Hubert "the Georgia Shaker" Platt accepts his Lifetime Achievement Award "Wally" from MC Dave McClelland at the recent National Hot Rod Reunion. Fred Simmons photo.
posted by David @ 1:41 AM
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Hubert "the Georgia Shaker" Platt accepts his Lifetime Achievement Award "Wally" from MC Dave McClelland at the recent National Hot Rod Reunion. Fred Simmons photo.
Hubert Platt-2005 Honoree-NHRA National Hot Rod Renunion
by Ed Miles
From the early days as a struggling drag racer, through the factory years and into the present days, one thing is constant about Hubert Platt---his magnetic and genuinely engaging personality. He is a person who makes everyone he meets feel very important, and always has time to help others. He has always been an upfront kind of guy. If he liked you you knew it because he would do anything for you. If he didn't like something about you----you also knew that because he would tell you, not behind your back, but face to face, and even in those rare moments, those people also admired him for being so upfront and honest with them.
Another consistent trait Hubert has always displayed is the appearance , both of himself and his cars. We all know the sterotypical image of the drag racer with grease under his fingernails, dirty jeans and tee shirt and unkept hair. Contrast that with Hubert's appearance; clean and well groomed with starched shirts, shiney boots and pressed jeans, even with a "crease".
I think these traits along with Huberts "gift of gab" were the very elements that attracted Ford Motor Company to choose him to be their spokesman to tour the country talking with the public and showcasing their products.
Hubert made the trip from the early days of curving, winding roads of the carolinas and Georgia, to the straight line of the drag strips, and straight into the boardrooms in the heart of the automotive industry in Detroit and Dearborn, and was a perfect fit at every stop along the way.
But far from being "all show and no go", Hubert's on track preformances were ledgendary as all his career shows. This is best illustrated by the following story.
Around 1960, a young kid around twelve years of age was fascinated by Hubert and his racing at a rural drap strip in the deep south one hot Saturday night. His attention was drawn to Hubert not only by his on track preformance but by Hubert's massive gold ring cast in the initials......HP------so he looked up at Hubert and asked, " Does the HP mean horse power or Hubert Platt ? Hubert looked down and placed his hand on the kid's shoulder and replied, "Well son, .....I think it means both !
NHRR Photos
More NHRR Photos
Even More NHRR Photos
From the early days as a struggling drag racer, through the factory years and into the present days, one thing is constant about Hubert Platt---his magnetic and genuinely engaging personality. He is a person who makes everyone he meets feel very important, and always has time to help others. He has always been an upfront kind of guy. If he liked you you knew it because he would do anything for you. If he didn't like something about you----you also knew that because he would tell you, not behind your back, but face to face, and even in those rare moments, those people also admired him for being so upfront and honest with them.
Another consistent trait Hubert has always displayed is the appearance , both of himself and his cars. We all know the sterotypical image of the drag racer with grease under his fingernails, dirty jeans and tee shirt and unkept hair. Contrast that with Hubert's appearance; clean and well groomed with starched shirts, shiney boots and pressed jeans, even with a "crease".
I think these traits along with Huberts "gift of gab" were the very elements that attracted Ford Motor Company to choose him to be their spokesman to tour the country talking with the public and showcasing their products.
Hubert made the trip from the early days of curving, winding roads of the carolinas and Georgia, to the straight line of the drag strips, and straight into the boardrooms in the heart of the automotive industry in Detroit and Dearborn, and was a perfect fit at every stop along the way.
But far from being "all show and no go", Hubert's on track preformances were ledgendary as all his career shows. This is best illustrated by the following story.
Around 1960, a young kid around twelve years of age was fascinated by Hubert and his racing at a rural drap strip in the deep south one hot Saturday night. His attention was drawn to Hubert not only by his on track preformance but by Hubert's massive gold ring cast in the initials......HP------so he looked up at Hubert and asked, " Does the HP mean horse power or Hubert Platt ? Hubert looked down and placed his hand on the kid's shoulder and replied, "Well son, .....I think it means both !
NHRR Photos
More NHRR Photos
Even More NHRR Photos
posted by David @ 1:22 AM
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
More Fred Simmons and Marvin T. Smith Photos from the NHRR Added
I'm still adding (slowly) photos taken by Fred Simmons, Marvin T. Smith and myself to the GeorgiaDragRacing.com Webshots albums. Those first two guys take some nice photos!
NHRR Album 1
NHRR Album 2
NHRR Album 1
NHRR Album 2
posted by David @ 2:38 AM
Richard Knowles Succumbs to Injuries
It is with great sadness that I have to inform our SEMDRA family and the motorcycle drag racing community that we have lost one of our own.
Richard Knowles passed away yesterday, June 27, of head injuries suffered June 18 when his helmet came off in a finish line crash.
Please keep Richard's family in your prayers.
I will let you know when I know more about the funeral arrangements.
His son, Chris, also let me know that his organs have been donated. God bless him!
See www.semdra.org for more information on donations.
I also wanted to add how much Richard will be missed by all his friends and customers. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He helped many people get into the sport he loved.
As a side note, Richard had been helping Hector Arana the past few races and was very proud to tell me all about it in Albany at the May race. Well, Hector qualified for the 1st time in 5 years last weekend in St Louis...Richard I'm sure was very proud.
One last comment, Richard took the win light on his last pass down the track...so let's all remember him for the winner in life that he was!
Jackie Bryce
Courtesy Jerry Battle
Richard Knowles passed away yesterday, June 27, of head injuries suffered June 18 when his helmet came off in a finish line crash.
Please keep Richard's family in your prayers.
I will let you know when I know more about the funeral arrangements.
His son, Chris, also let me know that his organs have been donated. God bless him!
See www.semdra.org for more information on donations.
I also wanted to add how much Richard will be missed by all his friends and customers. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He helped many people get into the sport he loved.
As a side note, Richard had been helping Hector Arana the past few races and was very proud to tell me all about it in Albany at the May race. Well, Hector qualified for the 1st time in 5 years last weekend in St Louis...Richard I'm sure was very proud.
