa's situation is appropriate, I also recognize that
this situation continues to effect many people. Mustafa has been a
talented and dedicated member of the Al Anabi Racing team. However, out
of respect for all involved in the tragedy in Detroit, including the
family of the victim and the others injured, and also out of respect
for the United States racing community which has warmly welcomed me and
many of my team members, I have asked Mustafa to separate himself from
Al Anabi Racing here in Qatar. I expressed my hope that he will take
the necessary steps to resolve his personal legal issues. Plymouth Cuda on Ebay; Reserve Not Met Feb.03
Plymouth Cuda on Ebay at $164,992.00; Reserve Not Met by TJ Pruitt on February 3, 2010
Check out this ebay auction ad that is apparently one of a kind. It is a 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda 426; 1 of 284, according to the ad. It has been fully restored and has all the matching numbers. It even has the fender tags, dash plate, and door sticker.
The auction will end on tomorrow, February 4th, and the bidding is up to $164,992. The reserve has not been met! I now realize the value of a Hemi Cuda | Read More 1968 Camaro Slams into parked car Feb.03
VIDEO: 1968 Camaro Wrecks Into Parked Car by DC on February 3, 2010
This is a WTF were you thinking video posted on youtube.The driver of this Pro Street 1968 Camaro decided to smoke the tires a little and the axle broke.The driver did all he could to save this beautiful ride, but he slammed the hot rod into a parked car. I’m sure the cost of repair wasn’t cheap.
Check out the hub at the end of the clip. | Read More
Knowles hires Chuck Ford as Crew Chief Feb.03
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo./GRANT, Ala. (February 2, 2010) - Mike Knowles,
owner and driver of the 1963 "Blown Money" Corvette Pro Mod, is pleased
to officially announce that two-time world champion tuner and former
crew chief of the year recipient Chuck Ford has joined Knowles Racing
taking on the responsibilities of crew chief and tuner. The agreement
is exclusive to Knowles and his team.
"In a game that is won and lost by thousandths of a second, it's not
enough to have all the best parts and be able to cut a light if you're
hoping to win a championship. The Pro Mod class is way too competitive,
and the new NHRA series is going to be fierce. You've got to stack as
many cards in your favor as possible, and adding Chuck really sets us
up for a championship run in 2010," Knowles said. "I'm ecstatic that
Chuck has agreed to come on board exclusively with our team.
Q&A with Antron Brown; NHRA Transcript Feb.02
Antron Brown enters his third season behind the wheel of the Matco Tools dragster in 2010. The only driver in NHRA history to win races and lead the standings in both Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle, Brown looks to improve upon his third place finish in 2009 and earn his first NHRA championship. The Matco Tools flagship driver has 24 career NHRA wins, including a category-best six Top Fuel wins in 2009. With the 2010 NHRA season just around the corner - Feb. 11-14 at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona - Brown talks about the upcoming 23-race NHRA journey.
Q: What are you thoughts entering the 2010 NHRA season?
BROWN: I'm very confident in our DSR Matco Tools race team. I feel that we're going to have a very competitive race car and I think becoming a part of the DSR organization gives us the maximum resources available, along with stability for our race team. I'm very excited to get to Pomona and to get the 2010 season going.
Q: After leading the standings for most of the season and not winning the championship last year, does that make you and the Matco team hungrier to win in 2010?
BROWN: Yes it does. It makes us hungry from the start and we're focused to improve on our performance last year. We really want to make sure we're on point when the Countdown begins at Indy because the last six races is where it all really counts. Last year showed you can just make the Countdown, but if you peak at the right time you can still win the championship, but we want to be consistent all season long.
Q: You won a category-best six races in 2009. Can you repeat that performance?
BROWN: Sure we can. We don't just want to repeat though. We want to do better each year. Last year we went to 10 final rounds, which is awesome, but the idea is to improve in 2010. The goal is to win as many races as we can, but it will be tough because the competition is outstanding in Top Fuel. Productive testing for Greg Anderson & Line Feb.02
Two months after taking home the trophy at the season-ending NHRA Finals Summit Racing teammates Greg Anderson and Jason Line returned to the racetrack, taking part in last week's test session at Bradenton Motorsports Park in Bradenton, FL. Over the course of five days, the KB Racing crew worked tirelessly, logging well over 50 runs on three cars in preparation for the 2010 Full Throttle season with Ronnie Humphrey joining Line and Anderson behind the wheel.
This pre-season outing was crucial to Anderson, as it would be his
first on-track experience with his brand-new Summit Racing Pontiac.
Topping all Pro Stock participants at the Sunshine State test, the
three-time champion posted a best effort of 6.522-seconds at 211.96
mph, a result that left him cautiously optimistic heading into the
season-opening Winternationals.
"I think our test session went
quite well," said Anderson. "We're obviously pleased to have run better
than everyone else, but our primary goal for the week was to learn as
much as we could, and we did. We have a new Rick Jones-built GXP that
is slightly different from our last three RJ cars, and from the first
run off the trailer, it performed flawlessly. It came out of the gate
very smooth, without any of the usual new-car gremlins, and was fast
and consistent. Edmund Richardson's New TNT Dragster Feb.02
Edmund Richardson's New TNT Dragster DragCoverage shot a few photos of Edmund Richardson’s Sunset Racecraft powered 2010 TNT dragster at Montgomery Motorsports Park’s Hangover Nationals. | Read More 1969 Camaro Pro Modified body to come Feb.01
New 1969 Camaro Body Coming to Promodified Racing by Bruce F. Mehlenbacher on February 2, 2010
Just before Christmas of 2009, Cynergy Composites put the finishing touches on its newest body, a 1969 Chevy Camaro, and shipped it off to noted Pro Modified builder Jim Salemi at G-Force Race Cars of Western New York.
Based in Southern Ontario, Cynergy has been at the forefront of body development in the popular Pro Modified class, and has raised the bar with the new Camaro |Read More Big changes in 2010 for Wagg and Bell T/S Feb.01
WATERDOWN, ONTARIO (January 29, 2010) – With new major sponsorship involvement, the Top Sportsman team of Mike Wagg and Dave Bell should be a contender in this year’s Quick 32 Sportsman Series.
Thanks to funding from Patio Passport, the 1994 Dodge Daytona will be receiving big mechanical and cosmetic changes, according to Waterdown, Ontario’s Mike Wagg, who shares the driving chores with teammate Dave Bell of Grand Bend, Ontario.
“We’re getting rid of the red color on the car that everyone has seen for years,” said Wagg. “I don’t want to divulge the paint scheme yet, but we plan to debut the car at the Performance World Custom Car Show in Toronto in March.”
The Eddy Bryck chassis on the Daytona will be receiving a new KB block, which will be a lot lighter than the former 620-cubic inch Indy cylinder head engine.
A major change will be the tossing of the four-speed Lenco transmission for a state-of-the-art Powerglide automatic, something Bell will take some adjusting to.
“We had to get on the same playing field as the others,” explained Wagg about installing the Powerglide. “Now I’ve got to learn, but I’m not too concerned.”
Wagg added that he and Bell have been receiving a great deal of help and support from fellow door-slammer racer Kevin Wicke, who won the inaugural Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship in 2009.
NEOPMA Releases Schedule and New Logo Feb.01
Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association releases 2010 schedule, adds Super Chevy and NHRA Unleashed to the series.
01-18-2010 Huntington, NY – The NEOPM’s 2010 season is set with 9 events for 2010 starting with Napa Day at the Drags May 1st at Virginia Motorsports Park. The NEOPM has doubled its quarter mile pro mod racing program from 2009, added a new series name, “1320 Pro Mod Warrior Series”, and added many new sponsors in what will be one of the best quarter mile pro mod racing series in the country.
DragCoverage.com joins Facebook Jan.31
DragCoverage.com joins Facebook! by T.J. Pruitt on January 30, 2010
DragCoverage.com, one of the fastest growing drag racing news sites, has joined the Social Network of Facebook.com. The social networking site is just the latest in the sites efforts to make information widely available. Become a fan of DragCoverage.com Today! | Read More Kenny Koretsky and Greg Stanfield Team Up in 2010 Jan.31
Kenny Koretsky and Greg Stanfield Team Up in NHRA Prostock 2010 by Joe Sherk on January 31, 2010
Championship Kenny Koretsky has been intertwined with NHRA Pro Stock racing for more than 25 years, but the words championship contenders were seldom uttered when discussing his teams. But that is about to change | Read More Johnny Jordan's first formal race car Jan.31
Johnny Jordan's first "formal" race car; DragCoverage.com member Johnny Jordan describes what he calls his first “formal” race car. This Pontiac Super Duty was used in competition in B Stock with elapsed times in | Read More
CAR FEATURE: Pro Street 1985 Ford Thunderbird; Basically Stock! Jan.31
CAR FEATURE: Pro Street 1985 Ford Thunderbird; Basically Stock! by T.J. Pruitt on January 22, 2010
Ford Thunderbirds are becoming more uncommon by the day. You rarely
even seen them on the dragstrip.Maybe that’s why Don Popham and his
father Roger Popham put together this neat Thunderbird that I ran into
on Saturday at Montgomery Motorsports Park’s Hangover Nationals. This
is an example of a budget operation | Read More
In-Car Video: Ken Rainwater 4.36, 168 MPH. Opponent Almost Wrecks Jan.31
IN-CAR VIDEO: Ken Rainwater 4.36, 168 MPH. Opponent Almost Wrecks by DC on January 31, 2010
Check out this in-car video of Ken Rainwater’s Outlaw 10.5 Mustang. I mean seriously, it has been a year or so since I last watched an ORSCA (Outlaw Racing Street Car Association) race, but I had no idea that the Outlaw 10.5 cars were running 4.30s.
His opponent’s chutes fail to deploy and almost wrecks at the top end | Read More Lethal Performance GT500 Mustang Jan.31
VIDEO: Wicked GT500 Ford Shelby By T.J. Pruitt on January 31, 2010
This Lethal Performance built Ford Shelby GT500 mustang is the just plain bad to the bone, running an impressive 9.66 second quarter mile time at 146 miles per hour. Check out this video posted on youtube.
This wicked Ford is powered by a 4.0 litter engine with a four inch pulley on the Whipple charged V8; 21.5psi. The team was forced to use C16 fuel because methanol would blow the engine into pieces, although it can achieve a higher | Read More
Times are Tuff - Force Forced to Cut Back; Drops back to 3 Cars in 2010 Jan.31
Times are Tuff - Force Forced to Cut Back; Drops back to 3 Cars in 2010 by NHRA on January 31, 2010
Responding to an unpredictable economy, drag racing icon John Force on Thursday outlined a plan to ensure both the competitive and financial viability of John Force Racing Inc. for years to come. The plan has been a work in progress for more than a year.
The cornerstones of Force’s initiative are a reduction in the number of cars the team will support next season in its bid for an unprecedented 17th NHRA Full Throttle Funny Car world championship, relocation of all JFR racing resources | Read More
Dunn Benson added to EOPM Schedule Jan.27
The Extreme Outaw Pro Mods are proud to announce that "The New Dunn Benson Dragway" will host two EOPM events this upcoming season. Talking with Dunn Benson track owner Brian Williams a few times this week, Stuart Williams was able to gain June 5th and September 18th as dates that the Extreme Outlaw Pro Mods will bring "the New Show" to "The New Dunn Benson". During their conversations Stuart Williams was able to learn why the staff now call it "The New Dunn Benson". "Brian has done over 1 million dollars in track renovations during the off-season. These guys are serious about becoming one of the premier 1/8th mile track in North Carolina" said Stuart. Some of the renovations to Dunn Benson Dragway included, the installation of a new ticket booth, and a new scale house.
The track itself will become a racers delight as the all concrete surface was widened to 50 feet, and also lasercut and polished. There has been new asphalt placed from the finish line on, with the addition of another 150 feet of shut down area. "We didnt want anyone feeling like they didn't have enough room to shut down. We look forward to seeing the track record being broken many times this year" said Brian Williams.
Extreme Outlaw Promods adds KDS Jan.27
The hottest doorslammer club known as the Extreme Outlaw Pro Mods have now added Kinston Dragway to their fastly growing 2010 schedule. Stuart Williams talked to KDS track owner Bobby Smith this week, and have now secured May 1st as another date where "the New Show" will entertain doorslammer fans at Kinston Dragway.
"I would personally like to thank Mike Anderson of Sumerduck Dragway for speaking on our behalf" said Williams. "We raced at Kinston a few years ago, and had a great time with Mr. Smiths staff and fans. We look forward to bringing "the New Show" to Kinston Dragway this year" Williams finished.
Old 1980s Photos from Atmore Dragway in Atmore, AL Jan.27
1980s Photos from Atmore Dragway John Claxton started a thread on the DragCoverage.com forum that has several images from the 1980s at Atmore Dragway. Atmore Dragway was definitely the place to be every weekend and several racers jump started there career at this 1/8th mile facility that several call home | Read More
First Editor of National Dragster Dies Jan.27
Dick Wells, the first editor of National DRAGSTER and a longtime member of the NHRA Board of Directors, died late Monday night from complications after heart surgery last November. He was 75.
A member of both the NHRA board of directors and the NHRA Wally Parks Museum board of directors, SEMA Industry Hall of Famer Wells began his long and storied career in motorsports as National DRAGSTER's first editor in 1960.
"Dick loved the NHRA and everything about drag racing and the world of performance," said Dallas Gardner, NHRA chairman of the board. "His passion led him to a lifetime of contribution that, simply put, made things better. His efforts and influence touched everyone. He was a great part of the leadership that saw the sport grow to what it has become today. We will miss him for his participation, but we will miss him more as a friend."
As the original editor of National DRAGSTER, Wells laid the foundation
for what would become drag racing's most famous publication. He joined
the NHRA Board of Directors in 1979 and has been an important force
behind the scenes for the world's largest motorsports sanctioning body
since then. Sunken Bugatti in Italy Auctioned for Big Bucks; $321,000 Jan.27
Sunken Bugatti in Italy Auctioned for Big Bucks; $321,000 BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 27, 2010
Back in January, Yahoo Cars published a report stating that a rare Bugatti had been discovered and rescued from the bottom of a lake in Italy. Despite the condition, the car would be auctioned for an estimated £80,000, about $112,000 U.S. Dollars.
The car was lot number 250 in the Retromobile Salon, a top notch auction in Paris, and brought a surprising $321,000, nearly 3 times as much as expected. | Read More
GM's Latest CEO not a car guy; Jan.27
GM’s Appointed CEO Not a Car Guy BY DC ON JANUARY 27, 2010
The spirit of GM enthusiast was not lifted by the appointment of Ed Whitacre. Whitacre, a retired CEO of AT&T Corp, made the mistake of saying “I don’t know anything about cars. A business is a business, and I think I can learn about cars. I’m not that old, and I think the business principles are the same.”
Whitacre is 67 years old and was appointed CEO of a crippled General Motors Company last year by president Barak Obama. | Read More
MMP Super 7 Series Kicks off Feb.26! Jan.27
The popular "Super 7 Series" at Montgomery Motorsports Park is only 1 month away with $20,000 to win each day! The race will also feature $5,000 to win on Friday and Saturday. Over $100,000 for the taking this one weekend!
Copart, Inc. Named Official Online Auction Jan.26
Copart, Inc. Named Official Online Vehicle Auction of NHRA
GLENDORA, Calif. -- NHRA announced today that Copart, Inc., a leading
provider of vehicle auction services, has been named the Official
Online Vehicle Auction of NHRA. The agreement follows Copart's
designation last September as the primary sponsor of Kenny Bernstein
Racing's Top Fuel dragster driven by Brandon Bernstein.
"Copart is jumping into the sport in a big way, with a comprehensive
program that will give them access to NHRA's core audience at all
levels," said Gary Darcy, senior vice president of sales and marketing,
NHRA. "We have the perfect audience to align with their core business
and the program will educate our fans about how Copart.com has more
than 50,000 vehicles each day for sale online, and is the place for car
enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers to find a great deal on a great
vehicle."
Brogdon Bringing New Attitude to Pro Stock in 2010 Jan.26
Brogdon Bringing New Attitude to Pro Stock in 2010 HOUSTON, Tex. - When the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle season begins, Rodger Brogdon and the Steve Kent Racing Pro Stock team will have a whole new Attitude when they roll through the gates for the first race of the year in Pomona, CA. The team's new Jerry Haas Pontiac GXP will feature the bold new colors,
look and logo of Attitude Apparel, the clothing line that Brogdon
purchased mid-season last year.| Read More Snyder Going Extreme Pro Mod Racing Jan.26
(01-25-10) DeMotte, IN - It has been a busy off season for 28 year old, NHRA Top Alcohol Funny Car standout, Mick Snyder, who will be taking on a new challenge this year, Pro Extreme Pro Modified racing in the ADRL. The second generation racer and his Dad, Larry, have been working hard to get a beautiful 63 split window Corvette ready for the first race in Texas this March.
Ebay Auction; Class C Model Replica Jan.25
1914 Replica/Kit Homemade BY DC ON JANUARY 23, 2010
We ran across this ebay auction last night and I must say – it is quite unique. It is a homemade 1914 C Model Roadster. Powered by a 350 chevy motor backed with a 700R transmission, you are sure to get plenty of horsepower with such a lightweight chassis. It has antilock brakes and a positive traction rear end.
The master cylinder, brake panel, and rear lines have been installed. The owner was building it to look like the old red Baron and states that it would be the number one | Read More
Drag Racing when it was fun; Pocono Drag Lodge Jan.25
1963 VIDEO: Drag Racing when it was fun; Pocono Drag Lodge
by T.J. Pruitt on January 23, 2010
The Pocono Drag Lodge (PDL) is the home of several drag race enthusiast, launched the careers of many, and captured the heart of others. It’s sad to see the remains of what was once the stomping grounds of many every weekend. The future of the track looked good with man stars racing there often, but in summer of 1972, Hurricane Agnes swept through the region and wiped out many businesses | Read More
"Ka Pow" Huge Nitrous Explosion Jan.24
Video; Huge Nitrous Explosion at ORSCA Race MMP
BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 12, 2010
Talk about a nitrous explosion. Check out this video of a Modified Street Car at the June 14, 2009 ORSCA (Outlaw Racing Street Car Association) race at Montgomery Motorsports Park. What goes through your mind when something like this happens? DOLLAR SIGNS! | Read More DragCoverage.com Garage Feature Jan.24
FEATURE: 1971 Drag Truck; Add your Garage Today! BY T.J. Pruitt on January 22, 2010
DragCoverage.com has added a new feature; “Reader Garages.” Members can now add a hotrod to their profile and show off their ride. Add photos and give a detailed description of your hotrod. Profiles will be randomly featured on DragCoverage so create your garage today! Check out this 71 Drag Truck added by DC member 71DragTruck. | Read More
Dennis Coover wins MMP Hangover Nationals Jan.24
Dennis Coover wins MMP Hangover Nationals Put the Hangover Nationals at Montgomery Motorsports Park, Montgomery, AL, in the books! Dennis Coover took home the title in Super Pro after defeating Leon Robertson in the finals | Read More CAR FEATURE: Pro Street 1985 Ford Thunderbird; Basically Stock! Jan.24
CAR FEATURE: Pro Street 1985 Ford Thunderbird; Basically Stock! by T.J. Pruitt on January 22, 2010
Ford Thunderbirds are becoming more uncommon by the day. You rarely even seen them on the dragstrip.Maybe that’s why Don Popham and his father Roger Popham put together this neat Thunderbird that I ran into on Saturday at Montgomery Motorsports Park’s Hangover Nationals. This is an example of a budget operation | Read More
Nascar changes rules in 2010 Jan.24
NASCAR To Relax Rules In 2010 by DC on January 22, 2010
After last fall's terrible Talladega race NASCAR has taken steps to, hopefully, improve the racing this year. Starting with the 2010 Daytona 500 NASCAR has decided to relax the rules that limit bump-drafting, increase the size of the restrictor plate to give the cars more horsepower and to allow the drivers to beat and bang a little more on the track | Read More
Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway Wreck Jan.24
VIDEO: Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway; Camaro Hits the Guard Rail BY T.J. Pruitt on January 22, 2010
Anyone ever heard of Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway? To give you a little history, there was a guy by the name of Julius Hughes, Jr. who was probably Atlanta's strongest proponent of sanctioned drag racing, according to georgiadragracing.com. In 1960 he and his wife Elaine opened the first speed shop in Georgia, The Atlanta Speed Shop. In 1964, he purchased Newton County Dragway and changed the name to Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway. Until 1970, he held the largest drag race at this facility, "The Atlanta $10,000 race. This video was filmed at "The Atanta Speed Shop Dragway." |Read More
Hyde Racing team to debut new car Jan.24
Hyde Racing team to debut new car in Quick 32 Sportsman Series
STRATFORD, ONTARIO (January 20, 2010) – Spencer Hyde will be not only be in a new car for the upcoming Quick 32 Sportsman Series, he will be in a new class of car.
Hyde, former driver of the Hyde Racing Top Dragster, will be piloting a 2007 Cobalt in the Top Sportsman division of the Series.
“We decided we wanted to go into a nitrous program, and wanted to jump into a door car,” explained Hyde, who placed eighth in the NAPA Auto Parts Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship Point Award Series in 2009 with the team’s supercharged dragster.
The new Hyde car will be the ex-Carl Spiering Cobalt, a car built for and raced in the Series by Spiering. The Jerry Bickel Race Cars machine features a 737-cubic inch nitrous-fed engine built and tuned by ERD (Engine Research and Development) from the Spiering shops in Jordan Station, Ontario.
While Hyde mentioned he had some time behind the wheel of a fendered race car, his experience was with a 10-second door-car on the quarter-mile, while the Cobalt should be capable of sub-seven-second times. The majority of his racing has been with Junior Dragsters before stepping into the speedy Top Dragster in 2009.
Hyde mentioned that the success of the team’s dragster program was due to crew chiefs Jim McCann and Rich Ingram.
“We want to thank Jim and Rich for all their help and guidance with the blower car,” Hyde said. “We wouldn’t be where we are without them. We relied on them constantly, and you can expect to see Jim and Rich around the Hyde pits again this year.” Thunder Valley Bracket Challenge May 27-30 Jan.24
Introducing the Thunder Valley Bracket Challenge, May 27-30 at Bristol Dragway
Bristol, TN: Memorial Day weekend will bring the Thunder Valley Bracket Challenge to the fabled Bristol Dragway, as top bracket drivers from across the country will converge on the East Tennessee facility and do battle for a guaranteed weekend purse in excess of $300,000. The four-day big dollar event has been assembled and will be promoted and run by well known sportsman racers Dave Connolly, Jeff Strickland, and Don Strickland.
“This has been a brainchild of ours for a while,” explained multi-time NHRA and big dollar bracket winner Jeff Strickland. “We’ve talked about it and thought about it a lot, and we’ve tried to develop a race that we’d get excited about attending ourselves, as racers. Obviously, Dave, Dad and myself won’t be competing in our own event, but we’ve raced enough to know that certain formats and ideas can make the weekend more enjoyable.” NHRA Qualifying 4-Wide at ZMax in 2010 Jan.24
For the first time in NHRA national event history, qualifying and eliminations for Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle at an NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event will be conducted four-wide instead of two, NHRA officials announced today.
The inaugural NHRA Four-Wide Nationals is scheduled for March 25-28 at zMAX Dragway near Charlotte, N.C. NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competition will be conducted in the traditional two-lane format, running some classes in the left two lanes and others in the right two lanes to assist with lane preparation and consistency.
The announcement comes just four months after NHRA conducted its first-ever four-lane exhibition at a national event, where nearly 30,000 horsepower blasted off at zMAX Dragway during the September running of the NHRA Carolinas Nationals. In separate runs, four Top Fuel dragsters and four Funny Cars competed in the four-wide event with everyone standing on their feet to witness the most spectacular five-seconds in motorsports.
“We had so much positive feedback from our fans and drivers after the four-lane exhibition last September that we were comfortable adding this unique twist to an official NHRA national event,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA. “Once again, NHRA will be making history at zMAX Dragway. With all four of our Full Throttle Series categories competing in four-wide racing it will certainly be a spectacular event to see.”
“Watching these nitro cars thunder four-wide down the world’s only four-lane concrete strip is exactly what we had in mind when we built zMAX Dragway,” said Bruton Smith, chairman and chief executive officer of Speedway Motorsports and creator of zMAX Dragway. “We’re making history with horsepower at the Bellagio of drag strips and race fans will be treated to a competition unlike any thing that’s ever been seen before. This will blow them away.”
The rules for the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway will be as follows:
* Qualifying will be conducted using four lanes
* Each category winner will be determined in three rounds of eliminations
* The two drivers to cross the finish line first in each of the four first rounds of eliminations will advance to the second round
* The two drivers to cross the finish line first in each of the two second rounds of eliminations will advance to the final round
* Each final round will feature four drivers in each category, and the single driver to cross the finish line first in the final will be declared the winner of the race, the second runner-up and so on.
The NHRA Carolinas Nationals, Sept. 16-19, the second of six races in NHRA’s Countdown to 1 playoffs, will continue to be conducted using only two lanes at zMAX Dragway.
VP Racing Fuels Helps Pilots in Hati Jan.24
VP Racing Fuels Helps Pilots Fly Supplies to Earthquake Victims in Hati BY STEVE SCHEIDKER ON JANUARY 22, 2010
Moved by the images coming out of Haiti, Steve Burns, President of VP Racing Fuels, and his wife, Sandi, have stepped up to assist a mission being coordinated by Key West, Florida pilot Freddy Cabanas. A reknowned aerobatic performer for 30 years, Cabanas will be flying supplies directly to the starving island nation with a departure from Key West scheduled Saturday morning, January 23 | Read More
Vendor Spotlight : 40MM T-Shirts Jan.24
For years, Mike Sutherland always wanted to start a clothing line and with the help of good friends Bryan Markiewicz and Mike Roncarti, the dream was realized. The business began with the production of fifteen shirts that were distributed free of charge to family and friends.
Over the last couple of years 40MM has produced shirts for different
occassions but has recently began concentrating on affordable yet
stylish shirts for race teams and promoters.
The trio began to discuss names for the burgeoning business, looking for something unique and catchy. Forty Millimeter was a nick-name that Mike had picked up several years before from a friend who's brother was a Navy Seal. It seems most of the military branches have slang names for their weapons. The seals referred to the 40MM grenade launcher as 40 Mic-Mic.(pronounced Mike-Mike). The moniker was attached to Sutherland and he was known as 40 or 40MM.
Most Shocking Crashes Jan.20
Scary crash from “Most Shocking” BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 21, 2010
Wow… I ran across this horrific video on youtube. Fortunately, the driver made it out alive, but he went for one wild ride. The video was filmed and featured on “Most Shocking” crashes | Read More Jeff Paulk's Wreck at Montgomery Jan.20
Jeff Paulk's Wreck at Montgomery BY T.J. Pruitt on January 20, 2010
Extreme 10.5 racer Jeff Paulk lost control of his Sheppard race Cars camaro and smacked the wall at the ORSCA finals at Montgomery Motorsports Park back in November last year.Months before, Paulk lost control of his camaro at Gateway Raceway during the ADRL event, but only received minor damage. He was | Read More
1989 Ford Mustang "Sleeper" Jan.20
One Bad 1989 Ford Mustang "Sleeper" Ok, lets be honest – I’m more of a Chevy fan, but this 1989 Mustang of DragCoverage.com member onebad12 is the ultimate pro-street hotrod and it is immaculate | Read More Georgia is "a GO" for ADRL in 2010 Jan.20
South Georgia is "a GO" for ADRL
BY ADRL COMMUNICATIONS ON JANUARY 21, 2010
The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is pleased to confirm its ADRL Hardee’s Georgia Drags VI will be held Apr. 23-24, at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Cecil, Georgia. The two-week move from the original date creates an ideal balance in the schedule for the 2010 ADRL tour | Read More
Tasca re-signs Crew Chief for 2010 Jan.20
CONCORD, NC, January 20, 2010 – Behind every great NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series driver, there is a team of dedicated crew chiefs, engineers and specialists that build, tune and perfect an 8,000-horsepower machine down a 1,000-foot track.
For Bob Tasca III and the Motorcraft/Quick Lane Racing team, crew chiefs, engineers and specialists are the first component considered when building their championship-winning program. The success of the Motorcraft/Quick Lane Racing team is built around a group of people that have the knowledge and expertise to build a race car that is fast and safe at 300 miles per hour. SPEED TV set to air Bobsled Challenge Jan.20
SPEED TV will broadcast four hours of coverage of the Lucas Oil Geoff Bodine Bobsled Challenge presented by Whelen Engineering from Lake Placid, N.Y.
The network has divided the program into a pair of two-hour shows. The first, airing at 2 p.m. ET, Sunday, Jan. 24, will showcase celebrity participants from NASCAR and NHRA in an Olympic-style race against the clock down historic Mount Van Hoevenberg. The second show, airing one week later at 5 p.m. ET, Jan. 31, will highlight the NASCAR versus NHRA Challenge.
"SPEED TV does an awesome job with this event each year. I think I get as many fans talking to me about bobsledding as drag racing," said Morgan Lucas, driver of the GEICO Powersports/Lucas Oil dragster. "They run the program a bunch of times so everyone that's into motorsports and watches SPEED TV eventually sees the race. ORSCA Outlaw 10.5 Champ: Bill Futch Jan.18
Partnership paid off for Bill Futch and Carlos Zaldivar this year with a championship in Mickey thompson Outlaw 10.5. The team fron the Miami FL area dipped in the 4.20's at times and seemed able to run 4.30's with ease. The 2004 Corvette was involved in an accident this past week but hopefully will be able to return to action soon.
Bill & Carlos would like to thank the following:
Gary McPherson Steve Snyder Kathy Goss Ray Pena Juan Hernandez
Sponsors; Progressive Racing Engines
Wilson Manifolds Big Stuff 3 Neil Chance Converters NLR Boost Controllers Mickey Thompson Tires Hank Hill and The entire Hooked Up & Gone Crew VP Racing Fuels Santuff Shocks and Struts Quick Time Motorsports Tial Products Chiseled Performance Chassis Engineering
Words Wade Mooney/Photo Courtesy ORSCA
ORSCA Auto ProMod Champ: Steve Kirk Jr. Jan.18
No one dominated a class like Steve Kirk Jr. did this year in Mickey Thompson Tire, Larry Garner Racing, Southern Truck Parts, Automatic Promod. The Kirk's Speed Shop 63 Split Window Vette scored one runner-up and then 4 wins in a row to become 1 of only 3 racers whom have won a championship in 2 different classes.
Results:
Orangeburg SC - R/up Montgomery AL - Win Carolina - Win Atlanta GA - Win Montgomery Al - Win Steele AL - Q2
Steve Would Like to thank the following:
His wife Lynne & son Trae Danny & Kim Vaughn Michael Hornsby & Luiz Arend The Whole Crew at Kirk's Speedshop
Celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. Each year on the third Monday of January, schools, federal offices, post office and banks across America close as we celebrate the birth, the life and the dream | Read More Support Disaster Relief in Haiti Jan.16
Support Disaster Relief in Haiti; Donate Now BY THE AMERICAN REDCROSS ON JANUARY 16, 2010
A massive, 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti near the capital of Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, January 12th. The damage to buildings is extensive and the number of injured or dead is estimated to be in the hundreds, even thousands. World Vision is on the ground rushing emergency supplies to survivors of this catastrophe. The aftermath of Tuesday earthquake has posed logistical challenges for all humanitarian organizations, including Red Cross responders, who are working around the clock to meet the challenges and ensure aid reaches the survivors. | Read More
Worst Nitrous Explosion.. Jan.15
VIDEO: Worst Nitrous Explosion. It's pretty Bad! BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 19,2010
This has to be the worst nitrous explosion video that I have ran across. This is a testimony that NOS can provide optimal horsepower but can be deadly. Luckily, no one was injured but the car was destroyed. Video by youtube user "dugani." | Read More
Barwa Racing's Von Smith Posts World Record Jan.15
(1-15-10) DOHA, Qatar – After a relatively disappointing outing a week
prior, the Barwa Racing Pro Extreme team led by Howard Moon and Von
Smith reminded everyone on the planet where they rank when it comes to
outlaw eighth-mile racing in a dominating performance during Round 4 of
the ADRL series at the Qatar Race Club.
After qualifying third with a 3.760-second effort, Von Smith and the
Barwa-backed ’68 Camaro would have to face the Todd Tutterow-tuned
entry of Bader Alhi in the opening stanza. When the green light
flashed, Smith’s Pro Extreme Camaro marched down the eighth-mile to the
tune of a 3.744 at a mind-numbing 208.55mph – the fastest speed ever
recorded by a doorslammer.
“Howard [Moon, crew chief] has just been working hard on the tune up
for this Barwa Racing ’68 Camaro,” said Smith after the record setting
run. “When he walked out of his lounge in the trailer, where he reviews
the run data between rounds, he had a big smile on his face and I knew
we must be onto something. He’s been working to get this thing faster
in the first part of the racetrack, down low, and obviously it’s
working. This thing is trucking down through there. Howard told me he
thought it’d run a high 207, but we go out there and lay down a 208.55
speed – it’s just incredible.”
