Schumacher, Scelzi, Line and Hines Top Qualifiers at the NHRA POWERade Toyo Tires Nationals
posted by David @ 10:56 PM
Saturday, September 17, 2005
SCELZI NO. 1 IN READING FRIDAY QUALIFYING
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
Contact: Judy Stropus
READING, Pa. (Sept. 16, 2005) - After two of four qualifying sessions, Gary Scelzi holds the No. 1 qualifying position for this weekend's NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. Driving the Mopar/Oakley Dodge Stratus R/T Funny Car for Don Schumacher Racing, Scelzi posted a 4.766-second elapsed time at 322.11 mph in the evening session, under the coolest conditions of the weekend.
Scelzi, in the Funny Car points lead by a single point over Robert Hight, stands eight positions ahead of Hight right now, who's in ninth.
"Don't count on that happening very long," he said of that margin. "In fact, everyone was making a joke that I was the point leader until I got into Reading because Robert has been on such a tear in qualifying. We're ovbviously not dead just because we've got only a one-point lead. There's five of us right now that could be the champion. We just don't know what's going to happen until we play this thing out.
"It sure looks good with me on top," he laughed.
As for the hot conditions here today, and not the usually expected cool temperatures: "Actually, I like it like this," he said. "It's a little bit harder to negotiate and the asphalt here is very porous. It's got holes in it. So when the track gets warm you have a lot of trouble when you come off the concerete of slipping the tire. We didn't know what was going to happen with these rev limiters and all this type of stuff. Plus we learned a lot from last year.
"Last year was very difficult to negotiate and (John) Force was a killer, even in the sunlight. We had our backs against the wall in the final round. Fortunately for us he had a clutch problem because we knew he could run a .70 something and we weren't going to try to run that."
Contact: Judy Stropus
READING, Pa. (Sept. 16, 2005) - After two of four qualifying sessions, Gary Scelzi holds the No. 1 qualifying position for this weekend's NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. Driving the Mopar/Oakley Dodge Stratus R/T Funny Car for Don Schumacher Racing, Scelzi posted a 4.766-second elapsed time at 322.11 mph in the evening session, under the coolest conditions of the weekend.
Scelzi, in the Funny Car points lead by a single point over Robert Hight, stands eight positions ahead of Hight right now, who's in ninth.
"Don't count on that happening very long," he said of that margin. "In fact, everyone was making a joke that I was the point leader until I got into Reading because Robert has been on such a tear in qualifying. We're ovbviously not dead just because we've got only a one-point lead. There's five of us right now that could be the champion. We just don't know what's going to happen until we play this thing out.
"It sure looks good with me on top," he laughed.
As for the hot conditions here today, and not the usually expected cool temperatures: "Actually, I like it like this," he said. "It's a little bit harder to negotiate and the asphalt here is very porous. It's got holes in it. So when the track gets warm you have a lot of trouble when you come off the concerete of slipping the tire. We didn't know what was going to happen with these rev limiters and all this type of stuff. Plus we learned a lot from last year.
"Last year was very difficult to negotiate and (John) Force was a killer, even in the sunlight. We had our backs against the wall in the final round. Fortunately for us he had a clutch problem because we knew he could run a .70 something and we weren't going to try to run that."
posted by David @ 12:09 AM
G Squared Motorsports take two of top three spots on Day 1 of qualifying Ellis No. 1; Smith No. 3
Courtesy Jerry Battle
www.georgia-motorsports.com
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
21ST ANNUAL NHRA TOYO TIRES NATIONALS
MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY - READING, PENN.
SEPTEMBER 15-18, 2005
Chip Ellis:
Session 1 Friday: 7.101 seconds at 187.60 mph (#1)
Session 2 Friday: 20.389 seconds at 32.64 mph (# 1)
Matt Smith:
Session 1 Friday: 7.138 seconds at 185.84 mph (# 3)
Session 2 Friday: 7.121 seconds at 186.54 mph (# 3)
MOHNTON, Penn. (September 16, 2005) - The union of Chip Ellis and Matt Smith, as teammates aboard the G Squared Motorsports-prepared, S&S-powered Buells, is already paying dividends for the duo as the first day of qualifying comes to an end at this weekend's 21st annual Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, near Reading Penn.
Ellis, from Americus, Ga., rode his G2 S&S Buell to the top spot on the Pro Stock Motorcycle ladder, while Smith, from King, N.C., wheeled his G2 Red Line Oil/Skull Gear/Torco Racing Fuels Buell, to the No. 3 position.
Ellis recorded a 7.101-second pass in today's opening qualifying session. Smith saved his best until the second run when he covered the quarter-mile in 7.121 seconds.
"My partner George Smith has suggested from the start that we should be running two motorcycles to accelerate our learning curve with both the chassis and the S&S power plant," said George Bryce, who along with George Smith are the brain trust behind the highly successful G Squared Motorsports.
"Currently with Chip and Matt being teammates through the end of this season, we are now able to double the data we receive during each qualifying session. At Indy, it definitely helped because our two Buells were paired in opposite lanes each session, so we got data on both the right and left lanes each time. Otherwise, with one bike, it would have taken two sessions to do the same thing. Granted that's not going to happen every race.
"It's just like you would think, you get to make two runs every round and it allows you to do different combinations to each bike in a given session."
Ellis stated that he was just happy to be in the field. "Pro Stock Motorcycle is so competitive and the qualifying so close that you are just happy to make the field. When you do something extra like go to the top of the ladder, it show you are running well and to be sure these S&S-powered engines did their job for both Matt and me today," reflected Ellis at the end of today’s qualifying.
QUALIFYING: Qualifying concludes for both Ellis and Smith with two additional sessions on Saturday, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The 16 quickest qualifiers begin their quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title on Sunday with eliminations for all classes starting at 11 a.m. Times are local Reading time - Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the 21st NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 17) from 4-6 p.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon (Sept. 18). The elimination show repeats on ESPN2 early Friday morning, Sept. 23, from 3 until 5 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 morning, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS: When Harley Davidson accelerated their effort in NHRA, S&S Cycle decided in 2002 to join the battle. Because of his vast R&D experience, coupled with his racing background, S&S asked George Smith to head their project to field a competitive S&S V-Twin bike on the NHRA circuit. Smith immediately asked George Bryce, who had been working with S&S Cycle on a similar project, to join the new endeavor and G Squared Motorsports was formed in 2003. Both Smith and Bryce knew if they collaborated on the project, joining the resources, knowledge and talents of S&S and Star Racing, they could produce a competitive bike to race in Pro Stock Motorcycle competition on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. The G Squared/S&S-powered V-Twin Buell debuted in 2004.
FURNISHED BY:
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
Visit our website at www.g2motorsports.net
www.georgia-motorsports.com
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
21ST ANNUAL NHRA TOYO TIRES NATIONALS
MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY - READING, PENN.
SEPTEMBER 15-18, 2005
Chip Ellis:
Session 1 Friday: 7.101 seconds at 187.60 mph (#1)
Session 2 Friday: 20.389 seconds at 32.64 mph (# 1)
Matt Smith:
Session 1 Friday: 7.138 seconds at 185.84 mph (# 3)
Session 2 Friday: 7.121 seconds at 186.54 mph (# 3)
MOHNTON, Penn. (September 16, 2005) - The union of Chip Ellis and Matt Smith, as teammates aboard the G Squared Motorsports-prepared, S&S-powered Buells, is already paying dividends for the duo as the first day of qualifying comes to an end at this weekend's 21st annual Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, near Reading Penn.
Ellis, from Americus, Ga., rode his G2 S&S Buell to the top spot on the Pro Stock Motorcycle ladder, while Smith, from King, N.C., wheeled his G2 Red Line Oil/Skull Gear/Torco Racing Fuels Buell, to the No. 3 position.