One last comment, Richard took the win light on his last pass down the track...so let's all remember him for the winner in life that he was!
Jackie Bryce
Courtesy Jerry Battle
posted by David @ 2:01 AM
Monday, June 27, 2005
Kurt Johnson Sweeps His Way to the Win in St. Louis
Contact:Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Team Scores Historic First Win for New Cobalt at Sears Craftsman Nationals
Sugar Hill, Ga., June 26, 2005 - Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Cobalt Racing team recorded their first win of the 2005 POWERade Drag Racing season in impressive fashion, sweeping their way to the winner's circle at today’s Sears Craftsman Nationals. Starting from the No. 1 position, Johnson posted the quickest elapsed time in each of the four elimination rounds, culminating with a 6.729-second, 205.19 mph blast in the final round over a red-lighting Greg Anderson. This was the 29th NHRA national event win of Johnson's illustrious career, second at Gateway International Raceway, and first for the new Chevrolet Cobalt.
"We had a strong car all weekend, and our ACDelco Cobalt made a great run in the final," said Johnson. "Even though the outcome had already been determined by Greg's red light, it was gratifying to be able to run as well as we did under the conditions. I didn't know he had red lit until I put it in third gear and I looked up and saw the win light on my side. They're a tough team, and we knew we needed to run well in order to beat them.
"We had made some changes before the final, and obviously they were the right ones. I wasn't expecting to go as quick as that 6.72, but we'll certainly take it. It's been a while since we've won, and it certainly feels great any time you make it to the winner's circle, but I would still have to classify this as one of our better wins, especially since we got the first one for the Cobalt."
After taking the pole with a 6.750-second, 204.14 mph run, Johnson quickly established himself as the car to beat on race day, overcoming the high heat and humidity to post a 6.748-second, 204.76 mph pass in his first-round defeat of Kenny Koretsky. In the next round, he elevated his performance even further, covering the quarter-mile in 6.738 seconds to edge Allen Johnson. In the semifinals, Johnson was the beneficiary of a red-light start by Jason Line, and posted a 6.754-second elapsed time to gain lane choice for the final.
The last obstacle between Johnson and a potentially historic win was defending Pro Stock champion Greg Anderson, who entered the contest with a perfect championship-round record against the second-generation racer. However, the race was over before it even began, as Anderson left the starting line almost four hundredths of a second early, handing the automatic win to Johnson, who punctuated his winning performance with the quickest and fastest pass of the weekend, completing the sweep (i.e., Kurt was the No. 1 qualifier, won the race, and set low elapsed time and top speed of the event).
"I'm sure some people will say this win was expected since we had the dominant car all weekend, but you still have to make everything add up," stated Johnson. "For example, we've had a car capable of winning the race on several occasions this year, but for one reason or another, just didn't get the job done. Today, it all fell in place. We had a fast race car, a little bit of luck went our way, and I drove well enough to get the trophy.
"This ACDelco Cobalt is really coming around. We made some changes in testing Tuesday, and I think they really paid off. However, all that mattered was that we turned on the win light four times today.
"We are fortunate to have the support of some great sponsors like ACDelco and Chevrolet, who allows us to do what we need to win, which is work hard, spending long hours on the dyno and at the shop, making sure we put the absolute best car we can on the racetrack. This win is for them, as well as my crew and everyone back at the shop in Sugar Hill, who has put in the long hours to help make this happen. It may only be one win, but we’re going to enjoy this for just a little while before getting back to working on the getting the next one."
TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Team Scores Historic First Win for New Cobalt at Sears Craftsman Nationals
Sugar Hill, Ga., June 26, 2005 - Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Cobalt Racing team recorded their first win of the 2005 POWERade Drag Racing season in impressive fashion, sweeping their way to the winner's circle at today’s Sears Craftsman Nationals. Starting from the No. 1 position, Johnson posted the quickest elapsed time in each of the four elimination rounds, culminating with a 6.729-second, 205.19 mph blast in the final round over a red-lighting Greg Anderson. This was the 29th NHRA national event win of Johnson's illustrious career, second at Gateway International Raceway, and first for the new Chevrolet Cobalt.
"We had a strong car all weekend, and our ACDelco Cobalt made a great run in the final," said Johnson. "Even though the outcome had already been determined by Greg's red light, it was gratifying to be able to run as well as we did under the conditions. I didn't know he had red lit until I put it in third gear and I looked up and saw the win light on my side. They're a tough team, and we knew we needed to run well in order to beat them.
"We had made some changes before the final, and obviously they were the right ones. I wasn't expecting to go as quick as that 6.72, but we'll certainly take it. It's been a while since we've won, and it certainly feels great any time you make it to the winner's circle, but I would still have to classify this as one of our better wins, especially since we got the first one for the Cobalt."
After taking the pole with a 6.750-second, 204.14 mph run, Johnson quickly established himself as the car to beat on race day, overcoming the high heat and humidity to post a 6.748-second, 204.76 mph pass in his first-round defeat of Kenny Koretsky. In the next round, he elevated his performance even further, covering the quarter-mile in 6.738 seconds to edge Allen Johnson. In the semifinals, Johnson was the beneficiary of a red-light start by Jason Line, and posted a 6.754-second elapsed time to gain lane choice for the final.
The last obstacle between Johnson and a potentially historic win was defending Pro Stock champion Greg Anderson, who entered the contest with a perfect championship-round record against the second-generation racer. However, the race was over before it even began, as Anderson left the starting line almost four hundredths of a second early, handing the automatic win to Johnson, who punctuated his winning performance with the quickest and fastest pass of the weekend, completing the sweep (i.e., Kurt was the No. 1 qualifier, won the race, and set low elapsed time and top speed of the event).
"I'm sure some people will say this win was expected since we had the dominant car all weekend, but you still have to make everything add up," stated Johnson. "For example, we've had a car capable of winning the race on several occasions this year, but for one reason or another, just didn't get the job done. Today, it all fell in place. We had a fast race car, a little bit of luck went our way, and I drove well enough to get the trophy.