World's Ugliest Hummer! Jan.15
Winner of the World's Ugliest Hummer Contest!
BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 15, 2010
Congratulations to the New Auto Toy Store for winning the ugliest Hummer contest. Well, i'm not sure if this is something to be proud of, but the bright red H1 definately deserves the trophy. The unique Turbo Diesel powered engine has well over $185,000 | Read More Bob Tasca Sr. dies at age 83 Jan.15
Bob Tasca Sr. dies at age 83; NHRA innovator and prominent Ford dealer BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 15, 2010;
We have received the sad news that Bob Tasca Sr died on January 8th at age 83. Tasca Sr was the Ggrandfather of Bob Tasca III, NHRA Top Fuel Funny Car driver. Tasca is known for his introduction of the Cobra Jet 428 engine in the 1960s and the development of the drag racing | Read More Peterson's Super Clean 1969 GTO SS Jan.15
Peterson's Super Clean 1969 GTO SS Big Fan of GTO's? Well check out this 1969 GTO that Art Peterson's competes in SS/JA Class in NHRA. Peterson, Rialto, CA, | Read More ORSCA L/S World Champ: Eric Dillard Jan.13
Eric Dillard, driver of Todd Berry's twin-turbo Mustang, has been known the last couple of years as one of the quickest and fastest cars on True-Ten-Five Tires in the country. Now he can add ORSCA Proline Race Engine Limited Street World Champion to his resume.
His wife Emily & daughter Raegan His parents Linda & David Todd & Gle
nda Berry Steve Petty Hank Hill
Sponsors
Berry Plumbing
& Equipment TCI Precison Turbo Bell Chassisworks Southern Truck Parts Big Stuff 3 Mickey Thompson Tires Diamond Racing
NLR Systems Calico Total Seal Cometic
Words & Image Photo Wade Mooney/Car Photo Courtesy ORSCA
ORSCA EZ World Champ: Nick Yarber Jan.13
Last year Nick Yarber from MeadowView VA was among the points leader in TCI EZ Street when an untimely racing accident cost him a real shot at the championship. This year, despite not winning a race, he captured that elusive title in his 1995 Cobra powered by a 622 BBF.
Results:
Orangeburg SC - Semis Montgomery AL - R/Up Carolina - Semis Atlanta GA - 2nd RD Montgomery AL - R/Up Steele AL - Q2
Nick would like to thank
His wife Dawn His parents Eddie & Donna Jason Motes ad Roger Szabo for their tuning help Paul Baxter
and sponsors
Mickey Thompson tires VP Racing Fuel Cooper Tire UPR Products Yarber Performance
Words Wade Mooney/ Photo Courtesy ORSCA
ORSCA M/S Champ: Eric Kenward Jan.13
2009 PTC Modified Champ Eric Kenward towed his wheelstanding Malibu Wagon north from Vero Beach, FL for each event this year and infact made it count. He started the year with a win in Orangeburg, SC and continued with strong performances all season long.
Results:
Orangburg SC Win Montgomery AL R/Up Carolina R/Up Atlanta 1st Rd Montgomery AL R/Up Steele AL Q3
Eric would like thank above all God
as well as his wife and kids for allowing him to race
TRZ Motorsports for their help and support
His crew chief Atillio from AA performance
Bruce Roberts for loaning him a engine mid-season
Greg @ FTI Transmissions and Converters
Kris Nelson Racing Engines
Wilson Manifolds/Nitrous Pro Flow
Words Wade Mooney/Photo courtesy ORSCA
Tommy Mauney - TM Race Cars Jan.13
Lassiter Mountatin Dragway to reopen Jan.12
Lassiter Mountain Dragway in Gardendale, AL to Reopen BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 12, 2010
Lassiter Mountain is coming back! The 1958 dragstrip that several built memories on closed in 2006 but is coming back in 2010 with a face lift. The property, purchased by Jarred Bostic and Donald Phillips | Read More World's Fastest 2010 Camaro Jan.12
The Fastest 2010 Camaro on the Planet- 9.98 BY GM HIGHTECH PERFORMANCE ON JANUARY 16, 2010
Yes, since the camaro was introduced, car enthusiast have been researching several ways to improve its performance. David Brooks's 427 cubic inch blown 2010 camaro is currently the fastest 2010 camaro in the world, and was the first in the 9's, stopping the clock at 9.98 | Read More Dyno Day in Dothan, AL Jan.10
VIDEOS: DYNO DAY at Rick's Automotive and Custom Exhaust Shop BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 11, 2010
Rick's Automotive and Custom Exhaust held their annual Dyno day this past weekend, January 9th. Several DC Members were seen in the place and user "hambone" captured several videos. The group had a great time - bench racing, car showing, and free pizza. The two videos below show a super charged cutlass and dc member roadster tearing up the dyno | Read More
ORSCA 5.0 World Champ: Scott Underwood Jan.10
Scott Underwood claimed his first ORSCA Championship by Winning the Hot Head Sports 5.0 title. He drove his 632 CID 2002 Camaro to 1 win and qualified in the top 6 of each completed race.
Results:
Orangburg SC 3rd Roud Montgomery AL Semis Carolia Semis Atlanta Win Montgomery AL 2nd Round Steele Q13
Scott would like to thank the following:
ORSCA 6.0 World Champ: Ricky Pennington Jan.10
Ricky Pennington became ORSCA's first 4 time World Champion this year. Driving Thomas Bills Chevy Nova to the 6.0 Championship he also became one of just 3 drivers to win the crown in 2 different classes.
Results:
Orangeburg SC Semis Montgomery AL R/up Carolina Win Atlanta GA Semis Montgomery AL 2 rd Steele Q11
Ricky would like to thank the following:
Performance Specialties PTC TRZ M/T VP Racing Fuels Ross Pistons Comp Cams Nitro Plate PBM Brodix Total Seal Moser Speedtech
His Family (Mom {Lee}, Dad {Rick}, and Wife {Tiffany}) Tommy Bills Car Owner My Dad, Albert, and Jerry @ Performance Specialties Gordon Halloway @ Comp Cams Everybody @ PTC Tommy Chapman @ VP The Schaefer Family The Ellis Family The Entire Hot Head Motorsports Group Mark and Crystal Armstrong with Little Stroker Motorsports John Fore III Rod Burke
ORSCA 7.0 World Champ: Kenny Ford Jan.10
Kenny Ford of PTC Torque Converters won the 2009 ORSCA 7.0 Index Championship this year driving his 1967 Camaro. Despite not winning a race this season, Kenny drove his SBC-powered Chevy to 2 runner-ups and 3 fourth round finishes to claim the crown.
Kenny would like to thank his fellow employees at PTC including Lane
Crowell and Ed Bendall. His lovely wife Lagail as well as Eric Malone
who helps him out at the track. Thanks also go out to ORSCA for a
series to race and to all the PTC customers for their business and
friendship.
New Volkswagen built in China Jan.09
New Volkswagen built in China. 258 Miles per Gallon! BY: T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 7, 2010
Believe it or not? I received this email yesterday from a DC viewer. I don't know how many of you have been on the German highways, but I would be a little nervous driving this hotrod along side the 150mph+ BMW's. This car, averaging 258 miles/gallon, has a 1.7 gallon tank. | Read More 1988 Video: Bad Wreck at Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway Jan.09
1988 Video: Bad Wreck at Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway. Camaro Rolls. BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 10, 2010
Anyone ever heard of Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway? To give you a little history, there was a guy by the name of Julius Hughes, Jr. who was probably Atlanta's strongest proponent of sanctioned drag racing, according to georgiadragracing.com. In 1960 he and his wife Elaine opened the first speed shop in Georgia, | Read More
JLowe Racing Engines Jan.09
JLowe Racing Engines is located in Montgomery, AL and has been serving the South East Region for several years. James Lowe, owner, has a talent for building high horsepower engines for heads up classes, while building dependable motors for index and bracket racers. Contact James Lowe today and order your High Horsepower Small Block or Big Block! Building Enginesfor Promod, 4.70 Class,5.30,6.00,7.00, 8.00, and Bracket Racing
JLowe Racing Engines 424 Bibb St Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 318-5565
Jlowe Racing Engines' Customers
University of Alabama wins BCS National Championship Jan.07
University of Alabama wins BCS National Championship! POSTED ON JANUARY 7, 2010
It is official. Alabama has won their 13th National Championship after defeating the Texas Longhorns 37-21 on Thursday night in Pasadena, CA. The victory makes Nick Saban the first coach to win BCS titles at two schools. Congratulations to Alabama for bringing the Championship back home to Alabama | Read More Barwa Racing Pro Extreme Team for 3 Stretch Jan.07
BARWA RACING PRO EXTREME TEAM SETTLING IN FOR THREE RACE STRETCH
(1-7-10) DOHA, Qatar – With the third round of Arabian Drag Racing League action getting underway this week at the Qatar Race Club, Barwa Racing’s Howard Moon and Von Smith will return to the outlaw eighth-mile in search of a second consecutive world championship.
After winning the season opener, Smith had to settle for runner-up honors in the Barwa Racing Pro Extreme ’68 Camaro during Round 2 when His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani of Al-Anabi Racing bested him in their final round pairing. With three races slated for the next three weeks, Rounds 3 through 5 of the Arabian Drag Racing League season could easily be likened to the brutal NHRA “Western Swing”. Albeit the events are all contested at the same facility, the American-based racers are still required to spend several weeks away from their families and homes, working round the clock to maintain these three-second, 200mph door slammers between races Johnny Jordan's first formal race car Jan.07
Johnny Jordan describes his first "formal" race car; 1962 Pontiac Super Duty DragCoverage.com member Johnny Jordan describes what he calls his first “formal” race car. This Pontiac Super Duty was used in competition in B Stock with elapsed times in | Read More
Hot Rod Tour Schedule Released Jan.07
Hot Rod Power Tour Dates are Out. Heading to Alabama June 10-12! By T.J. Pruitt on January 7, 2010
Hot Rod Magazine has released the venues for 2010 and guess what? The tour is heading to Alabama June 10-12. The tour will stop in Birmingham on June 10th and then Mobile June 11-12. Early registration ends Wednesday, May 26, 2010. Call 877-413-6515 to pre-register | Read More Old Photos from Powerhouse Dragway Jan.07
Old Photos from Powerhouse Dragway in Fountain, FL BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 7, 2010
DragCoverage.com member fstreetracing has posted several old photos from Powerhouse Dragway,now known as Panama Dragway in Panama City, Fl. Should bring back memories for you racers or race fans from the Southeast region | Read More
Ford Mustang Outsells Cheverolet's Camaro in 2009 Jan.07
Ford Mustang
Outsells Cheverolet's Camaro in
2009 BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 8,
2010
The results are in: There were more
Ford Mustangs sold in 2009 than Cheverolet’s Camaro. But, the
race was close, according to Car and Driver Magazine.The results show
that there were 66,623 Mustangs sold in 2009, and Camaro closely behind
with 61,618. Several predicted Camaro to overtake the Mustang
if their streak of month to month sales continued, but Ford’s
percentage increased 60 percent in December.| Read More
NHRA Unleashed ! New Series Announced Jan.07
NHRA and producers of the popular drag racing show Pinks, Stephen Pullin and Jack Schaeffer, have agreed to create, develop, and produce media properties, including new racing competitions, new events, and television programs. The first project, NHRA Unleashed, will celebrate pure American horsepower in an interactive festival environment.
AMSOIL Sponsors Engine Master Challenge Jan.07
AMSOIL will partner with Popular Hot Rodding Magazine for the 2010 Engine Masters Challenge. The Engine Masters Challenge selects the most prestigious engine builders from around the globe to participate in building the most powerful engine. As title sponsor, AMSOIL lubricants will contribute greatly to the success of each engine, especially during the pre-event testing and tuning where engine wear occurs most. The competition consists of a series of dyno test pulls in which average torque and horsepower performance rankings are configured to determine a winner in this challenge. Contingency payouts will be awarded to 1st-6th place finishers, and AMSOIL products will also be awarded plus $5,000 in cash and products from AMSOIL to the grand champion. Slated for October 4-8 at the University of Northwestern Ohio in Lima, OH, entries are still being accepted until February 15. The competitors, who are chosen by the staff of Popular Hot Rodding magazine, begin their engine-building program in mid-February and continue a course of component selection, building, and iterative testing up until the fall contest in October
Don “the Snake” Prudhomme Retires Jan.07
Don “the Snake” Prudhomme, one of the most accomplished drivers and revered team owners in the history of motorsports, announced his retirement today, ending a career spanning five decades in drag racing. Prudhomme’s 47-year career featured him behind the wheel for 32 seasons before he retired from driving at the end of his 1994 Final Strike campaign. He then transitioned to the role of team owner. Overall, Prudhomme has an impressive combination of six NHRA world championships and 112 national event victories. “I feel very fortunate to have been able to make a living in drag racing and to have enjoyed some success along the way,” said Prudhomme. “I would like to thank all of the great sponsors we’ve worked with over the years, everyone at NHRA, the many track owners, operators, and promoters, our past employees and team members, and all of the drag racing fans that have supported Snake Racing.”
Auto Meter returns for 2010 PMRA season Jan.06
SYCAMORE, IL (January 6, 2010) – Not only is Auto Meter Products returning to the Pro Modified Racing Association as a contingency sponsor for 2010, the top name in performance instrumentation will be providing contingency awards for the Quick 32 Sportsman Series.
Contingency awards will be posted for both the PMRA and Quick 32 Sportsman Series at each race venue in 2010.
NHRA's Greatest Race Series to Air Jan.06
NHRA’s Greatest Races series to air on Fox Sports Net Post on Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Take a step down memory lane as NHRA, in cooperation with longtime announcer, television commentator, and author Bill Stephens, relives the great history of NHRA’s most memorable events in a 13-week | Read More Tindle Uses Jr.Dragster to “Fight for Misty” Jan.06
Tindle Uses Jr.Dragster to “Fight for Misty” BY T.J. Pruitt on January 5, 2009
T.J. Tindle uses Outlaw 330 Dragster to "Fight for Misty"TJ Tindle used his Outlaw 330 Jr.Dragster to raise cancer awareness for Misty Williams, a married mother of three currently battling stage 4 rectal cancer | Read More Racin Jason's Huge Wheelstand Jan.03
One of the Best Wheelstands Ever! BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 4, 2010
Byron has an annual wheelstanding contest and the competition is pretty steep, but check out this huge wheelstand by Racin Jason in his 91 Mustang. A performance like this would be in the running for a wheelstanding championship at Byron dragway | Read More Mobile Dragway Footbrake Nationals Results Jan.03
Mobile Dragway, Irvinton, AL
FOOTBRAKE NATIONALS SUNDAY RACE RESULTS Sunday – January 3, 2010
RUN FOR THE $ WINNER: Roy Latino – Donaldsonville, LA Index 5.88 | Reaction +.0218 | ET 5.8823 | MPH 104.11
FAST 8 WINNER: TJ Vickers – Chickasaw, AL Index 5.69 | Reaction +.0049 | ET 5.6980 | MPH 107.41
ELIMINATIONS WINNER: Adam Davis – Cullman, AL
R/U: Adam Davis – Cullman, AL Index5.70 | Reaction +.0271 | ET 5.7138 | MPH 105.86
Looking back:Action Shots from 2009 Jan.03
John Fore III's Favorite 2009 Shots BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 3, 2010
John Fore III is definately not a newbie when it comes to any style of photos, but his expertise is drag racing. The motorsports photographer has released a few of his best 2009 photos and they are phenominal. Maybe we can "con" Fore into sending a few more shots for us DragCoverage.com viewers | Read More
Howard and Hill to introduce New Series Jan.02
n George Howard and Hill to introduce new Heads Up Series Roy Hill and George Howard have been busy during the off-season getting together a new Heads Up Series in 2010. According to Howard, the series will consist of Read More Car Craft Offers Engine Swap Drags for Pre 92 Hot Rods Jan.02
Car Craft Offers Engine Swap Drags for Pre 92 Hot Rods by T.J. Pruitt on January 1, 2010
Got an early street machine with a late-model engine? If you do, the Car Craft Engine Swap drags are for you. The rules are simple. Show up in a pre-'92 model year street machine with a late-model engine and race heads-up against other engine swappers for magazine glory | Read More Howard and Hill to introduce New Series Jan.01
Roy Hill and George Howard have been busy during the off-season getting together a new Heads Up Series in 2010. According to Howard, the series will consist of classes similar to Promod, Outlaw 10.5, and Index Heads Up Racing.
On January 7, Howard and Hill will make the big announcement and release details on the Outlaw Door Slammer Series, which will bow in 2010.
Check back here for the schedule and the list of the best tracks which will be hosting the...
Presented by George Howard Racing
Car Crafts Mag Offers Engine Swap Drags Jan.01
Car Craft Offers Engine Swap Drags for Pre 92 Hot Rods BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 1, 2010
Got an early street machine with a late-model engine? If you do, the Car Craft Engine Swap drags are for you. The rules are simple. Show up in a pre-'92 model year street machine with a late-model engine and race heads-up against other engine swappers for magazine glory. We are looking for everyday street car bodies and wicked late-model motors | Read More Video from Southeastern Dragway in 1968 Jan.01
1968 Video: Big Name Drivers Invade Southeastern Dragway in Dallas, GA BY T.J. PRUITT ON JANUARY 1, 2010
Ran across this old video taen by Hugh Greeson at Southeastern Dragway, Dallas, Georgia. The video was shot in 1968 and there were several big name drivers of Southern drag racing at this race. Southeastern International Dragway was first opened and operated by Marvin "Red" Jones, as "Red's Dragstrip", on July 4, 1955. The original track was | Read More MMP Hangovers Nationals Rescheduled Dec.31
Due to the extreme weather conditions this weekend Montgomery Motorsports Park, Montgomery, AL felt it necessary to the Postpone this event and re-schedule it January 15-17.
"Same Schedule same payouts same race. It was a very hard decision to make but when you get down in the mid 20's at night and only have high's in the low to mid 40's during the day it would be a struggle at best to get good track conditions and we also are taking in the saftey factor also. WE hate to break tradition but we feel this is the best decision," said Jim Howard. Hossler Gets an Invitation from the Sheik! Dec.30
Byron Dragway racer Alex Hossler didn’t recognize the number on the caller ID when his cell phone rang Dec. 18.
When he answered, a man with a thick foreign accent spoke to him.
“I thought it was a telemarketer, and I said I wasn’t interested and hung up,” Hossler said.
The man called back, and Hossler listened more intently.
What the racer heard this time was a most interesting proposition.
The caller was Sheik Khalid bin Hamad al-Thani, a 22-year-old member of Qatar’s ruling family who loves drag racing and is pouring millions of dollars into an NHRA team he owns. He also drives in the American Drag Racing League, where he learned of Hossler, who had recently won an ADRL race in Dallas.
“I had never met him, but I had seen him at a few of my races,” Hossler said of the sheik.
The sheik was calling to invite Hossler to compete in a drag-racing series starting next month in Qatar.
“The first thing I did was get on the computer and find out where Qatar was,” Hossler, 32, said with a chuckle.
He discovered it is a small country bordering Saudi Arabia and has the third-largest gas reserves in the world.
The sheik wanted Hossler and his car to compete in the five-race Arabian Drag Racing League, which kicks off Saturday.
The sheik offered to pay to fly Hossler’s car there, which will cost $27,000, and provide airfare for Hossler and two of his crew members, who will fly home between races that continue through early March.
Hossler agreed.
He won’t be paid to compete in the four-car races — the sheik owns the other three cars and will drive one — but will keep the prize money. Hossler will earn a total of $30,000 if he finishes last in all the eighth-mile races or as much as $125,000 should he win all of them. Hossler’s expenses, including parts, will be covered.
“The sheik pays for everything,” he said. “We pay for zilch. If it all works out the way he told me, it will be a great deal.”
Hossler was a bit uncertain about the trip until talking to other U.S. racers who have competed in Qatar.
“They said it was very nice, and at no time did they not feel safe,” Hossler said.
Photos from the 2009 PRI Show in Orlando, FL Dec.30
Photos from the 2009 PRI Show in Orlando, FL BY JEFFERY DUNN ON DECEMBER 30, 2009
If you missed the 2009 Perforamance Racing Industry Show in Orlando, you missed quite a show. Fortunately, DragCoverage.com's Jefferey Dunn was there and captured a few shots. The aisles of the North/South Building of Orlando's Orange County Convention Center | Read More
ORSCA Crowns 2009 Champions Dec.28
ORSCA Crowns 2009 Champions BY AGENT DC DECEMBER 29, 2009 The 2009 Season for ORSCA (Outlaw Racing Street Car Association) has come to an end and the champions have been crowned. Wow, time flys. Is this reality? The thought of Outlaw 10.5 cars running in the 4.20s just seems like a dream. We may see consistent 4 teen passes in 2010.
So, what's more impressive. An ADRL Extreme 10.5 Car running 4.00s or a full blown street car running 4.20s? Congratulations to all 2009 Champions Advanced Door Car Technology: Vial's Pro Extreme Dec.28
Advanced Door Car Technology Releases Pics of Vial's Pro Extreme Firebird By T.J. Pruitt on December 30, 2009
Advanced Door Car Technology, better known as KKPRE has released in the shop photos of Ellis Vial's 1968 Pro Extreme Firebird. Pro Extreme is probably one of the fastest growing classes in drag racing right now, featuring blown 3 second door slammers | Read More Quick 8 to return to IHRA in 2010 Dec.28
IHRA is pleased to announce that Top Sportsman and Top Dragster will be
featured during the professional elimination rounds at all Nitro Jam
events in 2010.
Since the mid-1970s sportsman drag racing and the International Hot Rod
Association have walked hand in hand and in 2010 that relationship is
going to become even stronger as the IHRA returns to its roots and
places its quickest and fastest sportsman classes on the stage they
deserve.
In an effort to showcase the best sportsman racers in Top Sportsman and
Top Dragster and to provide even more entertainment value to its Nitro
Jam show the IHRA will showcase first round of main event eliminations
during the professional rounds on the first event day and have created
an "Elite 8" program for the top qualifiers in each of these two
classes to be run during the professional rounds on the second event
day. Full time ride for PS Bike Rider Angie Smith Dec.28
Pro Stock Bike rider Angie Smith won't have to wait until Christmas Day to open one of her finest presents.
Smith, formerly Angie McBride, will race a full NHRA Full Throttle tour aboard Karl and Kim Klement's Buell thanks to sponsorship from Coffman Tank Trucks.
"I really excited about this," said Smith. "This is the first opportunity I've ever had to race fulltime. This has been my dream and now it's coming true. It's probably the biggest Christmas present I've ever gotten."
Former NHRA Pro Stock Bike champion Matt Smith will build the team's engines and oversee the program from the crew chief role. Because of the funding the Coffman Tank Trucks sponsorship brings to the Klement Racing team, there will be ample availability to test as well as conduct research and development programs.
"We are going to have a good program and I feel like we have a team that will perform well," Smith added. "Our biggest goal is to get in the top ten this year and we feel like we have a team that legitimately to do that."
Team owner Karl Klement agrees.
"We have a fantastic deal for 2010," Klement explained. "I am really excited. The game plan is to win a championship. This will be my third full-time year and with the program that I have with Matt building the engines and Angie riding, is capable of winning a national event at any track on the tour. She just needed some support behind her and with Coffman Tank Trucks, I feel confident that we have got what it takes to get the job done.
The program with Coffman Tank Trucks, a company owned by J.B. and Terissa Coffman, was one that was forged through a friendship and divine intervention. The Coffmans are former bracket racers who had a working relationship with Klement and attended the NHRA Fall Nationals last September in Ennis, Texas.
"I hope this develops into a long term deal because Karl and I have become close friends with everyone," said Coffman. "We're looking forward to it.
"This has been a blessing and God orchestrated it all," he continued. "I have to give God the glory for allowing my businesses to work out to the point that we were able to do this. I give Him the glory for what has happened and what is going to take place."
The enthusiasm from all the parties involved has Angie Smith smiling broader than ever.
"We're going to have a great team, great team owners and great sponsors," confirmed Mrs. Smith. "That's going to make for a great 2010 and a really great Christmas this year."
Vote for DragCoverage.com! Dec.27
Vote for DragCoverage.com in the "DOT Com" Awards! BY T.J. PRUITT on December 27, 2009
DragCoverage.com has been nomiated for the Competitionplus.com "Dot Com" awards once again. The site has been pleased to be nomiated for three consecutive years! Vote for your favorite Drag Racing News Site | Click Here to Vote!
A Look Back:Original Chrysler Pro Stockers Dec.27
A Look Back:Original Chrysler Pro Stockers By Wade Mooney on December 28, 2009
A few of the original Chrysler Pro Stockers that were on display at the2009 PRI show. All were 426 CID Hemi powered and were very similar to previous factory backed Super Stock entries | Read More > A Look Back:Original Chrysler Pro Stockers Dec.26
A few of the original Chrysler Pro Stockers that were on display at the 2009 PRI show. All were 426 CID Hemi powered and with the exception of the Duster were former Super Stock entries.
Melanie Troxel's Other Job - MTI, Inc Dec.26
Everyone knows Melanie Troxel has a multi-time NHRA National Event winner or as the engaging wife of fellow driver Tommy Johnson Jr. Not many people realize that she is also a successful business woman and has some mechanical skills of her own. Melanie, who started racing when she was 16 years old first competed in a car that was powered by an engine she rebuilt as a high school project. The daughter of 1988 NHRA Top Alcohol Champion Mike Troxel also owns her own tool manufacturing business, MTI Inc.
MTI, Inc. has been manufacturing top of the line automotive tools for close to two decades. Owned and operated by racing professionals, the company is closely connected with the racing community and is continually improving their tools to meet the changing demands of the industry. They invite you to use the same tools that the racing industry relies on and experience the quality that MTI has been built on. Their products include a Bench Valve Spring Compressor and Torque-T Spark Plug Wrench designed for Hemi engines. Merry Christmas from DragCoverage.com! Dec.24
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the staff here at DragCoverage.com. Please Do Not Drink and Drive Name The Race Series Contest ! Ends Soon Dec.24
12-24-2009 Huntington, NY – Drag racing fans, seven days left for your chance to name a racing series. The Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association in conjunction with Royce Miller, MIR track owner and other track owners, have created a contest that has prizes that include a hospitality suite for you and your friends at one of the 2010 NEOPMA races at MIR in Mechanicsville, MD, a club Jacket, T-Shirts, and be a guest of the NEOPMA for the day.
“What we are looking for is a colorful series name for the Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association for 2010 and beyond. It should be colorful, stand out, and be a phrase that signifies the existence of the colorful and unique quarter mile Pro Mods of the NEOPMA. We feel that race fans creativity will find us this series name”, states John Mazzorana, President of the NEOPMA.
The contest will start December 1st, 2009 and run thru Dec 31st, 2009. Submissions will need to be sent to vito.micciolo@neoutlawpromods.com. They must include your name, address, email address, and contact number. Anyone under 18 will need their parents’ permission, and parents will need to accept prize. All submissions will be reviewed by the NEOPMA Board of Directors and the contest winner will be announced January 18th.
Rules: 1. The name should be no more than 6-7 words long. 2. No explicit language. 3. In the event of duplicate submissions, the first submission by date received will be the valid submission. 4. Have fun.
Any questions can be directed to Vito Micciolo, 201.421.7416, or John Mazzorana, 516.857.3120
Each year, since 1999, CompetitionPlus.com has conducted its annual Dot Com Awards as a means of allowing race fans and readers of the Internet magazine to select the Best of 2009. Cast your votes today and help us to select the worthy recipients of a Dot Com Award.
IHRA Drivers Making a Difference POSTED BY T.J. PRUITT From local racers to the national stage, drivers doing their part to help find a cure for one of world’s fastest growing diseases. Chances are at some point in your life you or someone you know has been directly affected by one of the world’s fastest growing diseases – diabetes | Read More Mardi Gras Event Invades MMP in February Dec.21
First ever 3 day Mardi Gras Drag Racing Event coming to Montgomery Motorsports Park February 12-14 2010.
The event promoters decided to bring a race festivity such as the Mardi Gras Explosion to a 1/4 mile track that is well known for its great reputation and also a track that is central located in which fans and racers of all kind can come out and mingle, have fun and be part of the first ever Mardi Gras Drag Racing Event in Montgomery, AL. Fans will witness first hand some of the baddest, fastest motorcycles and cars on the planet. Houston Raceway Park "Tower Club" Dec.21
Continuing a multi-year effort to offer guests a first-class experience, the owners of Houston Raceway Park will soon christen a 12,000 square foot, state-of-the-art "Tower Club" that will instantly become the premiere starting line facility in drag racing.
Already nearing completion, the deluxe permanent structure on the west side of the conventional tower suites will transform a regular day at the drag races into a VIP experience for race fans, with numerous amenities never before offered at the track.
"We're shooting for the stars with this building and we think fans are really going to respond favorably to what we're doing," said General Manager Seth Angel. "In the past, we had a huge tent for our Darrell Russell Top Eliminator Club and it was very successful, but there were things our guests suggested to us in order to make it better and we listened. Ultimately, our customers need to be happy and we think the Tower Club will exceed all of their wishes.
Urban Hill Billy Releases Carnage Fest 2 Dec.20
Urban Hill Billy Action Videos Releases Carnage Fest 2 Visit www.urbanhillbilly.us to purchase video.
AMRC Offers Duster Body Dec.20
Washington, Mo. (Dec. 7, 2009) – Andy McCoy Race Cars (AMRC),
specializing in the fabrication of high-performance Pro Mod and Top
Sportsman drag racing components from chassis to competition-ready
vehicles, has added to its lineup with a complete composite shop and
the first order of business for the new division is to make AMRC’s
proprietary 1970 Plymouth Duster body available.
“This is the next step in the evolution of our race shop,” Andy McCoy
said. “We no longer just specialize in chassis building. We are
continuing to add to our business with the aim of ultimately producing
everything a serious racer would need from bumper to bumper.”
AMRC generated a buzz in the drag racing community with the debut last
year of their patented Duster body and the team is currently putting
the finishing touches on the fifth car they have built from the ground
up with that design. The popularity of that car has led to the opening
of the composite shop. Moser Engineering extends IHRA agreement Dec.20
Moser Engineering extends agreement with IHRA; will continue to back IHRA’s wealthiest sportsman program
NORWALK, Ohio – The International Hot Rod Association is pleased to announce that Moser Engineering has agreed to a two-year extension and will continue to provide one of IHRA’s wealthiest sportsman racing programs through 2011, the highly popular Moser Engineering Axle Mania Sportsman Showdown.
The announcement was made Saturday at the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando.
“We are thrilled to welcome Moser Engineering back for another two years. The Moser Axle Mania program has grown into one of the largest and most exciting programs in sportsman racing today and we can’t wait to see how big this thing can grow,” said Tommy Dupree, IHRA National Sales Director. “Rob (Moser) and all the great people at Moser Engineering continue to prove their commitment to the sportsman racer and with their insight I think we will be able to take this program to the next level over the next few years.”
Details surrounding Saturday’s announcement are still being finalized. Check back with www.ihra.com for complete details as they become available.
Spradlin wins T/D Championship Dec.20
Spradlin wins IHRA Division II Top Dragster Championship; narrowly misses NHRA Championship
Ranburne, AL - Casey Spradlin and the Spradlin Motorsports
Top Sportsman and Top Dragster team experienced a career best season in 2009
with an IHRA Top Dragster Championship. The victories started early
during the season with Spradlin*s first ever National Event during the
NHRA Jeg*s Cajun SportsNats, Belle Rose, LA. His streak of winnings
continued throughout the summer with a Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series
(LODRS) win at Memphis Motorsports Park and then an IHRA Summit ProAm
event victory in Holly Springs, MS.
"This was just a great season," Spradlin said. "Everything fell into
place at the right time. We had a good car and Tim Gaines Performance
engine combination was just phenomenal. The car was there and if I did
my job, we ended up in the winner's circle every time. Winning the big
Wally is just a special moment."
"The feeling of being able to join the short list of National event winners is indescribable."
Sunset to be Contingency Sponsor Dec.07
Sunset Racecraft To Be Major NHRA Contingency Sponsor in 2010
Lubbock, TX: Sunset Racecraft has agreed to terms as a major NHRA contingency sponsor in 2010, posting $64,150 in awards to finalists at NHRA Full Throttle National events, Lucas Oil Divisional Events, and JEGS SportsNationals. Sunset Racecraft is the only competition engine builder currently posting awards for race engines. Sunset Racecraft customers in Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman will compete for extra cash courtesy of the Lubbock, TX based engine building magnate.
“We’re ecstatic to have this opportunity to give something back to our NHRA customers,” said Sunset’s Tracy Dennis. “We’ve been heavily involved in the inclusion of the Top Dragster and Top Sportsman classes in NHRA, and we’ve got a great core customer group in the Super categories; so posting contingency seemed like the next logical step.”
To be eligible for Sunset Racecraft contingency postings, racers must be the original purchaser of a Sunset Racecraft competition engine within the last 36 months, or have purchased $4000 in parts or labor from Sunset within the last 24 months.