Ellis recorded a 7.101-second pass in today's opening qualifying session. Smith saved his best until the second run when he covered the quarter-mile in 7.121 seconds.
"My partner George Smith has suggested from the start that we should be running two motorcycles to accelerate our learning curve with both the chassis and the S&S power plant," said George Bryce, who along with George Smith are the brain trust behind the highly successful G Squared Motorsports.
"Currently with Chip and Matt being teammates through the end of this season, we are now able to double the data we receive during each qualifying session. At Indy, it definitely helped because our two Buells were paired in opposite lanes each session, so we got data on both the right and left lanes each time. Otherwise, with one bike, it would have taken two sessions to do the same thing. Granted that's not going to happen every race.
"It's just like you would think, you get to make two runs every round and it allows you to do different combinations to each bike in a given session."
Ellis stated that he was just happy to be in the field. "Pro Stock Motorcycle is so competitive and the qualifying so close that you are just happy to make the field. When you do something extra like go to the top of the ladder, it show you are running well and to be sure these S&S-powered engines did their job for both Matt and me today," reflected Ellis at the end of today’s qualifying.
QUALIFYING: Qualifying concludes for both Ellis and Smith with two additional sessions on Saturday, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The 16 quickest qualifiers begin their quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title on Sunday with eliminations for all classes starting at 11 a.m. Times are local Reading time - Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the 21st NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 17) from 4-6 p.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon (Sept. 18). The elimination show repeats on ESPN2 early Friday morning, Sept. 23, from 3 until 5 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 morning, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS: When Harley Davidson accelerated their effort in NHRA, S&S Cycle decided in 2002 to join the battle. Because of his vast R&D experience, coupled with his racing background, S&S asked George Smith to head their project to field a competitive S&S V-Twin bike on the NHRA circuit. Smith immediately asked George Bryce, who had been working with S&S Cycle on a similar project, to join the new endeavor and G Squared Motorsports was formed in 2003. Both Smith and Bryce knew if they collaborated on the project, joining the resources, knowledge and talents of S&S and Star Racing, they could produce a competitive bike to race in Pro Stock Motorcycle competition on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. The G Squared/S&S-powered V-Twin Buell debuted in 2004.
FURNISHED BY:
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
Visit our website at www.g2motorsports.net
posted by David @ 12:03 AM
KJ Leads the Field Midway through Qualifying in Reading
Contact: Jon Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
ACDelco Cobalt pilot Kurt Johnson started his qualifying efforts for the Toyo Tires NHRA Nationals in fine fashion on Friday, posting one of the quickest passes in each of the two sessions. After opening with a fourth-quick 6.766-second pass, KJ rocketed through the quarter-mile timers at Maple Grove Raceway in 6.739-seconds with a top speed of 204.54 mph to sit atop the 29-car Pro Stock field midway through qualifying.
"We came here looking to get back on our game with everything working the way it should. We started with a decent run this afternoon, and we fine-tuned it a little bit for the second session, running quick enough to be on top, which is all that matters.
"As close as the competition is in Pro Stock, you have to nit-pick every detail, getting every thousandth you can out of the car. So far this weekend, we've been able to do just that, and tomorrow, we'll see if we can make our ACDelco Cobalt even better."
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
ACDelco Cobalt pilot Kurt Johnson started his qualifying efforts for the Toyo Tires NHRA Nationals in fine fashion on Friday, posting one of the quickest passes in each of the two sessions. After opening with a fourth-quick 6.766-second pass, KJ rocketed through the quarter-mile timers at Maple Grove Raceway in 6.739-seconds with a top speed of 204.54 mph to sit atop the 29-car Pro Stock field midway through qualifying.
"We came here looking to get back on our game with everything working the way it should. We started with a decent run this afternoon, and we fine-tuned it a little bit for the second session, running quick enough to be on top, which is all that matters.
"As close as the competition is in Pro Stock, you have to nit-pick every detail, getting every thousandth you can out of the car. So far this weekend, we've been able to do just that, and tomorrow, we'll see if we can make our ACDelco Cobalt even better."
posted by David @ 12:00 AM
Friday, September 16, 2005
WJ Opens Reading Qualifying in Third
Contact: Jon Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
Warren Johnson has never been one to back away from a challenge, and he was presented with one during the first day of qualifying at the Toyo Tires NHRA Nationals in Reading, PA. An issue with his race car slowed him on his first qualifying attempt, putting him in the less-desirable early part of the nighttime session, when the track temperatures would be slightly higher.
However, Johnson and his GM Performance Parts Racing team responded by recording the third quickest pass of the day at 6.750-seconds with a top speed of 203.80 mph to place them third halfway through the qualifying procedure at Maple Grove Raceway. Heading into Saturday's final two attempts in a solid position, "The Professor" faces yet another test of his tuning abilities, as his data acquisition system did not operate properly, forcing him to rely on his vast experience to adjust for tomorrow's run. As always, the pragmatic Johnson was more than ready to deal with it
"Our first run was nothing too spectacular, as we were just a little shy on gear. We came back and made the necessary adjustments for the second session, and, according to the incremental numbers on the time sheets, our GM Performance Parts GTO made a pretty good run, although I did feel it labor a bit in third gear.
"Unfortunately, we don't know exactly how good it was because our computer didn't work and we have no data to tune from. Therefore, we'll have to wing it for tomorrow morning's session. However, based on the experience we have on this team, as well as the strength of that run, we should be fine, and at the very least, that time should be good enough to keep us in the show. This is nothing more than an inconvenience. We're in good shape."
TMG Sports Marketing, Inc.
Warren Johnson has never been one to back away from a challenge, and he was presented with one during the first day of qualifying at the Toyo Tires NHRA Nationals in Reading, PA. An issue with his race car slowed him on his first qualifying attempt, putting him in the less-desirable early part of the nighttime session, when the track temperatures would be slightly higher.
However, Johnson and his GM Performance Parts Racing team responded by recording the third quickest pass of the day at 6.750-seconds with a top speed of 203.80 mph to place them third halfway through the qualifying procedure at Maple Grove Raceway. Heading into Saturday's final two attempts in a solid position, "The Professor" faces yet another test of his tuning abilities, as his data acquisition system did not operate properly, forcing him to rely on his vast experience to adjust for tomorrow's run. As always, the pragmatic Johnson was more than ready to deal with it
"Our first run was nothing too spectacular, as we were just a little shy on gear. We came back and made the necessary adjustments for the second session, and, according to the incremental numbers on the time sheets, our GM Performance Parts GTO made a pretty good run, although I did feel it labor a bit in third gear.
"Unfortunately, we don't know exactly how good it was because our computer didn't work and we have no data to tune from. Therefore, we'll have to wing it for tomorrow morning's session. However, based on the experience we have on this team, as well as the strength of that run, we should be fine, and at the very least, that time should be good enough to keep us in the show. This is nothing more than an inconvenience. We're in good shape."
posted by David @ 11:45 PM
Schumacher, Scelzi, KJ and Ellis Lead Pro Qualifying at the NHRA POWERade Toyo Tires NHRA Nationals
posted by David @ 11:37 PM
Thursday, September 15, 2005
The Professor Tests to Produce Results in Reading
Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
WJ & Crew Continue Learning About their GM Performance Parts GTO
Sugar Hill, Ga., September 12, 2005 - Six-time NHRA Pro Stock champion Warren Johnson is known as "The Professor" for his studious approach to Pro Stock racing. Therefore, it is fitting that as part of their preparations for this weekend's NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals in Reading, PA, Johnson and his crew will hope to test on three separate occasions as they work to determine the performance envelope of their GM Performance Parts GTO.