"This ACDelco Cobalt is really coming around. We made some changes in testing Tuesday, and I think they really paid off. However, all that mattered was that we turned on the win light four times today.
"We are fortunate to have the support of some great sponsors like ACDelco and Chevrolet, who allows us to do what we need to win, which is work hard, spending long hours on the dyno and at the shop, making sure we put the absolute best car we can on the racetrack. This win is for them, as well as my crew and everyone back at the shop in Sugar Hill, who has put in the long hours to help make this happen. It may only be one win, but we’re going to enjoy this for just a little while before getting back to working on the getting the next one."
posted by David @ 3:10 AM
Nitro Funny Cars at Southeastern Dragway's 50th Anniversary July 9, 2005!
Be sure to be in Dallas, GA July 9, 2005 for the Southeastern Dragway 50th Anniversary celebration with nitro funny cars, a jet funny car and much more!
More Info
See the flyer
More Info
See the flyer
posted by David @ 3:03 AM
Atlanta Dragway Results by Tim Glover
MARCUM, SWAIM AND CLEMENTS ENJOY RAIN DELAYED WIN AT POWERADE / INGLES NIGHT
OF FIRE
by Tim Glover
Photos
(Commerce, GA - June 25) Thousands of fans attending Atlanta Dragway's Night of Fire, presented by Powerade and Ingles, enjoyed a day jam packed with activities and exciting on track action. In the pits, the Coke trailer had a continuous line of contestants, all waiting for their chance to grab coupons good for Coke products inside a giant Coke bottle. Penny Praise Ministry had their booth near Mr Bill's souvenir stand, with face painting for all the kids. Between rounds, the announcer went to the grandstands and gave away even more goodies, including many tee shirts. One lucky fan, 12 year old Jason Neal from Carnesville, GA won a big prize, a brand new custom Schwinn Sting Ray bicycle, donated by Team PTI and presented by Lauren Turner. Due to rain, the three remaining classes from the June 11 Summit race completed their eliminations today. Steve Marcum (Trophy Street), Jake Swaim (13-17 Jr Dragster) and Valerie Clements (8-12 Jr Dragster) enjoyed winning their
respective class. As it turned out, the Night of Fire racers remaining in
competition will have to finish their competition during the next scheduled
Summit event.
The 2005 Night of Fire was officially started with a performance of the national anthem, an invocation by RFC Chaplain Scott Griffith, and the color guard of Cub Pack and Boy Scout Troop 106 from nearby Homer, GA.
Fans enjoyed side by side action from not one, but two wheelstanders, driven by Superwinch driver Danny O'Day from North Carolina and Scott Kennedy from nearby Buford. O'Day tripped the finish line beams with the rear wheels of his '34 Ford Superwinch car, running a 9.26 best at 144mph. Kennedy, who bought his Controlled Insanity Funny Car from O'Day, kept the wheels up for most of the course, but had to lift to maintain his control, and crossed the finish line with a best pass of 10.69 at 99.66mph.
A first for spectators and racers alike at Atlanta Dragway was an Ingles shopping cart competition, featuring several Ingles employees. The contestants pushed shopping carts full of Coca Cola products to the 330 foot mark. One interesting pairing was the husband and wife team of Betsy and Ryan Kingery. While the announcer distracted Ryan, another person transferred the contents of Betsy's cart to his in attempt to give Betsy the "Ingles Advantage". Although Ryan was also cheering Betsy on, he still took the "finish line" a few steps ahead of her. Another Ingles "racer" lost his shoes midway through the run, due to the sticky track surface, but kept on
running.
Jet engine powered dragsters wowed the crowd with flame shows and full bore
afterburner aided blasts down the track. Elaine Larsen from Hanes City, FL raced her "Miss Ta Fire" jet dragster against local hero Paul Miller's Watkinsville, GA based USA1 jet dragster. Miller had the speed advantage, running in the mid 5.50 second range at 287mph. Although Larsen could only muster low six second passes, she did have the satisfaction of beating Miller off the starting line. For the last session of the evening, right after the fireworks show, light rain prevented Larsen and Miller from making a pass. However, both of them still came to the starting line and put on a great show for the fans with lots of smoke, fire and "burner pops" before shutting their engines off. They also stayed after the event, signing
autographs for all their fans.
The much anticipated fireworks show, North Georgia's largest, began right on time at 10:30pm. Everyone was treated to a delightfully long 20 minute show of fireworks, which lit up the North Georgia sky for miles around.
Motorcycle racers attending today's event took a memorial ride down the track in honor of fellow racer and defending Motorcycle champion Stewart Taft (who also won the last race he entered at Atlanta Dragway, on May 21, 2005). Taft passed away June 2, 2005 from a heart attack. The racers went down the right lane in the missing man formation, while son Damien rode Taft's championship bike alone down the left lane, Taft's favorite lane.
By 10:00pm, the predicted rain was arriving in sprinkles; not heavy, but just enough to put a damper on the racing and exhibition car activities. The remaining contestants are now scheduled to finish their Night of Fire race on July 9, with the exception of the Motorcycle class, who will complete their Night of Fire race during the next scheduled Motorcycle race.
Although none of the Night of Fire classes were completed, three categories left from the rain delayed June 11 Summit race, Trophy Street, 8-12 Jr Dragster and 13-17 Jr Dragster were completed.
Defending Trophy Street champion Steve Marcum won his third Trophy Street event of 2005 by defeating his boss, Mardy Kennedy, in the final for the last time. For the final, Marcum changed his staging procedure in his 2001 Mustang from deep to shallow stage, guessed a 14.57 dial in time, and then nailed it with a 14.571 at 95.51mph. Kennedy, also a former champ, was very close to the mark, but his Auburn, GA based '64 Econoline pickup broke out by .006 seconds with a 13.104 at 100.90mph (13.11 target). Nicky Ewing ('89 Cavalier - Loganville, GA) finished in the semi-final round. After the event, Marcum stated this was a bittersweet victory. He already had his car loaded onto a U Haul, and was heading home to Cincinatti, OH from the race track. He said he was going to miss his fellow competitors, who he has raced against, but been friends with, for the past five years.