Al-Anabi Twin Turbo Wins Round 2 Dec.07
Al-Anabi Racing Top Sportsman Mustang Twin Turbo Wins at Arabian Drag Racing League Round 2
Qatar Race Club, Doha, Qatar - HH Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad al-Thani's Al-Anabi Racing Team Top Sportsman entry, a Mustang with twin Precision Pro Mod 94 Turbos, took the win at the Arabian Drag Racing League Round 2 event today December 4, 2009. The car wound up in the top qualifying position from yesterday's 4.018 pass and secured the podium finish after running a great 4.03 at 193.24 mph. The car, which is driven by Qatar's "Crazy Moe" Atat, is tuned by Shane Tecklenburg of Mission Viejo, CA, USA using a MoTeC M800 Engine Management System and MoTeC Sport Dash Logging system. Formerly Mike Castellana's Western Beef Mustang, the car now sports a 632 cubic inch Reher Morrison Racing engine fed by the aforementioned turbos and is fed methanol through Injector Dynamics injectors. The vehicle was converted to the turbo setup at Al-Anabi's Doha race shop by Greg Johnson and Chad Morgan who also crew on the car.
Hangover Nats Returns to MMP Dec.07
Montgomery Motorsports Park's annual Hangover Nationals returns on January 2-3, 2010.
A "Thunderous Ride" for Beckman Dec.07
A ‘THUNDEROUS’ RIDE: Funny Car driver “Fast Jack” Beckman on his experience of flying with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds: “It was like riding a roller coaster on steroids with your eyes closed. Your view forward is completely obscured by the dash, some of the flight instrumentation and the pilot sitting in front of you. You can see very well out to the sides and up, but you can’t tell which way he’s going next. And that plane is absolutely amazing. Imagine everything a jet fighter can do and multiply that by three. The F-16 can do more than a human body could ever withstand.”
Win a New 2010 American Dragster Dec.07
Luke Bogacki Race Services and American Race Cars are proud to present the 2010 New Years Dragster Raffle. One lucky winner will ring in the new year as the proud owner of a brand new 2010 American Race Cars swing arm dragster, assembled and wired as a complete roller by Luke Bogacki Race Services. Raffle tickets are $200 each, and the raffle is capped at 150 tickets. In addition to the grand prize, cash prizes will be awarded for 2nd-5th place winners. Winning tickets will be drawn New Years Eve, 2009.
The grand prize is a brand new 2010 American Race Cars swing arm dragster (valued at $28,000), completely assembled and wired as follows:
Brand New 2010 American Race Cars 235" Patriot Swing Arm Dragster - Black Metallic Powdercoat - Chrome Options (4-link bars, blowshield, steering arms) - AFCO Shock & Spring - Sharp Steer Stiletto Steering Rack - Ron Davis Aluminum Radiator/Fan/Shroud - Moser Engineering Rear Housing - Complete Moser 3rd Member: 40 spline, Big Spool, Pro 4.11 Gear, Aluminum carrier - Moser 40 Spline Axles w/ 5/8" studs - Strange Disc Brakes - B&M Transmission Cooler - Weld Racing 16" x 16" Aluma-Star Wheels - Mickey Thompson 3185 Slicks - Mickey Thompson front wheels & tires - Digital Delay Elite 500 Delay Box - K&R Switch & Fuse Panel - Auto Meter Playback tach & gauges - B&M Pro Bandit Shifter w/ Dixie Electric Shift Solenoid - Simpson Parachute - RJS Cam Lock Seat Belts - MSD 7AL-3 Ignition Box - Optima Battery - Professionally Assembled & Wired by Luke Bogacki Race Services
Second thru fifth prizes all take home cold hard cash; with $2,000 going to second, $1,000 to third, and $500 each to fourth and fifth.
Tickets can be purchased via credit card online at ThisIsBracketRacing.com or by contacting Luke Bogacki at 256-679-8328.
Bogacki Caps Strong 2009 Campaign With Florida Winter Series Victories
Luke Bogacki’s success in the sportsman ranks has been well chronicled. The 28-year-old Alabama resident has earned a reputation as one of the most successful ET bracket and sportsman class racers in the country over the last decade. But, like most anyone, a handful of accomplishments still elude the young veteran. This winter, Bogacki was able to knock one major triumph off his checklist, as he won his first winter series event at the Bradenton “Best of Both Worlds” Winter Series Championship, a $10,000 windfall on Friday November 13.
The annual “Winter Series” is a multi-week, multi-event marathon of big dollar bracket races throughout South Georgia and Florida. The events have predominantly been dominated by the greatest sportsman competitors in the country for over 25 years.
“Coming into this season, I felt like I still had four major goals in racing that I hadn’t accomplished,” said Bogacki. “I wanted to win an NHRA national event, a day of the winter series, a major (NHRA or IHRA) world championship, and a Winter Series Points title. I still have the dream of becoming a world champion or 5-day points champ, but it’s been a great season; and I got to mark two of those accomplishments off my list!”
New drag racing book Dec.07
New drag racing book covers entire spectrum of the sport
HAMILTON, ONTARIO (November 23, 2009) – It has been two years in the making, but Drag Racing - The World’s Fastest Sport is now available for fans of this popular form of auto racing.
The newly-released hardcover book encompasses all facets of drag racing, from a strong segment on the history of the sport to today’s top drivers in the NHRA and IHRA. There is a section on all car classes, from Stockers to Top Fuelers, a drag racing “101” primer which delves into the mechanics of the sport, and chapters devoted to women in the sport and legends of the sport.
The book is profusely illustrated with exciting and colorful photographs. The book also employs a bevy of illustrations of drag racing cars and other items related to the sport presented in a realistic fashion.
“This book has truly been a labor of love for me,” said Miller, who has written several other books on auto racing. “When I decided to attempt this book, I noticed there were many books on the sport available, but none to offer the scope that this book contains. Name The Race Series Contest ! Dec.06
Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association invites race fans to participate in “name the series” contest for 2010.
11-30-2009Huntington, NY – Drag racing fans, here’s your chance to name a racing series. The Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association in conjunction with Royce Miller, MIR track owner and other track owners, have created a contest that has prizes that include a hospitality suite for you and your friends at one of the 2010 NEOPMA races at MIR in Mechanicsville, MD, a club Jacket, T-Shirts, and be a guest of the NEOPMA for the day.
“What we are looking for is a colorful series name for the Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association for 2010 and beyond. It should be colorful, stand out, and be a phrase that signifies the existence of the colorful and unique quarter mile Pro Mods of the NEOPMA. We feel that race fans creativity will find us this series name”, states John Mazzorana, President of the NEOPMA.
The contest will start December 1st, 2009 and run thru Dec 31st, 2009. Submissions will need to be sent to vito.micciolo@neoutlawpromods.com. They must include your name, address, email address, and contact number. Anyone under 18 will need their parents’ permission, and parents will need to accept prize. All submissions will be reviewed by the NEOPMA Board of Directors and the contest winner will be announced January 18th.
Rules:
1.The name should be no more than 6-7 words long.
2.Differentiator’s ex.: quarter mile, pro mods, etc.
3.No explicit language.
4.In the event of duplicate submissions, the first submission by date received will be the valid submission.
5.Have fun.
Any questions can be directed to Vito Micciolo, 201.421.7416, or John Mazzorana, 516.857.3120
Bruce Boland and Kevin Wicke win 2009 titles, Carl Spiering receives
The John Massingberd Memorial Award
We're Back -Please Accept Our Apology Dec.06
Due to some technical difficultities we have not been able to update the news section. It should be resolved now.
ORTC Bradenton Results Nov.01
Although not the fastest class at the event the radial tire class was the featured main attraction of the event known as the Outlaw Radial Tire Championship. The class is divided into two categories, Boost for turbocharged or supercharged assisted cars and No Boost, reserved for cars assisted by nitrous oxide.
Latino #4 in PMRA's Top 5 Nov.01
The Pro Modified Racing Association’s top five for 2009 – Eric Latino – Fourth Place
SCARBOROUGH, ONTARIO (October 21, 2009) – When long-time Sportsman racer Eric Latino stepped up into the wild world of Pro Modified racing late in 2008, his debut with the 1938 Chevy Coupe in the Pro Modified Racing Association was a big learning curve.
Castellana wins Matco Clash Nov.01
In an exciting day of Pro Mod action at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway,
Brad Personett blasted his turbo-powered '68 Camaro to the number one qualifying
position Saturday in the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge presented by
ProCare Rx at the NHRA Las Vegas Nationals and Mike Castellana won the Matco
Tools Pro Mod Clash and took home the $25,000 grand prize by beating his
teammate Burton Auxier in the finals.
The day's lone qualifying session
saw Brad Personett blast to a track record ET of 5.965 seconds at 245.45 mph and
Jay Payne follow closely with a 5.971 at 240.38 to take No. 2. In all, six
drivers were in the five-second zone and rookie Kirk Wilmes took the No. 16 spot
with a 6.125 at 231.52 - the quickest ever field and bump spot for the Las Vegas
track.
Shoe aquires Mike Ashley Assets Oct.30
The other shoe just dropped on Mike Ashley Racing, which has been running a Top Fuel Matco Tools-sponsored rail for former Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Antron Brown this year.
Coming into the final two races of the season, this weekend’s penultimate combat at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and the grand finale at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona two weeks hence, Brown lay fourth in the Countdown to One championship chase, after leading much of the “regular” season. He has five victories in nine final round appearances throughout the 2009 24-race season; Brown became only the seventh professional driver to sweep the grueling three races in three weeks Western Swing in the July heat. Dover closes Memphis Motorsports Park Oct.30
Dover Motorsports, Inc. (NYSE-Symbol: DVD) announced today that it was ceasing all operations at Memphis Motorsports Park and that it would not be promoting any events in Memphis in 2010.
As previously announced, the Memphis facility had been under an agreement of sale to Gulf Coast Entertainment but Gulf Coast was unable to secure financing.
“This was a difficult decision for us, but one that ultimately was dictated by economics,” said Denis McGlynn, President and CEO of Dover Motorsports. “We greatly appreciate the many years of dedication shown by our Memphis employees and their efforts to make Memphis such a great destination for the racing community – from racing fans and drivers to sponsors, team owners and sanctioning bodies. For all concerned, including the Memphis community, it is truly sad to see Memphis Motorsports Park taken off the racing schedule. NASCAR has approved the realignment of our NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series events from Memphis Motorsports Park to our Nashville and Gateway facilities.”
Hurricane Lowe Starting to Shape Up Oct.30
Lester Pitts has released updated photos of James Lowe's New Hurricane Camaro. Lowe, Montgomery, AL, plans to compete in South East 4.70 Classes with his Lowe Racing Engine's Powerplant.
ADRL Statement on Memphis Closing Oct.30
O’FALLON, MO (Oct. 30, 2009) — The National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL) regrets the decision announced today by Dover Motorsports Inc. to close Memphis Motorsports Park (MMP), site of this year’s ADRL Quarter-Max Memphis Drags II, but already is taking steps to replace the venue for its 2010 season.
“I’m saddened by this news, not only because Memphis Motorsports Park hosted one of our most exciting events this season before being cut short by rain, but because it holds sentimental value for me personally as essentially the birthplace of our complimentary ticket program back in 2006,” National Guard ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling said.
Nowling praised MMP Vice President and General Manager Jason Rittenberry and his staff for their hard work at the facility, not only during National Guard ADRL events, but for other major drag racing events and races at the speedway that shares the Millington, Tennessee, grounds.
“I wish Jason and his staff nothing but the best in the future,” Nowling said. “I also want to thank the fans in Memphis who came out in record numbers this May and hope they all will be able to attend another National Guard ADRL event soon.”
A two-day crowd of 58,750 passed through the MMP turnstiles for the ADRL Quarter-Max Memphis Drags II, including more than 38,200 on Saturday alone, representing the largest single-day attendance figure in the drag strip’s 23-year history.
Next year’s National Guard ADRL event at MMP was scheduled for May 28-29, but obviously will need to be moved to a new venue.
“We’re very sorry about not being able to return to Memphis Motorsports Park in 2010, but the good news for National Guard ADRL racers, sponsors and fans is that we’ve had several tracks jockeying for an event date in 2011 and now one of them will be able to start hosting an ADRL event in 2010,” Nowling said. “In fact, I’ve been on the phone with two potential replacements already today and feel quite confident we’ll be able to announce a new event soon, hopefully remaining on the Memorial Day weekend.”
Pure Blown Hell is Back Oct.30
Steve Rawls, Panhandle, FL, is ready to hit the track again following his nearly horrific accident at Emerald Coast Dragway in his Blown 55' Cheverolet. The 4.70 driver will be debuting a Vanishing Point built 1966 Ford Fastback Mustang.
This bad to the bone Ford is Chevy powered with an 8-71 Blower on alcohol for boost. Other details include a powerglide transmission with a PTC Converter.
Joey "Hero" Martin assisted Rawls in assembling the car and getting up to par with certification. Rawls quoted "Joey is the man." He was also quick to thank his father.
NHRA: Closure of Memphis Motorsports Park Oct.30
On behalf of all NHRA racers, fans and sponsors, we are very disappointed to learn about Dover Motorsports Inc.’s decision to close Memphis Motorsports Park. We had been in discussions with the management team at Dover Motorsports regarding the track’s future in recent weeks and were aware that this action was a possibility. We appreciate the great support we received from the fans throughout the western Tennessee region as well as the cooperation from all those who worked at the facility.
We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Dover Motorsports group and conducting the national event at Gateway International Raceway at St. Louis. At this time, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series schedule for 2010 will be reduced to 23 events.
American Race Cars Congratulates Customers Oct.30
Millbury, OH: American Race Cars would like to take this opportunity to congratulate several customers on their phenomenal outings in 2009. As the NHRA and IHRA seasons wrap up, a number of American customers have claimed divisional titles. Jeff Serra drove his American Race Cars machine to the NHRA Top Dragster Championship in Division 1. Sherman Adcock, Jr. and Steve Furr swept the NHRA Division 2 titles, with Adcock winning Super Comp in his American machine (as well as Super Gas in his Firebird), and Furr driving his American Dragster to the championship in Top Dragster. American Race Cars team member Ray Connolly did not win the Division 3 crown in his American Race Cars Super Comp machine, but did claim the division title in Super Gas (where he currently leads the world championship standings). Pat Martin and Dave Elrod added IHRA division crowns in the Quick Rod category, driving their American Race Cars to the title in division 3 and 5 respectively.
Interview w/ Automated Racing Technologies Oct.30
Interview with Chris Patrick of Automated Racing Technologies
Q: Tell me about Automated Racing Technologies. What do you have going on?
A: What we having going on right now in the world of Pro Mod nitrous drag racing and street car nitrous cars; We put together an electrical system of all digital state of the art components and put it out on the market. It’s come to be the World’s Fastest electrical system right now. We are pretty proud of that.
Q: This system has been tested in some pretty fast cars. Who’s running this system and who has helped you with the R& D in this process all along?
A: Most of the R&D was done in the Automated Racing Technologies 41 Willy’s nitrous Pro Mod driven and owned by me over the years. This year we put Jim Halsey’s new light weight Tim McAmis Camaro and Pat Stoken on to the Automated racing team. They have been doing a lot of R&D and research too. We have run some phenomenal times. Right now we hold the ADRL Pro Nitrous points lead, won three of the first five races with consistency, set mph hour records and reset it twice after.
Q: Now you mentioned consistency. How does your on board system help a racer be more consistent?
A: It’s
a digital signal instead of analog. Digital signals don’t take any time
to saturate coils or pull contacts. You do not have redundant wiring
running back and forth in the car to do the same thing. You set a
digital signal and it’s either on or off. We do this at really fast
speeds as compared to saturating a coil which sometimes takes 15 to 17
hundreds. When you are only working with 4 seconds, 15 hundreds becomes
a whole bunch Jason Hamstra back home and healthy Oct.30
Jason Hamstra back home and healthy after violent crash at ADRL World Finals
“He’s in good shape. He came out of the ordeal without even a concussion.”
DEMOTTE, INDIANA (October 29, 2009) – While competing in a semi-final round of the ADRL Speedtech Battle of the Belts Final at the Texas Motorplex over the weekend, Pro Extreme star Jason Hamstra lost control of his 1968 Camaro near the eighth-mile finish and crashed heavily into the retaining wall.
Hamstra, 22, had posted a 3.78-second, 203.46 pass before the incident.
After the crash, he was transported via helicopter to Parkland Hospital in Dallas for observation, and Sunday was home recuperating. Other than some minor bruises, the young racer received no injuries.
“He’s doing well,” stated Karen Hamstra, Jason’s mother. “He came out of the ordeal in good shape, not even a concussion.”
Karen went on to say that the car is equipped with the latest and best in safety equipment, and was invaluable during the Friday evening Speedtech Battle for the Belts session.
“We’ve got the latest in safety equipment,” she said, “and it did its stuff.”
Karen was also grateful for the help provided right after the crash, with many coming to the aid of Jason.
“I want to thank everybody that helped. I would like to especially thank Kenny Doak. He just jumped right in there and helped us, continued Karen. We also want to thank EMS attendants, the fire fighters, the ADRL and Texas Motorplex crew, along with the Doctors and staff at Parkland Hospital.”
Thank you to Kenny Nowling who drove over an hour to the hospital at 2 a.m. to check on Jason. And special thank you to Jason’s number one fan Brian Olson for his prayers and support. Thank you also to Dad, Mom, Andy, Phil, Justin, the Barklages, the Tutterows, and everyone else who came to our need.
The ADRL website received over 600 emails asking how Jason was doing, added Karen, and thanked family and friends for their prayers and concern.
Starting in Junior Dragsters at age eight, Jason Hamstra has raced for 14 years. After the Juniors, father Kevin Hamstra stepped him into a seven-second bracket dragster, and then took over the driving of his dad’s Pro Outlaw dragster. In 2005 the team stepped into Pro Modified in IHRA competition and this year has concentrated in the ADRL, racing in the sanction’s premier Pro Extreme class.
Any well wishes can be sent to Jason at promod@midwaynet.net
AHRA Ready to kick off 2010 Season Oct.30
Well, it's officially announced, the AHRA (American Hot Rod Association) 2010 season is kicking off in San
Antonio, Texas on March 26-27. This will be the first of many races to come in
bringing back drag racing history. I hope the word spreads fast and everyone
can make the races. This is going to be an exciting day and year in drag
racing. The rule books as well as membership info will not be far behind.
Thanks for the patients.
Lang makes it back to back championships Oct.30
Canadian Kenny Lang finished a dream season Sunday by taking home the IHRA Pro Mod World Champion trophy, his second World Championship in as many years. The year was highlighted by eight consecutive trips to the finals, four wins, four No. 1 qualifiers, and an IHRA ET record of 5.884 seconds.
"When you look at the season like that - with all the things we accomplished, it really shows just how good this team performed," Lang said. "Pretty much everything went right all season long.
"Winning the championship last year was awesome and humbling, but to do it again is something very few people will ever duplicate. It really is incredible.
"This title belongs to all the guys on my crew and of course my sponsors. Without all of them, we couldn't have done any of this. Of course, my hat's off to Al Billes - a man who I think is the best tuner anywhere. He can adapt to any situation, and tune a car from anywhere, event thousands of miles away, just by asking questions on the phone. He's amazing, and I'm so lucky to have had him on my side. I want to thank Roger Burgess, too, for letting Al work with me over here, and of course for his sponsorship throughout the season. Roger is truly an awesome man, and I appreciate everything he's done for me, and for Pro Mod drag racing in general.
"We've got a whole group of guys that really work well together, that's the most important thing, I want to thank my dad Danny, Rob Poirier, Jim Elliot, Malcolm Nickerson, and of course John Waldie who was with us at every race," Lang said.
"The cars that Tim McAmis builds, I think, are the very best, and this championship is a testament to that as well. Add in that famous Al Billes horsepower, and we've got an amazing car.
"I have to say a big 'thank you' also to my wonderful sponsors. I mentioned Roger Burgess and ProCare Rx, but there's also Castrol, NGK, Pepsi, Miller Welders, Safety-Kleen, the Sign Source, Prolific Group, and Jet Tools. They are such a huge support for us, getting us through every race. This is for them as well.
"Four or five years ago, we wanted just to be a contender, and once we ran the whole season, we were number ten in points, then moved up to number six, and then we were number one last year, and again this year. I don't think it can get better than that. None of us do this for a living, we do it as a hobby, and it's all for fun," Lang said.
And according to Lang, winning a second championship is the "funnest’ thing of all."
5.80s on the Horizon Oct.30
Drag Illustrated establishes exclusive club for the first eight nitrous Pro Modified drivers to break in
October 28, 2009 – Nitrous oxide-injected Pro Modifieds have been at the forefront of several major performance milestones in the sport of drag racing over the course of the last few years. More than twenty years after Bill Kuhlmann’s shot-heard-round-the-world 7.21-second, 202.24mph blast down Darlington Dragway in March of 1987, nitrous-assisted door slammers have obliterated the six-second zone, making consistent 6.0-second runs appear effortless. Now they are knocking on the door of the 5.8-second arena – once considered to be reserved exclusively for supercharged, alcohol-burning cars.
Approaching the one-year anniversary of the 2008 Shakedown at E-Town, where Jim Halsey of Street, Maryland, permanently etched his name in the drag racing history books with the first five-second run, a 5.998-second, 240.68mph blast, Drag Illustrated announces the 5.80 Club – rewarding the first eight drivers to accomplish this remarkable feat with a specially embroidered jacket and plaque inscribed with the driver’s name and his qualifying slot in the club, 1 through 8.
“The days leading up to the 7th annual Shakedown at E-Town have been filled with talk as to the potential performances in several categories,” said Wes Buck, Editor/Publisher of Drag Illustrated. “Particularly prominent in these discussions have been the likeliness of a 5.8-second run out of a nitrous Pro Mod, and we can’t deny the fact that the Shakedown is likely the place it will happen.
“At the moment, there are just a handful of cars capable of this feat and we want to make sure they’re recognized for their hard work and dedication to the nitrous oxide-injected combination," Buck continued. "Truth be known, we missed the opportunity a year ago to celebrate the first nitrous car into the 5’s, and considering the performances we’ve seen lately, it will soon become a common occurrence – just as it has with the supercharged cars. Now an even more exclusive barrier has presented itself and we want to give the proper recognition to the few people who are able to put together a 5.8-second run with a nitrous car.”
Charter members in the group will be the first eight drivers to record a 5.8-second run at any major event, be it a sanctioned national meet or independent event.
At the time of this writing, the Drag Illustrated team is working to establish a second club to award driver of supercharged, alcohol burning Pro Modifieds for breaching the 250mph mark in quarter-mile competition. Information regarding the DI 250MPH Club will be available soon.
Scotty Phillips claims Box title Oct.30
Scotty Phillips claims Summit SuperSeries Box title
From one dragster to another, Scotty Phillips is one happy driver.
Phillips, one of only two dragsters in the Box class over the weekend, maneuvered his way through a tough field on Sunday on his way to claiming the 2009 Summit SuperSeries Box World Championship at the IHRA World Finals in Rockingham.
With the win Phillips (LaGrange, Ohio) will take home a cool $12,000 payday from Summit Racing Equipment and a brand new Mullis Dragster.
Now when Phillips returns to Dragway 42 he will have a brand new dragster to go along with an IHRA Ironman and bragging rights for an entire year as being the best Box driver in the country.
And he didn’t even need to work that hard to get it.
Phillips essentially received a free pass in the final when Joey Anderson (Glenville, Ga.) timed out on the starting line, giving Phillips the easiest $12,000 payday of his life.
With the win Phillips receives a grand total of $12,000 from Summit Racing Equipment, a new turn-key Mullis Dragster with an 800 HP World Products LS engine, a trip to Aruba, a Diamond World Champion ring, an Ironman and an IHRA Gold Card.
Phillips ran a 5.469 elapsed time on a 5.19 dial in the final after Anderson timed out.
Phillips started from the third position on Sunday and worked his way through the eight-car ladder taking down Anderson, Linn Joines and Bill Rausch to get the win. Anderson defeated Jack Hughes and Tim Roe to fill the other spot in the final.
This weekend marks the third Summit SuperSeries appearance by a driver representing Dragway 42.
Davey Boyd wins No Box Championship Oct.30
Davey Boyd makes most of investment, wins No Box championship
Who knew a $ 40 investment could go so far?
When Davey Boyd bought his ’65 Satellite all the way back in 1974 for a grand total of $40 he never dreamed that it would one day lead to a $12,000 payday and a world championship, but that is exactly what he experienced over the weekend by picking up the Summit SuperSeries No Box World Championship at the IHRA World Finals Sunday at Rockingham Dragway.
Boyd, from Spencer, Tenn., capitalized on that investment Sunday when he drove around Todd Hohn (Nashville, Tenn.) in a battle of Tennessee to lay claim the 2009 Summit SuperSeries No Box title and in doing so takes home a lucrative prize package.
With the win Boyd receives a grand total of $12,000 from Summit Racing Equipment, a Haul Mark racing trailer, a custom golf cart from Davis Custom Carts, a trip to Aruba, a Diamond World Championship ring, an Ironman and an IHRA Gold and Silver Card.
Boyd ran a 6.953 elapsed time on a 6.95 dial in the final while Hohn ran a 6.819 on a 6.80 dial.
Boyd started from the sixth position on Sunday and worked his way through the eight-car ladder taking down Hohn, Ricky Nelson and Mike Buie to get the win. Hohn defeated Eric Harris and Greg Sauvage to fill the other spot in the final
Pro Stock teams agree to multi-year deal Oct.30
IHRA, Mountain Motor Pro Stock teams agree to multi-year deal
ROCKINGHAM, N.C. – The International Hot Rod Association announced
Sunday a creative partnership that will insure the future of the
Mountain Motor Pro Stock class in a restructured IHRA Nitro Jam series
set to debut in 2010.
The alliance between the IHRA, operators of the racetracks that host
the 10 events that comprise the Nitro Jam series and members of the
newly-formed Mountain Motor Pro Stock Association has provided a
creative solution to a problem created by today’s difficult economic
environment.
While Pro Stock wasn’t a part of the revamped Nitro Jam program
announced last week by IHRA President Aaron Polburn, the principals
already were committed to finding a way to make the IHRA’s oldest pro
category viable within the new, streamlined format.
Following additional meetings last week during the IHRA’s season-ending
World Finals at Rockingham Dragway, IHRA officials, Pro Stock team
owners and drivers and track operators hammered out a multi-year
agreement that will retain the world’s quickest and fastest pure
doorslammers as one of the cornerstones of the IHRA series.
NG ADRL Speedtech Battle for the Belts Oct.30
King Tutt’ Reigns in National Guard ADRL Speedtech Battle for the Belts
ENNIS, TX (Oct. 24, 2009) — Todd Tutterow turned on the win light three times over two days at the Texas Motorplex to secure his first National Guard American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) Pro Extreme world championship.
The Yadkinville, North Carolina-based driver entered the championship-deciding Speedtech Battle for the Belts—a unique eight-car playoff for the top points earners in the class—in fifth place and raced through Mike Janis, two-time defending series champ Jason Scruggs and Joshua Hernandez to take the Belt. IHRA re-signs Summit Racing Equipment Oct.30
One of the longest ongoing relationships in all of motorsports, Summit Racing Equipment announced Saturday that it has re-signed with the International Hot Rod Association in a multi-year deal that will carry the two organizations into 2010 and beyond.
Summit Racing Equipment, which sponsors the Summit Pro-Am Tour, the Summit SuperSeries, the Summit All-Star Race and the Team Finals, will continue to support all of the sportsman programs within the IHRA by signing a multi-year deal that will continue to give sportsman racers a stage within the IHRA to compete at local and national events across North America.
“Summit Racing recognizes IHRA Sportsman racers’ commitment to the sport and is happy to renew its IHRA Sportsman programs,” said Jim Greenleaf, Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Event Manager. “Summit Racing is committed to supporting sportsman racing through the Summit SuperSeries, Pro-Am Series, the season-ending Team Finals and the All-Star Race.
“These programs give sportsman racers the opportunity to race for national championships at the local and divisional level. We are pleased to continue our partnership with the IHRA to support the sport.”
Based in Tallmadge, Ohio, Summit Racing Equipment, the nation’s leading provider of high performance, accessory and racing parts, has always been a leader in providing a stage for sportsman competitors to race and has provided thousands of opportunities for drivers who otherwise would have never been able to compete at a national level.
“We are very fortunate to have a great partner in sportsman racing like Summit. Their commitment to all of IHRA sportsman racing is tremendous,” said Tommy Dupree, National Sales Manager for the IHRA. “Summit Racing supports those that support them – the hard working weekend warriors that put in all that overtime to be able to do what they love.
“Summit’s commitment and support for these two programs only helps to reaffirm that sportsman racing at IHRA will be around for a long time.”
Revell to Release NHRA Model Kits Oct.30
Kits will feature
some of the most well known names in the history of drag racing,
including the ‘Hawaiian’ and the ‘Chi-Town Hustler’
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. (Oct. 22, 2009) — Revell, Inc. and the NHRA
announced today that Revell will be introducing nostalgic drag racing
model kits in the very near future bearing the NHRA logo.
Revell in the early 1970s started out as a major player in drag racing
sponsorships and worked hand-in-hand with the NHRA, and introduced many
Funny Cars, Top Fuel dragsters, Pro stockers, and more bearing some of
the most well-known names in the history of drag racing.
With the advent of the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series and the reunions,
Revell will be re-releasing a number of their model kits that will be
in concert with the cars that have been a force in the long history of
Funny Cars, such as Roland Leong’s “Hawaiian” and the well known
Chi-Town Hustler of Farkonas, Coil, & Minick. These cars will be
joined by many other of Revell’s most popular drag racing model kits
down the road.
NHRA: Interview w/ Dixon and Ashley Force Oct.30
MICHAEL PADIAN: Two‑time-NHRA champion Larry Dixon who drives the Al‑Anabi dragster. It's been a crapshoot all year with yourself, Antron Brown and Tony Schumacher winning five races each.
What do you expect over these final two races and what do you think will be the difference?
VP introduces new small engine fluid Oct.30
SOLVES HARD START AND
STORAGE PROBLEMS
VP Racing Fuels, recognized around the world for innovation in fuel technology and top quality products, today announced the introduction of SEF94TM Small Engine FuelTM. “SEF94 is a 94 octane unleaded fuel that will provide easier, quicker starts for chain saws, generators, leaf and snow blowers, and other gasoline-powered small engines used for work or play,” said Jim Kelly, VP’s Eastern Regional Manager.
Street gasoline containing ethanol often makes such equipment difficult, if not impossible, to start, because ethanol can absorb moisture and form deposits in carburetors and fuel systems. SEF94 contains no ethanol, making it a much more dependable and cost effective solution. The unique properties of SEF94 also make it an excellent long-term storage fuel, allowing quick starts even after equipment sits idle for many months.
“SEF94 is the most dependable fuel on the market to help ensure equipment will start when it’s needed at work, play or in an emergency,” Kelly added. “Outdoorsmen, farmers, loggers, landscapers, emergency workers, rural homeowners and many others know what it’s like to deal with a tool that won’t work when needed and the inconvenience of costly rebuilds, but with SEF94 that frustration will be a thing of the past.”
SEF94 is for use in portable power equipment only. It is not a street legal fuel, therefore should not be used in a motor vehicle of any kind.
Michael Kalin Fourth Place in Q32 Oct.30
For a racer who was still getting his feet wet with a new dragster in 2009, Michael Kalin became a quick study.
The Western New York native placed fourth in the Quick 32 Sportsman Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts Championship Point Award Series, and said recently he is pleased with his efforts and the new series.
“This was a lot of fun and really cool,” said Kalin, who drives a Mullis Race Cars dragster powered by a nitrous-assisted 632-cubic inch engine. “I was a little disappointed in my own performance, but the series is a great program.”
Kalin, who was competed for more than two decades, and has been a fixture in the Quick 16 programs at tracks such as New York International Raceway Park and Dunn Tire Raceway Park (Lancaster), the dragster was a new ride from his Top Sportsman Corvette, as he wanted to concentrate with the Top Dragster in the Quick 32 Sportsman Series in 2009.
Kalin raced at all six Quick 32 Sportsman Series events for the season, always qualifying. Although he was a first-round loser in a couple of events, his year was highlighted with a victory during the Stratford Spectacular Hot Summer Nationals at the Grand Bend Motorplex. He said at the time he was having some mechanical problems during the August race, but overcame them to win not only the Top Dragster side but take out the Top Sportsman entry for the overall championship.
If you’re interested in joining Pollard Nitrosports as a marketing partner for the final event of the 2009 season, their potential second place points finish and third national event win of the year, please contact Greg Pollard at 519.521.1593 or by email to Greg@pollardnitrosports.com.
Pollard Nitrosports would of course like to thank those companies that have supported them throughout the 2009 season and know that without their support they wouldn’t have achieved the level of success they have. They are proud to thank Brad Penn Oil, the “Official Oil” of Pollard Nitrosports, CGS Automotive and Refinishing, Plating Master, Sparky’s Performance, East Penn Battery and Vanhoucke Siding Contractors.