Less than two days after competing in Indianapolis, the familiar yellow Pontiac with the star-spangled tail, as well as son Kurt Johnson's ACDelco Cobalt, were in the General Motors wind tunnel in Michigan, as the team worked to confirm the sleek new cars' aerodynamic tendencies. After a brief stop at the team's shop in Sugar Hill, GA, they moved on to Atlanta Dragway, making as many productive runs as the untreated surface would allow. Finally, Johnson will hope to complete his pre-race efforts by squeezing one final day of testing.
"We went to the wind tunnel to compare our GM Performance Parts GTO to the Cobalt, and to confirm exactly what kind of car we had aerodynamically," explained Johnson. "After that, we went to Atlanta, hoping to make a few runs, but were limited in what we could do by a total lack of surface preparation. Therefore, we'll try to test on Wednesday in Rockingham, but a lot will depend on the hurricane that's hanging off shore.
"We know what the basic performance characteristics of this car should be, it's just a matter of getting there. We've noticed that all the GTOs tend to leave the line differently than the Grand Ams they replaced, which is what we experienced in the very beginning with our car. Unfortunately, we were thrown off slightly by a shock that was slowly deteriorating, and are finally coming back to grips with what this car needs."
Although the team is early in the learning process with their new race car, they are quite familiar with the racing surface at Maple Grove Raceway, site of this weekend's race. This will mark Johnson's 21st appearance at the venerable Pennsylvania quarter-mile, as he has appeared in every NHRA national event held there. Starting with his runner-up performance in 1985, WJ has been the most prolific Pro Stock driver in the Keystone State, with four wins in nine final round appearances. It is a record of success he looks to continue this weekend.
"At this time of year, the weather in Reading can be a Jekyll vs. Hyde situation," said Johnson. "We have seen new national records set in Pro Stock at Maple Grove when we had absolutely pristine conditions, while we've also been rained out there the last two years. It's just one of those unpredictable situations that you don't know what you have until you get there. Fortunately, the forecast is calling for good weather this weekend.
"They resurfaced this track a few years ago because they had a serious problem with a bump at about 800-900 feet, after which the surface has been pretty good. The track will certainly hold record performances, the limiting factor will be the atmospheric conditions.
"But whatever the circumstances, this GM Performance Parts team just has to race and do the best job that we can. We should certainly be able to perform at a level to win races, it's just a matter of doing it. We've been fighting a couple gremlins, and once we eliminate them, we should be in good shape."
Notes on Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts GTO Racing team entering the Toyo Tires Nationals:
WJ is a Top Runner in Reading: This will be Warren's 21st NHRA appearance at Maple Grove Raceway, where he has four wins in nine final round appearances, which is the most among Pro Stock drivers. In his 19 previous starts, WJ has complied a 43-15 elimination round record for a .741 win percentage.
The Professor Starts Strong at the 'Grove: WJ has been the No. 1 qualifier six times in Pennsylvania, with only four starts outside the top three starting positions, and a 2.95 average starting position.
No. 1 in National event wins: WJ's 95 national event victories are the most ever in the history of the Pro Stock division and place him second on the all-time NHRA win list. His most recent win came at the 2005 Mile-High Nationals in Denver, CO.
Career Best Elapsed Time: 6.679 seconds, Gainesville, FL, 3/20/05
Career best top speed: 207.50 mph, Englishtown, NJ, 6/19/05
TMG Sports Marketing
WJ & Crew Continue Learning About their GM Performance Parts GTO
Sugar Hill, Ga., September 12, 2005 - Six-time NHRA Pro Stock champion Warren Johnson is known as "The Professor" for his studious approach to Pro Stock racing. Therefore, it is fitting that as part of their preparations for this weekend's NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals in Reading, PA, Johnson and his crew will hope to test on three separate occasions as they work to determine the performance envelope of their GM Performance Parts GTO.
Less than two days after competing in Indianapolis, the familiar yellow Pontiac with the star-spangled tail, as well as son Kurt Johnson's ACDelco Cobalt, were in the General Motors wind tunnel in Michigan, as the team worked to confirm the sleek new cars' aerodynamic tendencies. After a brief stop at the team's shop in Sugar Hill, GA, they moved on to Atlanta Dragway, making as many productive runs as the untreated surface would allow. Finally, Johnson will hope to complete his pre-race efforts by squeezing one final day of testing.
"We went to the wind tunnel to compare our GM Performance Parts GTO to the Cobalt, and to confirm exactly what kind of car we had aerodynamically," explained Johnson. "After that, we went to Atlanta, hoping to make a few runs, but were limited in what we could do by a total lack of surface preparation. Therefore, we'll try to test on Wednesday in Rockingham, but a lot will depend on the hurricane that's hanging off shore.
"We know what the basic performance characteristics of this car should be, it's just a matter of getting there. We've noticed that all the GTOs tend to leave the line differently than the Grand Ams they replaced, which is what we experienced in the very beginning with our car. Unfortunately, we were thrown off slightly by a shock that was slowly deteriorating, and are finally coming back to grips with what this car needs."
Although the team is early in the learning process with their new race car, they are quite familiar with the racing surface at Maple Grove Raceway, site of this weekend's race. This will mark Johnson's 21st appearance at the venerable Pennsylvania quarter-mile, as he has appeared in every NHRA national event held there. Starting with his runner-up performance in 1985, WJ has been the most prolific Pro Stock driver in the Keystone State, with four wins in nine final round appearances. It is a record of success he looks to continue this weekend.
"At this time of year, the weather in Reading can be a Jekyll vs. Hyde situation," said Johnson. "We have seen new national records set in Pro Stock at Maple Grove when we had absolutely pristine conditions, while we've also been rained out there the last two years. It's just one of those unpredictable situations that you don't know what you have until you get there. Fortunately, the forecast is calling for good weather this weekend.
"They resurfaced this track a few years ago because they had a serious problem with a bump at about 800-900 feet, after which the surface has been pretty good. The track will certainly hold record performances, the limiting factor will be the atmospheric conditions.
"But whatever the circumstances, this GM Performance Parts team just has to race and do the best job that we can. We should certainly be able to perform at a level to win races, it's just a matter of doing it. We've been fighting a couple gremlins, and once we eliminate them, we should be in good shape."
Notes on Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts GTO Racing team entering the Toyo Tires Nationals:
WJ is a Top Runner in Reading: This will be Warren's 21st NHRA appearance at Maple Grove Raceway, where he has four wins in nine final round appearances, which is the most among Pro Stock drivers. In his 19 previous starts, WJ has complied a 43-15 elimination round record for a .741 win percentage.
The Professor Starts Strong at the 'Grove: WJ has been the No. 1 qualifier six times in Pennsylvania, with only four starts outside the top three starting positions, and a 2.95 average starting position.
No. 1 in National event wins: WJ's 95 national event victories are the most ever in the history of the Pro Stock division and place him second on the all-time NHRA win list. His most recent win came at the 2005 Mile-High Nationals in Denver, CO.
Career Best Elapsed Time: 6.679 seconds, Gainesville, FL, 3/20/05
Career best top speed: 207.50 mph, Englishtown, NJ, 6/19/05
posted by David @ 3:06 PM
KJ Looks to Make His Points in Reading
Contact:Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Cobalt crew primed to return to winning form at Toyo Tires Nationals
Sugar Hill, Ga., September 12, 2005 - As the 2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season enters its final five races, the attention has shifted to the championship races in the four professional categories. ACDelco Cobalt pilot Kurt Johnson, who has put on a tremendous surge during the mid- to late summer races, finds himself in the thick of the Pro Stock title fight, sitting in the second position entering this weekend's Toyo Tires Nationals in Reading, PA.
However, with the number of remaining races dwindling, Johnson knows he must maximize every points scoring opportunity as he looks to close in on the top spot, and this Real Car Guy arrives in Pennsylvania with a very basic game plan.