Twelve year old Valerie Clements' years of experience helped her win the 8-12 Jr Dragster final against up and comer Jacquelyn Lastinger (11 -
Lilburn, GA). The Central, SC racer used a large holeshot advantage to take the win light by .024 seconds with a 9.02 at 70.92mph (8.95 dial). Although Lastinger's car was closer to its number with an 8.99 at 74.17mph (8.96 dial), her later reaction time was good for the runner up trophy. Wesley Mayfield (9 - Gainesville, GA) was the lone semi-finalist. Clements had a good group of people to thank, including Mr Griffith for a drive belt, Greg Harding of Zorn, the Esso Club of Clemson, Billy Crenshaw (Fuel) and Roy Whaley (motor).
After taking over the seat vacated by 16 year old Johnny Turner at the beginning of the 2005 season, Team PTI racer Jake Swaim earned his first ever drag racing victory in 13-17 Jr Dragster. The 15 year old racer from Arcade, GA had a good .048 second react, and then bookended the final with a deadly 8.783 at 73.14mph (8.78 dial). His opponent, Thomas Davis-Cox (15 -
Buford, GA) hung the tomato with a too quick reaction time, and then slowed to an 8.40 at 81.93mph (7.91 dial). Brett Bowman (14 - Homer, GA) was the semi-final finisher. Incidentally, Johnny Turner earned his NHRA Super Pro competition license earlier in the day. A happy Jake Swaim thanked his parents, John and Teresa Swaim, along with his brother Joe and Joe's girlfriend Casey. He then thanked team sponsors Fain and Mitchell Properties, Tara Fine Jewelry and Prestressed Transport, Inc. Team PTI owner George Turner was excited, noting that now six of the people he put behind
the wheel of a Team PTI race car have won a race. The list includes daughter Lauren Turner, son Johnny Turner, Justin Fancher, Whitney Samples, Russ Glover and Clay Fancher. Two former PTI racers, T.J. Turner and Joseph Satterfield, have also made it to a final. (George Turner's best result to date is a semi-final finish.)
TROPHY STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Steve Marcum '01 Mustang Cincinatti, OH 14.57 95.51 (14.57)
R/U: Mardy Kennedy '64 Econoline Pickup Auburn, GA 13.10 100.90 (13.11)
Semi: Nicky Ewing '89 Cavalier Loganville, GA
Semi:
------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER 8-12 AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Valerie Clements 12 Central, SC 9.02 70.92 (8.95)
R/U: Jacquelyn Lastinger 11 Lilburn, GA 8.99 74.17 (8.96)
Semi: Wesley Mayfield 9 Gainesville, GA
Semi:
------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER 13-17 AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jake Swaim 15 Pendergrass, GA 8.78 73.14 (8.78)
R/U: Thomas Davis-Cox 15 Buford, GA 8.40 81.93 (7.91)
Semi: Brett Bowman 14 Homer, GA
Semi:
OF FIRE
by Tim Glover
Photos
(Commerce, GA - June 25) Thousands of fans attending Atlanta Dragway's Night of Fire, presented by Powerade and Ingles, enjoyed a day jam packed with activities and exciting on track action. In the pits, the Coke trailer had a continuous line of contestants, all waiting for their chance to grab coupons good for Coke products inside a giant Coke bottle. Penny Praise Ministry had their booth near Mr Bill's souvenir stand, with face painting for all the kids. Between rounds, the announcer went to the grandstands and gave away even more goodies, including many tee shirts. One lucky fan, 12 year old Jason Neal from Carnesville, GA won a big prize, a brand new custom Schwinn Sting Ray bicycle, donated by Team PTI and presented by Lauren Turner. Due to rain, the three remaining classes from the June 11 Summit race completed their eliminations today. Steve Marcum (Trophy Street), Jake Swaim (13-17 Jr Dragster) and Valerie Clements (8-12 Jr Dragster) enjoyed winning their
respective class. As it turned out, the Night of Fire racers remaining in
competition will have to finish their competition during the next scheduled
Summit event.
The 2005 Night of Fire was officially started with a performance of the national anthem, an invocation by RFC Chaplain Scott Griffith, and the color guard of Cub Pack and Boy Scout Troop 106 from nearby Homer, GA.
Fans enjoyed side by side action from not one, but two wheelstanders, driven by Superwinch driver Danny O'Day from North Carolina and Scott Kennedy from nearby Buford. O'Day tripped the finish line beams with the rear wheels of his '34 Ford Superwinch car, running a 9.26 best at 144mph. Kennedy, who bought his Controlled Insanity Funny Car from O'Day, kept the wheels up for most of the course, but had to lift to maintain his control, and crossed the finish line with a best pass of 10.69 at 99.66mph.
A first for spectators and racers alike at Atlanta Dragway was an Ingles shopping cart competition, featuring several Ingles employees. The contestants pushed shopping carts full of Coca Cola products to the 330 foot mark. One interesting pairing was the husband and wife team of Betsy and Ryan Kingery. While the announcer distracted Ryan, another person transferred the contents of Betsy's cart to his in attempt to give Betsy the "Ingles Advantage". Although Ryan was also cheering Betsy on, he still took the "finish line" a few steps ahead of her. Another Ingles "racer" lost his shoes midway through the run, due to the sticky track surface, but kept on
running.
Jet engine powered dragsters wowed the crowd with flame shows and full bore
afterburner aided blasts down the track. Elaine Larsen from Hanes City, FL raced her "Miss Ta Fire" jet dragster against local hero Paul Miller's Watkinsville, GA based USA1 jet dragster. Miller had the speed advantage, running in the mid 5.50 second range at 287mph. Although Larsen could only muster low six second passes, she did have the satisfaction of beating Miller off the starting line. For the last session of the evening, right after the fireworks show, light rain prevented Larsen and Miller from making a pass. However, both of them still came to the starting line and put on a great show for the fans with lots of smoke, fire and "burner pops" before shutting their engines off. They also stayed after the event, signing
autographs for all their fans.