Pollard brings home second AMA Title Oct.30
Already with one AMA Drag Bike national event victory to its credit in 2009 the Pollard Nitrosports team added to its stellar season with a victory during the Track or Treat Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio October 10-11.
The team took advantage of the new match race format for the Top Fuel Motorcycle division at AMA events when they posted the best average elapsed time over four runs against fellow competitor, legendary rider and close friend Larry McBride. With an average elapsed time of 6.526 seconds and a single run best of 6.14 seconds they took the title over McBride’s average elapsed time of 7.167 seconds.
“This was another big step in our learning curve this year, we had never raced in temperatures that cold.” said Greg Pollard, “After a good 6.14 run Saturday evening the temperatures turned colder on Sunday. Tony Williams, who handled the track prep, surprised everyone with some magic on Sunday morning and we took too much power out of the bike which made it a little lazy in the 1/8th mile on the way to a 6.19 sec run. We stepped it up for our last run Sunday afternoon and shook the tire hard. The bike went to the wall and Geoff was off the throttle at 2.5 sec. for a 7.03 finish.”
Now with their second win of the season in the books, the Pollard’s move their focus to the final AMA national event of the season in Valdosta, Georgia November 13-15. The National Finals presents an opportunity for the family run operation to challenge for second place in the AMA points standings.
Bogacki and Williams to Host TBIR Oct.30
Woodville, AL: Luke Bogacki and Troy Williams, Jr. are proud to
announce a Live bracket racing school at South Georgia Motorsports Park
on Monday and Tuesday November 2-3, the two days leading up to the
annual SGMP 5-Day Bracket Championships. The school, which will consist
of 8-12 students will kick off with a classroom activity Monday morning
in the SGMP suites. There, Bogacki and Williams will embark on several
hours of race strategy and technical discussion, as well as question
and answer sessions with the student base. Tuesday, the group will
enjoy a full day of on-track testing, instruction, and side-by-side
racing as they implement the theories brought forth by the talented duo
of instructors.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in
five on-track schools already this season,” explained Bogacki. “The
schools have been well received, and I really feel like we’ve helped a
number of racers take giant steps forward in their racing endeavors.
Don’t take my word for it, visit www.ThisIsBracketRacing.com and read
the testimonials from our students. This will be my first opportunity
to work with Troy in this format, and I cannot begin to express how
thrilled I am to have him involved. I went to Troy when I first got
started big money racing, and his theories and teachings helped jump
start my racing career. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned and
listen to Troy with the racers at SGMP.”
Chad Covert, a very
experienced sportsman competitor, attended the Folk Race Cars
“ThisIsBracketRacing.com Live” driving school earlier this summer at
Byron Dragway. Following the school, Chad had this to say to Luke
Bogacki and the ThisIsBracketRacing.com staff:
“Thanks again
for all the help and the driving school you and the Folks put on not
long ago in Byron, Illinois. I’ve been racing a long time and had some
success but when given the chance to spend a few days with you, Brian
and Nick Folk teaching in a manner that felt like it was one-on-one
with the way you had the class structured and the lessons and track
time scheduled I wasn't going to pass up the opportunity. Its amazing
how after 2 days of class I realized I had learned more than what 10
years of doing things the wrong way had taught me. Thanks again and I’m
happy to say that after the class I went down to 6 at the Brainerd NHRA
national. Following that I went to the IHRA Osceola double divisional
and went down to 5 cars in the 1st race and won my first "Iron man" in
the second. I can't say thanks enough to you and the Folks.”
Siegel Caps Season with strong Million Finish Oct.30
Jon Siegel drove his popular FTI Converters backed Malibu Wagon, recently dubbed “The Wheelie Wagon” to a semi-final finish in this year’s edition of the Million Dollar Race last weekend at Memphis Motorsports Park. Siegel’s impressive run to the ninth round of competition in sportsman racings biggest event was highlighted by a string of outrageously consistent ET’s from his four-dour machine.
After knocking off notable racers Michael Rastall and Wesley Washington, Jr. in rounds two and three respectively, Siegel used a breakout 6.546 (6.55 dial) to defeat Alabama racer Heath Davis. In round five, his dead-on 6.542 was enough to best former Pro Stock standout Dave Connolly. He knocked off multi-time national event winner Jeff Stickland in round six with a .011 induced 6.543. The “Wheelie Wagon” then reeled off two more consecutive 6.543 ET’s to stop Kevin Rodden in round seven, and fellow Florida racer Dwayne Roberts in round eight.
“The car was unbelievable,” said Jon Siegel. “The run sheets tell the story. The car moved .001 in my last five runs. It’s been like that all season. Actually, it’s been like that ever since I put my FTI converter in the car. Before the quarterfinals Dwayne (Roberts, his opponent) asked what I was dialed. I jokingly said 6.543. I was that confident that number would come up on the board!”
With just three cars remaining and a $200,000 payday in clear sight, Siegel squared off with another Florida racer, Palmetto’s Jeff Keen. There, Siegel’s wagon once again ran dead-on, posting a fifth consecutive run within .003 of his dial-in, with a 6.542. However, an uncharacteristic .042 reaction time cost Siegel the round and his shot at Million Dollar race history. Mike Ashley's Lend America Faces Gov't Action Oct.24
THE UNITED STATES FILES CIVIL SUIT TO ENJOIN FRAUD IN GOVERNMENT INSURED MORTGAGE LOANS
Complaint Alleges Mortgage Lender Falsely Certified That Borrowers Who Received Over $14 Million In Loans Met HUD’S Lending Requirements
A civil complaint was filed today in federal court in Central Islip against Ideal Mortgage Bankers, Ltd. d/b/a/ Lend America, a mortgage lender located in Melville, Long Island, seeking a court-ordered injunction to prevent the company from making loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration (“FHA”). The complaint also seeks relief against Lend America’s Executive Vice President and Chief Business Strategist, Michael Ashley. The case has been assigned to United States District Judge Joseph F. Bianco.
The complaint was announced by Benton J. Campbell, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Kenneth Donohue, Inspector General for the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and Assistant Secretary David H. Stevens, Commissioner of the Federal Housing Administration. NEOPMA Members Going To Shakedown Oct.17
Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Members to show up in force at the Shakedown at E’Town Oct. 17th and 18th at Raceway Park in Englishtown, NJ.
10-13-2009 Huntington, NY – The 7th Annual Al-Anabi Shakedown at E’Town is upon us. In 2008 we witnessed NEOPMA member Scott Cannon shatter the outlaw blown quarter mile record. In the Blown Quarter mile class we saw members Tim O'Hare, Steve King, Chip King, Frank Patille, Tommy Gray, Barney Squires, Billy Gibson, Scott Cannon and Kevin McCurdy qualify for the 16 car field. NAPA Quick 32 Sportsman Series top five 2009 Oct.17
SHAKESPEARE, ONTARIO (October 13, 2009) – T.J. Schippling’s name will go down in the record books as the winner of the first Quick 32 Sportsman Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts event, held at the Cayuga Dragway in May of 2009.
“The highlight of the season for sure was the Cayuga win,” said the
driver of the Schippling Motorsports Undercover Dragster. “I really
wanted a win in this series and to win the first was special.” ADRL Brings ‘Battle’ to Texas Motorplex Oct.12
In 2005, the inaugural year for the National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL), series president and CEO Kenny Nowling knew he would have a tough time convincing racers based mostly in the Southeast and with no mathematical chance at a championship to make the long tow west to Kennedale, Texas, for the fledgling outfit’s season ender. So, he came up with the Speedtech Battle for the Belts, a unique playoff concept set this year for Oct. 23, opening day of the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas, just south of Dallas.
“Initially, it was created to ensure that everyone in the top eight, all the top players, came to that last race in Dallas at the end of the year. But I needed something to convince the rest to come, too, so we made the following season’s points actually start on the same weekend so that everybody would want to be there to get a head start on the next season’s points chase,” Nowling explained.
Essentially the same format is in place this year as the top eight points earners for each of the National Guard ADRL’s five professional classes in 2009 —Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Flowmaster Extreme 10.5, Pro Extreme Motorcycle and Extreme Pro Stock—will determine world champions on Friday, while all points earned through qualifying and elimination rounds on Saturday will count toward the 2010 points chase. NHRA Release information on 2 Accidents Oct.12
Preliminary results of NHRA’s investigation into two separate incidents
involving Funny Car at both the NHRA Nationals in Charlotte, N.C. and
the O’Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, Tenn. suggests the
problems are not related in anyway, according to NHRA Technical
officials.
The first incident involved Bob Tasca and his Motorcraft/Quick Lane
Ford Shelby Mustang. The wheel was immediately examined by NHRA
Technical Department personnel and after the event, was sent to the SFI
Foundation, Inc. for further inspection. The wheel has also been
examined by the original fabricator. Based on initial inspections, NHRA
issued a technical bulletin advising teams of wheel inspection and
maintenance issues. In the meantime, the wheel is continuing to be
examined by SFI and has been sent to a metallurgist for further
evaluation.
In Memphis, NHRA tech officials examined the wheel components in the
incident involving Dan Wilkerson and his Levi, Ray & Shoup Ford
Mustang. After initial examinations and discussions with team owner,
Tim Wilkerson, NHRA has determined that the wheel was not properly
installed. Bogacki drives New Car to SC Crown Oct.12
Memphis, TN: Luke Bogacki drove his brand new ThisIsBracketRacing.com sponsored 2010 American Race Cars dragster to the Super Comp victory at last weekend’s NHRA Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, TN. The machine, which hit the race track for the first time just three weeks prior, has already proven to be one of Bogacki’s favorites.
“This is, without a doubt, the best dragster I’ve owned to date. Mark Horton, Travis Colangelo, and all the guys at American Race Cars just seem to turn out a better product with every car they build. The new car is gorgeous, immaculate, light, and fast. And so far, we’ve just agreed with each other. The initial success has been fantastic.”
Bogacki debuted the new car at his local Huntsville Dragway three weeks ago, and immediately drove to the Pro Eliminator victory. A week later, he made his Super Comp debut a memorable one, advancing to the final round of the NHRA LODRS event in Belle Rose, LA before red lighting to championship contender Tommy Phillips. He then went on to the NHRA Fall Nationals in Dallas, TX, where he fell in round two before driving to the victory in Memphis.
At the Mid-South Nationals, Bogacki made his way through a star-studded field to claim his second NHRA “Wally” of the 2009 season. He opened eliminations with victories over Rip Dennis and Troy Coughlin, Jr. before squaring off with Dallas Fall Nationals winner Lloyd Parfait in a pivotal third round match-up.
“Lloyd and I ran in third round, which was actually our first round of
the day on Monday (Sunday’s eliminations were postponed due to rain).
We hadn’t been down the track in nearly 48 hours, so dialing was a
little sketchy. Lloyd made a great run: he was .017 and dropped to
8.90--I would take his pass in that situation any day of the week. I
was just fortunate to make my best run of the weekend that round and
get by him. We talk about luck being a big factor, and people always
think of that as ‘getting away with a mistake.’ I don’t feel like I
made any huge mistakes on the weekend, but I only made one run all
weekend that would’ve beat Lloyd there--I just happened to make it at
the right time.”
Stivers sets record in Virginia Oct.12
Rick Stivers, driver of the Trane '06 Stratus Pro Mod, ran a World Record ET Saturday in his first-round victory in the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge at the NHRA Virginia Nationals.
Stivers set the record with his qualifying blast of 5.837 seconds to take the pole, and then delivered the required one percent backup in his first-round win over Scott Ray by running an even-quicker 5.835 to Ray's 5.998. The only possible way he could not leave with the record would be if another driver runs quicker on Sunday and delivers a backup in the remaining three rounds of competition.
"This track is amazing, and the conditions have just been stellar," Stivers said. "Brad has really found the sweet spot in this car, and we've been able to put all of the power down to the track to keep this Trane on a rail."
By setting a record, he would add 20 points to his total for the weekend, bringing his deficit down to just 33 points in order to qualify for the Matco Tools Pro Mod Clash in Vegas. From there, he will have to beat Tim Tindle in the quarterfinals and win two more rounds and go all the way to the finals in order to take over the No. 8 spot. If by chance he does not have the record, he will have to win the event in order to advance.
Knowles selected as Best Appearing Team Oct.12
Although his weekend at the NHRA Virginia Nationals ended earlier than he would have liked, Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge driver Mike Knowles is leaving Virginia Motorsports park with an unprecedented honor: his team was selected by NHRA as the best appearing crew, and was awarded a coveted Wally trophy. Knowles is the first and only Pro Mod racer or team to have won a Wally at a Pro Mod event.
In his three qualifying attempts, he was able to give a best effort of 6.153 seconds - a number that would have qualified at any other race this season. With the ultra-quick field and stellar weather conditions however, he was well outside the 6.07 bump spot.
"We had the same three shots that everyone else did, so I can't say much. We just had a few issues with the car that took a while to get worked out, and we ran out of qualifiers. Plain and simple," Knowles said.
"The good news is, we have already started working on our program for 2010, because the competition that we're going to be facing is getting quicker and quicker, and we're going to need to be running 90's and 80's consistently if we're going to be in the show for next year.
"Mike Strasberg, Chuck Ford and I have all put our heads together and created a game plan, something that I think will work out well," he said.
"It was really cool to be awarded the best appearing crew from NHRA. That made the DNQ a little easier to take. We always take pride in the way things look and how we present ourselves, so to be recognized for that, it means a lot. It's also huge, as a class, top be included in the judging for that. We've worked hard to keep the relationship with NHRA advancing, and I think this is a great sign of how things are continuing to get better and better," Knowles added.
NHRA Virginia National Results Oct.11
Edwards closes on championship as he, Bernstein, and Worsham are victorious in Virginia
On a record-setting final day of the Virginia NHRA Nationals. Brandon Bernstein, Del Worsham, and Mike Edwards enjoyed much-needed get-well
moments at Virginia Motorsports Park, at the fourth event of the six-race NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Countdown to 1 playoffs.
Ron Lane Wins The Million ! Oct.10
He defeated Jeff Keen in the finals (10th round) by .007.
Congrats to both guys for a job well done.
Results from NHRA Southeast Bracket Finals Oct.04
WILLIAMS, STITES DOUBLE; ACKLES & RIDGE ALSO SCORE
BIG
CECIL, Ga. (Oct. 3, 2009) – Troy Williams Jr.
and Steve Stites continued their winning ways from Friday, taking the wins again
today for the NHRA Southeast Division Summit Racing Series Finals at South
Georgia Motorsports Park.Both racers
won yesterday’s Race of Champions event with Williams, Bradenton, Fla., taking the trophy in Super Pro then
covering the field in the Pro category today for the win.Williams is running for the team from
MontgomeryMotorsportsPark clocking in at 6.682 seconds in the
1/8th mile to beat Brandon Wood, Thomasville, Ga.,
(South GeorgiaMotorsportsPark) with a near perfect run.
Stites, who is also running for
MontgomeryMotorsportsPark out of Falkner, Miss., won in the Sportsman class in both
yesterday’s ROC and again today for the division championship.Stites held off Thomas Holley, Saraland, Ala., (Mobile Dragway) who ran too quick and
broke out.
Edmund Hall Trims off Weight for Hill Oct.04
Edmund "Mr.5 Speed" Hall ran his career best during the first round of the Hill Vs Hall 2 out of 3 Match Race.....
With the help of Keith Baker and weight reduction, the crew laid down one heck of a pass. 4.0___ with only 706 Cubic Inches
35 Total Pounds removed from Hall's GTO
1. One Parachute Removed
2. New Set of light weight wheelie bars
3. New Light Weight Mickey Thompson Wheels
Results for South Georgia Bracket Finals Oct.02
Southeast Division Bracket Finals Results
2009 Race of Champions Super Pro Winner: Troy Williams, Montgomery Motorsports Park R/U: Larry Meachem, Emerald Coast Dragway
Footbrake Winner: Steve Stites, Montgomery Motorsports Park R/U: Joe Tillman, Orlando Speed World Dragway
Southeast Division Series Finals Update Oct.01
RACING UNDERWAY FOR NHRA SOUTHEAST DIVISION SUMMIT RACING SERIES FINALS
CECIL, Ga. (Oct. 1, 2009) – The NHRA Southeast Division Summit Racing Series Finals kicked off today at South Georgia Motorsports Park with more than 500 racers representing 17 NHRA Member Tracks. Racers in Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman, and Pro Bike took their initial shot at the quarter mile during time trail sessions designed to fine tune their racing vehicles according to track and weather conditions. Competitors are vying for individual and team honors along with more than $20,000 in purse and contingency awards with the team from Bradenton Motorsports Park looking to defend their Team Championship from last year.
Friday’s action will include final time trials along with the Race of Champions, a race within a race where the top points-earning drivers from each track square off in head-to-head competition.
Eliminations are scheduled for Saturday with the four class winners advancing to the NHRA AAA Finals in Pomona, Calif., and the chance to compete against the winner’s from NHRA's other six divisions for the national championship.
Gates at South Georgia Motorsports Park open at 8 a.m. each day with racing beginning at 9 a.m. South Georgia Motorsports Park is located 12 miles north of Valdosta, Ga. Take I-75 (from the north or south) to Exit 32, old Coffee Road. Take Old Coffee Road east to Highway 41. Go north to the track. For more information call the track, (229) 896-7000.
BELOW ARE TRACKS THAT PARTICIPATE IN THE SOUTHEAST DIVISION SUMMIT RACING SERIES FINALS:
§ Palm Beach Int’l Raceway; West Palm Beach, Florida
§ Puerto Rico International Speedway; Salinas, Puerto Rico
§ Silver Dollar Raceway; Reynolds, Georgia
§ South Georgia Motorsports Park; Cecil, Georgia
§ Sunshine Dragstrip; Clearwater, Florida
§ Z-Max Dragway; Charlotte, North Carolina
Truck on DYNO in Montgomery, AL Sep.30
Agent DC received a phone call from a source stating that serious horsepower was being measured at a speed shop in Montgomery, AL.
Lester Pitts, James Lowe, "Nuggett," and several others watched as Neil/Mark Messick, Prattville, AL, put their 37truck on the dyno, with the help of Michael Gunn.
At 865 Horsepower, this 605 CID truck smoked the tires and only spun on the dyno wheel. The "Fast" System expert on site stated that the truck is producing close to 1100 Horsepower.
Brown to run special scheme in Memphis Sep.30
Antron Brown moves forward at a very rapid pace in his 7,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster, and the 23-time NHRA winner will be moving forward with a new look as he competes for the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle world championship at the Memphis NHRA race. Brown and the Mike Ashley Racing Matco Tools team will fly the colors of Toyota at the 22nd annual O’Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil, Oct. 2-4, at Memphis Motorsports Park.
The arrangement between Matco Tools and MAR gives the team the opportunity to generate additional funding and place a marketing partner in the primary sponsor location at given events. Brown raced the DirecTV/Matco Tools dragster to the win at the Madison race in May. The team’s customary bright blue and silver pinstriped Matco Tools Iron Eagle dragster theme will return for the final three races on the 2009 NHRA schedule, in Richmond, Las Vegas, and Pomona.
Doug Winters Four in a Row Final Rounds Sep.30
Doug Winters and the Winters Racing Team made another final round appearance this past weekend at the Super Chevy Show. This time it was at the Bristol Motor Speedway. The streak started on June 28th at the Super Chevy Show held at the zMax Dragway in Charlotte, NC. At zMax, Doug took the win in the final round. From there they went on to the finals and win at Maple Grove in July and Bowling Green in August. Out of the four finals Doug has won two. This time he lost in the final against Ken Walsh and his ’63 Corvette.
“Getting the runner up was a let down here at Bristol, but when we started thinking about it, four finals in a row is something really special, stated Doug. “It just shows how consistent our ’57 Nitro Coupe has become over the season. Working with Mickey Thompson Tires and some chassis changes, our car has really responded. Now every time I drop the clutch I expect it to make a full pass. At the beginning of the season that was not the case.”
Going into the final Super Chevy Show event for the year at Bristol, Ken Walsh had already locked up the Nitro Coupe point’s championship. But second place was still undecided. Doug came into the event in third, 15 points behind Jerry Hunt. Doug would have to make it two rounds further then Jerry to take second place. And that is exactly what happened. Unfortunately for Jerry, he lost in the first round and with Doug advancing to the final put Doug into second place by only 5 points. “It’s great to end up second this year. We ran a limited Super Chevy Show schedule and to take second place is special. Jerry worked very hard to hold on to second, but we were just a little more lucky then him down the stretch.”
Wilkerson and Tasca Extend Alliance Sep.30
Funny car drivers Tim Wilkerson and Bob Tasca have announced the extension of their successful technical alliance on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing circuit through the 2010 season. Wilkerson and Tasca formed the alliance prior to the 2009 season and have acted as teammates throughout the year despite the fact that both teams are independently owned and operated. As part of the program, the teams have shared tuning information, the drivers have worked together to improve performance, and both organizations have combined to create a bigger and better marketing platform at the racetrack. Both Wilkerson and Tasca also earned spots in the NHRA Countdown to 1 playoff fields in Funny Car. As part of the program, both teams will continue to pit next to each other at NHRA races and will continue to combine their hospitality and marketing space.
One Weekend…Two Brothers..Four Ironmen Sep.30
Family racing is a keystone of our sport, but few families have achieved the level of success enjoyed by the Folk family, of Durand, Illinois.
When family patriarch Ron and sons Nick and Brian show up at an event, competitors in all classes know they are in for a fight. Among the three Folks, there are numerous event titles, as well as divisional and national championships, in Quick Rod, Super Rod, Stock, Super Stock, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman.
At the recent Summit Pro-Am double-header at Pittsburgh Raceway Park, the Folk brothers were flexing their muscles again, taking a total of four IHRA Ironman trophies in three classes.
Brian picked up Super Rod gold both days, while Nick claimed victories in Stock on day 1 and Super Stock on day 2. (The following day, Nick took a win in Super Stock during the Champion System Sportsman Nationals, and one weekend later he picked up another Stock win at Osceola Dragway).
Old Racer Reunion Results With Photos Sep.29
Show and Go at MMP
Once again rain interrupted the action at Montgomery Motorsports Park but not before an amazing show of great cars from the past was completed on Saturday morning. Racing was postponed until Sunday and provided two good bracket races. One was contested over the 1/4 mile and one on the 1/8 mile. Both were footbrake only. The winners were as follows: O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals Preview Sep.29
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – In the sport of NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing, every racer knows that in just a few seconds – less than the blink of an eye – a racer can go from being a hero to a zero, and vice versa.
Nobody knows that better than Robert Hight.
Highly touted as a pre-season favorite to win the Funny Car championship, many expected to see Hight visit every winner’s circle on the circuit. However, his Auto Club Ford Mustang team encountered one of the worst slumps in recent memory and had a horrible regular season performance. They barely squeaked into the Countdown to 1 playoffs in dramatic fashion at the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. New 4.70 Heads Up Car on the Panhandle Sep.28
Agent DC received these photos of a new 4.70 car that is being assembled on the panhandle. The racer plans to compete at various Heads Up 4.70 events at Emerald Coast, Montgomery Motorsports Park, and several Southeast Events. Thanks for the pics!
Ohio Boys Score Big at SportsNats Sep.28
Three Ohio racers scored big wins at the Fifth Annual JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals and the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at National Trail Raceway. Leading the way was local runner Mike Coughlin of Delaware, Ohio, in his ’06 Cobalt posting a lap of 7.360 seconds at 136.65 mph for the Dart Top Sportsman win. Coughlin, who won this event back in 2007, faced off against Mitch Smith who broke in the final round.
Ray Connolly and Adam Lear also grabbed wins for the home state with Connolly, Elyria, Ohio, knocking out Dennis Rutherford, Newark, Ohio, in the final of Super Gas to add to his list of NHRA national events wins while Lear, also of Newark, Ohio, held off Tyson Fabish, Medina, Ohio, in the Division’s Spitzer Race Cars Top Dragster class. Lear drove to a 7.162 second, 180.48 mph pass for the win over Fabish.
Photos From The Old Racers Reunion Sep.28
The rain had a negative effect on the number of cars and spectators but the quality was second to none. Many of these cars are just the way they were raced while some are replicas built period correct.
Among the hundreds of interesting stories relived at the 9th annual Old Racers Reunion was the history of Speedy Ball and "Big Iron" Aubrey Padgett.
Speedy Ball, which is the only name we know him by, began racing in 1958 and has raced every year since. He currently drives a SBC powered Ford Probe that he has painted like the Motorcraft Cars that Bob Glidden drove. Speedy estimates this is only his sixth race car he has ever owned..
Aubrey currently races the third configuration of his famous "Big Iron" race cars. Aubrey admitted he had to slow down some years to raise the a family but was never far away from racing. They have all been painted pretty much the same way.
As a special treat a match race was scheduled between the two and it was decided it would be done the old fashion way. A flag man was used to start the pair and a person at the finish line walked out to the winning lane and signaled the winner.
The first round was held Saturday and Speedy Ball won by a car length. Round two was held Sunday afternoon and this time it was all Aubrey as Speedy suffered some valvetrain damage and trailed by a couple car lengths at the finish line.
Round three was canceled due to Speedy's engine damage.
Here Aubrey (L) and Speedy Ball share a moment in the Montgomery Motorsports Park Winner's circle.
Photos and Words By Wade Mooney
Hammonds Makes the Most of his Return Sep.27
With solid outings by the Race for Achievement Chevrolet on back-to-back weekends at Charlotte and Dallas, it's easy to conclude that Tom Hammonds made the most of his two-event return to the NHRA Full Throttle tour, and now the veteran Pro Stock competitor will step away and turn his focus to 2010.
"Other than winning a race, we accomplished everything we set out to do," Hammonds said. "The Race for Achievement Chevrolet ran toward the top of the pack, we turned in our best qualifying effort of the year here in Texas, and we learned some things about this race car that we'll put to good use next season."
Hammonds qualified in the No. 4 spot for this weekend's race at the Texas Motorplex, his best effort of the season, but a round-one loss to Allen Johnson ended Hammonds' day early. Still, taking into consideration his performance a week ago at the Carolinas Nationals and here at the NHRA Fall Nationals, Hammonds was pleased with the team's two-week effort.
"We had a good two weekends of racing," Hammonds said. "It gave us a good idea of where our program was, and not only that, but solidifying our program with the Marine Corps was very important. Now we go back and start our offseason and begin the preparation of a championship team for 2010.
"Probably one of the hardest things I'm going to have to do is identify the right crew, and I'll have to do that in the next two to three months so that we'll be in a position to win every race. Our engine program is on solid ground, we have great people as far as that is concerned, but now we need to put the whole program together."
Hammonds' box score for the last two weeks includes a No. 8 and a No. 4 effort in time trials, and a car that ran toward the top page during six of its eight qualifying attempts.
"It felt good to get back in the car, but I was playing crew chief, driver, everything this weekend, and we just didn't get it done on the track," Hammonds said. "It's tough wearing that many hats especially since we wanted to put together a good program this weekend for the Marine Corps. All in all, though, we qualified fourth, had a good weekend, the last two weekends to be exact, and now we're looking ahead to 2010."
Summerville's 2010 American Dragster Sep.27
Check out Johnny Summerville's 2010 American Dragster, painted and driven by Roanoke, AL racer Timothy Smith. Smith debuted this beautiful ride at Montgomery Motorsports Park's Super 7 Series Finale and was ousted in the quarterfinals. Great finish for the young racer and new car.
HIGHT, SCHUMACHER, ANDERSON AND ARANA WIN O’REILLY SUPER START BATTERIES NHRA FALL NATIONALS AT TEXAS MOTORPLEX
ENNIS, Texas – Robert Hight continued his impressive post-season performance by racing to the Funny Car victory Sunday at the O’Reilly Super Start Batteries NHRA Fall Nationals presented by Castrol Syntec.
Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); Greg Anderson (Pro Stock); and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also were winners in their respective categories at the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event.
Hight, who barely advanced to the Countdown to 1, has now won the first two of the six championship playoff events. He defeated Jack Beckman in the final-round at the Texas Motorplex, after outrunning Leif Helander, Tim Wilkerson and Ashley Force Hood in earlier rounds. Last weekend he beat Matt Hagan in the final-round to win the NHRA Carolinas Nationals near Charlotte, N.C.
“The first two weeks of the Countdown couldn’t have been any better for
us,” said Hight, who posted a 4.218 second run at 296.44 mph in his
Auto Club Ford Mustang, to hold off Beckman’s Valvoline/Mail Terminal
Services Dodge Charger in the final, which finished in 4.271 at 292.58.
“We won them and went from worst to first, so it’s very exciting for
me. It’s something I never thought was going to happen. I never lost
faith in my team. You dream big, but this is huge.”
With the
win, Hight moved into the series lead for the first time this season.
Entering the final race of the regular season, Hight was 12th in the
point standings and in jeopardy of not making the playoffs.
“This
is probably the best race car I’ve ever had,” Hight said. “We’ve won
races and been close to winning the championship, but we’ve never been
this dominant, this consistent, this steady; it’s going down the
racetrack every run.” New Fans "Drag Racing Is Far Out" Sep.27
CAYUGA, ONTARIO (September 20, 2009) - The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) and Quick 32 Sportsman Series teams made some new friends at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario on the weekend.
Several individuals from Community Living Haldimand had an opportunity to see, hear, and experience the exciting and colorful drag racing series and get up close and personal with drivers Eric Latino, Bruce Boland and Melanie Simmons as guests of the series.
Community Living Haldimand is a non-profit organization that provides support and special needs to over 100 individuals with an intellectual disability and their families in Haldimand County for over 50 years Gray Wins NEOPMA Blower Championship Sep.27
Tommy Gray crowned Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association Blower Points Champion for 2009.
Hillary Will gets backing to run Top Alcohol Sep.26
Hillary Will, the 29-year-old who broke onto the Top Fuel scene just a few short years ago but was sidelined because of economic conditions will be back behind the wheel of a dragster for three races this year, piloting Tom Conway's world championship car with the backing of Get Screened America and in support of Operation Holiday Hope.
Hillary will be racing the Top Alcohol Dragster in both the NHRA Las Vegas Nationals and the Auto Club of Southern California World Finals in Pomona as well as the Lucas Oil Sportsman Series Division 7 event in Las Vegas scheduled for the weekend between the two events.
"I can't tell you how excited I am to get back in a dragster," Will said. "The Tom Conway-tuned car was my first choice when I decided I wanted to get back in Top Alcohol. Thankfully, the seat was available this year and thankfully Roger Burgess agreed to support my comeback.
Blasi Repeats As NEOPMA Nitrous Champ Sep.24
Blasi Racing repeats as Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association Nitrous Points Champion for 2009.
9-24-2009 Independence Township, NJ – Like any other sport, drag racing on 1320 feet of concrete and asphalt in the NEOPMA is a challenge, but perseverance, teamwork and consistency gets you championships. Blasi Racing is a testament to this. They have now repeated their feat of 2008, and are now the 2009 NEOPMA Nitrous Division point’s champions for the second year in a row. “This is an honor we worked hard to achieve, and to do so against a group of our peers such as the members of the Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association just makes it more honorable. This group of racers, although all friends, give “No Quarter” when you get to the starting line. You can however ask the person you just raced win, lose or draw after the race for some help and you will get it. Furthermore in all instances the person you just raced is the first to congratulate or console you as the case may be,” states Jeff Blasi, driver of the champion Pat Musi powered 63’ Corvette.
Hamstra Still Celebrating Second ADRL Win Sep.24
DeMotte, Indiana – September 13, 2009 – Jason Hamstra’s trip to Rockingham Dragway for The National Guard American Drag Racing League's (ADRL's) Flowmaster Dragstock VI was a successful venture, as the 22-year old Pro Modified driver won the ADRL’s Pro Extreme title in front of a capacity crowd at the fabled drag strip. “Our car was driving really smooth all weekend, it didn't spin the tires even once," said the driver of the supercharged 1968 Camaro. "Everything just went perfect for us here."
The win was Hamstra’s second for the year in the 10-race series. His first came back in April at the ADRL’s Hardees Georgia Nationals.
Hamstra was number one qualifier for the event with a 3.715-second, 205.10-mph, which posted the quickest 16-car field in ADRL history. Hamstra drove to a 3.761-second, 204.73-mph victory over Ken Walsh, who ran a 3.875-second, 196.04-mph lap with his Corvette.
No Minimum Weight For ADRL Sep.24
O’FALLON, MO (Sep. 23, 2009) — After careful consideration, the National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL) will not be imposing any new minimum weight rules in the foreseeable future. Additionally, traction control will remain an option for those teams that wish to use it in every professional category with the exception of Extreme Pro Stock, which retains the rules that mandate a minimum weight (2,425 lbs w/driver) and specify the use of traction control is not allowed.
The National Guard ADRL was founded on the principle of no rules except for safety. At its recent Flowmaster Dragstock VI event at Rockingham (NC) Dragway, however, the series distributed questionnaires to its teams seeking opinions on whether to mandate minimum weights and prohibit traction control devices as cost-cutting measures. courtesy ADRL RIP Bob Hesser; Auto Imagery Photographer Sep.23
As the media representative for Tindle Racing, I had the opportunity to work with several photographers within the NHRA; Roger Richards, Les Welch, and several others.