"We're going to Reading looking to win the race," stated Johnson.
“We've been working on a few things since Indianapolis, made a few runs on a questionable track in Atlanta, and, depending on the weather, will try to get in one more day of testing before heading up to Maple Grove. In any case, we’ll be ready for the first qualifying session on Friday.
"I've spent some time going over my notes, seeing where we need to be with the tune-up in our ACDelco Cobalt. With the season winding down, those POWERade points are everything. We need to be spot on in every aspect of the team, so we can start scoring more points than everyone else again.
Fortunately, this weekend the tightly-knit ACDelco crew will be racing at a track where they have done well in the past. In only ten previous starts, KJ has already amassed three wins at Maple Grove Raceway, which is second behind his father Warren Johnson for the most by a Pro Stock competitor. Entering this crucial stretch of three races on consecutive weekends, the team is determined to get off to a good start by scoring their fourth win of 2005.
"Reading is just as good as any track for us to get on another hot streak," said Johnson. "We've won there three times, but not since 2000, so I'd say our ACDelco Cobalt is due. It's a really decent surface for our Pro Stock cars to run on. The only time we have a problem is when there's dew on the track, but with the times we're scheduled to run this weekend, it shouldn't be an issue. In addition, you can hear the echo of the race cars in the trees, making Maple Grove a pretty cool place to race.
"But no matter where we are racing, we have to get our program back on track, which I'm confident we'll do this weekend. These next three races will play a significant role in deciding this year's championship. Basically, we need to close the gap and take the fight all the way to the end of the year. After all, we only need to lead by one point after Pomona, and we're looking to start moving in that direction this weekend."
Notes on Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Cobalt Racing team entering the Toyo Tires Nationals:
KJ Races Well in Reading: This will be Kurt's 13th appearance at Maple Grove Raceway, where he has three wins in 1993, 1998 & 2000, and has a 17-7 elimination round record in his ten previous starts in Pennsylvania.
One year ago: Kurt qualified sixteenth with an elapsed time of 6.757 seconds and a top speed of 203.86 mph, but fell in the first round.
Career Best Elapsed Time: 6.665 sec., Seattle, WA, 7/22/05
Career best top speed: 207.15 mph, Seattle, WA, 7/22/05
Event Schedule:
Friday, September 16 - Two qualifying sessions at 2:00 & 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 17 -Two qualifying sessions at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 18 - Pre-race ceremonies begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the first round of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
Television Schedule:
Qualifying:
Saturday, September 17 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Eliminations:
Sunday, September 18 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
NHRA2Day: Sunday, September 18 - 11:30 a.m. - 12 noon
(Please consult your local listings for exact times, as the schedule is subject to change.)
TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Cobalt crew primed to return to winning form at Toyo Tires Nationals
Sugar Hill, Ga., September 12, 2005 - As the 2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season enters its final five races, the attention has shifted to the championship races in the four professional categories. ACDelco Cobalt pilot Kurt Johnson, who has put on a tremendous surge during the mid- to late summer races, finds himself in the thick of the Pro Stock title fight, sitting in the second position entering this weekend's Toyo Tires Nationals in Reading, PA.
However, with the number of remaining races dwindling, Johnson knows he must maximize every points scoring opportunity as he looks to close in on the top spot, and this Real Car Guy arrives in Pennsylvania with a very basic game plan.
"We're going to Reading looking to win the race," stated Johnson.
“We've been working on a few things since Indianapolis, made a few runs on a questionable track in Atlanta, and, depending on the weather, will try to get in one more day of testing before heading up to Maple Grove. In any case, we’ll be ready for the first qualifying session on Friday.
"I've spent some time going over my notes, seeing where we need to be with the tune-up in our ACDelco Cobalt. With the season winding down, those POWERade points are everything. We need to be spot on in every aspect of the team, so we can start scoring more points than everyone else again.
Fortunately, this weekend the tightly-knit ACDelco crew will be racing at a track where they have done well in the past. In only ten previous starts, KJ has already amassed three wins at Maple Grove Raceway, which is second behind his father Warren Johnson for the most by a Pro Stock competitor. Entering this crucial stretch of three races on consecutive weekends, the team is determined to get off to a good start by scoring their fourth win of 2005.
"Reading is just as good as any track for us to get on another hot streak," said Johnson. "We've won there three times, but not since 2000, so I'd say our ACDelco Cobalt is due. It's a really decent surface for our Pro Stock cars to run on. The only time we have a problem is when there's dew on the track, but with the times we're scheduled to run this weekend, it shouldn't be an issue. In addition, you can hear the echo of the race cars in the trees, making Maple Grove a pretty cool place to race.
"But no matter where we are racing, we have to get our program back on track, which I'm confident we'll do this weekend. These next three races will play a significant role in deciding this year's championship. Basically, we need to close the gap and take the fight all the way to the end of the year. After all, we only need to lead by one point after Pomona, and we're looking to start moving in that direction this weekend."
Notes on Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Cobalt Racing team entering the Toyo Tires Nationals:
KJ Races Well in Reading: This will be Kurt's 13th appearance at Maple Grove Raceway, where he has three wins in 1993, 1998 & 2000, and has a 17-7 elimination round record in his ten previous starts in Pennsylvania.
One year ago: Kurt qualified sixteenth with an elapsed time of 6.757 seconds and a top speed of 203.86 mph, but fell in the first round.
Career Best Elapsed Time: 6.665 sec., Seattle, WA, 7/22/05
Career best top speed: 207.15 mph, Seattle, WA, 7/22/05
Event Schedule:
Friday, September 16 - Two qualifying sessions at 2:00 & 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 17 -Two qualifying sessions at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 18 - Pre-race ceremonies begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the first round of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
Television Schedule:
Qualifying:
Saturday, September 17 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Eliminations:
Sunday, September 18 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
NHRA2Day: Sunday, September 18 - 11:30 a.m. - 12 noon
(Please consult your local listings for exact times, as the schedule is subject to change.)
posted by David @ 2:58 PM
BAZEMORE LOOKS FOR MORE IN READING
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
Contact: Judy Stropus
READING, Pa. (Sept. 14, 2005) - Whit Bazemore is on the comeback trail after reaching the semifinals at the U.S. Nationals on Labor Day, and is looking for more at this weekend's Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway.
After three trips to the semifinals in the last five POWERade Drag Racing Series events, Bazemore continues to see progress with the Matco Tools Iron Eagle Dodge Stratus Funny Car team that struggled mid-year, as the 2005 season begins to wind down to the last five races.
"The disappointment of Indy is still there," says Bazemore, who felt he had a strong chance to reach the final round, but fell victim to an oildown in his lane prior to his semifinal run. "The exciting thing is that I feel strongly that the Matco Tools team has turned the corner and, without wanting to jinx us, we should be a stronger and more competitive team.
"We have that confidence for the rest of the season, so I'm looking forward to racing in Reading.
"Reading is a hard track," adds Bazemore, who has two runner-up finishes here (2001 and 2002) and was No. 1 qualifier in '02. "For some reason this track gives you more of a sensation of speed, and our car feels fast right now. It's not the easiest car I've ever driven. It's going to be challenging and I'm looking forward to that."
Bazemore stands seventh in the Funny Car point standings, has two season wins and one No. 1 qualifying effort.