The much anticipated fireworks show, North Georgia's largest, began right on time at 10:30pm. Everyone was treated to a delightfully long 20 minute show of fireworks, which lit up the North Georgia sky for miles around.
Motorcycle racers attending today's event took a memorial ride down the track in honor of fellow racer and defending Motorcycle champion Stewart Taft (who also won the last race he entered at Atlanta Dragway, on May 21, 2005). Taft passed away June 2, 2005 from a heart attack. The racers went down the right lane in the missing man formation, while son Damien rode Taft's championship bike alone down the left lane, Taft's favorite lane.
By 10:00pm, the predicted rain was arriving in sprinkles; not heavy, but just enough to put a damper on the racing and exhibition car activities. The remaining contestants are now scheduled to finish their Night of Fire race on July 9, with the exception of the Motorcycle class, who will complete their Night of Fire race during the next scheduled Motorcycle race.
Although none of the Night of Fire classes were completed, three categories left from the rain delayed June 11 Summit race, Trophy Street, 8-12 Jr Dragster and 13-17 Jr Dragster were completed.
Defending Trophy Street champion Steve Marcum won his third Trophy Street event of 2005 by defeating his boss, Mardy Kennedy, in the final for the last time. For the final, Marcum changed his staging procedure in his 2001 Mustang from deep to shallow stage, guessed a 14.57 dial in time, and then nailed it with a 14.571 at 95.51mph. Kennedy, also a former champ, was very close to the mark, but his Auburn, GA based '64 Econoline pickup broke out by .006 seconds with a 13.104 at 100.90mph (13.11 target). Nicky Ewing ('89 Cavalier - Loganville, GA) finished in the semi-final round. After the event, Marcum stated this was a bittersweet victory. He already had his car loaded onto a U Haul, and was heading home to Cincinatti, OH from the race track. He said he was going to miss his fellow competitors, who he has raced against, but been friends with, for the past five years.
Twelve year old Valerie Clements' years of experience helped her win the 8-12 Jr Dragster final against up and comer Jacquelyn Lastinger (11 -
Lilburn, GA). The Central, SC racer used a large holeshot advantage to take the win light by .024 seconds with a 9.02 at 70.92mph (8.95 dial). Although Lastinger's car was closer to its number with an 8.99 at 74.17mph (8.96 dial), her later reaction time was good for the runner up trophy. Wesley Mayfield (9 - Gainesville, GA) was the lone semi-finalist. Clements had a good group of people to thank, including Mr Griffith for a drive belt, Greg Harding of Zorn, the Esso Club of Clemson, Billy Crenshaw (Fuel) and Roy Whaley (motor).
After taking over the seat vacated by 16 year old Johnny Turner at the beginning of the 2005 season, Team PTI racer Jake Swaim earned his first ever drag racing victory in 13-17 Jr Dragster. The 15 year old racer from Arcade, GA had a good .048 second react, and then bookended the final with a deadly 8.783 at 73.14mph (8.78 dial). His opponent, Thomas Davis-Cox (15 -
Buford, GA) hung the tomato with a too quick reaction time, and then slowed to an 8.40 at 81.93mph (7.91 dial). Brett Bowman (14 - Homer, GA) was the semi-final finisher. Incidentally, Johnny Turner earned his NHRA Super Pro competition license earlier in the day. A happy Jake Swaim thanked his parents, John and Teresa Swaim, along with his brother Joe and Joe's girlfriend Casey. He then thanked team sponsors Fain and Mitchell Properties, Tara Fine Jewelry and Prestressed Transport, Inc. Team PTI owner George Turner was excited, noting that now six of the people he put behind
the wheel of a Team PTI race car have won a race. The list includes daughter Lauren Turner, son Johnny Turner, Justin Fancher, Whitney Samples, Russ Glover and Clay Fancher. Two former PTI racers, T.J. Turner and Joseph Satterfield, have also made it to a final. (George Turner's best result to date is a semi-final finish.)
TROPHY STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Steve Marcum '01 Mustang Cincinatti, OH 14.57 95.51 (14.57)
R/U: Mardy Kennedy '64 Econoline Pickup Auburn, GA 13.10 100.90 (13.11)
Semi: Nicky Ewing '89 Cavalier Loganville, GA
Semi:
------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER 8-12 AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Valerie Clements 12 Central, SC 9.02 70.92 (8.95)
R/U: Jacquelyn Lastinger 11 Lilburn, GA 8.99 74.17 (8.96)
Semi: Wesley Mayfield 9 Gainesville, GA
Semi:
------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER 13-17 AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jake Swaim 15 Pendergrass, GA 8.78 73.14 (8.78)
R/U: Thomas Davis-Cox 15 Buford, GA 8.40 81.93 (7.91)
Semi: Brett Bowman 14 Homer, GA
Semi:
posted by David @ 2:33 AM
BAZEMORE ELIMINATED IN FIRST ROUND IN ST. LOUIS; ENCOURAGED NONETHELESS
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
Contact: Judy Stropus
MADISON, Ill. (June 25, 2005) - Whit Bazemore was ousted in the first round of eliminations today at Gateway International Raceway, yet he moved up from eighth to seventh in POWERade Drag Racing Series Funny Car points.
When Eric Medlen oiled the track in his first-round loss, he was penalized 10 points, allowing Bazemore to move up a position. The driver of the Matco Tools Iron Eagle Dodge Stratus is now eight points ahead of Medlen, and 32 points short of sixth position.
Bazemore and crew chiefs Todd Okuhara and Dan Olson are still in the honeymoon stage of their new union and are continuing to make progress towards the future, despite Bazemore's loss to Tony Pedregon in the opening stanza today.
The two-time U.S. Nationals champion who is chasing his first Funny Car championship took off at the starting light with a .077 reaction time. Pedregon replied with a .056. The pair were evenly matched until both lost traction and were forced to pedal it to the finish.
Pedregon took the lead, while Bazemore recovered with a burst of power and speed that took him to the finish line just .0242 of a second short of a victory. Pedregon claimed the win with a 5.331/272.17 to Bazemore's excruciatingly close effort of 5.334/292.65.