I will never forget the warm welcome from Bob Hesser. He will be missed.
The following article was published on DragRaceCentral.com
The FastNews Network and the racing community have lost one of our own - an associate and a good friend.
Auto Imagery and Division 3 photographer Bob Hesser, 46, passed away early today, April 7, following a sudden illness.
Bob has been a familiar sight at NHRA North Central Division events for many years and he joined the elite crew of Auto Imagery photographers at NHRA national events a few years ago.
Bob's energetic style made his photographic efforts stand out. He always seemed to be everywhere, seeking new and unusual vantage points for his work. Bob's eye for in-camera composition made his photos dramatic, even without cropping or other post-processing.
Although we knew him best for his drag racing photography, Bob was also well known for his circle-track work, particulary sprint cars and midgets on the Midwest dirt tracks. He often said that a little dirt made your beverage of choice taste better.
Motorsports photography was his trade, but Bob's true love was his family. He is survived by his wife Vicky, 15-year-old daughter Courtney, and sons Lonnie, 18, Robert, 22, and Lee, 23.
We will miss Bob's photos, but even more, we will miss Bob's camaraderie and impish sense of humor. He made us laugh and we will miss him very much.
The FastNews Network extends its condolences to Bob's wife and family and we share their grief at his passing.
Elite 8 Mountain Motor Shootout Field Set Sep.23
Elite 8 Shootout to determine best in Mountain Motor racing
For years the drivers of the quickest and fastest Pro Stock cars in the world have gone head-to-head in some sort of shootout during the season to determine the best of the best in mountain motor Pro Stock racing President's Cup Do or Die For Hoover Sep.23
President's Cup a do-or-die weekend for Hoover
It is safe to say that 2009 has been a banner year for Pro Modified legend Ed Hoover and the Paul Trussell Motorsports team.
With four final rounds, two victories and an incredible 17-6 win-loss record, you would think Hoover would be thrilled with the season he has had so far.
But that just isn’t the case.
Motorcraft,Quick Lane Extend Tasca Deal Sep.23
Motorcraft, Quick Lane announce contract extension with Tasca
On the eve of Bob Tasca III's first race as a championship contender in NHRA’s Countdown to 1, Motorcraft and Ford’s growing national network of Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centers announced they have extended their sponsorship of Tasca and Tasca Racing’s Shelby Mustang nitro Funny Car.
For the past two years, Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) brands Motorcraft and Quick Lane have been the primary sponsors of Tasca’s Shelby Mustang in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series. This multiyear extension ensures that the two primary brands will remain on the car for years to come.
“We are proud to extend our relationship with Bob Tasca and everyone at Tasca Racing,” said Ken Czubay, vice president, Ford U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Our sponsorship with the Motorcraft and Quick Lane Shelby Mustang fits with our business plan and performance of solid products and results.
“From a start-up operation just over a year ago to winning races and being in position to contend for the NHRA Funny Car title is a credit to the hard work this team has put in.”
Tasca begins the 2009 Countdown to 1 playoffs with two wins and in fourth place in the Funny Car standings.
“I’ve always said the best gift someone can give another is to believe in them,” said Tasca. “Racing the Motorcraft/Quick Lane Shelby Mustang has been amazing, and to have Ford Customer Service Division invest in us is an honor because they believed in me. I’m an all-Ford kid driving, and I’m very excited to be racing that all-Ford hot rod for years to come.”
Huntsville Engine King of the Coast Results Sep.22
It's an ALL Huntsville Engine Final in Pro Electronics as Tanner and White Do Battle in Final at Huntsville Engine "KOC" Event 6. Stephenson Claims Another "KOC" WIN.......Destin "Ice Man" Bailey and little Sis Seleena Bailey Claim Jr. Dragster wins.
The Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Bracket Series Returned to Gulfport Dragway for the sixth event on the 2009 campaign as the battle for the "KOC" Points Championships were set to add another piece to the puzzle.
The Mississippi Gulf Coast had been soaked with rains over the past seven days and the forecast was not favorable for "KOC" Event 6 either as chances of precipitation ranged from 30%-60% for the race weekend. Off and on rains during Friday night and a heavy down pour early Saturday morning had the "KOC" Staff and Gulfport Dragway Staff hitting the track hard around 8am to begin the process of removing the estimated 1" of standing water off the track. "Waking up Saturday morning to a rain soaked track is a bad feeling," Gaylon Rolison of the "KOC" Series stated. "AJ Tritt, Jim (Griffiths), Jeff (August), and myself started early Saturday to begin the drying process and we pretty much had the track ready to go by lunch.," Rolison added.
Jr. Time Trials were slated to kick off in the afternoon but a heavy downpour for approximately 30-45 minutes and sprinkles for about 20 minutes afterwards forced the "KOC" Staff to pull the plug on the program for the day as all single day spectators and racers were given cash refunds and the weekend racers and spectators would also be given cash refunds for Saturday's portion of the "KOC" program He Said - She Said? Rules or Not for ADRL Sep.22
Despite the rumors that weight restrictions will be added to the ADRL ProExtreme Class and Traction Controls outlawed, Agent DC managed to find this quote while browsing the ADRL website..
Photo by Roger Richards
"Well, your Agent can report with 99.9-percent certainty that no minimum
weights will be forthcoming and traction control will remain an option
for all National Guard ADRL teams, except for those in Extreme Pro
Stock, which retain the rules that mandate a minimum weight (2,425 lbs
w/driver) and specify the use of traction control is not allowed."
From what your Agent can tell, a formal press release announcing the same could be issued as soon as Monday.
So rest easy, outlaw doorslammers, and tell Chicken Little it’s safe to go outside again."
How Low Can You Go? PSCA Sep.22
This Bad to the Bone 1970 Nova is set to debut in the PSCA soon. It favors Nuke Racing's Outlaw 10.5 Nova which was Ready and rocked Fontana! Stay on the lookout for this mean machine..
Nuke Racing's Outlaw 10.5 Nova
Palm Beach International Raceway joins IHRA Sep.22
IHRA is pleased to announce the signing of Palm Beach International Raceway to its family of tracks.
The state-of-the-art, all-concrete drag strip located in West Palm Beach, Fla. is the second major track signing in the past month after Virginia Motorsports Park rejoined the International Hot Rod Association two weeks ago.
Boasting one of the most beautiful backdrops and facilities in all of racing, Palm Beach International Raceway will waste little time jumping into the national event rotation as the facility will host the 2010 Nitro Jam season opener January 29-31.
“We are very excited to have IHRA on board. With our new track and the quality of the people on both sides we are going to put on some great events,” said Ron Dixon, President and COO of Palm Beach International Raceway. “Mutually it is going to be beneficial for everyone involved. We look forward to showcasing what we have to the world.”
Palm Beach International Raceway is located on the site of the old Moroso Motorsports Park, but there is very little resemblance to its former self. The new drag strip, which opened just 11 months ago, is also joined by a world-class road course and karting center making PBIR an exciting new destination for the IHRA and its fans.
“It really is an impressive place, perhaps one of the best structures in the United States,” Dixon added. “We have received a lot of advice and visited a lot of tracks because we wanted to get this right. And, quite frankly, I think we really have something that the Palm Beach area and IHRA can be proud of.”
When IHRA President Aaron Polburn visited the facility in late August he admits that even he was taken aback by the beauty and design of not just the track, but of the surrounding facility and of the West Palm Beach backdrop.
“This is literally one of the best tracks I have ever seen. We go to some world class facilities, but there is just something special about this place that is sure to make it a top destination for the IHRA and its different brands for years to come,” Polburn said.
On top of being one of the top drag racing facilities in the country, PBIR also provides a new market for the IHRA in southern Florida. Palm Beach International Raceway will also be a perfect fit for the exciting new look to the Nitro Jam series in 2010.
“One of the things we like is the association of the IHRA with Feld Entertainment. It is not just racing – we are in the entertainment business and that is a big plus,” Dixon said. “To me the wow factor is what it is all about, that is what people are looking for and it is refreshing to have the same mindset as the IHRA.
“We have the backing of the county, the tourism boards and everyone in the community. They can see what we bring to the table and I think this could lead to great things in the future.”
Dixon also used a bit of his own racing knowledge to help design the world-class facility. Along with acting as President and COO of Palm Beach International Raceway, Dixon is also the father of 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner and two-time IRL champion Scott Dixon, giving the family a number of years in the racing industry.
With the addition of Palm Beach International Raceway to its family of tracks, the IHRA now has tracks in 30 states and four different countries making it one of the largest sanctioning bodies in the world.
Moon & Smith to debut Barwa Camaro Sep.22
Al-Anabi Racing driver Von Smith said his experience thus far in 2009, more so than anything else, has been “a privilege”, and after scoring five event wins out of eight contested races in the Arabian Drag Racing League and taking home the series’ championship for Sheikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Thani – it’s also been impressive.
The brand-new team consisting of veteran Top Alcohol Funny Car tuner and Pro Modified crew chief Howard Moon, along with the aforementioned wheelman Von Smith, suffered two major setbacks over the course of the Middle Eastern racing season. Both incidents came in the form of high-speed top end accidents, unfortunately destroying two racecars, but hardly enough to slow the progress of the consummate professionals who maintained their composure and pressed forward.
After securing a car, one which Moon had a great deal of positive prior experience with, the team continued their domination of the Arabian Gulf Region drag racing scene – even setting the mark for the world’s fastest Pro Modified pass at 257mph in 5.740 seconds.
“To win the championship for Sheikh Khalid,” said Smith, reporting from the Al-Anabi Racing shop in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, “was as big of an accomplishment as I’ve had in my racing career, and to be the one appointed to represent his country in drag racing has been nothing short of an honor.”
Lucas Oil releases Frank Manzo to Al-Anabi Sep.22
Lucas Oil founder Forrest Lucas has granted drag racing legend Frank Manzo's wish for an unconditional release from his current sponsorship contract with Lucas Oil at the conclusion of the 2009 season. The move allows Manzo to join Al-Anabi Racing as driver of the Al-Anabi Racing Top Alcohol Funny Car and to race for Sheikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Thani, a member of the ruling family of Qatar.
"Frank Manzo is first and foremost a great friend, and he's been an exceptional ambassador for Lucas Oil in our four years together," said Lucas, who began Lucas Oil two decades ago with his wife, Charlotte. "The guy is arguably the best drag racer of all time, and it's been an honor to have him as part of our team. He will be greatly missed.
"I call Frank my biggest winner because he's won more races with Lucas Oil on the side of his car than anyone else. I know this was a very emotional decision for Frank, but we really wish him nothing but the best in his new endeavor. The sheikh literally made him a deal he couldn't refuse. No matter what, Frank Manzo always has a home here at Lucas Oil."
With 84 national event victories on the Full Throttle tour and 101 event wins in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Manzo is far and away the most prolific Sportsman racer in NHRA's 58-year history. His national event total places him fourth in the record books, behind John Force (126 wins), Warren Johnson (96), and Bob Glidden (85).
Manzo also has claimed 12 season titles and 18 divisional championships since he started racing in the mid-1970s.
"Forrest and Charlotte, their son, Morgan, and really everyone at Lucas Oil from top to bottom has treated me like part of their family from Day One," Manzo said. "I can't thank them enough for their support and friendship. These have been the happiest years of my drag racing career. I got very choked up when we met in Indy because they mean so much to me. It's still very hard for me to think about leaving them.
"Like the Lucas family, Sheikh Khalid has made an incredible investment in the sport of drag racing with Alan Johnson's Top Fuel dragster and Funny Car, plus he has a whole fleet of Pro Mod cars, which is what they race the most over there. I'm going to do my very best for him and try to raise some more awareness for motorsports in Qatar."
Lucas Oil sponsors a multitude of race cars, including the GEICO Powersports/Lucas Oil Top Fuel dragster driven by Morgan Lucas and the Lucas Oil/Dixie Chopper Top Fuel dragster piloted by rookie of the year candidate Shawn Langdon. Lucas Oil also sponsors the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series as well as the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd. Lucas Oil is the official oil of NHRA.
B&J adds a bonus for Pro Mod Challenge Sep.22
B&J Racing Transmissions has always been a proud supporter of the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge and its competitors, and beginning at the U.S. Nationals and for every race throughout the remainder of the season, the company increased their commitment and added excitement to the first round of eliminations by awarding $500 to the winner of a randomly-selected pair of Pro Mods.
During the drivers meeting held before every race, a number (1-16) is randomly selected that designates a pair that will race for the B&J Bonus. In Indianapolis, Danny Rowe received the first $500 check, and at Charlotte for the NHRA Carolinas Nationals , Burton Auxier won the Bonus along with a matching prize from Rick Stivers' Stivers HVAC.
Mike Strasberg, owner of B&J Transmissions, said, "We love Pro Mod racing, and the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge puts on a show of the very best cars from around the world. It's our privilege to support the series as a sponsor, as well as add some more excitement to the Saturday night eliminations rounds
Hot New Cylinder Head From RHS Sep.22
RHS® Pro Action™ SBC 23-Degree Style Raised Runner Cylinder Heads New cylinder head styles from RHS® feature 220cc runner volumes and are available in either “as cast” or P-Port configurations.
Finding a top performing cylinder head and still staying within the rules of class competition may be one of the biggest challenges engine builders face today.
The RHS® Pro Action™ Small Block Chevrolet 23-Degree Style Raised Runner Cylinder Heads incorporating the “as cast” 220cc runner volume were originally designed for circle track competition, but these are also the “winning ticket” for Nostalgia Drags Junior Class B Fuel competition. K&K Teams Wins Quick 32 Championship Sep.22
K&K Team wins Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship
STRATFORD, ONTARIO (September 22, 2009) - Despite not winning an event, the K&K Racing Team captured the inaugural NAPA Auto Parts sponsored Quick 32 Sportsman Series Point Award Championship in Cayuga, Ontario at Toronto Motorsports Park this past weekend.
Sitting in third position going into the final weekend, the K&K Team overtook point’s leader Jamie Bridge of Napanee, Ontario to claim the first Championship Point Award Series.
The key to their season was consistency. “We never won an event, but we went rounds every race and won the rounds we needed to win. We didn’t win any of the battles but we won the war,” stated driver Kevin Wicke.
“The teams in this series are some of the best around, there were never any easy rounds,” added Wicke. “To win the first championship with a new car is great and it shows how good of a team we have. Zim (Crew Chief Kevin Zimmer) and I have been at this for a lot of years and with Danno and Denny (Dan & Dennis Culliton) on board it makes my job pretty easy. There is not a chance we would have won this thing without them.”
The team’s key to the championship may have been the first round on both days of the Double Header weekend. The only Top Sportsman car ahead of them in the points was Darrin Grubb of Ingersoll, Ontario. They squared off against Grubb both days in the first round and won both races.
“Those two rounds were huge, if we lost the race on Saturday we were all but out of contention. Sometimes it is who you beat and when you beat them that is most important,” stated Crew Chief Kevin Zimmer.
With most of the other teams in contention going out in the early rounds on Sunday including a second round loss for the K&K Team, there was only Carl Spiering and Michael Kalin who had a chance of catching Wicke. Walker Terrorizing PSCA Prostreet Sep.22
It's been a dream season so far for the Walker Autoworks Pro Street El Camino. With 4 straight final round appearances, which have netted 3 wins and huge points lead heading into last weekends PSCA Accufab West Coast Shootout in Fontana, California. Can the team carry on with this torrid pace and lock in Randy’s first Championship since 2001?? Randy is confident and the competitors know the stealthy looking El Camino is on a mission!!
During first round qualifying, Randy knew winning wasn’t going to be an easy task as the PSCA Pro Street racers have all stepped up their programs as the 2009 season progresses… Walker lined up next to Tim Henry and the shootout was officially on!! This was no ordinary qualifying round; it was a battle of the two top PSCA nitrous cars. Walker left first and led for about 1310 feet only to have Henry nip him at the end and take the provisional poll. A 6.373 for Henry and 6.390 for Walker with a margin of victory of .0008 and this was only the start. In round two Henry did not improve but Charles Carpenter & Duane Walker took the data from round one and improved to a 6.357 and took over the number 1 spot. In the third and final session, Henry came out first and blasted a 6.354 to retake the number one position, but Walker loomed toward the back of the lanes ready to see what the Fontana race track could handle. The outside temps hovered around the century mark most of the day so what these guys were doing was simply amazing. When the El Camino left the starting line you just knew the pass was going to be special, 1.010 sixty foot time, 4.085 to the eighth, and a 6.269/222.22 run to earn the top qualifying position and re-cord the quickest nitrous Pro Street pass in PSCA history!! Now if he could back it up during the first round of eliminations, a new PSCA ET record!!
With a strong 12 car field to navigate through, the Walker team started with Canadian Jay Syvertson and his blown ’38 Chevy. Jay got to the track late and did not make a previous run, so Randy had no clue what to expect and the thoughts of backing up the national record seemed first and foremost. Syvertson gave it his all (As his motor expired through the traps) Walker 6.474 was good enough for the round win, but the record now was a thing of the past. Pro Mod legend John Scialpi was up next with his newly constructed converter driven, blown hemi 1957 Chevy sporting the familiar turquoise and white factory paint scheme.
Unofficial NHRA Points Standings Sep.21
Vandergriff Back In The Saddle This Weekend Sep.21
Bob Vandergriff Jr. will be back in the driver’s seat of his Top Fuel dragster for this weekend's NHRA O'Reilly Super Start Falls Nationals at Texas Motorplex, thanks to backing from Corpus Christi, Texas-based C&J Energy Services.
C&J Energy Services works within the oil and gas industry in Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, and is expanding its operations to Marshall, Texas, not far from Texas Motorplex. This race provides a prime opportunity for C& J to entertain its key customers in a high speed environment.
Vandergriff, who raced at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals in Atlanta earlier this season, spent his summer being a team owner and letting "Hot Rod" Fuller handle the driving duties. In Atlanta, Vandergriff registered a respectable No. 6 qualifying berth and quarterfinal finish during the sixth race of the NHRA season in Atlanta.
Lucas Oil Sportsman Winners From ZMAX Sep.21
Top Alcohol Dragster -- Bill Reichert, 5.270, 268.97def. Ken Perry, 5.397, 260.46.
Top Alcohol Funny Car -- Frank Manzo, Chevy Monte Carlo, 5.541, 261.22def. Mick Snyder, Ford Mustang, 5.597, 255.29.
Super Comp -- Joe Flynn, Dragster, 8.904, 173.16def. Brian Forrester, Dragster, 8.940, 159.38.
Super Gas -- Steve Furr, Chevy Camaro, 9.905, 157.06def. John Stover, Chevy Corvette, 9.897, 153.44.
Lucas Oil Signs Multi-Year NHRA Contract Sep.20
NHRA officials announced today that Lucas Oil Products, the industry leader in lubricants and fuel treatments and a longtime friend of the sport of NHRA Drag Racing, has signed a multi-year agreement that renews its title sponsorship of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, through the year 2012. Significantly, at that time it will represent an 11-year partnership dating back to the 2002 season.
In addition, Lucas Oil will continue its designation as the “Official Oil of NHRA” and its presenting sponsorship of NHRA’s weekly magazine show on ESPN2, NHRA Race Day presented by Lucas Oil.
“Words simply can’t describe the relationship between Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, the entire Lucas Oil Products company, and NHRA and the racing community,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA. “Forrest and Charlotte Lucas epitomize what NHRA and NHRA sportsman racing is all about. They are involved, not only for the value it represents to their products, but for the love of the sport.”
It's Bruce Boland again at PMRA Sep.20
Bruce Boland of Stoney Creek, Ontario, defeated Mark Nielsen of Brantford, Ontario, in the final round to win his fourth PMRA Pro Modified event of the season and captured his third consecutive Pro Modified Racing Association Point Award Series Championship on Sunday.
The PMRA Challenge presented by Motorsport 1320 on the Cayuga Dragway at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario was the sixth and the final event of the 2009 season.
Boland ran a 6.121-second, 232.47-mph in his 1967 Chevy Nova SS in the final to defeat Nielsen's 1968 Yenko Camaro who finished second in the Championship Point Award Series.
Boland, qualified number two for the event, defeated Pete Farber from Baldwinville, Massachusetts in the first round and Eric Latino of Scarborough, Ontario in the semi-finals. While Nielsen, the number one qualifier defeated Luis Custodio of Ajax, Ontario in the first round and Gary Mater from Petrolia, Ontario in the semi-finals.
Other teams qualifying for the elimination rounds were Jeff Roth and Joe Boniferro.
Bruce Boland won the Championship Point Award Series standings with 1595, while Mark Nielsen finished second with 1482 and the PMRA Top Five also included Jeff Roth in third with 1438, Eric Latino fourth with 1410 and Jason Kalso in fifth with 1409.
In Quick 32 Sportsman Series action, Buddy Forrest drove the Morgan Forrest Racing Top Dragster from Rochester, NY to the win over the Top Sportsman team driven by Dan Aitken Jr. of Belle River, Ontario.
Forrest defeated Gary Basaraba of Sudbury, Ontario in the Top Dragster final and Aitken beat Maurice Campolucci of Woodbridge, Ontario in the Top Sportsman final to advance to the Quick 32 Sportsman Series overall final.
Kevin Wicke's K&K Racing Team of Stratford, Ontario won the Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship Point Award Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts with 1114 points. Jamie Bridge of Napanee, Ontario was second with 1096, Carl Spiering of Jordan Station, Ontario was third with 1079, Michael Kalin of Youngstown, New York was fourth with 1065, T.J. Schippling of Shakespeare, Ontario was fifth with 1032 and rounding out the Top Ten were Darrin Grubb, Michael Hinbest, Spencer Hyde, Mitch Elliott and Darryl McMillen.
The PMRA and Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship Point Award Series winners will be honored at the Champions Banquet on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at The Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel in the Oak Room in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Massey, Neff shine in four-wide Charlotte Sep.20
by Phil Burgess, National DRAGSTER Editor
Spencer Massey in Top Fuel and Mike Neff in Funny Car were the winners of a pair of special four-wide exhibition races Sunday afternoon during the NHRA Carolinas Nationals at zMax Dragway.
Although four-wide racing was a sometimes feature at match races in the late 1960s and early 1970s, it had never been run at an NHRA national event. The zMax facility was built with two side-by-side dragstrips – each pair of two lanes separated by a guardwall – making it practical and safe for these exhibition races that unleashed nearly 30,000 horsepower at once. [Watch videos]
Massey, driver of Don Prudhomme’s U.S. Smokeless Tobacco dragster, won the four-car affair on a double holeshot, edging Antron Brown and Brandon Bernstein, both of whom ran quicker, and Morgan Lucas.
Spencer Massey, second from top, won the four-car Top Fuel exhibition race at zMax Dragway on a holeshot; Antron Brown, near lane, was second through. Brandon Bernstein, far lane, finished third and Morgan Lucas fourth.
ZMAX NHRA Results Sep.20
MCCLENATHAN, HIGHT SNAP LONG WINLESS STREAKS TO MAKE MAJOR MOVES IN COUNTDOWN
Edwards and Arana complete winner’s circle at Second annual NHRA Carolinas Nationals
CONCORD, N.C. – Cory McClenathan and Robert Hight won their first races of the 2009 season Sunday at the Second annual NHRA Carolinas Nationals at zMax Dragway to make huge moves in the Countdown to 1.
Joining McClenathan (Top Fuel) and Hight (Funny Car) in the winner’s circle at at the 19th of 24 races in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series were Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle).
Bruce Boland Scores 3rd PMRA Championship Sep.20
CAYUGA, ONTARIO (September 19, 2009) – Mark Nielsen of Brantford, Ontario set low elapsed time and top speed with a 6.148-second, 233.03-mph pass in his G-Force Race Cars built 1968 Yenko Camaro SS powered by a ERD (Engine Research & Development) 526-cubic inch Brad Anderson Supercharged Hemi at the PMRA Challenge presented by Motorsport 1320 "Championship Point Award Series Finals" on the Cayuga Dragway at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario.
Bruce Boland of Stoney Creek, Ontario ran a 6.227-second pass good for second position in his 1976 Chevy II and secured his third consecutive PMRA Championship going into the final eliminations on Sunday.
Eric Latino from Scarborough, Ontario, placed third with a 6.266-second pass, followed by Jeff Roth of New Dundee, in fourth and Gary Mater of Petrolia, Ontario was fifth.
Rounding out the eight-car field was Gary Irving of Toronto, Ontario, Jack Grainy of Tonawanda, New York and Luis Custodio of Ajax, Ontario.
In Quick 32 Sportsman Series action, presented by NAPA Auto Parts, Darryl McMillen's Top Sportsman 1963 Chevrolet Corvette of Goderich, Ontario defeated Tony Positano's Mike Bos Stefko Racing Engines powered Top Dragster in the first day of the "Double Header" weekend championship finals.
Round one of championship PMRA eliminations will begin Sunday, September 20 at 1:00 p.m.
For information about Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario call (905) 772-0303 or visit online at www.torontomotorsportspark.com
For more information contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher at Bruce@PMRA.ca Latest Goodyear Radials on the Way Sep.17
AKRON, Ohio (Sept. 17, 2009) – Goodyear Racing announced today that the two latest additions to the tiremaker’s new line of Goodyear Eagle SS DOT drag radials will be in the hands of race tire distributors before the end of the month.
The two tires follow the path of the first release, the D4305, which has already won a race and attracted attention of racers interested in winning.
The most recent releases are the D4306 (P325/50R15) and the D4300 (P235/60R15). Supplies of both products were making their way across the country by mid-month.
“It’s interesting to see how quickly this segment of the sport is growing,” said Carolyn Ashbee, Goodyear’s sales account manager for drag racing. “Goodyear has produced a line of Eagle SS DOT drag radials that is already a winner. We expect these two new releases will be as successful as the first.”
In the near future, Goodyear expects to release sizes for 16- and 17-inch rims.
More information on Goodyear Racing, including a list of race tire distributors, is available at www.racegoodyear.com
Castellana Carries Momentum; Battle 4 Belts Sep.17
ROCKINGHAM, NC (September 17, 2009)— Mike Castellana (left) scored his
third Pro Nitrous win in three finals rounds on the 2009 National Guard
ADRL Tour Sep. 12, in the ADRL’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham
Dragway. The victory tied him for third on the Pro Nitrous all-time
winningest driver’s list and marked the second time in his ADRL career
Castellana has won from the number-one qualifying position.
One of the most talked about feats of the event, especially in Pro
Nitrous, was Castellana’s 3.86-seconds blast in Friday night’s final
qualifying session to earn the top spot. The elapsed time was the
quickest in the category’s history and nearly a tenth-of-a-second
quicker than 2008’s number-one qualifier at Rockingham. Castellana was
unable to back the run up within the required one percent for an
official record, however.
Regardless, while impressed by the performance displayed by his
Speedtech Nitrous/Reher-Morrison engine program, Castellana spoke
candidly about the world’s quickest nitrous pass—especially the part
about the brandywine-colored 1970.5 Camaro being inches from the wall
as it crossed the eighth-mile finish line.
“The car drove towards the wall, out of the groove about 500 feet out.
I felt the car drift and knew I was taking a chance being that close to
the wall, but luckily we didn’t crash,” he said.
En route to the final round, Castellana disposed of Fredy Scriba with
an impressive 3.91-second run at 192.22 mph in the opening round, then
battled it out with Pro Modified legend Charles Carpenter in the
quarter-final, taking the win with a 3.90/192.96. His semi-final
match-up against his crew chief and Al-Anabi Racing teammate Shannon
“The Iceman” Jenkins produced a 3.90/192.08 win, and marked the first
time the two had paired up in National Guard ADRL eliminations. Promods to Battle in Charlotte this weekend Sep.17
The battles for championship points in the Get Screened America Pro Mod
Challenge presented by ProCare Rx intensifies this weekend as the
series makes its eighth of ten stops, this time at the NHRA Carolinas
Nationals in metro Charlotte, N.C. The fight for first is as fierce as
the battle to make the top eight heading into the final race at Las
Vegas where the Matco Tools Pro Mod Clash will be contested.
Twenty drivers will face off this weekend at zMAX Dragway, a track
that's been called the "Bellagio of Drag Strips." It is the first time
the Pro Mod Challenge has visited the venue.
Front-runner Burton Auxier saw his once commanding lead drastically cut
by Roger Burgess and Danny Rowe, both are within two round-wins of
first. Mike Castellana, who had been in second place dropped to fourth,
but is still within just a few rounds of the lead.
Joe Baker, Raymond Commisso, Jay Payne and Tim Tindle round out the top
eight and will all be competing this weekend. Payne and Tindle at No.'s
7 and 8 are a little more than three round-wins ahead of the next
closest drivers, but Brad Personett, Mike Knowles and Rick Stivers are
all hot on their tails, hoping for a part of the $35,000 purse in the
Matco Tools Clash.
8 Year Old Wins "Design Tasca's Funny Car" Sep.17
Tasca unveils Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation design contest winner
NHRA Funny Car driver Bob Tasca III has always said that he’s just an
all-American kid driving an all-American hot rod. At this weekend’s
NHRA event, the NHRA Carolinas Nationals in Charlotte, his
Motorcraft/Quick Lane Shelby Mustang will certainly reflect that
statement.
After six weeks of voting and more than 300 designs submitted, Liam
Flanagan, an 8-year-old resident of Bala Cynwyd, Pa., was selected as
the winning designer in Ford Customer Service Division’s (FCSD) Funny
Car design contest to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
(JDRF). Flanagan’s winning design will be featured on the
Motorcraft/Quick Lane Shelby Mustang Funny Car during the event at zMax
Dragway, Sept. 17-20.
“In history class, we’re learning about the presidents, and that’s why I drew the American flag on the car,” said Flanagan.
The Flanagan family, along with Tasca and representatives from FCSD,
unveiled the Take a Walk in Our Shoes paint scheme Thursday, Sept. 17,
at Tasca’s race shop in Concord, N.C. On Friday, Flanagan and his
family will attend their first NHRA race and watch the JDRF-themed
Shelby Mustang qualify for the 2nd annual NHRA Carolinas Nationals.
Antron Brown Speaks out about Race Sep.17
Question during interview: You downplayed the whole cultural significance about your season, and now it's getting attention; have you allowed yourself to think about what it could mean to the fans and maybe those minorities that want to get into the sport?
Brown: The thing about it, that's great. That's what our sport does; we have reached so many different cultures out here because so many people can relate to drag racing, and it will be huge, if it's a kid or a young adult or teenager out there that might look up to me as a hero or a mentor, and that's great because I had my heroes and mentors, too.
Like one of my heroes, that was "Big Daddy" [Don Garlits], and we had local heroes, Frank Manzo, Bruce Larson. Those were my heroes growing up, you know what I mean.
So if I can be that same deal and that same light, maybe for an inner-city kid or whoever it may be, it could be a kid in the country; when I heard the John Force story, how he became who he is. He used to live in a trailer home with his brothers and sisters, and he was a guy that used to drive logs on a tractor trailer. And now he's got a multimillion-dollar empire driving Funny Cars.
That story right there will get anybody motivated because somebody like that that can do it -- that's a normal Joe Blow off the street -- means that you can do it, and that's the way I look at myself. My family loves drag racing, and we are weekend warriors. And it really doesn't bother me or make a difference to me race, creed, or color; we are all Americans.
I think something that our sport of drag racing does well is that we don't look at somebody being different ethnic background. If you're a good racer, you're a good racer, no matter what color you are. Look at Reggie Showers, he's a double amputee, but people see him as being a great Pro Stock Bike racer because of his skill level not because of what color he is or they think he's handicapped or this or that. He's a great racer.
And that's one thing that drag racing brings out in all of us is that we are seen for who we are and the skills we have. If I can encourage some inner-city kids and some of my cousins and nephews and nieces, that's awesome; I want them to fulfill the dreams in their lives because I love the career that I'm in.
Tune Up $20K for the Million Sep.17
Holly Springs Motorsports will have a $20,000 to win tune up race for the million. It will take place on tuesday Oct 6th. Gates will open at 10 a.m. and time trials at 3 p.m. Run for the money will begin at 4:30p.m., time permitting, with first round eliminations at 6:00.
$20,000 to win $3,000 runner up $750 semis $400 quarter finalists $200 eighth finalists
Entry fee $200 /Buy backs first OR second round $150 $15 crew or spectator Purse is based on 100 cars
32 car shootouts for entry to the million! $100 entry fee first come first served! Runner Up $500 semis $100
www.hollyspringsdragstrip.com
901-830-0279 or George Howard at 205-616-4490
Hammonds returns in Charlotte; Dallas 2 Sep.15
Hammonds to return in Charlotte, will also run Dallas
It's been a little more than four months since Tom Hammonds drove at a national event, at the O'Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals presented by Castrol in Madison, but now the former NBA power forward and Georgia Tech basketball All-American will return to Pro Stock competition when the NHRA Full Throttle Series converges on zMax Dragway for the 2nd annual NHRA Carolinas Nationals Sept. 17-20. While many of the Professional competitors have their sights set on the Countdown to 1 and the six-race playoff that will crown this year’s champions, the 42-year-old Hammonds is already looking ahead to next season with the goal of getting a head start on 2010.