WHIT BAZEMORE QUICK FACTS:
* Two-time U.S. Nationals champion, 1997 and 2001
* Seventh in 2005 Funny Car point standings after 18 events, 203 points out of lead, 148 points short of fifth place
* Won two events this year (Gainesville, Las Vegas), No. 1 qualifier once (Columbus)
* Qualified No. 12 at 2004 Maple Grove Nationals, lost first round to Gary Scelzi
* Runner-up here in 2001 and 2002
* No. 1 qualifier here in 2002
* Qualified in the top two in nine events in 2004, four times in No. 1
* No. 6 in 2004 Funny Car points, with two wins, five final rounds
* First Funny Car driver to break 325-mph barrier (U.S. Nationals 2001)
* Career quickest ET is 4.713 seconds, career fastest speed is 333.25 mph, both set at Route 66 Raceway in 2004 in what was at the time the quickest and fastest speed in Funny Car history
* Won three times in 2003, runner-up five times
* Has 19 career Funny Car event wins in 43 final rounds in 313 races
* Took the 2003 championship chase to penultimate race in Las Vegas in an exciting final round against eventual champion Tony Pedregon
* Was second twice in the Funny Car championship in 2001 and 2003, third in 1997 and '99 and has finished in the top five six times and 12 times in the top 10 since 1992
* Age 42, born in New York City, an avid cyclist, lives in Indianapolis with wife Michelle, a competitive amateur cyclist, and son Dashiell Aidan, born March 12, 2005 (same as Bazemore's birthday)
* 2005 is his fifth season with Don Schumacher Racing
Contact: Judy Stropus
READING, Pa. (Sept. 14, 2005) - Whit Bazemore is on the comeback trail after reaching the semifinals at the U.S. Nationals on Labor Day, and is looking for more at this weekend's Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway.
After three trips to the semifinals in the last five POWERade Drag Racing Series events, Bazemore continues to see progress with the Matco Tools Iron Eagle Dodge Stratus Funny Car team that struggled mid-year, as the 2005 season begins to wind down to the last five races.
"The disappointment of Indy is still there," says Bazemore, who felt he had a strong chance to reach the final round, but fell victim to an oildown in his lane prior to his semifinal run. "The exciting thing is that I feel strongly that the Matco Tools team has turned the corner and, without wanting to jinx us, we should be a stronger and more competitive team.
"We have that confidence for the rest of the season, so I'm looking forward to racing in Reading.
"Reading is a hard track," adds Bazemore, who has two runner-up finishes here (2001 and 2002) and was No. 1 qualifier in '02. "For some reason this track gives you more of a sensation of speed, and our car feels fast right now. It's not the easiest car I've ever driven. It's going to be challenging and I'm looking forward to that."
Bazemore stands seventh in the Funny Car point standings, has two season wins and one No. 1 qualifying effort.
WHIT BAZEMORE QUICK FACTS:
* Two-time U.S. Nationals champion, 1997 and 2001
* Seventh in 2005 Funny Car point standings after 18 events, 203 points out of lead, 148 points short of fifth place
* Won two events this year (Gainesville, Las Vegas), No. 1 qualifier once (Columbus)
* Qualified No. 12 at 2004 Maple Grove Nationals, lost first round to Gary Scelzi
* Runner-up here in 2001 and 2002
* No. 1 qualifier here in 2002
* Qualified in the top two in nine events in 2004, four times in No. 1
* No. 6 in 2004 Funny Car points, with two wins, five final rounds
* First Funny Car driver to break 325-mph barrier (U.S. Nationals 2001)
* Career quickest ET is 4.713 seconds, career fastest speed is 333.25 mph, both set at Route 66 Raceway in 2004 in what was at the time the quickest and fastest speed in Funny Car history
* Won three times in 2003, runner-up five times
* Has 19 career Funny Car event wins in 43 final rounds in 313 races
* Took the 2003 championship chase to penultimate race in Las Vegas in an exciting final round against eventual champion Tony Pedregon
* Was second twice in the Funny Car championship in 2001 and 2003, third in 1997 and '99 and has finished in the top five six times and 12 times in the top 10 since 1992
* Age 42, born in New York City, an avid cyclist, lives in Indianapolis with wife Michelle, a competitive amateur cyclist, and son Dashiell Aidan, born March 12, 2005 (same as Bazemore's birthday)
* 2005 is his fifth season with Don Schumacher Racing
posted by David @ 2:54 PM
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
2005 Old Drag Racers Reunion & Hall of Fame September 30 & October 1
Sol and Anne Stewart's 2005 Old Drag Racers Reunion & Hall of Fame is coming up soon! In about two weeks the annual event will be held at Panama City, Florida. A car show, Hall of Fame Induction, Memory Lane and more! Join in the fun at a casual, laid-back event! Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend this year because I'm having surgery Sept. 28, but I hope you can make it - you'll have a great time. This event has been growing every year and you'll get to mingle with some of drag racing's greatest stars. Don't miss it !
For more information, contact Sol Stewart at 251-246-5588 or T_Pet@Bellsouth.net .
2005 newsletter: http://community.webshots.com/album/264835355AIyHdh
2002 photos: http://georgiadragracing.com/photoalbum/ODRR2002/index.html
2002 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/2002olddragracersreunion.html
2003 photos: http://georgiadragracing.com/photoalbum/ODRR03/index.html
2003 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/em-2003-old-drag-racers.html
2004 photos: http://community.webshots.com/album/180953560FiRrFN
2004 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/old-drag-racers-2004.html
For more information, contact Sol Stewart at 251-246-5588 or T_Pet@Bellsouth.net .
2005 newsletter: http://community.webshots.com/album/264835355AIyHdh
2002 photos: http://georgiadragracing.com/photoalbum/ODRR2002/index.html
2002 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/2002olddragracersreunion.html
2003 photos: http://georgiadragracing.com/photoalbum/ODRR03/index.html
2003 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/em-2003-old-drag-racers.html
2004 photos: http://community.webshots.com/album/180953560FiRrFN
2004 article: http://www.georgiadragracing.com/articles/old-drag-racers-2004.html
posted by David @ 3:39 AM
2005 East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame & Reunion October 14-16
It's hard to believe a year has gone by, but it's almost time for Nancy Wilson's annual East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame & Reunion. This event has really grown into a BIG event! A huge car show (over 700 great classics, muscle cars, street rods, drag cars, etc.last year) on the streets of downtown Henderson, NC, entertainment and the Hall of Fame Induction ceremony will make you glad you attended! This is a must-see event. I hope to see you there!
East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame website
2004 Photos
2004 Photos #2
2004 Photos #3
2004 Article
2003 Photos
2003 Article
2002 Photos
2002 Article
East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame website
2004 Photos
2004 Photos #2
2004 Photos #3
2004 Article
2003 Photos
2003 Article
2002 Photos
2002 Article
posted by David @ 2:41 AM
Bee-On-Video Nostalgia Drag Racing Videos and DVDs
If you don't know about Jim Amos' Bee-On-Video drag racing and auto related videos and DVDs, you're missing out on a great collection! Jim has been putting these videos together for years and I think he is the best in the business. I recently viewed two more of his DVDs and as usual, they are superb. Interviews, old drag racing footage and more! I have several of Jim's videos in my collection and always look forward to new releases from Bee-On-Video. The two I recently viewed were York US 30 The Super/Sixties and York US 30 Musclecar Madness 2005. I'm not sure if the 2005 Musclecar Madness is available for purchase yet, but I'm sure it will be before long if it isn't available now. You won't be disappointed in these titles or any of the other great videos at Bee-On-Video. These videos will make a great present for any gearhead .......or yourself! Tell Jim that you heard about Bee-On-Video on GeorgiaDragRacing.com.
posted by David @ 2:19 AM
Ellis and Smith together for remainder of season as G Squared Motorsports prepares for Reading
Courtesy Jerry Battle
www.georgia-motorsports.com
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
21ST ANNUAL NHRA TOYO TIRES NATIONALS
MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY - READING, PENN.