"It's only disappointing in that it's always disappointing when you don't win a round or the race," said Bazemore, "but quite honestly we're pretty excited. The way the Matco Tools team, Todd and Dan, have integrated themselves and the job that the team's doing on the race car is really, really good. I can't say enough about the fact that I have the best outlook I've had in quite a while for the rest of the year.
"It's exciting and it's really fun and it's a new challenge. And I think a new challenge working with different people is kind of refreshing for me. We had a great, great run with Lee (Beard, former crew chief), but we're looking at the future now, and the way these guys have come in and tuned the car shows me that we've got a really bright future on the Matco Tools team. I feel good about it, despite our loss.
"Any time we lose by a couple of thousandths (of a second) I take it pretty hard because I feel I should make up the difference. We had a problem earlier in the week and Todd and Dan were able to adjust it so the car was more driveable for me and it worked. It recovered nicely and if the race track had been 10 or 15 feet further we probably could have won that round.
"We're not hanging our heads. We're going to go back to the shop, get our equipment more perfect and go start the West Coast swing on a really high note."
Next up is the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, Colo., July 15-17, 2005.
NHRA POWERade DRAG RACING SERIES FUNNY CAR POINT STANDINGS:
1. John Force, 837
2. Gary Scelzi, 782
3. Robert Hight, 775
4. Ron Capps, 736/756 (Capps is in final round tonight vs. Tim Wilkerson)
5. Tommy Johnson Jr., 679
6. Cruz Pedregon, 664
7. Whit Bazemore, 632
8. Eric Medlen, 624
9. Del Worsham, 579
10. Tony Pedregon, 564
Contact: Judy Stropus
MADISON, Ill. (June 25, 2005) - Whit Bazemore was ousted in the first round of eliminations today at Gateway International Raceway, yet he moved up from eighth to seventh in POWERade Drag Racing Series Funny Car points.
When Eric Medlen oiled the track in his first-round loss, he was penalized 10 points, allowing Bazemore to move up a position. The driver of the Matco Tools Iron Eagle Dodge Stratus is now eight points ahead of Medlen, and 32 points short of sixth position.
Bazemore and crew chiefs Todd Okuhara and Dan Olson are still in the honeymoon stage of their new union and are continuing to make progress towards the future, despite Bazemore's loss to Tony Pedregon in the opening stanza today.
The two-time U.S. Nationals champion who is chasing his first Funny Car championship took off at the starting light with a .077 reaction time. Pedregon replied with a .056. The pair were evenly matched until both lost traction and were forced to pedal it to the finish.
Pedregon took the lead, while Bazemore recovered with a burst of power and speed that took him to the finish line just .0242 of a second short of a victory. Pedregon claimed the win with a 5.331/272.17 to Bazemore's excruciatingly close effort of 5.334/292.65.
"It's only disappointing in that it's always disappointing when you don't win a round or the race," said Bazemore, "but quite honestly we're pretty excited. The way the Matco Tools team, Todd and Dan, have integrated themselves and the job that the team's doing on the race car is really, really good. I can't say enough about the fact that I have the best outlook I've had in quite a while for the rest of the year.
"It's exciting and it's really fun and it's a new challenge. And I think a new challenge working with different people is kind of refreshing for me. We had a great, great run with Lee (Beard, former crew chief), but we're looking at the future now, and the way these guys have come in and tuned the car shows me that we've got a really bright future on the Matco Tools team. I feel good about it, despite our loss.
"Any time we lose by a couple of thousandths (of a second) I take it pretty hard because I feel I should make up the difference. We had a problem earlier in the week and Todd and Dan were able to adjust it so the car was more driveable for me and it worked. It recovered nicely and if the race track had been 10 or 15 feet further we probably could have won that round.
"We're not hanging our heads. We're going to go back to the shop, get our equipment more perfect and go start the West Coast swing on a really high note."
Next up is the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, Colo., July 15-17, 2005.
NHRA POWERade DRAG RACING SERIES FUNNY CAR POINT STANDINGS:
1. John Force, 837
2. Gary Scelzi, 782
3. Robert Hight, 775
4. Ron Capps, 736/756 (Capps is in final round tonight vs. Tim Wilkerson)
5. Tommy Johnson Jr., 679
6. Cruz Pedregon, 664
7. Whit Bazemore, 632
8. Eric Medlen, 624
9. Del Worsham, 579
10. Tony Pedregon, 564
posted by David @ 2:24 AM
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Bernstein, Capps, KJ and Sampey Win the NHRA POWERade Sears Craftsman Nationals
posted by David @ 11:49 PM
Bunky and Tony Bobo are presented the "Best of the Best" Memory Lane Award at the National Hot Rod Reunion in Bowling Green, KY (June 19, 2005).
Thanks to Ron Malmsten of the Geezer Gassers for allowing GeorgiaDragRacing.com to use this photo of the Hemi Hurricane and the Bobo family!
posted by David @ 3:41 PM
Thanks to Ron Malmsten for providing GeorgiaDragRacing.com this photo of Bunky Bobo's Hemi Hurricane Willys at the NHRR! This is just before Bunky and Tony were awarded the "Best of the Best" Memory Lane Award.
posted by David @ 3:37 PM
KJ Captures the No. 1 Qualifying Position in St. Louis
Contact: Jon Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
On the strength of a 6.750-second, 204.14 mph pass made during Friday night's second qualifying session Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Racing Team captured the No. 1 starting position at the Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals in Madison, IL. It was Johnson's second "pole" position of the 2005 season, second at Gateway International Raceway, and 25th of his illustrious career. This was also the third time in his 13-year NHRA career that K.J. was the No. 1 qualifier at consecutive national events.
Having secured his position in Sunday's starting field on Friday, Johnson used his final two attempts on Saturday to try new components in his race car, as well as working on fine-tuning his hot weather tune-up for race day.
"We did a little experimenting in the early evening session, trying a completely new clutch. We really didn't know what to expect, and it ran a 6.79, giving us some good information. We put our normal set up back in for the last run, and it went 6.76. The bottom line is that we got the money and the points for being No. 1, and that's what it's all about.