“I’m excited,” Hammonds said. “I haven’t been in a car in a long time, and I’m anxious to see exactly what our engines can do. We’ve made some improvements since the last time we went down the quarter-mile, and now we’ll see exactly where we stand against the field. That will give us a good indication of where we need to go over the winter.
“Bruton Smith has done an incredible job with zMax Dragway, and I can’t wait to make that first qualifying pass on Friday. You know the stands are going to be packed. They love their NHRA Pro Stock drag racing in Charlotte, and I’m proud to be a part of it.” Tragedy Brings Driver and Sponsor Together Sep.15
Doug Herbert, NHRA Top Fuel driver, lost his two sons to an automobile accident in 2008 when his teenage son was speeding with his brother in the car. Todd Follmer’s teenage son was 16 when he was speeding with his girlfriend following behind. She lost control of the vehicle she was driving and lost her life after hitting a tree. Follmer is the CEO of tiwi.
As a result, Herbert and Follmer have dedicated themselves to decreasing fatalities and injuries of teenagers due to automobile accidents, the leading cause of death among American teenagers: Herbert, through the formation of the 501(c)(3), non-profit foundation B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everybody Safe); Follmer through the development of the tiwi teen driver mentoring system.
The two have formed a partnership to heighten the awareness of both organizations and, as a result, tiwi will sponsor Herbert’s Top Fuel dragster at his hometown race which kicks off tomorrow at zMax Dragway.
“tiwi is more than just a sponsor, it’s a perfect fit for my race team,” said Herbert. “I’ve been running the B.R.A.K.E.S. logo with a photo of my sons on the car to create awareness and educate young drivers about the importance of safe driving”
B.R.A.K.E.S. and tiwi have the same goal. B.R.A.K.E.S. provides hands on training to teach teens how to prevent an accident. The tiwi teen mentoring system keeps teens safe by using technology to help them learn good habits in their first years on the road.”
tiwi is the first on-board computer with the power to instantly alert and instruct young drivers while enabling parents to receive real-time notifications by phone, text or email concerning their child’s current location, actions and driving safety. tiwi helps teens become much more aware of driving situations and road conditions, reducing the dangers of distraction and poor judgment, which are the leading causes of crashes among new drivers.
In May of this year, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
released an independent study titled “In-Vehicle Monitoring and the
Driving Behavior of Teenagers” in which they used the tiwi teen
mentoring system and found that “electronic monitoring of teenage
drivers can reduce risky behavior” and that “parent participation in
the monitoring process is key to successful behavioral modification.”
tiwi is also partnered with Herbert’s B.R.A.K.E.S program. Not only is
tiwi the presenting sponsor of this evening’s fundraising dinner at The
Speedway Club, but anybody who purchases tiwi through B.R.A.K.E.S. will
receive a $100 discount on the tiwi unit and tiwi will donate 5% back
to B.R.A.K.E.S.
“It’s hard to understand what it
feels like to lose a child, especially when it possibly could have been
prevented,” said Follmer. “But the point is, we don’t want any parent
to know what that feeling is like, and teaming up with Doug and the
B.R.A.K.E.S. program is the best way I know to get the message out
there to both parents and teens. Baker Smokes The Field In DPMA Action Sep.15
Baker Nurses Hurt Motor To Dixie Pro Mod Win
Once again Keith Baker's
1963 Corvette suffered what appeared to be a pinched ring and as he did
last month in Montgomery he still took the the victory. Despite the
engine bellowing smoke out of the right bank Baker defeated birthday
boy, 20 year old, Jamie Hancock in the final round of the Dixie Pro Mod
Association race at Phenix Dragstrip.
NHRA Championship Begins at ZMax Sep.14
For 18 events, from February through August, NHRA race teams have grinded and gutted it out to identify the top 10 teams in each pro category that will have the opportunity to compete for drag racing’s ultimate prize -- NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships.
A few teams have dominated. Some have sacrificed. Some barely slipped into the field in the closing seconds. There was passion. Determination. Even controversy.
Now, the real work begins.
The top 10 teams in each pro category will begin their quests for world championship glory at the NHRA Carolinas Nationals, Sept. 17-20 at the spectacular zMAX Dragway, Bruton Smith’s “Bellagio of Drag Strips.” The race is the first of six championship playoff races to determine the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world champions. Goodyear offers new drag racing radials Sep.13
Goodyear Racing said today the company is ready to begin manufacturing the latest additions to its line of Goodyear Eagle SS DOT radial drag racing tires.
Goodyear recently completed tests at two facilities with 16 cars and drivers and the tests were very successful. The company, recognized as the industry leader in drag racing tire development, tested size and construction combinations aimed at the DOT drag racing market.
“The tests were extremely successful,” said Carolyn Ashbee, sales account manager for drag racing. “We know now that we have a very competitive product. Our 60-foot times were superior to the competition.”
The tire to be released first, Goodyear’s D4305, is sized at 275/60R15. It is 28 inches tall and 9.5 inches across the tread and is recommended for wheels eight inches wide.
Ashbee said eight additional sizes for 15, 16 and 17-inch rims can be viewed on the www.racegoodyear.com and will be announced as they become available for sale.
The tests were conducted at South Georgia Motorsports Park and Arizona’s Firebird International Raceway. On both occasions, the track temperatures reached 140 degrees.
The drivers involved in the tests came from across the radial racing world, from organizations such as the Outlaw Radial Street Car Association, the Outlaw Radial Tire Championship, the National Mustang Racing Association and the Pacific Street Car Association. Drivers made quarter-mile and eighth-mile passes.
“This is a terrific market, one that has been growing and has room for more growth,” Ashbee said. “The tires will be built at our Innovation Center in Akron, Ohio and we expect to have them ready for sale by the Fall.”
More information on Goodyear Racing is available at www.racegoodyear.com.
King of the Coast Hits Home Stretch Sep.13
Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Series Hits Home Stretch with Event 6 Just Around the Corner!
The Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Bracket Series returns to action with Event 6 of 7 slated for Sept. 19 & 20 at Gulfport Dragway in Gulfport, MS. As the 2009 season comes to an end, the points championships for the coveted KOC Crown heads into Event 6 with all categories still up for grabs. KOC Racers Joe Boone, Mike Barnett, Timmy Fiearamusca, Brandan Allen, and Landon Neely lead their respected classes but not without tons of hungry KOC racers on their heels trying to wrestle away the points championship crown. "The Pro Electronics Class is still wide open for anyone to take, but Joe (Boone) of Hattiesburg, MS is in the prime spot now with a four round lead over David (Reynolds) of Petal, MS. With two events left, it is still wide open for anyone to take.'
Put it in this perspective, there are up to 20 points available to a racer to earn during an "KOC" Event weekend. So in essense a four round lead has no room for error as we have 22 racers that are within 20 points of the lead and 8 of the 22 are within 10 rounds of points leader Joe Boone.", Gaylon Rolison of the "KOC" Series explained. "It always comes down to the last race of the last event of the year", Rolison added. Locals Dominate @ NHRA Division Atlanta Sep.13
The following are Sunday's final results from the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Southeast Division event at Atlanta Dragway:
Locals Highlighted in RED
TOP ALCOHOL DRAGSTER: Round 1 Duane Shields, 5.372, 263.72 def. Robin Samsel, 13.318, 58.26.
TOP ALCOHOL FUNNY CAR: Steve Harker, 5.635, 256.99 def. Tony Bartone, foul.
SUPER COMP Lauren Freer, Lewisville, N.C., dragster, 8.907, 172.34 def. Jim Perry, Niota, Tenn.,dragster, 8.894, 173.56.
SUPER GAS Frank Altilio, Ocoee, Fla., '01 Mustang, 9.930, 162.65 def. Sherman Adcock Jr, Fortson,Ga., '02 Trans Am, 9.903, 157.71.
SUPER STREET Bill Carmichael, Cocoa, Fla., '92 Beretta, 10.905, 137.54 def. Ernie Griggs, Ocala, Fla.,'72 Camaro, 10.897, 139.14.
TOP DRAGSTER Ray Miller, Spring Hill, Fla., dragster, 6.805, 190.94 def. Steve Furr, Harrisburg, N.C.,dragster, 7.155, 180.60.
TOP SPORTSMAN William Thigpen, Flowery Branch, Ga., '55 Chevy, 7.366, 180.81 def. Jeffrey Barker,Warner-Robins, Ga., '02 Camaro, 7.261, 185.28.
NHRA Announces New Points System Sep.13
NHRA announced today that with the start of the NHRA Full Throttle Countdown to the Championship at the NHRA Carolinas Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Concord, N.C., it will recognize national records in Top Fuel and Funny Car and create a new bonus point system for pro qualifying sessions. Both programs will instantly make the battle for the NHRA Full Throttle world championships just a little more interesting for professional competitors on the eve of the start of the Countdown to 1, NHRA's six-race championship playoffs. Comp Cams Million Dollar Flyer! Sep.13
The MILLION offers competitors the opportunity for a pay day that exceeds any single-event in all of drag racing. The one day purse generally exceeds $300,000 and the weekend winnings total over $600,000!
Over the last decade, the race has grown in stature, recognition, and participation. The 2008 event featured nearly 400 entrants in the Twin 30's that bookend The MILLION weekend, and over 250 entrants in the main event on Saturday with over $325,000 for the one day payout! http://www.race2themillion.com
For the past several years when Don & Bunny Henderson rolled into Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the Annual Labor Day race that ran PSCA cars at night and Jr’s during the day. Winning the Jr Dragster class that daughter Meaghan competed in was always one of their dreams…. But this time was a little different, yes the she still ran the Jr. during the day, but at night she rolled out the Vogue Marine Center Boat & RV Storage 7-sec Dragster powered by a Fauset Racing Engine to compete in the Calvert Racing Bracket-1 class!!!
After 2 long hot days of racing, Sunday night PSCA Eliminations was a refreshing break as the temps dropped to a comfortable level. In round one, Meaghan lost to LVMS regular Scott Horsley in his familiar ’55 Chevy in a double breakout. Lucky for the young Henderson, the PSCA has 1st round loser buybacks, so for a mere $20 Meaghan was back in the game. It was now around 9pm and the Henderson family has been racing since 8am but you couldn’t tell as they started to find their grove and march through the competitors. 2nd round victim was a past PSCA event winner Andy Pressimore, 3rd round she beat Ken Spears and ran an almost perfect pass (5.20 light and 7.729 on a 7.72 dial) Round 4 she beat a past PSCA Championship runner-up Josh Edwards with a 7.713 on a 7.71 dial and forced Edwards to break out by 7-thousandths. The Semi-Finals was Meaghan’s easiest run as Robert Broguiere had starting line issues and the car simply did not move..
In the Finals, “The Pizza Man” Carl Cannavo and his “Blazin’ Bell Tech” sponsored Dragster was the only one left in Meaghan’s way and her 1st PSCA victory. Henderson won earlier this year in her Jr. Dragster, but a win in her big car would be a dream come true!!! As the lights dropped, she left Carl at the line with her 5.20 R/T to his 5.90 and that’s all Meaghan needed to notch her 1st win and become PSCA’s youngest winner at just barely 17 years-old.
Meaghan would like to thank her family especially dad and crew chief Don, mom Bunny, Chris Blair and the staff at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Vogue Marine Center Boat & RV Storage, Fauset Racing Engines and the PSCA for a very memorable Labor Day Weekend..
Burgess Wins Emotional U.S. Nationals Sep.13
CLERMONT, Ind. (September 7, 2009) - Roger Burgess won his second event of the season and claimed the crown jewel of drag racing by winning the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge presented by ProCare Rx event at the Mac Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Burgess defeated Danny Rowe in the final and moved into second place in the points-standings after seven of ten events have been completed. Burgess dedicated his win to the memory and honor of his fallen teammate Bobby Monacelli who passed away from a heart attack on August 10.
Despite an abbreviated number of qualifying sessions due to scheduling and weather delays, the series enjoyed its quickest field in its nine-year history. The bump spot was a 6.120 held by Kirk Wilmes, more than a tenth quicker than the bump spot of 6.132 from 2008. Danny Rowe took low qualifier honors with a 5.943; Brad Personett ran top speed at 248.84. September Column on TIBR.com Posted Sep.13
Luke Bogacki’s eighth monthly tutorial column has posted on ThisIsBracketRacing.com. This month, Bogacki addresses his third and final “successful finish line strategy“ for readers. In the previous two months, Bogacki introduced the theories he referred to as the “dialer” and the “driver.” This month, he concludes his basic finish line strategy session by describing the theory he calls the “spot dropper.”
“The ‘spot dropper’ strategy takes a little bit of theory from both the ‘dialer’ and the ‘driver.’ While the overall thought process of the ‘spot dropper’ is much more similar to that of the ‘dialer,’ the ‘spot dropper’ will be able to run an ET that is quicker than their chosen dial-in (like the ‘driver‘).”
Super 7 Series Finale at MontgomeryMotorsports Park Sep.13
Article and photos by T.J. Pruitt
What a blow out for the Super 7 Series finale at Montgomery Motorsports Park held on Labor Day Week. This event was practically a “Minnie million dollar” race as over 280 entries packed in the park for four 10,000 races. Four winners were presented big checks for $10,000 and Chattanooga, TN racer Ron Lane was crowned the two-time points champion. This event marked the largest Super 7 Series event for track promoter Jim Howard | Read More UORS Results from I22 Dragway Sep.06
Results from the Inaugral United Outlaw Racing Series event held at I-22 Motorsports Park
7.00 Class George Bolton defeated Terry Stringer
6.00 Class Bill Cowles defeated Glen burton
5.30 Class Brad Jones defeated Russell Nece
Ultimate Street Neil Hawkins defeated Kevin Schrimsher
Outlaw Drag Radial John Kolivas defeated Tommy Brewer
True Ten Five Eric Dillard defeated Jeff Cooner
A/PM Steve Kirk defeated Coby Rabun
Smokin Joe Zaccoro went 3.75 at 214.28 mph in his jet car.
Another Female Driver In NHRA Prostock? May.19
National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Drag Racer, Nicole Lyons, has officially signed on with the William Morris Agency as of this February and Bischoff-Hervey Entertainment (BHE) as of this April to assist her in being the first African American female and potential first female to win a NHRA Pro Stock event and championship. William Morris Agency signed the "untitled" Nicole Lyons reality television show which is currently in pre-production under Bischoff-Hervey and Nicole Lyons Productions. Teaming up with Victor Cagnazzi will give any new potential sponsors the best they could ask for in terms of NHRA Pro Stock. I am so excited to have the opportunity to race with such a world class organization when sponsorship is in placeThe Tiger Woods of Drag Racing.Redefining history is what I do bestBeing a woman and on top of that, an African American woman, I had to overcome boundaries to make it where I am today, and I wouldn't change anything because it shows the example that with persistence, drive, determination, and faith anything and everything is possible.
Los Angeles, CA May 14, 2009 -- National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Drag Racer, Nicole Lyons, has officially signed on with the William Morris Agency as of this February and Bischoff-Hervey Entertainment (BHE) as of this April to assist her in being the first African American female and potential first female to win a NHRA Pro Stock event and championship. WMA and BHE will be assisting by using the world of entertainment a testament to what they do best. Lyons has teamed up with the championship title-holder Victor Cagnazzi Racing for a big push to racing NHRA Pro Stock 2010 contingent upon finding sponsorship. She has been soliciting final rounds of sponsorship for her 2010 year--Pro Stock Full Throttle Series.
"Teaming up with Victor Cagnazzi will give any new potential sponsors the best they could ask for in terms of NHRA Pro Stock. I am so excited to have the opportunity to race with such a world class organization when sponsorship is in place," said Lyons.
Southern Outlaw Tour Rocks The Gump ! Apr.24
Joe Baker scored his first Southern Outlaw Tour ProMod Win @ Montgomery Motorsports Park despite not having the fastest or quickest car on the grounds. Driving his beautiful supercharged Willys, Joe qualified number 5 and marched his way to the final where he defeated the nitrous powered GTO of Edmund "Mr. 5 Speed" Hall, 4.08 to a troubled 4.29.
New Guest Instructor: Danny Waters, Jr. Apr.21
Woodville, AL: ThisIsBracketRacing.com, an instructional website aimed at helping sportsman drag racers develop and hone their racing skills, is proud to announce an all-star line-up of instructors for 2009. Site developer, and well respected sportsman competitor Luke Bogacki is ThisIsBracketRacing.com’s head instructor. Bogacki pens monthly tutorial columns centered around various topics related to the cerebral and strategic elements of bracket-style competition. Bogacki is joined, every other month, by a guest instructor, who pens a similarly constructed column for the sites growing subscriber base.
The 2009 roster of ThisIsBracketRacing.com JEGS guest instructors includes Jared Pennington, Danny Waters, Jr., Brian Folk, Jeg Coughlin, Jr., Peter Biondo, and Troy Williams, Jr. Combined, this all-star staff has accumulated a whopping 14 NHRA & IHRA World Championships. Additionally, the staff accounts for 6 titles at the prestigious Moroso 5-Day Bracket Championships, a Million Dollar Race victory, numerous divisional titles, and countless big dollar bracket wins.
An in depth biography for each instructor is available on ThisIsBracketRacing.com, but some notable highlights include:
Jared Pennington: 2-time B&M Racers Appreciation Series Footbrake Champion, 10-time track champion, and 2-time $20,000 Footbrake event winner (Huntsville, 2004 & Piedmont, 2007).
Danny Waters, Jr.: 2-time IHRA World Champion (Hot Rod ‘98 & Quick Rod ‘07), 2-time IHRA Division champion, 11-time IHRA National Event Winner.
Brian Folk: 2007 IHRA Super Rod World Champion, 5-time IHRA Division Champion, 22-time National Event Winner, 2-time Moroso 5-Day Points Champion, 1999 Gateway $50,000 winner.
Jeg Coughlin, Jr.: 5-time NHRA World Champion (4 in Pro Stock, 1 in Super Gas), 54-time NHRA National Event Winner (with victories in 5 different categories), 2003 Moroso 5-Day Points Champion, only driver in NHRA history to claim national event victories in 4 separate categories within the same season (Super Gas, Super Stock, Comp, Pro Stock; 1997).
Peter Biondo: 5-time NHRA World Champion (4 in Super Stock, 1 in Stock), 35-time NHRA National Event Winner, 13-time NHRA Division Champion, 2001 Moroso 5-Day Points Champion, 2-time $50,000 bracket winner.
Troy Williams, Jr: 2006 IHRA Quick Rod World Champion, 2-time Moroso 5-Day Points Champion, 1998 Million Dollar Race Winner, 1998 B&M Racers Appreciation Series Champion.
Luke Bogacki: 5-time Division Champion (4 IHRA, 1 NHRA), 6-time IHRA National Event Winner, 2-time DragRaceResults.com Bracket Series National Champion, 5-time DragRaceResults.com Bracket Series Division Champion, 2004 Tenn-Tuck Triple Crown Champion.
Jared Pennington’s instructional column, titled “The Perfect Plan” was the introductory JEGS Guest Instructor column on ThisIsBracketRacing.com, and has been available since February 15. Danny Waters, Jr. takes the stage next, with his column titled “Finding Your Comfort Zone” posting on the website April 15. The remaining instructors will have tutorial columns featured throughout 2009.
“I’m so excited to have six of the greatest racers on the planet involved. Their racing resume’s speak for themselves,” said Luke Bogacki. “In addition to their overwhelming accomplishments, these racers have been selected by ThisIsBracketRacing.com for their ability to share their thoughts and experiences with others, and their passion, not only for the sport, but for helping others to achieve success within it. I can’t imagine having a better group of racers and individuals to work with!”
In addition to these tutorials by some of the sports very best, ThisIsBracketRacing.com members also have access to the most comprehensive sportsman racing schedule available today. The ThisIsBracketRacing.com schedule includes every NHRA and IHRA National, Sportsman National, Divisional, and ET Finals event held in 2009. Additionally, the schedule features nearly every bracket race on the continent that boasts a winners purse of $5,000 or more.
What’s more? ThisIsBracketRacing.com also plays host to the BTE Power Rankings, an innovative ranking system in which drivers earn points for final round finishes for any event on the comprehensive schedule, regardless of class or sanction. This system stacks the top competitors from all facets of sportsman competition against one another in an effort to determine who in fact enjoyed the best season. The 2009 champion will receive a BTE Top Dragster (or Top Sportsman) transmission valued at $3590! Additional prize packages are currently being secured for each top ten finisher (to receive prizes, top finishers must be an annual member of ThisIsBracketRacing.com by 9/1/09).
In the racing world, it is often heard that race tracks can have personalities and that no two tracks are alike.
None may fit that bill more than Dallas Raceway.
The newest and most state-of-the-art drag racing facility in Texas, Dallas Raceway has been aptly dubbed the “Concrete Palace” thanks to its one-of-a-kind all-concrete layout. From the pits to the track to the parking area and everything in between, Dallas Raceway has the distinction of being the only all-concrete national event drag racing facility in the world.
And its owner didn’t hold anything back in creating one of the most talked about drag strips in the southern United States.
“Looking around at other tracks, most of them are 20 to 25 years old and back then they did it the cheapest way possible and all they had to deal with were some of these smaller rigs,” said Dallas Raceway owner Kenny Barnes. “Things have changed so much; everybody is going with big motor homes, 18-wheelers, trailers and when they go to some of these tracks it starts tearing up the asphalt. We wanted to do something a little different so we created a maintenance free race track.”
And in just a few short weeks, Dallas Raceway and its streets of concrete will make its big debut on the national stage with the running of third Nitro Jam national event of the season, the IHRA Amalie Oil Texas Nationals, May 29-31. The facility will also host a Summit Racing Equipment Pro-Am Tour presented by Mr. Gasket event Aug. 21-23.
Sitting in a prime location just a few miles outside of downtown Dallas, Barnes is planning on seeing some big crowds when the world’s fastest cars hit the track for the first time next month.
“All the tracks around Dallas are close to two hours away and you could get racers there, but you couldn’t get the fans there,” Barnes said. “People still want entertainment, but they don’t want to drive two hours to and from the track. We are 24 miles from downtown Dallas and 14 miles from the interstate putting us in a great location.”
Along with the well documented all-concrete design, Dallas Raceway also has a few other unique features including a 3,600-square foot tower complete with a control room and suites, a massive hospitality center, 13-and-a-half acres of paved concrete pit parking and even a 24 million gallon lake stocked full of bass and catfish, adding a little extra incentive for drivers to make an early arrival to the track.
The 112-acre facility also has modern, air-conditioned bathrooms, showers, and even a game room, making Dallas Raceway a perfect destination for families.
“We are trying to make a nice track for the fans and for the racers. I have been a racer, they don’t like to park in the mud and be out of the way so we are trying to do the best we can to accommodate the fans and the racers,” Barnes said.
And to do that, Barnes did his homework hoping to create the perfect track without some of the hassles of older facilities.
“We went around and did some surveys on the dos and don’ts hoping to learn from everybody else’s mistakes instead of our own,” Barnes said. “This has been a big project, but things are starting to turn around and I can’t wait to get it up and running.”
IHRA unveils brand new media site Apr.20
As the IHRA continues to grow and expand its audience, the legendary sanctioning body has unveiled a new site aimed at assisting the media in covering IHRA events in 2009 and beyond.
The site, which can be viewed at http://media.ihra.com, will be a one-stop shop for all media needs, including high-resolution photos and graphics, full statistics covering the history of the IHRA, press releases, story ideas, credential request forms and much more.
Along with a detailed look at the history of the IHRA and its classes, the IHRA media site will also provide up-to-date standings and statistics, as well as logos, high-resolution photos, credential request forms, a style guide, event calenders and complete details on all Nitro Jam series activities.
Bogacki Claims No Box Title in Bristol Apr.20
Luke Bogacki drove his familiar ThisIsBracketRacing.com backed Vega to a $5,000 payday last Sunday afternoon by claiming a No Box victory at the TCI Twins Series event at Bristol Dragway. Bogacki, a professional bracket racer from Woodville, AL defeated Indiana’s Joe Robertson in the final round of competition.
“This was one of those days where it just all fell into place,” said Bogacki. “I worked on the Vega all winter, made some changes and updates, and just got it back to the track last weekend. Today I was pretty solid on the starting line, but the car was absolutely phenomenal. It just copied timeslips all day. Had I not won the race, it definitely would’ve been on me!”
Bogacki held up his end of the bargain, posting a string of reaction times that varied just .008 (.011 to .019) from third round thru his semi-final victory over friend and established bottom bulb competitor Steve Foley. He saved his best for last, posting a superb .005 reaction opposite Robertson in the final round, enabling the victory. Bogacki’s latest triumph highlights an excellent start to his 2009 season. He kicked off the campaign with a $5,000 Footbrake victory at Mobile Dragway in January. Since, he added an IHRA Iron Man to his collection with a win in Quick Rod at the Mardi Gras Nationals in Baton Rouge, LA; and picked up a $10,000 pay day at the Tenn-Tuck Triple Crown event in Bowling Green, KY.
Folk Presents Driving School @ Byron Apr.20
Durand, IL: The Folk Race Cars team is proud to present their inaugural driving school at Byron Dragway in Byron, IL June 26-27. The class, which will be hosted by Brian and Nick Folk, along with guest instructor Luke Bogacki, will be split into four main segments: two classroom sessions, and two on-track sessions on the fabled Byron Dragway quarter mile.
While the school is open to any interested parties, the curriculum has been designed for current racers who hold a basic understanding of the principles of bracket and/or class racing, but are looking to improve their game, and take their racing to the next level. The classes instructors have assembled enormous credentials and accomplishments between them, in all forms of sportsman drag racing competition. Brian Folk is a former IHRA Super Rod World Champion, and a two-time Moroso 5-Day points champion. His brother Nick Folk has a pair of IHRA World Championships to his credit, in Top Dragster and Stock Eliminator. Bogacki has a pair of DragRaceResults.com Bracket Series World Championships on his resume, and was voted the 2008 IHRA Sportsman Driver of the Year. Additionally, the trio has assembled countless national, divisional, and big dollar bracket wins and several divisional championships.
“What you can get out of this school really depends on what you come in looking for,” explained Brian Folk. “Between the three of us, I really think we’ve got the tools to help racers with all facets of the sport--from mental preparation, to proper race strategy, to the physical execution of those strategies. We’re not looking for drivers who are new to the sport, particularly. This isn’t a school where we’re going to show you how to ride down the race track and not get hurt--this is a school where our goal is to teach you how to win.”
The Folk Race Cars driving school will consist of 8-12 students, so as to allow significant one-on-one instruction for each student from all three instructors. Folk Race Cars encourages students to train in their own personal competition vehicle, though arrangements can be made for rental cars if necessary. Tuition for students providing their own vehicle is $1,000 for the two-day course. Call for pricing on renting a vehicle for the class.
If the Byron school is not geographically convenient for you, Brian Folk and Luke Bogacki are also teaming up for a similar on-track school at Mo-Kan Dragway (Joplin, MO) May 8-9. That class is a “Live” school presented by ThisIsBracketRacing.com.
Waters "Tops" T/D field at Mooresville Apr.20
Waters Jr. "Tops" Top Dragster field at Mooresville Pro-Am
Danny Waters, Jr. and his Moser Engineering backed American Race Cars dragster have started of the 2009 racing season in championship fashion. The team's 2009 IHRA season debut took place this past weekend at Mooresville Dragway, in the middle of NASCAR country, just arround the block from several race shops and facilities. "This American Race Cars built, Moser Enginerring sponsored dragster was absolutly deadly all weekend long. I was pretty good on the tree every hit, with the exception of one round, but every win has it's lucky round" said Waters. Not only was it a great weekend for Danny Jr., but Danny Sr. as well, as he reached the semi-final round in Stock during Sundays eliminations in the family owned 1966 Chevy II. "I would have gladly given up this win to see my dad bring home the Iron Man, but we had a great time racing together this weekend and we will take what we can get" stated Waters.
The team has a large schedule in place for the remainder of the 2009 season. Danny Jr. is planning to run his ARC dragster in Top Dragster in Division 2, Quick Rod in Division one, a healthy list of National Events and several big money bracket races in the south east. Jr. will also race the Chevy II at Division 1 events as well as National Events, in search of his first Stock Eliminator win. "I'd really like to win a race in that car. The bottom has been a little tough on me, but I'm learning the car a little more every pass and have reached the semi's a couple of times last year. I have won atleast one race in every class IHRA has except Stock, Super Stock and Top Sportsman. My goal is to win atleast one in every class. It will be hard to do, but would be an awsome accomplishment."
Prior to kicking of the official IHRA season, Waters has enjoyed a most successful so-called "off season", winning a $3,000.00 and $5,000.00 race respectively, and bringing home the Kinston Dragway Winter Points Series Championship for the second time in the past 3 years.
Keith Baker Wins DPMA Opener @ Phenix City Mar.24
Baker Wins With Consistency and Quickness
A beautiful weekend in AL was capped off by great side-by-side Nitrous Pro Mod action at Phenix Motorsports Park, Sunday, March 22.
Twelve cars attempted to qualify for the eight car Dixie Pro Mod field, with Johnny Pilcher taking the number 1 spot and setting low et with an outstanding 4.07.
Impact Racing Product Recall Mar.20
IMPACT RACING PRODUCT RECALL Any and all driver suits, pants, jackets, shoes and boots manufactured by Impact Racing pursuant to SFI Specifications 3.2A/15, 3.2A/20, 3.3/15 and 3.3/20 at any time during the year 2008 have been decertified by SFI Foundation, Inc. and must be immediately returned to Impact Racing offices or an Impact representative. Impact Racing has reason to believe that these products do not fully comply with the stated SFI Specifications and therefore do not meet SFI manufacturer certification requirements. This recall applies to all such products whether or not they have been updated, rebadged, or recertified by Impact Racing. This recall applies even if the product now has a 2009 SFI patch or label affixed to the product. All applicable sanctioning bodies have been notified of this noncompliance.
NHRA Joins Facebook and Twitter Mar.18
NHRA ENTERS SOCIAL NETWORKING SPACE WITH PAGES ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER
GLENDORA, Calif. (March 18, 2009) — If you’re one of the 80,000 NHRA members, or one of the 300,000 NHRA participants, or one of the millions and millions of NHRA fans, and you want to share your passion for drag racing, the green bulb on the Christmas Tree has been lit.
Sullivan Jr. Among Edmund Hall Race Winners Mar.10
What a difference a week makes, last Sunday, Montgomery Motorsports Park was blanketed in a couple inches of snow, this Sunday the place was covered with race cars and speed hungry fans. Edmund Hall brought his unique brand of heads-up racing to town and it was obvious racers as well fans were ready. Approximately 3500 fans and about 150 race cars invaded the track in a steady stream and no one left disappointed. Baker wins Outlaw Winter Nationals Mar.02
Holt, Fl. – After taking the top qualifying position at the Emerald Coast Outlaw Winter Nationals, 2008 NHRA Promod Rookie of the Year Joe Baker bested his competition and took home a resounding event victory, the first in the 3-round ECHO (Emerald Coast Heads Up Outlaw) Series.
”This is just great,” said an elated Baker after the race. “We stayed to our game plan for this race, and it worked. We were up against cold weather and a cold track, just like everyone else. We didn’t put down any big numbers, remained consistent throughout, and it paid off.”
Baker qualified No.1 after making a stellar 4.05, 180 mph pass and backed it up with a 4.02, 182 mph lap while defeating Mike Neal during the second round of eliminations.
In the finals, Baker recorded a 4.07, 177 mph to win the event.
”I have a really good feeling about this season and we are off to a good start. We were fortunate to win the Heads Up Nationals finale held here last year and to come out and win the first promod race of the season is just incredible. Now that we have gotten the first win for 2009, I’m sure it’s just going to make us hungrier for more.”
In 2009, Baker will compete in the Get Screened America Promod Challenge for M.A.R. (Mike Ashley Racing) and select IHRA events. After a successful Valdosta test session with crew chief Chuck Ford, the team is more than ready for the season. The team posted a 5.936, 243.90 with the new Tim McAmis built 68’ Camaro.
”The new season is already here and I feel that we are ready. Chuck Ford and our crew have been working hard to get this new car going and it shows. I think it’s going to be a great year for M.A.R.”
Next up for Baker is the 40th annual NHRA ACDelco Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla., March 12-15.
Chris Duncan Race Cars 70 Camaro Mar.02
Sunset to Support Top Sportsman Mar.02
Sunset Racecraft To Support Division 4 Top Sportsman Category Thru 2011
Lubbock, TX: Sunset Racecraft is proud to announce their support of the
NHRA Division 4 Top Sportsman category for years to come, as the
renowned engine builder has signed a contract to be the title sponsor
of the Top Sportsman category thru the 2011 NHRA Division 4 campaign.