SEPTEMBER 15-18, 2005
MOHNTON, Penn. (September 13, 2005) - Chip Ellis, who was runner-up in the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle, a special bonus race at Indy, and Matt Smith, who came within an eyelash of winning the Indy Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, will be G Squared Motorsports teammates for the three remaining Pro Stock Motorcycle events on this year’s NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series schedule.
Skull Gear and Torco Race Fuels stepped up their involvement and along with Red Line Oil will back Smith and his G Squared S&S-powered Buell for the remainder of the 2005 season, beginning at this weekend's 21st annual NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, near Reading Penn.
"We appreciate Evan Knoll, president and owner of Torco Race Fuels and Skull Gear, for stepping up and insuring that Matt Smith will have a ride through the end of the season," said George Bryce, co-owner of G Squared Motorsports. "I think that the combination of Ellis and Smith will be a hard duo to beat over the remainder of this year’s schedule.
"We look forward to sharing the data from two bikes at Reading and feel that this will put us on more even footing with the other two-bike teams. We've been dyno testing here at our shop since Indy and will have both bikes ready to go. We've learned a lot, especially with Chip's new ride that he debuted at Indy. We expect both bikes to do better at Maple Grove."
Ellis, who will ride the G Squared S&S Buell, enters the Toyo Tires Nationals, the 13th of 15 races on the season-long NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, No. 6 in the POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle point standings with 674 points, only 18 points out of the top five. Meanwhile, Smith, aboard the G2 Red line Oil/Skull Gear/Torco Race Fuels Buell, enters this event No. 12 in the point standings with 487 points.
QUALIFYING: Qualifying gets underway for both Ellis and Smith, aboard their G Squared Buells, with two Pro Stock Motorcycle sessions on Friday, scheduled for 2 and 5 p.m. Qualifying concludes with two additional sessions on Saturday, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The 16 quickest qualifiers begin their quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title on Sunday with eliminations for all classes starting at 11 a.m. Times are local Reading time - Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the 21st NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 17) from 4-6 p.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon (Sept. 18). The elimination show repeats on ESPN2 early Friday morning, Sept. 23, from 3 until 5 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 morning, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
FURNISHED BY:
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
Visit our website at http://www.g2motorsports.net/
www.georgia-motorsports.com
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
NHRA POWERADE DRAG RACING SERIES
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE: G SQUARED S&S BUELL
RIDER: CHIP ELLIS
21ST ANNUAL NHRA TOYO TIRES NATIONALS
MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY - READING, PENN.
SEPTEMBER 15-18, 2005
MOHNTON, Penn. (September 13, 2005) - Chip Ellis, who was runner-up in the Ringers Gloves Pro Bike Battle, a special bonus race at Indy, and Matt Smith, who came within an eyelash of winning the Indy Mac Tools U.S. Nationals, will be G Squared Motorsports teammates for the three remaining Pro Stock Motorcycle events on this year’s NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series schedule.
Skull Gear and Torco Race Fuels stepped up their involvement and along with Red Line Oil will back Smith and his G Squared S&S-powered Buell for the remainder of the 2005 season, beginning at this weekend's 21st annual NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, near Reading Penn.
"We appreciate Evan Knoll, president and owner of Torco Race Fuels and Skull Gear, for stepping up and insuring that Matt Smith will have a ride through the end of the season," said George Bryce, co-owner of G Squared Motorsports. "I think that the combination of Ellis and Smith will be a hard duo to beat over the remainder of this year’s schedule.
"We look forward to sharing the data from two bikes at Reading and feel that this will put us on more even footing with the other two-bike teams. We've been dyno testing here at our shop since Indy and will have both bikes ready to go. We've learned a lot, especially with Chip's new ride that he debuted at Indy. We expect both bikes to do better at Maple Grove."
Ellis, who will ride the G Squared S&S Buell, enters the Toyo Tires Nationals, the 13th of 15 races on the season-long NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, No. 6 in the POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle point standings with 674 points, only 18 points out of the top five. Meanwhile, Smith, aboard the G2 Red line Oil/Skull Gear/Torco Race Fuels Buell, enters this event No. 12 in the point standings with 487 points.
QUALIFYING: Qualifying gets underway for both Ellis and Smith, aboard their G Squared Buells, with two Pro Stock Motorcycle sessions on Friday, scheduled for 2 and 5 p.m. Qualifying concludes with two additional sessions on Saturday, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The 16 quickest qualifiers begin their quest for the Pro Stock Motorcycle title on Sunday with eliminations for all classes starting at 11 a.m. Times are local Reading time - Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime.
TELEVISION: Qualifying highlights for the 21st NHRA Toyo Tires Nationals can be seen on ESPN2 on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 17) from 4-6 p.m. ESPN2 will also air three hours of same-day television coverage of eliminations beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon (Sept. 18). The elimination show repeats on ESPN2 early Friday morning, Sept. 23, from 3 until 5 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 morning, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. Television times are Eastern Time (ET) and subject to change at anytime. Check local listings.
FURNISHED BY:
G SQUARED MOTORSPORTS
OWNERS: GEORGE BRYCE & GEORGE SMITH
Visit our website at http://www.g2motorsports.net/
posted by David @ 2:13 AM
Monday, September 12, 2005
Hayes Southeastern Mopar Meet Results
by Tim Glover
Photos
Commerce, GA - September 10) The 21st annual Hayes Southeastern Mopar Meet 2005 was enjoyed by thousands of spectators and hundreds of racers. In addition to the "Mopar versus the World", Junior Dragster, SRT and Diesel Shootout races, there were many other things to see and do on the grounds at Atlanta Dragway. Mark and Tim Hall brought their Dodge Monster Trucks, Raminator and Rammunition, and even had a monster show truck that gave spectators free rides around the car crushing course. Later in the day, they brought out Raminator and Rammunition and took turns flying in the air over the two sets of cars.
Mopar racers Gary Scelzi (NHRA Funny Car), and the Dodge Boys, Richie "The Kid" Stevens and Allen Johnson (both NHRA Pro Stock) were on site, meeting and greeting the fans, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Scelzi had his show car on display near the Mopar trailer, and was also spotted walking around the compound during the day socializing with many people, and stopping many times for pictures. Stevens and Johnson made several 6.8 second, 200 mph plus passes to thrill the crowd. Yes, that was Bob Glidden on the starting line with another of the Mopar Pro Stocks. His son, Rusty, who hasn't driven Pro Stock in seven years, was making license passes in one of the Mopar cars. He didn't mess around either, turning in a best on Saturday of 6.86 at 202 mph.
Another exhibition car that generated excitement was the Cummins Diesel powered Scheid Diesel dragster driven by Eric McBride. McBride piloted the car to several mid eight-second passes, including a best of 8.52 at 157.20 mph. As many diesels do, the dragster left a plume of black smoke in the air. The announcer added, "That black smoke don’t mean trouble, it means GO!"
The Hayes Wholesale Parts booth was located on the manufacturer's midway, which stretched down the track behind the grandstands for nearly a quarter mile. Year One also had their restoration parts booth on the midway, along with many other new and used parts sellers.
Garmon's Diesel Performance brought their chassis dyno to the track, giving free dyno pulls on a first come, first serve basis, courtesy of Hayes Dodge Chrysler Jeep.
Pritchett Tire sponsored the burnout contest, where contestants had one minute to put down all the tire smoke they possibly could. Lebron Hill was popular, with his '94 RAM 2500, but perennial winner Dianne Minette from Hiwassee, GA wound the 440 engine up to the stratosphere in her '76 Dodge Maxi Van, winning the contest again for the fourth year in a row! For her efforts, Minette was rewarded with a new set of tires from Pritchett Tire.