"We're pretty pleased. Our ACDelco Cobalt is going down the racetrack, and has been pretty good on parts, so with a little good luck, we should be in good shape for tomorrow.
"We know the conditions we're going to be running in the first round tomorrow afternoon, and since we've only had one run under those conditions, we'll have to see what happens. Fortunately, we've been working on our car since Englishtown trying to improve our set-up, and the car has responded.
"We know we're making good power, and when you have horsepower under the hood, you had better make good runs and the driver has to be on his game, because it's all hills and valleys out here. You have to take advantage of it when you can, which is what we are looking to do here in St. Louis tomorrow night."
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
On the strength of a 6.750-second, 204.14 mph pass made during Friday night's second qualifying session Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Racing Team captured the No. 1 starting position at the Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals in Madison, IL. It was Johnson's second "pole" position of the 2005 season, second at Gateway International Raceway, and 25th of his illustrious career. This was also the third time in his 13-year NHRA career that K.J. was the No. 1 qualifier at consecutive national events.
Having secured his position in Sunday's starting field on Friday, Johnson used his final two attempts on Saturday to try new components in his race car, as well as working on fine-tuning his hot weather tune-up for race day.
"We did a little experimenting in the early evening session, trying a completely new clutch. We really didn't know what to expect, and it ran a 6.79, giving us some good information. We put our normal set up back in for the last run, and it went 6.76. The bottom line is that we got the money and the points for being No. 1, and that's what it's all about.
"We're pretty pleased. Our ACDelco Cobalt is going down the racetrack, and has been pretty good on parts, so with a little good luck, we should be in good shape for tomorrow.
"We know the conditions we're going to be running in the first round tomorrow afternoon, and since we've only had one run under those conditions, we'll have to see what happens. Fortunately, we've been working on our car since Englishtown trying to improve our set-up, and the car has responded.
"We know we're making good power, and when you have horsepower under the hood, you had better make good runs and the driver has to be on his game, because it's all hills and valleys out here. You have to take advantage of it when you can, which is what we are looking to do here in St. Louis tomorrow night."
posted by David @ 1:35 AM
WJ Qualifies Third in St. Louis
Contact: Jon Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts Pontiac Racing Team completed a solid qualifying effort at the Sears Craftsman Nationals in Madison, IL. In each of their four attempts, the Johnson entry was among the top performers in the highly competitive Pro Stock category, with their best effort of 6,757 seconds, 203.89 mph slotting them in the third starting position for Sunday evening's final eliminations.
"Overall, we're relatively pleased with where we are on our GM Performance Parts Pontiac as far as the set-up and the performance level. We'd like to pick up the pace a little bit more, but we're certainly competitive. We made solid runs in both lanes, so we'll just have to start fine-tuning from there, and we should be in good shape.
"We're getting to the point where we can qualify consistently at or near the top of the field, so we can now work on improving our race-day tune-up so we can perform as well on Sunday as we’ve done in qualifying.
"If we endure similar conditions tomorrow as we had today, we really won't have to worry about the track changing drastically until the later rounds. Basically, it will look better than it really is, so you have to avoid the natural tendency to get very aggressive with the tune-up, because more often than not, you'll end up shooting yourself in at least one foot, if not two. Our plan is to see what we have tomorrow and take it from there."
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts Pontiac Racing Team completed a solid qualifying effort at the Sears Craftsman Nationals in Madison, IL. In each of their four attempts, the Johnson entry was among the top performers in the highly competitive Pro Stock category, with their best effort of 6,757 seconds, 203.89 mph slotting them in the third starting position for Sunday evening's final eliminations.
"Overall, we're relatively pleased with where we are on our GM Performance Parts Pontiac as far as the set-up and the performance level. We'd like to pick up the pace a little bit more, but we're certainly competitive. We made solid runs in both lanes, so we'll just have to start fine-tuning from there, and we should be in good shape.
"We're getting to the point where we can qualify consistently at or near the top of the field, so we can now work on improving our race-day tune-up so we can perform as well on Sunday as we’ve done in qualifying.
"If we endure similar conditions tomorrow as we had today, we really won't have to worry about the track changing drastically until the later rounds. Basically, it will look better than it really is, so you have to avoid the natural tendency to get very aggressive with the tune-up, because more often than not, you'll end up shooting yourself in at least one foot, if not two. Our plan is to see what we have tomorrow and take it from there."
posted by David @ 1:33 AM
Ellis holds onto No. 4 Races Michael Phillips in tomorrow's eliminations
Courtesy Jerry Battle
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
MEDIA CONTACT: Mickey Schultz
NINTH ANNUAL NHRA SEARS CRAFTSMAN NATIONALSGATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
JUNE 24-26, 2005
QUALIFYING:Session 1 Friday: 7.158 seconds at 180.65 mph (# 3)
Session 2 Friday: 10.764 seconds at 74.84 mph (# 4)
Session 1 Saturday: 7.248 seconds at 186.46 mph (# 4)
Session 2 Saturday: 7.206 seconds at 187.44 mph (# 4)
MADISON, Ill. (June 25, 2005) - Chip Ellis placed the G Squared/S&S-powered Buell in the No. 4 position on the final qualifying ladder for the Sears Craftsman Nationals being contested this weekend near St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway.
In Friday's opening qualifying session, Ellis, from Americus, Ga., recorded his best qualifying time, a pass of 7.158 seconds at 180.65 mph.
"We going to try and get the job done tomorrow," said Ellis. “‘Done’ means we're going to try to put this G Squared/S&S in the winner's circle. The bike seems to be coming around a little bit at a time, so hopefully we'll get better each round."
While here in St. Louis, G Squared, who is actively seeking a primary marketing partner, welcomes Doc's Harley Davidson, who services the St. Louis market from their location in Kirkwood, Mo. "We are pleased to showcase Doc's Harley Davidson to the fans here at the race. All of us at G Squared Motorsports hope that if you are looking for a motorcycle that you visit the fine folks at Doc's Harley Davidson in Kirkwood," said George Bryce, who along with George Smith co-own G Squared Motorsports.