“We’re ecstatic about the opportunity to be involved in Division 4 Top
Sportsman once again,” said Sunset Racecraft’s Tracy Dennis. “The
Sunset team was instrumental in bringing Top Sportsman to the South
Central Division six years ago as the classes title sponsor at that
time. The Top Sportsman and Top Dragster categories are a perfect fit
for our marketing and promotional campaigns; as we’ve got over 25 years
of experience in building nitrous assisted motors, in addition to the
engines that we build for various other forms of NHRA competition.”
Sunset’s renewed commitment to the Division 4 Top Sportsman program is
the latest in a long line of support between the company and NHRA’s
premier Sportsman categories. After heading up the initial campaign for
the Top Sportsman class in Division 4, Sunset’s Tracy Dennis also took
the initiative in bringing Top Dragster competition to the South
Central Division a year later, as he was instrumental in developing the
category and procuring sponsorship for it’s debut in 2004. Sunset
Racecraft also sponsored the Top Sportsman category in Division 7 for
three seasons to get the class jump-started on the West coast. Mobile Dragway Arm Drop Participants Mar.01
Be sure to register for 2009 Arm Drop Live at Mobile Dragway, March 13-14. There are a few slots remaining. The following racers have registered:
Woodville, AL: A new topic has been posted on Question and Answer portion of bracket racings new online driving school, ThisIsBracketRacing.com, on Friday, February 27.
“Personally, the Question and Answer portion of ThisIsBracketRacing.com is my favorite part of the site,” says ThisIsBracketRacing.com head instructor Luke Bogacki.
“The feedback from our subscribers not only allows myself and the guest instructors to have a more hands-on, one-on-one approach with our members, but it also challenges us to think outside of our normal curriculum so to speak.
The Q&A portion is my opportunity to learn and challenge myself as much as the members of the site.”
In this weeks Q&A, ThisIsBracketRacing.com subscriber Tony N. asks:
“When picking a spot on your opponents car for the finish line, are you looking 90 degrees or are you trying to gauge the stripe taker? What tips, if any, do you have for picking a spot on your opponents car.”
LSU head football coach Les Miles named Grand Marshall for Mardi Gras Nationals
IHRA is proud to announce that Louisiana State University head football coach Les Miles will be the Grand Marshall for the inaugural Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras Nationals March 6-8 at State Capitol Raceway in Port Allen, Louisiana.
Miles, a native of Elyria, Ohio, has complied a 70-31 career head coaching record at two schools including a 42-11 record in four years at LSU and a BCS National Championship in 2008. He also has a Southeastern Conference championships coming in ’07.
Miles has won championships and coached award winning athletes, but in a few short days he will be trading in his whistle and playbook for ear plugs and a cozy spot on the starting line as Miles and his family will open the festivities Saturday, March 7 by sending the first set of professional cars down the track.
“I enjoy going out and attending events such as these,” Miles said. “I certainly enjoy the events that fit my family calendar because I enjoy taking my family wherever I go.”
And there certainly will not be a shortage of things to see and do when the IHRA rolls into town.
Along with special ticket packages aimed at easing the cost to race fans, the IHRA will also throw in its own unique Mardi Gras twist on the action including a crawfish boil, wheelie contest, dash for cash and a parade – with plenty of Mardi Gras beads, of course – all piled on top of the already jam-packed lineup of professional and sportsmen racing.
Top it all off with the thrilling Saturday “Night of Fire” and the weekend of March 6-8 looks to be one of the biggest shows in IHRA history.
“I am really looking forward to it,” Miles said.
And Miles is no stranger to the sport of drag racing.
In his younger days the adventurous coach, known by some in football circles as “The Mad Hatter,” was known to get an occasional adrenaline rush from time to time at his local drag strip.
“I can pop a clutch as good as the next,” Miles admitted. “I enjoy the speed and the mechanical strategy. Back years ago as a young man I enjoyed the occasional trip to the speedway and occasional drag race very much.”
Now Miles will get a chance to relive those earlier years when the engines fire up for the first race of the 2009 IHRA season in a little over a week. The inaugural race, the first of 10 events on the ’09 Nitro Jam tour, will feature three professional classes of racing including Top Fuel, Pro Modified and Pro Stock plus hundreds of sportsman competitors capped off by Saturday’s “Night of Fire” which will feature the ground-shaking jet semi of Bob Motz, the blazing jet bike of Kevin Martin and much more.
The Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras Nationals will also mark the first time in years that professional drag racing has visited the state of Louisiana. But while it has been some time since big league drag racing has been to the area, the diverse history and uniqueness of Louisiana and its residents will provide the perfect backdrop for the season opener.
“I think the people here are so special,” Miles noted. “They are very representative of our society and our country. It is a wonderful place full of very sincere, passionate people.”
It is for those reasons and many more that the IHRA has teamed up with Louisiana State University and coach Miles for the upcoming Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras Nationals for a weekend of fun and exciting racing.
Along with Saturday’s “Night of Fire,” Friday night will be LSU Student Night where students with a valid LSU I.D. will receive admission for just $10. The weekend will wrap up with Belle of Baton Rouge Championship Sunday on March 8.
Top it all off with a weekend long Mardi Gras celebration and the Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras National will be one event that can’t be missed.
“Mardi Gras is certainly very specific to Louisiana and this culture and there is a great spirit there,” Miles said. “There is an enjoyment of life and a celebration of life that is, in my opinion, is one of the great things about Louisiana.”
Tindle Set for Third Promod Season Feb.27
Holt, FL – Tim Tindle is ready to take the Tindle Enterprises’ Promod Ford Mustang to higher grounds in 2009 following a solid 2008 performance. The team will kick off the season this weekend at the Heads Up Winter Outlaw Nationals at Emerald Coast Dragway at Holt, FL. This weekend’s event marks the beginning of Tindle’s third full Promod season behind the wheel.
After a successful test session at South Georgia Motorsports Park during the off season, the team is more than ready.
”I’m eager to get this season started,” said Tindle. Quain (Stott) and the guys have worked really hard to get us here. But, it’s game time. The summer vacation is over and it’s time to put on our game face and go racing for real.”
"We went into day 2 at Valdosta scratching our heads but left there very optimistic after a few good passes. We tried some things and they worked.”
”So, I think we’re rolling into Emerald Coast with the same confidence that we ended the season with last year. I can’t see why we couldn’t leave there with a trophy.”
Tindle finished 9th in the 2008 JEGS Promod Challenge standings. In 2009, the team will compete in all ten NHRA Promod Series events while attending various outlaw promod events.
New DragCoverage.com forum relased! Feb.26
Be sure to check out the new DragCoverage.com message board, powered by the latest and greatest software on the marked; VBulletin. If you are having trouble registering, please email TJ Pruitt at teejay@dragcoverage.com .
Stivers receives business award Feb.26
In the face of stories of national economic hardship, Lexington, Ky.-based Stivers HVAC, Inc., owned by Pro Mod racer Rick Stivers, bucked the trend and is now celebrating their recent award from industry-leader Trane as the 2008 New Dealer of the Year award for the Kentucky/Tennessee Dealer Sales Region.
Stivers added the Trane product line in early 2008 and out-performed almost 100 other new dealers in Tennessee, Kentucky, southern Ohio, and southern Indiana combined, according to Tom Robeson, local territory manager of the Central Ky. sales region.
"It's quite an accomplishment to jump into such a prestigious group and excel so quickly. These guys worked incredibly hard and earned a position among the best of the best in our industry," Robeson said.
"Trane is ranked number one in the premium heating and air market segment, and Stivers has done a remarkable job representing us. Their customer satisfaction ratings are outstanding, and thy certainly have started our relationship the right way, despite the threatening economy."
New Staff at Gateway Raceway Feb.26
Gateway International Raceway recently filled two key openings with the hires of Tony Funderburg as the facility's director of business development and Kim Chrisman as its advertising/marketing/merchandise manager.
Funderburg, a former general manager for the Frontier League's Gateway Grizzlies baseball team, is a graduate of Ft. Zumwalt South High School, earning a communications degree from Missouri State University. He worked with the River City Rascals, another team in the Frontier League, as an interns starting in 2001 and was quickly promoted to the position of director of stadium operations. He moved to the Grizzlies in 2002 to perform the same function and was promoted to general manager following that season.
His first season at the helm saw him recognized as the league's Executive of the Year, an award he would win twice more in 2005 and 2007. The team also set two league attendance records during his tenure as well as earning a league title in 2003.
Prior to his hire at GIR, Funderburg was the chief operating officer for the Reno Bighorns, a team in the NBA Developmental League.
Chrisman has worked extensively with Gateway in the past as a contracted media buyer and consultant. The Parkway Central High School and University of Missouri graduate has more than 20 years of advertising and marketing experience and is responsible for the negotiating and purchasing of ad placement for Gateway International Raceway and its more than 200 annual events. Chrisman is also responsible for GIR's merchandise, from the design phase to its eventual sale at the track.
Do Dealz.com backs Cottrell Feb.26
In a joint venture; Cottrell Motorsports led by Len Cottrell and W2 Motorsports led by John Wilson and Bob Weickgenannt have signed a major sponsor; Do Dealz.com, to a one year agreement. The team will represent Do Dealz.com at ten races on the NHRA Lucas Oil / Full Throttle racing series.
The partnership will benefit Do Dealz.com by providing a platform to create a network of Investors and Wholesalers. The website is in it's infancy now but will be growing as the word gets out through the marketing of our race team. "The concentration of NHRA races in the Mid Atlantic is our target area for growth; this partnership will boost the Do Dealz.com's brand awareness". Do Dealz.com principal Jason Balin said. "We are always looking for opportunities to grow relationships that lead to a larger network of investors."
"It's a great opportunity for our team to build a long term relationship with a progressive company," Weickgenannt said, " John Wilson and I have been avid real estate investors for many years. We have experienced the wealth-building success that comes with real estate. Our objective is to build Do Dealz.com's business which will in turn cement the growth of our partnership."
Do Dealz.com a subsidiary of Hard Money Bankers, LLC is a leader in hard money lending (fast turn around, low documentation, short term lending) to Real Estate Investors and Wholesalers. The headquarters for Do Dealz.com and Hard Money Bankers, LLC are located in Baltimore, MD. Their goal is to expand their mortgage and real estate investor pool in the Mid-Atlantic area over the next 12 months.
Immokalee qualifies for Tournament Feb.26
The Champion Systems Sportsman Nationals winners from Immokalee are the first in a series of IHRA sportsman competitors to qualify for the season ending Tournament Of Champions. This sportsman world championship race will take place at the IHRA World Finals in Rockingham and these competitors, by virtue of their Champion Systems Sportsman Nationals win have earned a spot to race against some of the best racers in North America.
Congratulations to: Hot Rod - RL Koontz Super Rod - Todd Thompson Quick Rod - Brendon George Stock - Nick Folk Super Stock - David Hunt Top Sportsman - Wayne King Top Dragster - Steve Witherow
There are now just 34 remaining spots left in each class. For a complete breakdown of the Tournament Of Champions, go to Tournament of Champions
The next opportunity to qualify for the Tournament Of Champions will come at the IHRA Mardi Gras Nationals nitro jam national event at State Capitol Raceway March 6-8.
Summit Title Sponsor of Mardi Gras Event Feb.26
IHRA has announced that Summit Racing Equipment has signed on as the title sponsor for the Inaugural IHRA Summit Mardi Gras Nationals brought to you by Wolverine Boots and Academy Sports & Outdoors March 6-8 at State Capitol Raceway in Baton Rouge. Summit Racing Equipment already has a longstanding history with the IHRA through sponsorship of the Summit Pro-Am Tour, Summit All-Star Race and Summit Super Series and this latest partnership simply furthers Summit's commitment to the IHRA and to the drag racing community.
"Summit Racing is excited to further strengthen our commitment to IHRA sportsman racers by sponsoring the Inaugural Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras Nationals in Baton Rouge," said Summit Motor Sports Event Manager Jim Greenleaf. "This event is a great way to kick off the 2009 IHRA Nitro Jam season and an excellent opportunity to support racers and race fans in the southern United States."
The inaugural event will mark the first time in several years that professional drag racing has visited Louisiana and both the IHRA and Summit are excited to be bringing big league drag racing back to the area.
"We are thrilled that Summit Racing Equipment will be a part of our season opening race," said IHRA national sales director Tommy Dupree. "Summit has been a long time partner with IHRA and we couldn't ask for a better company to be a part of our brand new event."
The Summit Mardi Gras Nationals brought to you by Wolverine Boots and Academy Sports & Outdoors will be the first of 10 races on the 2009 Nitro Jam tour. It will feature three professional classes of racing including Top Fuel, Pro Modified and Pro Stock and hundreds of sportsman competitors capped off by the "Night of Fire" Saturday night.
Bob Gilbertson's Wife Passes Away Feb.26
Sally Gilbertson, wife of Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson, passed away Monday, Feb. 23, at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. She was 52. Sally was a loving mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.
She was born February 12, 1957, in Portland, Oregon, the daughter of Beverly Shaffer and the late Chester "Pat" Shaffer.
Mrs. Gilbertson attended nursing school in Portland and worked as a registered nurse for several years at CMC after moving to the Charlotte area in 1982. She and her husband started Truck Equipment Manufacturing Company of Charlotte in 1992.
In addition to her mother she is survived by her husband of 33 years, Bob Gilbertson; son and daughter-in-law Rob and Kristen Gilbertson of Harrisburg; daughter Sandy Ann Gilbertson a student at UNCC; and son Jake Gilbertson a student of Gaston Day School; her grandson Luke Gilbertson; brother and sister-in-law Greg and Betty Shaffer of Warren, OR; sister and brother-in-law Sandy and Dale Willocks of Charlotte; mother-in-law and father-in-law Maryann and Keith Manley of Boring, OR; numerous nieces and nephews; and several loving well dressed dogs.
The service to celebrate the life of Sally Gilbertson will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at Bethlehem Church in Gastonia; burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Belmont.
A visitation is scheduled from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009, at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home in Gastonia.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Gaston Humane Society PO Box 2334 Gastonia, NC 28053-2334
This is a 1927 Ford Style Brogie Roadster, Originally built by Brogie Race Cars, that Race Craft Chassis has for sale. The chassis company took this on Trade for a new Dragster in November of 2008 and completely dis-assembled the car, updated the chassis to SFI 10.4 Specs, added helmet bars, and roll cage gussetts.
New innovations were also added, such as: Interior Lights, Glove Box etc. Interior Master Cut Off Switch
The complete chassis and interior were powder coated and the chassis was serialized as a 2009 Racecraft for NHRA Certification.
The gender barrier is about to be broken in Pro Extreme Motorcycle (PXM) as Kimberly Morrell of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, plans to make her National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL) debut Mar. 6-7, in the Safety-Kleen Dragpalooza V at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.
Morell admits it may be a challenge to meet that deadline, but insists she and her new ride will be ready when it comes time for her to strap on the helmet.
"They are putting together the bike at the very last minute," she says. "Let me put it this way, they will be wiring it on the way to Houston."
Riding an M&W Motorsports Suzuki, Morrell is sponsored by Palm Beach International Raceway, along with Bates Leathers and Underpressure from Dania Beach, Florida. Her Timblin Chassis-built machine carries a 1570cc Suzuki engine assembled and tuned by Dan Wagner of DTM Performance.
Morrell has been working for several months on putting together a PXM effort with Wagner, a top-level engine builder who also will serve as her crew chief, but the project became a reality only recently.
Noted chassis man Walt Timblin also is building Morrell a new state-of-the-art PXM that she hopes to debut with the ADRL later this year.
Harold Martin's New M4 Car Feb.25
In an automotive industry that is searching for positive news, Martin Industries is proud to announce the new Martin M4 car. On February 22, 2009 at 2:00pm at the Martin Headquarters in New Hudson, Michigan, a private ceremony will be held to announce and unveil the new Martin M4 car. Harold Martin, CEO and President of Martin Industries and creator of the M4 states, “We are extremely proud of this announcement and credit our entire team for all of the efforts to innovate, prototype and launch this new vehicle during these tough economic times.”
The Martin organization has set a new standard for specialty vehicles and a niche market with their continuous record for high technology innovations. The Martin team is a leader in performance engineering, manufacturing and Motorsports and has developed an amazing new vehicle consistent with their “Dreams are Possible” mantra that they have brought from concept to reality in less than one year.
New Bill for North Carolina Racers Feb.24
Racers residing in North Carolina or traveling to North Carolina to race, whether they compete on bull-ring oval tracks, superspeedways, or drag strips, can breathe a little easier if House Bill 69 passes the Legislature this session. The bill, sponsored by NC State Representative Nelson Cole, working with former State Representative Karen Ray, addresses and defines the length for “vehicle combinations used in connection with motorsports competition events” that travel on North Carolina highways.
HB 69 provides that tractor and trailer combinations that do not exceed 90 feet may be legally operated on all state highways provided they are traveling “(1) to or from a motorsports competition event; (2) for trips conducted for the purpose of purchasing fuel or conducting repairs....on the competition vehicle; (3) for other activities related to motorsports purposes.”
“Thanks to the tireless efforts of former State Representative Karen Ray, who now serves as Business Affairs Director for the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), working with the State Highway Patrol, the Department of Transportation, the Division of Motor Vehicles and legislators, House Bill 69 has been filed to address the length issues and concerns that surround racing in North Carolina,” said Steve Earwood, owner of Rockingham Dragway and Chairman of the NCMA’s Board of Directors.
“The NCMA works to grow and maintain the motorsports industry in North Carolina and those efforts may include working with our Legislature from time to time. We appreciate the attention the General Assembly has given the industry in the past and look forward to working with them in the future on matters that affect the best interests of racing and related businesses in our State,” Earwood said. “Motorsports has made its mark in North Carolina and our goal is to continue to be the “hub” of the industry.”
“Thank you to Representative Cole for his initiative in filing House Bill 69 and to the entire legislature for the support they have given us.”
Schippling commits to Quick 32 Feb.24
The recent announcement of the Quick 32 Sportsman Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts has T.J. Schippling very excited. Schippling and his Lucas Oil/Dixie Chopper team are committed to the new Ontario-based series.
“I really can’t wait to start racing,” exclaimed Schippling. “I am very grateful to NAPA and everyone behind the series for making this a reality.
“The timing is perfect,” he continued. “This new series will provide us with an excellent platform to represent all the fine companies associated with our team. It’s our fifth year with Lucas Oil Canada. We have new marketing partners joining our team and I can’t think of a better value to them.”
The Lucas Oil/Dixie Chopper dragster that Schippling has driven to so much success over the past few years will remain unchanged for the upcoming season. The Schippling Motorsports team is working with Marc McCrae and DRAGSTAR to debut a new dragster later in the year.
“The car Marc is building is going to be very trick,” said Schippling. “We are going to have several cool things surrounding this new car. We have a number of companies involved, and some promotions that will be released shortly.
“This series has created an opportunity to invest more in our program and it is essential we continue to be fast and competitive. I can’t thank the PMRA and NAPA enough.”
Barklage Racing goes ADRL in 2009 Feb.24
After a daunting 2008 season, the brother team of Zach and Cody Barklage are ready to take on the 2009 race season. During 2008 the team suffered a series of on-the-track accidents leaving them to regroup over the winter. Now, sporting a rebuilt car, new supercharger, and new attitude, the team will kick off the season with upcoming testing.
“We will take my car out this weekend and test in Houston, providing the weather is good” commented Cody Barklage. “We’ve worked very hard this winter making the necessary changes we feel will make us more competitive. With our new set-up, we plan on making a full season return with the ADRL, some SuperChevy Show Nitro Coupe, and possibly some local outlaw racing. In the past, we were able to be a very strong, winning team. This year we are ready to show our fans and sponsors we're still here and better then ever!”
Remaining at the helm of the operation, Crew Chief, Chad Wilson also has high hopes for 2009.
“We’ve worked very hard all winter,” said Wilson. “Both cars needed a lot of work after last summer, so we took the time to not only rebuild but make some changes. We anticipate Zach’s car to be finished sometime very soon, and hope to make it back out as a two car team early in the season. Overall, we feel our hard work will pay off and we will be back in our usual top form. I think we will have a definite competitive edge in 2009.”
In addition to the major car changes, the team also has a new addition. During the off season, Cody Barklage married his long-time girlfriend Lacey Cowan.
“It was definitely a busy off season,” said Barklage. “Lacey and I got married in October so between building our home this winter, being newly married, and working around the clock on the race car we’ve had our hands full. Although the work was hard, I have no doubt it will all pay off in the end.”
The team has will first appear in competition with the ADRL, which will begin in only two weeks at Houston Raceway Park
Who Needs a Crew Chief? Not Neff Feb.24
Funny Car driver Mike Neff on racing to a runner up finish in Phoenix without crew chief John Medlen, who was in Indianapolis recovering from a heart procedure: “Medlen is one of the smartest guys I know, without a doubt,” said Neff. “It is his car and he set all this stuff up. I didn’t come in here and wave a magic wand. I just picked up and tried to do what he would do. I tried to continue on how he would do it.
There is no question our performance would have been the same. We didn’t do anything differently…Our number one concern is his health and him getting better. That is more important than winning a drag race. We are just hoping he gets better and back out here. We’ll save that win for another day.”
Crew Chief Software steps up in 2009 Feb.24
Crew Chief Software has agreed to support the Joe's Transmission TNT Hot Rod Super Series once again for 2009. The leading manufacturer of drag racing software will pay contingency postings of $50 for winner and $25 for runner up. "We're going to step up this year and pay whether they are using our software or not," said Don Higgins of Crew Chief Software - The makers of Crew Chief Pro 7.0. "Our goal is to liven things up in a depressed economy!"
To qualify, all a TNT racer needs to do is run a Crew Chief decal from first round - decals will be available at all events. "I've been using Crew Chief Software for over 2 years now and find it the most versatile ET / Throttle Stop prediction software money can buy," said Ted Barnes, TNT Series Director. "This drag racing game is all about data. The more data you have, the more likely you will go rounds. Crew Chief Pro 7.0 played a significant part in our winning the 2008 TNT Championship."
Don spent 2 years of intensive work and over 5,000 hours of design & development in this latest version. Crew Chief Pro 7.0 covers everything from ET and throttle stop prediction to weather analysis and graphing. It even links to the popular iCard receiver and 1320go.com. And all you need is a basic laptop computer to run it. Check it out at www.crewchiefpro.com.
Slick Mist NHRA Nationals Feb.24
CAPPS, BROWN AND COUGHLIN WIN LUCAS OIL SLICK MIST NHRA NATIONALS
CHANDLER, Ariz. -- Ron Capps raced to his second consecutive Funny Car victory of the season Sunday at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist NHRA Nationals at Firebird International Raceway.
Capps took a single pass to claim his 27th career victory after final round opponent Mike Neff’s John Force Racing Ford Mustang broke on the burnout. Capps powered his NAPA Auto Parts Dodge Charger to an impressive performance of 4.048 at 306.81 anyway to win for the second time at the Phoenix track.
"Neff was having one of those weekends going where they looked like they couldn't be beat," said Capps, the event’s top qualifier who raced beat Jeff Arend, rookie Matt Hagan and Del Worsham to advance to the final. "They had [crew chief] John Medlen in the hospital, and we're all glad to hear that he's OK. It was one of those stories that you almost hate to upset. The start we're having to the season is what NAPA signed up for. We were disappointed with what we gave NAPA last year. This is more like it. I'm living a dream right now."
With the win, Capps increased his Full Throttle Series lead to 97 over Robert Hight and Worsham.
Antron Brown and Jeg Coughlin also were winners in their categories at the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event.
Friday Leaders Remain On Top Feb.22
CAPPS, DIXON AND EDWARDS TAKE NO. 1 QUALIFYING POSITIONS AT PHOENIX
CHANDLER, Ariz. – Ron Capps raced to his first No. 1 qualifying performance in Funny Car in more than four years Saturday at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist NHRA Nationals.
Larry Dixon and Mike Edwards also will lead their categories into Sunday’s 11 a.m. eliminations at the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event.
Dixon,Capps,Edwards Lead Pro Qualifying Feb.21
DIXON, CAPPS AND EDWARDS RACE TO QUALIFYING LEAD AT LUCAS OIL SLICK MIST NHRA NATIONALS
CHANDLER, Ariz. – Larry Dixon turned his season around Friday at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist NHRA Nationals by racing to the qualifying lead in Top Fuel.
Ron Capps and Mike Edwards also were qualifying leaders in their categories at the second race of the season in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.
DragCoverage Speed Forum being updated Feb.20
The DragCoverage.com "Speed Forums" are now being upgraded to the latest and greatest forum on the market, VBulletin. This import should last for the rest of the night and the old forum will be back up and running tomorrow morning.
The new forum will be released soon!
Thanks! Team DragCoverage.com
Pro Mods Return To NHRA Feb.20
Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge to run at select NHRA events
As part of a three-year deal that extends through the 2011 season, Get Screened America will run Pro Mod Challenge exhibitions at 10 NHRA national events in 2009. The Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge presented by ProCare Rx debuts March 12-15 at the 40th annual ACDelco NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville.
Mickey Thompson Teams With Billy Glidden Feb.19
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels Announces Partnership With Bill Glidden Racing For The 2009 Season
02/19/09
Stow, OH - Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels is proud to announce their partnership with Billy Glidden Racing for 2009. Through this renewed partnership, Glidden will continue to help Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels develop new performance products, and Mickey Thompson will provide financial support to Glidden to defend his ADRL Extreme 10.5 Class Championship.
M/T ™ Still Supporting “The Million” Feb.19
02/19/09
Stow, OH - Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels is proud to announce its sponsorship of the 14th Annual Comp Cams Million Dollar Bracket Race. The race features the finest competitors found on U.S soil, all competing for the largest payout in bracket racing history.
“Mickey Thompson has been involved in this race since its inception and it is truly the premiere event in high dollar bracket racing,” stated Carl Robinson, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. “It’s a great way to show off the tire products developed in our Big Tire Development program. Many of our ‘Team M/T’ members like Luke Bogacki, Anthony Bertozzi and others will be there to carry our flag, and we’ll be there with our Race Support Team be make sure that they have everything they need to win this event.”
George Howard’s original 14th Annual Comp Cams Million is guaranteed to be an action packed, highly competitive race event starting on October 8th and running through October 14th at the acclaimed Memphis Motorsports Park in Millington, TN.
Only the state of North Carolina rivals Alabama in the number of drag strips per capita and Alabama has added another first class facility to its count. I-22 Motorsports Park in Eldridge is scheduled to open next month and boast an all concrete 1/8 mile racing surface.
Strickland & Adcock Victorious in Bradenton Feb.16
The NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series season opener is in the books and the winners have been crowned at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Top honors went to John Finke of Selkirk, N.Y., in Top Alcohol Dragster and Mickey Ferro from Stamford, Conn., won once again in Top Alcohol Funny Car.
Tewksbury, Mass. resident Arnie Martel competed in two categories, coming up just shy of making a repeat appearance in the winner’s circle. The 2008 Southeast Division Comp Eliminator champ proved his strength in the class once again by picking up the hardware, and was also runner-up in Super Stock.
Other drivers who received the prestigious Wally trophy included Joe Teuton Jr., Schriever, La., in Super Stock; Jeff Strickland of Red Bay, Ala., in Stock Eliminator; Lake Worth, Fla., resident Tim Nemmo in Super Comp; Sherman Adcock Jr., Fortson, Ga., in Super Gas; and Bart Graham from Fruitland Park, Fla., in Super Street.
Delon Pleasants, Williamstown, N.J., drove his '88 Ciera to the Davis Golf Carts Top Sportsman title and the Hickory Enclosed Trailer Sales Top Dragster trophy was awarded to 2008 divisional champ Bill Empke from West Palm Beach, Fla.
Southeast Division racers head to Gainesville Raceway for the next NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event, held February 20-22.
STOCK ELIMINATOR Jeff Strickland, Red Bay, Ala., '95 Camaro, D/SA, 10.937, 111.45 def. Ralph Porpora, Poughkeepsie, N.Y., '69 Camaro, A/S, 10.197, 130.45.
SUPER COMP Tim Nimmo, Lake Worth, Fla., dragster, 8.921, 180.50 def. Adam Roach, Lake Worth, Fla., '72 Cutlass, 8.819, 140.97.
SUPER GAS Sherman Adcock Jr, Fortson, Ga., '02 Trans Am, 9.872, 163.51 def. Brian Forrester, Lake Wales, Fla., '63 Corvette, foul.
SUPER STREET Bart Graham, Fruitland Park, Fla., '74 Vega, 10.886, 144.20 def. Bill Carmichael, Cocoa, Fla., '92 Beretta, 10.859, 135.74.
New Challenge for Kalbones Racing Feb.16
Following a tremendous first full season in IHRA Alcohol Funny Car for Kalbones Racing with Laurie Cannister as driver and Dale Cannister tuning, the entire team is looking forward to testing new waters in 2009.
While quite disappointing for the team to be unable to defend their 2008 IHRA World Championship due to the cancellation of the class by IHRA, they’re currently putting the final touches on what they feel will be a very competitive combination for NHRA TAFC competition.
“We are very excited to be able to race again,” said the 2008 IHRA Professional Driver of the Year. “Of course, we wanted to get back out and go for back-to-back IHRA Alcohol Funny Car Championships, but that wasn’t to be. Thanks to team owners Kevin and Wendy Sims, they are once again providing us with everything we need to be as competitive as possible in 2009. The only difference is it will be an NHRA schedule.”
New venues, new and old faces, plus several car changes all face the Kalbones Grill’n Sauce team in the season ahead. The latter of the three, namely the blower change, has tuner Dale Cannister excited about the new challenge.
“I’m pretty pumped to see what we can do with the screw blower. I know it will be different and I really will enjoy figuring out the new combination,” he said. “We successfully ran on many ‘new to us’ tracks under new weather situations last season and I’m not going to approach this season any differently.”
“Making the switch to NHRA has been pretty simple so far,” commented Laurie. “From my phone calls with NHRA officials to getting the equipment we need. Just about everything is in place for the new season ahead.”
First Q&A Session ThisIsBracketRacing.com Feb.16
Woodville, AL: The first Question and Answer portion of bracket racings new online driving school, ThisIsBracketRacing.com, was posted on the live site Friday, February 13.
“Personally, the Question and Answer portion of ThisIsBracketRacing.com is my favorite part of the site,” says ThisIsBracketRacing.com’s Luke Bogacki. “The feedback from our subscribers not only allows myself and the guest instructors to have a more hands-on, one-on-one approach with our members, but it also challenges us to think outside of our normal curriculum so to speak. The Q&A portion is my opportunity to learn and challenge myself as much as the members of the site.”
The first question, which is in response to head instructor Luke Bogacki’s first monthly tutorial column, comes from ThisIsBracketRacing.com subscriber Jim G. In the Q&A, Jim asks:
“My question: Judging your opponents reaction time if they are Deep Staging? I realize you’re probably going to get to that so, if need be, I'll be patient.”
Luke Bogacki’s ThisIsBracketRacing.com is a one-of-a-kind website that has been set up essentially as a subscription only online driving school for sportsman drag racing competitors. While the main site can be accessed by anyone, the meat of ThisIsBracketRacing.com is reserved for site members. Those members enjoy not only the monthly tutorial columns from sportsman racing standout Bogacki, along with the Q&A feedback, but also bi-monthly guest editorial columns from some of the premier sportsman drivers in the nation.
Two-time B&M Racers Appreciation Series Footbrake Champion Jared Pennington will post the first guest instructor column on Monday, February 16. In the coming months, Jared will be followed by former Million Dollar Race winner, IHRA World Champion, and 2-time Moroso 5-Day Champion Troy Williams, Jr. 5-time NHRA World Champion Peter Biondo will follow, as will another IHRA World Champion & 2-time Moroso 5-Day Champion Brian Folk!
In addition to these tutorials by some of the very best, ThisIsBracketRacing.com members also have access to the most comprehensive sportsman racing schedule available today. The ThisIsBracketRacing.com schedule includes every NHRA and IHRA National, Sportsman National, Divisional, and ET Finals event held in 2009. Additionally, the schedule features nearly every bracket race on the continent that boasts a winners purse of $5,000 or more.
What’s more? ThisIsBracketRacing.com also plays host to the BTE Power Rankings, an innovative ranking system in which drivers earn points for final round finishes for any event on the comprehensive schedule, regardless of class or sanction. This system stacks the top competitors from all facets of sportsman competition against one another in an effort to determine who in fact enjoyed the best season. The 2009 champion will receive a BTE Top Dragster (or Top Sportsman) transmission valued at $3590! Additional prize packages are currently being secured for each top ten finisher (to receive prizes, top finishers must be an annual member of ThisIsBracketRacing.com by 9/1/09).
ORSCA 6.0 Champ Moving Up With New Car Feb.15
Two-time Outlaw Racing Street Car Association 6.0 Index Champion and DragCoverage member Lebron Hill recently returned from Texas with a new car in tow.
Drag car goes air born, Camera man dives Feb.13
Urbanhillbilly's Sean Melton ran into a close encounter after this hot rod went airborne. Check out the video above
EC from a different perspective Feb.13
"Now this is a cool shot of action at Emerald Coast Dragway." Don Sieburg recently visited the track and emailed the following photos to DragCoverage.com.