A huge car show was held again in the paved pit area, and a Car Corral was held in the adjacent area. One Atlanta Dragway racer, Toby Collins from Blairsville, GA, entered his '99 Avenger in both the race and the car show. Other interesting show cars on display included Ron Gibson's ’28 Dodge 4-door Street Rod, Larry Brown's '69 Dodge Xplorer Camper Van and Ken Feist's '71 Plymouth Roadrunner. The Car Corral featured cars for sale, from the rust bucket variety to cars that would have been equally at home in the car show.
Prior to the drag race's start, a Run for the Money competition was held, where the racer who ran closest to his posted dial in time would win. Andrew Wheeler put a 12.80 dial on his No Electronics '73 Challenger, and hit it close with a 12.802. (Bill Boomhower also went dead-on with a two in his '65 Belvedere, but Wheeler's better react was the tiebreaker.) Russ Glover won the Electronics portion of Run for the Money with his Team PTI / Hedman Hedders ’81 Speedcraft dragster.
Three Mopars remained in Super Pro competition at the quarterfinal round, but by the time the final was contested, only Team PTI racer Clay Fancher’s Conyers, GA based '98 Horton dragster and Joe Cheek's '65 Chevy II remained. Fancher enjoyed his best reaction time of the day, (a perfect .000 second react), and turned that into his second 2005 Atlanta Dragway win light with an off the throttle 5.35 at 127.65 mph pass. Cheek, who hails from Lavonia, GA, also had a great react, .007 seconds, but his car slowed to a 6.83 at 100.44 mph. Stan Sinack ('68 Dart – Lilburn, GA) and Bubba Rich ('02 Firebird – Gainesville, GA) were the semi-final finishers. Fancher had considered not coming today, but decided he wanted to spend some time racing with his Southern Truck Parts friends. Fancher thanked God, his wife and family, partner George Turner and also Johnny Turner, who crewed for him all day. He then thanked sponsors Fain and Mitchell Properties, and Tara Fine Jewelry.
Only one Plymouth was still in the field by the time the Sportsman quarterfinal round came around, but there was another Mopar powered vehicle, a lime green '68 Volkswagen piloted by Brian Massingale from McDonough, GA. Massingale put his eleven second combination together a little over ten years ago using a Mopar 360 crate motor, a 727 Torqueflite transmission and a Chrysler 8-3/4 inch rear end. After scoring a near perfect win in the quarters (he had a .000 react and went 11.792 on an 11.79 dial, and his quarterfinal opponent, James Rice, also had a .000 react but broke out), Massingale enjoyed a semi-final bye run. He then received a broke bye run in the final round after Robert Wilbanks' car blew a radiator hose and was unable to return for the final round. Bill Boomhower ('65 Belvedere - Walhalla, SC) finished his day as the lone semi-finalist. "I've had some good luck here. I wish I could do this at my home track," said a happy Massingale.
"This feels wonderful," stated 17-year-old Trophy Street winner Robert Wilson from Winder, GA, who won his first race on his first try. (Wilson did have a good coach and mentor, as his dad Harold Wilson competes in Sportsman class.) For the final, Wilson took on the '99 Durango driven by John Oliver, a regular at Atlanta Dragway. Oliver did cross the big end stripe first, but broke out with a 16.23 at 81.11 mph (16.25 dial). Wilson crossed the stripe .016 seconds later with a 14.98 at 91.69 mph (14.88 dial). Melanie Vineyard from Lawrenceville, GA finished her day in the semi-final round. After Wilson's mom, Stormie, saw the trophy, she commented, "You'll have to get a U-Haul to get that trophy home!"
Matt Gillen from Gainesville, GA recently turned 14, and celebrated it with a win in 13-17 Jr Dragster. Gillen had the reaction time advantage, and took full use of it, pedaling his car to an 8.10 at 77.27 mph (8.03 dial). His opponent, Scott Digby (14 - Walhalla, SC) crossed the finish line moments later with a 7.93 at 81.98 mph (7.91 target). Danielle Krause (14 - Peachtree City, GA) earned a semi-final finish. Gillen, a former two time track champion then said, "I want to thank God, Mike Gruber of Valvoline and the Hayes people for putting on a wonderful show." He then got together with 8-12 winner Joshua Sisson and 13-17 runner up Scott Digby, and all three announced they were donating their winnings to various Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
8-12 year old Jr Dragster points leader Joshua Sisson (12 years old - Gainesville, GA) pulled off the win in his class today, winning for the second race in a row. Sisson had a great .024 react, and carded a 0.02 over 8.96 at 70.79 mph for the win. Sisson's final round opponent, 10 year old Dylan Kent from Acworth, GA, was a bit off in the reaction time department and also ran off his number, running 9.01 at 71.17 mph (also 8.94 dial). Eight year old Cole Wood, a new racer, finished his day in the semi-final round. Sisson thanked his sponsors (C.L. Landscape, TRI Refrigeration, Randy Kinsey Construction, Specialty Lawn Service, Mingledorff's, Mulberry Farms and America's Finest Car Wash) his parents and Granny, Papa and Uncle John, who called after every round to keep track of his progress.
The DHRA (Diesel Hot Rod Association) Pro-Street Diesel contingent brought some fast diesel powered trucks to the track. Whigham, GA racer Philip Palmer had the quickest truck at the end of the day, putting up a 10.83, 125.36 mph pass on the winning scoreboard in the heads up, no breakout race with his '94 Dodge RAM. Kevin Meredith from Bowling Green, KY earned the runner up spot with his '01 Dodge RAM, turning in a 10.97 at 123.32 mph. Jeff Garmon ('95 RAM – McDonough, GA) and Buck Spruill ('03 Chevy – Roper, SC) were the semi-final pair.
The Diesel Shootout featured street driven diesel vehicles that were still plenty quick. Bowling Green, KY racer Earl Talley turned on the final round win light with his '03 Dodge RAM, finishing with an on-the-brakes 14.08 at 89.79 mph (13.85 target), due to a huge holeshot advantage. Randal Cobb's Canton, GA based '00 RAM was also a bit off the pace, carding a 14.26 at 95.33 mph (14.15 target). Lebron Hill ('98 RAM 3500 - Newnan, GA) and C.J. Campbell ('05 RAM – Fair Play, SC) ended their day in the semi-final round.
Kitt Hock made his trip from Hayesville, NC worthwhile with a win in the SRT class. A 13.17 at 107.61 mph in his '04 SRT-4 was good enough for the win after opponent Jerry Dobbs went red with his Hiram, GA based '96 Viper. Hobb's run was also off, 12.10 at 117.35 mph (11.80 target). Dave Garrett ('00 Viper – Alpharetta, GA) was the lone SRT semi-finalist.
Photos
Commerce, GA - September 10) The 21st annual Hayes Southeastern Mopar Meet 2005 was enjoyed by thousands of spectators and hundreds of racers. In addition to the "Mopar versus the World", Junior Dragster, SRT and Diesel Shootout races, there were many other things to see and do on the grounds at Atlanta Dragway. Mark and Tim Hall brought their Dodge Monster Trucks, Raminator and Rammunition, and even had a monster show truck that gave spectators free rides around the car crushing course. Later in the day, they brought out Raminator and Rammunition and took turns flying in the air over the two sets of cars.
Mopar racers Gary Scelzi (NHRA Funny Car), and the Dodge Boys, Richie "The Kid" Stevens and Allen Johnson (both NHRA Pro Stock) were on site, meeting and greeting the fans, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Scelzi had his show car on display near the Mopar trailer, and was also spotted walking around the compound during the day socializing with many people, and stopping many times for pictures. Stevens and Johnson made several 6.8 second, 200 mph plus passes to thrill the crowd. Yes, that was Bob Glidden on the starting line with another of the Mopar Pro Stocks. His son, Rusty, who hasn't driven Pro Stock in seven years, was making license passes in one of the Mopar cars. He didn't mess around either, turning in a best on Saturday of 6.86 at 202 mph.