Ellis begins his quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title tomorrow afternoon with eliminations for all classes getting underway at 4:30 p.m. (Central Time) and continuing into the evening hours. He will face Michael Phillips in the opening round. Phillips qualified No. 13 with an elapsed time of 7.250 seconds.
After six of 15 events for Pro Stock Motorcycle, Ellis is currently No. 4 in the POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle point standings with 367 points, 8 behind third, 23 behind second and 70 out of the top spot.
S&S ENGINE REVIEW: Ryan Schnitz, Ellis and Chris Rivas continue to pace the S&S-powered Buells qualifying No. 3, No. 4 and No. 7 respectively. Matt Guidera, also aboard an S&S-powered Buell, finished No. 17. While the S&S-powered Harley of David Feazell ended qualifying in the No. 18 position.
KEN JOHNSON UPDATE: For those of you, who haven't received the latest update, Ken is out of the hospital and he is now recovering at home. He was released from the hospital on Monday, June 20. Tracy Slemker, of Prosthetic Design in Dayton, Ohio, who, in 2003, sponsored Pro Stock Motorcycle rider and double-amputee Reggie Shower, has been in constant communication with Ken and Ken's wife Kassi since the accident. Tracy visited Ken in the hospital and has already started developing a rehabilitation plan. As soon as Ken regains some of his strength and has healed, he will be traveling to Dayton for the initial fitting of a prosthesis. Ken and Kassi want to thank everyone for their kindness and generosity during this difficult time. There is no prognosis yet on when either one of them will be able to return to work. Anyone who wishes to send donations to the Ken Johnson Recovery Fund can mail them to: Ken Johnson, C/O Star Racing, PO Box 1241, Americus, GA 31709.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the Ninth annual NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 early Sunday morning (June 26) from 12 midnight-1 a.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 9 p.m. on Sunday evening (June 26). The elimination show encores on the "Deuce" early Tuesday morning, June 28, from 3 until 4:30 a.m. Also, tune in to NHRA2Day on ESPN2, the weekly show that gives you the latest information about the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. NHRA2Day can be seen on Sunday, June 26 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
MEDIA CONTACT: Mickey Schultz
NINTH ANNUAL NHRA SEARS CRAFTSMAN NATIONALSGATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
JUNE 24-26, 2005
QUALIFYING:Session 1 Friday: 7.158 seconds at 180.65 mph (# 3)
Session 2 Friday: 10.764 seconds at 74.84 mph (# 4)
Session 1 Saturday: 7.248 seconds at 186.46 mph (# 4)
Session 2 Saturday: 7.206 seconds at 187.44 mph (# 4)
MADISON, Ill. (June 25, 2005) - Chip Ellis placed the G Squared/S&S-powered Buell in the No. 4 position on the final qualifying ladder for the Sears Craftsman Nationals being contested this weekend near St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway.
In Friday's opening qualifying session, Ellis, from Americus, Ga., recorded his best qualifying time, a pass of 7.158 seconds at 180.65 mph.
"We going to try and get the job done tomorrow," said Ellis. “‘Done’ means we're going to try to put this G Squared/S&S in the winner's circle. The bike seems to be coming around a little bit at a time, so hopefully we'll get better each round."
While here in St. Louis, G Squared, who is actively seeking a primary marketing partner, welcomes Doc's Harley Davidson, who services the St. Louis market from their location in Kirkwood, Mo. "We are pleased to showcase Doc's Harley Davidson to the fans here at the race. All of us at G Squared Motorsports hope that if you are looking for a motorcycle that you visit the fine folks at Doc's Harley Davidson in Kirkwood," said George Bryce, who along with George Smith co-own G Squared Motorsports.
Ellis begins his quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title tomorrow afternoon with eliminations for all classes getting underway at 4:30 p.m. (Central Time) and continuing into the evening hours. He will face Michael Phillips in the opening round. Phillips qualified No. 13 with an elapsed time of 7.250 seconds.
After six of 15 events for Pro Stock Motorcycle, Ellis is currently No. 4 in the POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle point standings with 367 points, 8 behind third, 23 behind second and 70 out of the top spot.
S&S ENGINE REVIEW: Ryan Schnitz, Ellis and Chris Rivas continue to pace the S&S-powered Buells qualifying No. 3, No. 4 and No. 7 respectively. Matt Guidera, also aboard an S&S-powered Buell, finished No. 17. While the S&S-powered Harley of David Feazell ended qualifying in the No. 18 position.
KEN JOHNSON UPDATE: For those of you, who haven't received the latest update, Ken is out of the hospital and he is now recovering at home. He was released from the hospital on Monday, June 20. Tracy Slemker, of Prosthetic Design in Dayton, Ohio, who, in 2003, sponsored Pro Stock Motorcycle rider and double-amputee Reggie Shower, has been in constant communication with Ken and Ken's wife Kassi since the accident. Tracy visited Ken in the hospital and has already started developing a rehabilitation plan. As soon as Ken regains some of his strength and has healed, he will be traveling to Dayton for the initial fitting of a prosthesis. Ken and Kassi want to thank everyone for their kindness and generosity during this difficult time. There is no prognosis yet on when either one of them will be able to return to work. Anyone who wishes to send donations to the Ken Johnson Recovery Fund can mail them to: Ken Johnson, C/O Star Racing, PO Box 1241, Americus, GA 31709.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the Ninth annual NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 early Sunday morning (June 26) from 12 midnight-1 a.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 9 p.m. on Sunday evening (June 26). The elimination show encores on the "Deuce" early Tuesday morning, June 28, from 3 until 4:30 a.m. Also, tune in to NHRA2Day on ESPN2, the weekly show that gives you the latest information about the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. NHRA2Day can be seen on Sunday, June 26 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
posted by David @ 1:00 AM
D. Kalitta, Scelzi, Kurt Johnson and Hines are the #1 Qualifiers at the NHRA POWERade Sears Craftsman Nationals
posted by David @ 12:25 AM