DC "So Easy a Caveman can Surf" Feb.13
DragCoverage.com received this photo and message from one of our viewers.
"This is Duster and she loves Drag Coverage so much that she sits on the computer. We enjoy the website and I will have to send you more pictures."
Race for a Complete Roller at GABR Feb.13
The Great American Bracket Race presented by BracketNews.com, in association with American Race Cars and Luke Bogacki Race Services is proud to present a special 32-car shootout as a portion of the Great American Bracket Race at No Problem Raceway in Belle Rose, LA May 22-24. The shootout event will feature 32 entrants at $1,000 each. The winner will receive a brand new 2009 American Swing Arm Dragster, assembled as a complete roller by Luke Bogacki Race Services (details listed below). The complete roller is valued at $29,000. The runner-up of the special shootout event will receive $3,000.
This special “Hi-Rollers” shootout is an addition to what already promises to be a huge weekend of bracket racing, featuring the richest purse that the gulf coast has ever seen. Saturday’s main event pays a whopping $50,000 to the winner, with Friday and Sunday’s champions earning $5,000 and $10,000 respectively!
Calver Racing Suspension back on Feb.13
Calvert Racing Suspensions is proud to announce their 10th year of support of the Pacific Street Car Association and their racers. As in the past, we will continue our Contingency support in 2009 on Our Caltrac Traction Bars. This year we have decided to step up to the Class Title Sponsor for Bracket-1 in the PSCA and SCSN series. We believe this will be a great opportunity with added exposure for Calvert Racing, the PSCA, and especially the grassroots racer.
Over the past few seasons, Calvert Racing Products has had great success in several of the PSCA classes; both Heads-Up & Bracket. Last year Wild Street racer Al Jimenez not only won the 2008 Championship but is now considered the Fastest and Quickest Leaf Spring car in the World 7.56 187mph. Right behind Al was George Raygoza, the 2008 runner up and past two time True Street Champion. A quick fact about Raygoza, George has been to more final rounds than any racer in the history of the PSCA. What do both of these racers have in common??
Caltrac Traction Bars and Calvert Racing Split Mono Leaf Springs!!! Other PSCA notables…Artis Houston was the 2005 Wild Street Champion and we believe the first leaf spring cars in the 7’s. Caleb Hunter of SCE Gaskets recorded his first Championship in 2007 in Quick Street. 2008 PSCA Event winners using Caltracs include, Charles Jackson, Mike Saiki, Steve Cox, Chris Biggerstaff, George Raygoza & Al Jimenez…Calvert Racing would like to congratulate all of our Customers in the PSCA and we will continue to be the leader in leaf spring suspension and we’ll see you at the races!!! Contact us at 661-728-9600 or www.calvertracing.com
Calvert Racing Suspension would like to remind and or introduce the racers & fans of the PSCA our New 90-10 Drag Shocks. We are now selling a Non Adjustable Drag shock that everyone is looking for. This New Drag shock offers High and Low speed Valving, The Calvert Drag Shock will give you the lightning quick separation that our competitors say they provide and don't. This new design will also allow the vehicle's suspension to settle down at high speeds on the big end of the track.
Nick Synder Crashes at South Georgia Motorsports Park While Testing
More Technology, MoTec, was created to facilitate the implementation and distribution of new, innovative, and useful tools to the motorsports industry. With the slogan, putting More Technology in your hands, MoTec will do just that. 
The Extreme Outlaw Pro Mod club is proud to officially announce Beal Racing Engines as an associate sponsor for the 2010 season. Talking with Andy Beal owner of Beal Racing Engines, Stuart Williams learned that Beal has been building engines for over 15 years. Beal Racing Engines build all type of engines for nitrous horsepower, supercharged horsepower, and naturally aspirated horsepower combinations. Beal Racing Engines specialize in bracket racing 565 engines to doorslammer racing 738 nitrous engines. Beal Racing Engines handle all machine work in house. 
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 8) -- After a decade of existence as an exhibition class, the Pro Mod cars are now a fully sanctioned NHRA class, and team owner/driver Roger Burgess couldn't be happier. 
The
7 Second Pro Slammers Association is gaining momentum as the word of
the $5000 guaranteed payout at the first event spreads. With a
guaranteed purse to the winner and runner up; it’s no wonder why this
association has spread like a wild fire. At the request of multiple
teams, Pro Slammers will have a special test session held at Sacramento
Raceway on March 27th in preparation for the first race, “Funny Car
Fever” hosted by 619 Promotions. Since its inception, the newly formed
class has drawn a lot of interest from teams in and around California,
Arizona and even as far as Alaska. “In today’s economy if you want to
make it you’d better give something to the racers or they will park
their cars and that’s what Pro Slammers is here for. We didn’t have a
choice we had to start this association because of a need to fill the
gaps of classes falling off, others having too many rules and let’s
face it the fans want “heads up” 7.0 racing. Just look at the trend of
the TV shows and most track formats, it’s clear to see where the demand
is”, says the PDSCA.
Woodville, AL: ThisIsBracketRacing.com has announced it’s 2010 schedule of “Live” at-track sportsman drag racing schools. This season’s TIBR “Live” schedule is presented by BRODIX Cylinder Heads and will feature seven separate venues throughout the United States. Six of the schools are standard on-track driving courses for competitors in Box, No Box, and Footbrake competition; with one school reserved for Junior Dragster competitors specifically
Antron Brown Statement on Feb. 21 Accident
VP Statement on Phoenix Traction Issues; 
New Look for Hinds Motorsports in 2010
The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) announced today that titanium wheel studs are prohibited in all professional classes, effective immediately, and the rule will be checked for compliance beginning Mar. 19-20, at the season-opening Universal Technical Institute Dragpalooza VI presented by Safety-Kleen.
Have you considered purchasing Race Car Insurance? 
VIDEO: DragCoverage.com takes a ride with Timmy Smith - In-Car Video
ADRL and House of Hot Rods Present ‘Eye Candy’ to Dallas Car Show Goers
Force Continues Early-Season Resurgence in Arizona; NHRA Arizona Nationals
No Joke: Nostalgia Funny Cars Serious Business at March Meet
Bo Simpson's Nova Gets a Make-Over! 
VIDEO: Huge Nitrous Explosion; Shakes the Glass in the Tower
Derek Hawker to debut '63 Corvette for 2010 Season; Gets Rid of Nitrous adds Super Charger
NHRA announces environmental management responsibility for all participants
Waters Motorsports and Moser Engineering Announce Agreement Extension and Gear Up for 2010 Season.
Al-Anabi to Back Matt Smith; Prostock Bike Heading to Quatar?
The SoundRacer V8 Experience; Everyone Needs One.
Photo Feature: TM Race Cars 1941 Willys
Don Schumacher announced today that Sears, Roebuck and Co.'s iconic
brand DieHard will be the primary sponsor of the Dodge Funny Car driven
by Matt Hagan in the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.
Berner Completes Rendering of Summit Colors; Pontiac GXP
GM to Auction 427 Big-Block Z06 Corvette; proceeds go to Haiti
DOHA, Qatar - The following statement is provided on behalf of Sheikh Khalid Al Thani and Al Anabi Racing. Please direct any questions to Puvanesan Kay, Aequitas Law LLP (U.K. Barrister ) or Chris Rodi ,Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP, (U.S. legal counsel) at info@aequitaslaw.com.
Plymouth Cuda on Ebay at $164,992.00; Reserve Not Met
VIDEO: 1968 Camaro Wrecks Into Parked Car
Antron Brown enters his third season behind the wheel of the Matco Tools dragster in 2010. The only driver in NHRA history to win races and lead the standings in both Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle, Brown looks to improve upon his third place finish in 2009 and earn his first NHRA championship. The Matco Tools flagship driver has 24 career NHRA wins, including a category-best six Top Fuel wins in 2009. With the 2010 NHRA season just around the corner - Feb. 11-14 at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona - Brown talks about the upcoming 23-race NHRA journey.
Two months after taking home the trophy at the season-ending NHRA Finals Summit Racing teammates Greg Anderson and Jason Line returned to the racetrack, taking part in last week's test session at Bradenton Motorsports Park in Bradenton, FL. Over the course of five days, the KB Racing crew worked tirelessly, logging well over 50 runs on three cars in preparation for the 2010 Full Throttle season with Ronnie Humphrey joining Line and Anderson behind the wheel.
New 1969 Camaro Body Coming to Promodified Racing
WATERDOWN, ONTARIO (January 29, 2010) – With new major sponsorship involvement, the Top Sportsman team of Mike Wagg and Dave Bell should be a contender in this year’s Quick 32 Sportsman Series.
During their conversations Stuart Williams was able to learn why the staff now call it "The New Dunn Benson". "Brian has done over 1 million dollars in track renovations during the off-season. These guys are serious about becoming one of the premier 1/8th mile track in North Carolina" said Stuart. Some of the renovations to Dunn Benson Dragway included, the installation of a new ticket booth, and a new scale house. 
The hottest doorslammer club known as the Extreme Outlaw Pro Mods have now added Kinston Dragway to their fastly growing 2010 schedule. Stuart Williams talked to KDS track owner Bobby Smith this week, and have now secured May 1st as another date where "the New Show" will entertain doorslammer fans at Kinston Dragway. 
Dick Wells, the first editor of National DRAGSTER and a longtime member of the NHRA Board of Directors, died late Monday night from complications after heart surgery last November. He was 75.
Sunken Bugatti in Italy Auctioned for Big Bucks; $321,000
GM’s Appointed CEO Not a Car Guy
(01-25-10) DeMotte, IN - It has been a busy off season for 28 year old, NHRA Top Alcohol Funny Car standout, Mick Snyder, who will be taking on a new challenge this year, Pro Extreme Pro Modified racing in the ADRL. The second generation racer and his Dad, Larry, have been working hard to get a beautiful 63 split window Corvette ready for the first race in Texas this March.
NASCAR To Relax Rules In 2010
VIDEO: Atlanta Speed Shop Dragway; Camaro Hits the Guard Rail
Introducing the Thunder Valley Bracket Challenge, May 27-30 at Bristol Dragway
For years, Mike Sutherland always wanted to start a clothing line and with the help of good friends Bryan Markiewicz and Mike Roncarti, the dream was realized. The business began with the production of fifteen shirts that were distributed free of charge to family and friends. 
Jeff Paulk's Wreck at 
South Georgia is "a GO" for ADRL
VIDEO: Worst Nitrous Explosion. It's pretty Bad!
Lassiter Mountain Dragway in Gardendale, AL to Reopen
The Fastest 2010 Camaro on 
Scott Underwood claimed his first ORSCA Championship by Winning the Hot Head Sports 5.0 title. He drove his 632 CID 2002 Camaro to 1 win and qualified in the top 6 of each completed race.
Ricky Pennington became ORSCA's first 4 time World Champion this year. Driving Thomas Bills Chevy Nova to the 6.0 Championship he also became one of just 3 drivers to win the crown in 2 different classes. 
Kenny Ford of PTC Torque Converters won the 2009 ORSCA 7.0 Index Championship this year driving his 1967 Camaro. Despite not winning a race this season, Kenny drove his SBC-powered Chevy to 2 runner-ups and 3 fourth round finishes to claim the crown.
University of Alabama wins BCS National Championship!
(1-7-10) DOHA, Qatar – With the third round of Arabian Drag Racing League action getting underway this week at the Qatar Race Club, Barwa Racing’s Howard Moon and Von Smith will return to the outlaw eighth-mile in search of a second consecutive world championship. 
Hot Rod Power Tour Dates are Out. Heading to Alabama June 10-12!
AMSOIL will partner with Popular Hot Rodding Magazine for the 2010 Engine Masters Challenge. The Engine Masters Challenge selects the most prestigious engine builders from around the globe to participate in building the most powerful engine. As title sponsor, AMSOIL lubricants will contribute greatly to the success of each engine, especially during the pre-event testing and tuning where engine wear occurs most. The competition consists of a series of dyno test pulls in which average torque and horsepower performance rankings are configured to determine a winner in this challenge. Contingency payouts will be awarded to 1st-6th place finishers, and AMSOIL products will also be awarded plus $5,000 in cash and products from AMSOIL to the grand champion. Slated for October 4-8 at the University of Northwestern Ohio in Lima, OH, entries are still being accepted until February 15. The competitors, who are chosen by the staff of Popular Hot Rodding magazine, begin their engine-building program in mid-February and continue a course of component selection, building, and iterative testing up until the fall contest in October
Don “the Snake” Prudhomme, one of the most accomplished drivers and revered team owners in the history of motorsports, announced his retirement today, ending a career spanning five decades in drag racing. Prudhomme’s 47-year career featured him behind the wheel for 32 seasons before he retired from driving at the end of his 1994 Final Strike campaign. He then transitioned to the role of team owner. Overall, Prudhomme has an impressive combination of six NHRA world championships and 112 national event victories. “I feel very fortunate to have been able to make a living in drag racing and to have enjoyed some success along the way,” said Prudhomme. “I would like to thank all of the great sponsors we’ve worked with over the years, everyone at NHRA, the many track owners, operators, and promoters, our past employees and team members, and all of the drag racing fans that have supported Snake Racing.”
Tindle Uses Jr.Dragster to “Fight for Misty”
One of the Best Wheelstands Ever!
John Fore III's Favorite 2009 Shots
Roy Hill and George Howard have been busy during the off-season getting together a new Heads Up Series in 2010. According to Howard, the series will consist of classes similar to Promod, Outlaw 10.5, and Index Heads Up Racing. 
Car Craft Offers Engine Swap Drags for Pre 92 Hot Rods
Due to the extreme weather conditions this weekend Montgomery Motorsports Park, Montgomery, AL felt it necessary to the Postpone this event and re-schedule it January 15-17.
Byron Dragway racer Alex Hossler didn’t recognize the number on the caller ID when his cell phone rang Dec. 18.
The sheik wanted Hossler and his car to compete in the five-race Arabian Drag Racing League, which kicks off Saturday.
Photos from the 2009 PRI Show in Orlando, FL
Advanced Door Car Technology Releases Pics of Vial's Pro Extreme Firebird
IHRA is pleased to announce that Top Sportsman and Top Dragster will be
featured during the professional elimination rounds at all Nitro Jam
events in 2010.
Pro Stock Bike rider Angie Smith won't have to wait until Christmas Day to open one of her finest presents.
Vote for DragCoverage.com in the "DOT Com" Awards!
A Look Back:Original Chrysler Pro Stockers
Everyone knows Melanie Troxel has a multi-time NHRA National Event winner or as the engaging wife of fellow driver Tommy Johnson Jr. Not many people realize that she is also a successful business woman and has some mechanical skills of her own. Melanie, who started racing when she was 16 years old first competed in a car that was powered by an engine she rebuilt as a high school project. The daughter of 1988 NHRA Top Alcohol Champion Mike Troxel also owns her own tool manufacturing business, MTI Inc.
12-24-2009 Huntington, NY – Drag racing fans, seven days left for your chance to name a racing series. The Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association in conjunction with Royce Miller, MIR track owner and other track owners, have created a contest that has prizes that include a hospitality suite for you and your friends at one of the 2010 NEOPMA races at MIR in Mechanicsville, MD, a club Jacket, T-Shirts, and be a guest of the NEOPMA for the day.
IHRA Drivers Making a Difference
Washington, Mo. (Dec. 7, 2009) – Andy McCoy Race Cars (AMRC),
specializing in the fabrication of high-performance Pro Mod and Top
Sportsman drag racing components from chassis to competition-ready
vehicles, has added to its lineup with a complete composite shop and
the first order of business for the new division is to make AMRC’s
proprietary 1970 Plymouth Duster body available.
NORWALK, Ohio – The International Hot Rod Association is pleased to announce that Moser Engineering has agreed to a two-year extension and will continue to provide one of IHRA’s wealthiest sportsman racing programs through 2011, the highly popular Moser Engineering Axle Mania Sportsman Showdown.
Lubbock, TX: Sunset Racecraft has agreed to terms as a major NHRA contingency sponsor in 2010, posting $64,150 in awards to finalists at NHRA Full Throttle National events, Lucas Oil Divisional Events, and JEGS SportsNationals. Sunset Racecraft is the only competition engine builder currently posting awards for race engines. Sunset Racecraft customers in Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman will compete for extra cash courtesy of the Lubbock, TX based engine building magnate.
A ‘THUNDEROUS’ RIDE: Funny Car driver “Fast Jack” Beckman on his experience of flying with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds: “It was like riding a roller coaster on steroids with your eyes closed. Your view forward is completely obscured by the dash, some of the flight instrumentation and the pilot sitting in front of you. You can see very well out to the sides and up, but you can’t tell which way he’s going next. And that plane is absolutely amazing. Imagine everything a jet fighter can do and multiply that by three. The F-16 can do more than a human body could ever withstand.”
HAMILTON, ONTARIO (November 23, 2009) – It has been two years in the making, but Drag Racing - The World’s Fastest Sport is now available for fans of this popular form of auto racing.
In an exciting day of Pro Mod action at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway,
Brad Personett blasted his turbo-powered '68 Camaro to the number one qualifying
position Saturday in the Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge presented by
ProCare Rx at the NHRA Las Vegas Nationals and Mike Castellana won the Matco
Tools Pro Mod Clash and took home the $25,000 grand prize by beating his
teammate Burton Auxier in the finals.
Steve Rawls, Panhandle, FL, is ready to hit the track again following his nearly horrific accident at Emerald Coast Dragway in his Blown 55' Cheverolet. The 4.70 driver will be debuting a Vanishing Point built 1966 Ford Fastback Mustang.
Millbury, OH: American Race Cars would like to take this opportunity to congratulate several customers on their phenomenal outings in 2009. As the NHRA and IHRA seasons wrap up, a number of American customers have claimed divisional titles. Jeff Serra drove his American Race Cars machine to the NHRA Top Dragster Championship in Division 1. Sherman Adcock, Jr. and Steve Furr swept the NHRA Division 2 titles, with Adcock winning Super Comp in his American machine (as well as Super Gas in his Firebird), and Furr driving his American Dragster to the championship in Top Dragster. American Race Cars team member Ray Connolly did not win the Division 3 crown in his American Race Cars Super Comp machine, but did claim the division title in Super Gas (where he currently leads the world championship standings). Pat Martin and Dave Elrod added IHRA division crowns in the Quick Rod category, driving their American Race Cars to the title in division 3 and 5 respectively.
A:
DEMOTTE, INDIANA (October 29, 2009) – While competing in a semi-final round of the ADRL Speedtech Battle of the Belts Final at the Texas Motorplex over the weekend, Pro Extreme star Jason Hamstra lost control of his 1968 Camaro near the eighth-mile finish and crashed heavily into the retaining wall.
"Winning the championship last year was awesome and humbling, but to do it again is something very few people will ever duplicate. It really is incredible.
Approaching the one-year anniversary of the 2008 Shakedown at E-Town, where Jim Halsey of Street, Maryland, permanently etched his name in the drag racing history books with the first five-second run, a 5.998-second, 240.68mph blast, Drag Illustrated announces the 5.80 Club – rewarding the first eight drivers to accomplish this remarkable feat with a specially embroidered jacket and plaque inscribed with the driver’s name and his qualifying slot in the club, 1 through 8.
Davey Boyd makes most of investment, wins No Box championship
One of the longest ongoing relationships in all of motorsports, Summit Racing Equipment announced Saturday that it has re-signed with the International Hot Rod Association in a multi-year deal that will carry the two organizations into 2010 and beyond.
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. (Oct. 22, 2009) — Revell, Inc. and the NHRA
announced today that Revell will be introducing nostalgic drag racing
model kits in the very near future bearing the NHRA logo.
For a racer who was still getting his feet wet with a new dragster in 2009, Michael Kalin became a quick study.
Woodville, AL: Luke Bogacki and Troy Williams, Jr. are proud to
announce a Live bracket racing school at South Georgia Motorsports Park
on Monday and Tuesday November 2-3, the two days leading up to the
annual SGMP 5-Day Bracket Championships. The school, which will consist
of 8-12 students will kick off with a classroom activity Monday morning
in the SGMP suites. There, Bogacki and Williams will embark on several
hours of race strategy and technical discussion, as well as question
and answer sessions with the student base. Tuesday, the group will
enjoy a full day of on-track testing, instruction, and side-by-side
racing as they implement the theories brought forth by the talented duo
of instructors.
Jon Siegel drove his popular FTI Converters backed Malibu Wagon, recently dubbed “The Wheelie Wagon” to a semi-final finish in this year’s edition of the Million Dollar Race last weekend at Memphis Motorsports Park. Siegel’s impressive run to the ninth round of competition in sportsman racings biggest event was highlighted by a string of outrageously consistent ET’s from his four-dour machine. 
In 2005, the inaugural year for the National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL), series president and CEO Kenny Nowling knew he would have a tough time convincing racers based mostly in the Southeast and with no mathematical chance at a championship to make the long tow west to Kennedale, Texas, for the fledgling outfit’s season ender. So, he came up with the Speedtech Battle for the Belts, a unique playoff concept set this year for Oct. 23, opening day of the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas, just south of Dallas.
Memphis, TN: Luke Bogacki drove his brand new ThisIsBracketRacing.com sponsored 2010 American Race Cars dragster to the Super Comp victory at last weekend’s NHRA Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, TN. The machine, which hit the race track for the first time just three weeks prior, has already proven to be one of Bogacki’s favorites.
Although his weekend at the NHRA Virginia Nationals ended earlier than he would have liked, Get Screened America Pro Mod Challenge driver Mike Knowles is leaving Virginia Motorsports park with an unprecedented honor: his team was selected by NHRA as the best appearing crew, and was awarded a coveted Wally trophy. Knowles is the first and only Pro Mod racer or team to have won a Wally at a Pro Mod event.
Antron Brown moves forward at a very rapid pace in his 7,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster, and the 23-time NHRA winner will be moving forward with a new look as he competes for the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle world championship at the Memphis NHRA race. Brown and the Mike Ashley Racing Matco Tools team will fly the colors of Toyota at the 22nd annual O’Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil, Oct. 2-4, at Memphis Motorsports Park. 
Family racing is a keystone of our sport, but few families have achieved the level of success enjoyed by the Folk family, of Durand, Illinois.
encountered one of the worst slumps in recent memory and had a horrible regular season performance. They barely squeaked into the Countdown to 1 playoffs in dramatic fashion at the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis.
With solid outings by the Race for Achievement Chevrolet on back-to-back weekends at Charlotte and Dallas, it's easy to conclude that Tom Hammonds made the most of his two-event return to the NHRA Full Throttle tour, and now the veteran Pro Stock competitor will step away and turn his focus to 2010.
Super Start Batteries NHRA Fall Nationals presented by Castrol Syntec.
CAYUGA, ONTARIO (September 20, 2009) - The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) and Quick 32 Sportsman Series teams made some new friends at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario on the weekend.
Hillary Will, the 29-year-old who broke onto the Top Fuel scene just a few short years ago but was sidelined because of economic conditions will be back behind the wheel of a dragster for three races this year, piloting Tom Conway's world championship car with the backing of Get Screened America and in support of Operation Holiday Hope. 
O’FALLON, MO (Sep. 23, 2009) — After careful consideration, the National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL) will not be imposing any new minimum weight rules in the foreseeable future. Additionally, traction control will remain an option for those teams that wish to use it in every professional category with the exception of Extreme Pro Stock, which retains the rules that mandate a minimum weight (2,425 lbs w/driver) and specify the use of traction control is not allowed. 
He will be missed. 
On the eve of Bob Tasca III's first race as a championship contender in NHRA’s Countdown to 1, Motorcraft and Ford’s growing national network of Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centers announced they have extended their sponsorship of Tasca and Tasca Racing’s Shelby Mustang nitro Funny Car.
The Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Bracket Series Returned to Gulfport Dragway for the sixth event on the 2009 campaign as the battle for the "KOC" Points Championships were set to add another piece to the puzzle. 
IHRA in southern Florida. Palm Beach International Raceway will also be a perfect fit for the exciting new look to the Nitro Jam series in 2010.
The brand-new team consisting of veteran Top Alcohol Funny Car tuner and Pro Modified crew chief Howard Moon, along with the aforementioned wheelman Von Smith, suffered two major setbacks over the course of the Middle Eastern racing season. Both incidents came in the form of high-speed top end accidents, unfortunately destroying two racecars, but hardly enough to slow the progress of the consummate professionals who maintained their composure and pressed forward.
wife, Charlotte. "The guy is arguably the best drag racer of all time, and it's been an honor to have him as part of our team. He will be greatly missed.
“The teams in this series are some of the best around, there were never any easy rounds,” added Wicke. “To win the first championship with a new car is great and it shows how good of a team we have. Zim (Crew Chief Kevin Zimmer) and I have been at this for a lot of years and with Danno and Denny (Dan & Dennis Culliton) on board it makes my job pretty easy. There is not a chance we would have won this thing without them.” 
During first round qualifying, Randy knew winning wasn’t going to be an easy task as the PSCA Pro Street racers have all stepped up their programs as the 2009 season progresses… Walker lined up next to Tim Henry and the shootout was officially on!! This was no ordinary qualifying round; it was a battle of the two top PSCA nitrous cars. Walker left first and led for about 1310 feet only to have Henry nip him at the end and take the provisional poll. A 6.373 for Henry and 6.390 for Walker with a margin of victory of .0008 and this was only the start. In round two Henry did not improve but Charles Carpenter & Duane Walker took the data from round one and improved to a 6.357 and took over the number 1 spot. In the third and final session, Henry came out first and blasted a 6.354 to retake the number one position, but Walker loomed toward the back of the lanes ready to see what the Fontana race track could handle. The outside temps hovered around the century mark most of the day so what these guys were doing was simply amazing. When the El Camino left the starting line you just knew the pass was going to be special, 1.010 sixty foot time, 4.085 to the eighth, and a 6.269/222.22 run to earn the top qualifying position and re-cord the quickest nitrous Pro Street pass in PSCA history!! Now if he could back it up during the first round of eliminations, a new PSCA ET record!! 
Bob Vandergriff Jr. will be back in the driver’s seat of his Top Fuel dragster for this weekend's NHRA O'Reilly Super Start Falls Nationals at Texas Motorplex, thanks to backing from Corpus Christi, Texas-based C&J Energy Services.
NHRA officials announced today that Lucas Oil Products, the industry leader in lubricants and fuel treatments and a longtime friend of the sport of NHRA Drag Racing, has signed a multi-year agreement that renews its title sponsorship of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, through the year 2012. Significantly, at that time it will represent an 11-year partnership dating back to the 2002 season.
Bruce Boland of Stoney Creek, Ontario, defeated Mark Nielsen of Brantford, Ontario, in the final round to win his fourth PMRA Pro Modified event of the season and captured his third consecutive Pro Modified Racing Association Point Award Series Championship on Sunday.
Bruce Boland won the Championship Point Award Series standings with 1595, while Mark Nielsen finished second with 1482 and the PMRA Top Five also included Jeff Roth in third with 1438, Eric Latino fourth with 1410 and Jason Kalso in fifth with 1409.
Bruce Boland of Stoney Creek, Ontario ran a 6.227-second pass good for second position in his 1976 Chevy II and secured his third consecutive PMRA Championship going into the final eliminations on Sunday.
ROCKINGHAM, NC (September 17, 2009)— Mike Castellana (left) scored his
third Pro Nitrous win in three finals rounds on the 2009 National Guard
ADRL Tour Sep. 12, in the ADRL’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham
Dragway. The victory tied him for third on the Pro Nitrous all-time
winningest driver’s list and marked the second time in his ADRL career
Castellana has won from the number-one qualifying position.
The battles for championship points in the Get Screened America Pro Mod
Challenge presented by ProCare Rx intensifies this weekend as the
series makes its eighth of ten stops, this time at the NHRA Carolinas
Nationals in metro Charlotte, N.C. The fight for first is as fierce as
the battle to make the top eight heading into the final race at Las
Vegas where the Matco Tools Pro Mod Clash will be contested.
NHRA Funny Car driver Bob Tasca III has always said that he’s just an
all-American kid driving an all-American hot rod. At this weekend’s
NHRA event, the NHRA Carolinas Nationals in Charlotte, his
Motorcraft/Quick Lane Shelby Mustang will certainly reflect that
statement.
Holly Springs Motorsports will have a $20,000 to win tune up race for the million. It will take place on tuesday Oct 6th. Gates will open at 10 a.m. and time trials at 3 p.m. Run for the money will begin at 4:30p.m., time permitting, with first round eliminations at 6:00.
Hammonds to return in Charlotte, will also run Dallas
Doug Herbert, NHRA Top Fuel driver, lost his two sons to an automobile accident in 2008 when his teenage son was speeding with his brother in the car. Todd Follmer’s teenage son was 16 when he was speeding with his girlfriend following behind. She lost control of the vehicle she was driving and lost her life after hitting a tree. Follmer is the CEO of tiwi.
B.R.A.K.E.S. and tiwi have the same goal. B.R.A.K.E.S. provides hands on training to teach teens how to prevent an accident. The tiwi teen mentoring system keeps teens safe by using technology to help them learn good habits in their first years on the road.”
Goodyear recently completed tests at two facilities with 16 cars and drivers and the tests were very successful. The company, recognized as the industry leader in drag racing tire development, tested size and construction combinations aimed at the DOT drag racing market.
The Huntsville Engine "King of the Coast" Bracket Series returns to action with Event 6 of 7 slated for Sept. 19 & 20 at Gulfport Dragway in Gulfport, MS. As the 2009 season comes to an end, the points championships for the coveted KOC Crown heads into Event 6 with all categories still up for grabs. KOC Racers Joe Boone, Mike Barnett, Timmy Fiearamusca, Brandan Allen, and Landon Neely lead their respected classes but not without tons of hungry KOC racers on their heels trying to wrestle away the points championship crown. "The Pro Electronics Class is still wide open for anyone to take, but Joe 
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IHRA is proud to announce that Louisiana State University head football coach Les Miles will be the Grand Marshall for the inaugural Summit Racing Equipment Mardi Gras Nationals March 6-8 at State Capitol Raceway in Port Allen, Louisiana.
Holt, FL – Tim Tindle is ready to take the Tindle Enterprises’ Promod Ford Mustang to higher grounds in 2009 following a solid 2008 performance. The team will kick off the season this weekend at the Heads Up Winter Outlaw Nationals at Emerald Coast Dragway at Holt, FL. This weekend’s event marks the beginning of Tindle’s third full Promod season behind the wheel. 
Gateway International Raceway recently filled two key openings with the hires of Tony Funderburg as the facility's director of business development and Kim Chrisman as its advertising/marketing/merchandise manager. 
In a joint venture; Cottrell Motorsports led by Len Cottrell and W2 Motorsports led by John Wilson and Bob Weickgenannt have signed a major sponsor; Do Dealz.com, to a one year agreement. The team will represent Do Dealz.com at ten races on the NHRA Lucas Oil / Full Throttle racing series. 
IHRA has announced that Summit Racing Equipment has signed on as the title sponsor for the Inaugural IHRA Summit Mardi Gras Nationals brought to you by Wolverine Boots and Academy Sports & Outdoors March 6-8 at State Capitol Raceway in Baton Rouge. 
Sally Gilbertson, wife of Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson, passed away Monday, Feb. 23, at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. She was 52. Sally was a loving mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. 
The gender barrier is about to be broken in Pro Extreme Motorcycle (PXM) as Kimberly Morrell of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, plans to make her National Guard American Drag Racing League (ADRL) debut Mar. 6-7, in the Safety-Kleen Dragpalooza V at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas. 
The recent announcement of the Quick 32 Sportsman Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts has T.J. Schippling very excited. Schippling and his Lucas Oil/Dixie Chopper team are committed to the new Ontario-based series.
After a daunting 2008 season, the brother team of Zach and Cody Barklage are ready to take on the 2009 race season. During 2008 the team suffered a series of on-the-track accidents leaving them to regroup over the winter. Now, sporting a rebuilt car, new supercharger, and new attitude, the team will kick off the season with upcoming testing.
In addition to the major car changes, the team also has a new addition. During the off season, Cody Barklage married his long-time girlfriend Lacey Cowan. 
Funny Car driver Mike Neff on racing to a runner up finish in Phoenix without crew chief John Medlen, who was in Indianapolis recovering from a heart procedure: “Medlen is one of the smartest guys I know, without a doubt,” said Neff. “It is his car and he set all this stuff up. I didn’t come in here and wave a magic wand. I just picked up and tried to do what he would do. I tried to continue on how he would do it. 
Following a tremendous first full season in IHRA Alcohol Funny Car for Kalbones Racing with Laurie Cannister as driver and Dale Cannister tuning, the entire team is looking forward to testing new waters in 2009. 
Calvert Racing Suspensions is proud to announce their 10th year of support of the Pacific Street Car Association and their racers. As in the past, we will continue our Contingency support in 2009 on Our Caltrac Traction Bars. This year we have decided to step up to the Class Title Sponsor for Bracket-1 in the PSCA and SCSN series. We believe this will be a great opportunity with added exposure for Calvert Racing, the PSCA, and especially the grassroots racer.