Another exhibition car that generated excitement was the Cummins Diesel powered Scheid Diesel dragster driven by Eric McBride. McBride piloted the car to several mid eight-second passes, including a best of 8.52 at 157.20 mph. As many diesels do, the dragster left a plume of black smoke in the air. The announcer added, "That black smoke don’t mean trouble, it means GO!"
The Hayes Wholesale Parts booth was located on the manufacturer's midway, which stretched down the track behind the grandstands for nearly a quarter mile. Year One also had their restoration parts booth on the midway, along with many other new and used parts sellers.
Garmon's Diesel Performance brought their chassis dyno to the track, giving free dyno pulls on a first come, first serve basis, courtesy of Hayes Dodge Chrysler Jeep.
Pritchett Tire sponsored the burnout contest, where contestants had one minute to put down all the tire smoke they possibly could. Lebron Hill was popular, with his '94 RAM 2500, but perennial winner Dianne Minette from Hiwassee, GA wound the 440 engine up to the stratosphere in her '76 Dodge Maxi Van, winning the contest again for the fourth year in a row! For her efforts, Minette was rewarded with a new set of tires from Pritchett Tire.
A huge car show was held again in the paved pit area, and a Car Corral was held in the adjacent area. One Atlanta Dragway racer, Toby Collins from Blairsville, GA, entered his '99 Avenger in both the race and the car show. Other interesting show cars on display included Ron Gibson's ’28 Dodge 4-door Street Rod, Larry Brown's '69 Dodge Xplorer Camper Van and Ken Feist's '71 Plymouth Roadrunner. The Car Corral featured cars for sale, from the rust bucket variety to cars that would have been equally at home in the car show.
Prior to the drag race's start, a Run for the Money competition was held, where the racer who ran closest to his posted dial in time would win. Andrew Wheeler put a 12.80 dial on his No Electronics '73 Challenger, and hit it close with a 12.802. (Bill Boomhower also went dead-on with a two in his '65 Belvedere, but Wheeler's better react was the tiebreaker.) Russ Glover won the Electronics portion of Run for the Money with his Team PTI / Hedman Hedders ’81 Speedcraft dragster.
Three Mopars remained in Super Pro competition at the quarterfinal round, but by the time the final was contested, only Team PTI racer Clay Fancher’s Conyers, GA based '98 Horton dragster and Joe Cheek's '65 Chevy II remained. Fancher enjoyed his best reaction time of the day, (a perfect .000 second react), and turned that into his second 2005 Atlanta Dragway win light with an off the throttle 5.35 at 127.65 mph pass. Cheek, who hails from Lavonia, GA, also had a great react, .007 seconds, but his car slowed to a 6.83 at 100.44 mph. Stan Sinack ('68 Dart – Lilburn, GA) and Bubba Rich ('02 Firebird – Gainesville, GA) were the semi-final finishers. Fancher had considered not coming today, but decided he wanted to spend some time racing with his Southern Truck Parts friends. Fancher thanked God, his wife and family, partner George Turner and also Johnny Turner, who crewed for him all day. He then thanked sponsors Fain and Mitchell Properties, and Tara Fine Jewelry.
Only one Plymouth was still in the field by the time the Sportsman quarterfinal round came around, but there was another Mopar powered vehicle, a lime green '68 Volkswagen piloted by Brian Massingale from McDonough, GA. Massingale put his eleven second combination together a little over ten years ago using a Mopar 360 crate motor, a 727 Torqueflite transmission and a Chrysler 8-3/4 inch rear end. After scoring a near perfect win in the quarters (he had a .000 react and went 11.792 on an 11.79 dial, and his quarterfinal opponent, James Rice, also had a .000 react but broke out), Massingale enjoyed a semi-final bye run. He then received a broke bye run in the final round after Robert Wilbanks' car blew a radiator hose and was unable to return for the final round. Bill Boomhower ('65 Belvedere - Walhalla, SC) finished his day as the lone semi-finalist. "I've had some good luck here. I wish I could do this at my home track," said a happy Massingale.
"This feels wonderful," stated 17-year-old Trophy Street winner Robert Wilson from Winder, GA, who won his first race on his first try. (Wilson did have a good coach and mentor, as his dad Harold Wilson competes in Sportsman class.) For the final, Wilson took on the '99 Durango driven by John Oliver, a regular at Atlanta Dragway. Oliver did cross the big end stripe first, but broke out with a 16.23 at 81.11 mph (16.25 dial). Wilson crossed the stripe .016 seconds later with a 14.98 at 91.69 mph (14.88 dial). Melanie Vineyard from Lawrenceville, GA finished her day in the semi-final round. After Wilson's mom, Stormie, saw the trophy, she commented, "You'll have to get a U-Haul to get that trophy home!"
Matt Gillen from Gainesville, GA recently turned 14, and celebrated it with a win in 13-17 Jr Dragster. Gillen had the reaction time advantage, and took full use of it, pedaling his car to an 8.10 at 77.27 mph (8.03 dial). His opponent, Scott Digby (14 - Walhalla, SC) crossed the finish line moments later with a 7.93 at 81.98 mph (7.91 target). Danielle Krause (14 - Peachtree City, GA) earned a semi-final finish. Gillen, a former two time track champion then said, "I want to thank God, Mike Gruber of Valvoline and the Hayes people for putting on a wonderful show." He then got together with 8-12 winner Joshua Sisson and 13-17 runner up Scott Digby, and all three announced they were donating their winnings to various Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
8-12 year old Jr Dragster points leader Joshua Sisson (12 years old - Gainesville, GA) pulled off the win in his class today, winning for the second race in a row. Sisson had a great .024 react, and carded a 0.02 over 8.96 at 70.79 mph for the win. Sisson's final round opponent, 10 year old Dylan Kent from Acworth, GA, was a bit off in the reaction time department and also ran off his number, running 9.01 at 71.17 mph (also 8.94 dial). Eight year old Cole Wood, a new racer, finished his day in the semi-final round. Sisson thanked his sponsors (C.L. Landscape, TRI Refrigeration, Randy Kinsey Construction, Specialty Lawn Service, Mingledorff's, Mulberry Farms and America's Finest Car Wash) his parents and Granny, Papa and Uncle John, who called after every round to keep track of his progress.
The DHRA (Diesel Hot Rod Association) Pro-Street Diesel contingent brought some fast diesel powered trucks to the track. Whigham, GA racer Philip Palmer had the quickest truck at the end of the day, putting up a 10.83, 125.36 mph pass on the winning scoreboard in the heads up, no breakout race with his '94 Dodge RAM. Kevin Meredith from Bowling Green, KY earned the runner up spot with his '01 Dodge RAM, turning in a 10.97 at 123.32 mph. Jeff Garmon ('95 RAM – McDonough, GA) and Buck Spruill ('03 Chevy – Roper, SC) were the semi-final pair.
The Diesel Shootout featured street driven diesel vehicles that were still plenty quick. Bowling Green, KY racer Earl Talley turned on the final round win light with his '03 Dodge RAM, finishing with an on-the-brakes 14.08 at 89.79 mph (13.85 target), due to a huge holeshot advantage. Randal Cobb's Canton, GA based '00 RAM was also a bit off the pace, carding a 14.26 at 95.33 mph (14.15 target). Lebron Hill ('98 RAM 3500 - Newnan, GA) and C.J. Campbell ('05 RAM – Fair Play, SC) ended their day in the semi-final round.
Kitt Hock made his trip from Hayesville, NC worthwhile with a win in the SRT class. A 13.17 at 107.61 mph in his '04 SRT-4 was good enough for the win after opponent Jerry Dobbs went red with his Hiram, GA based '96 Viper. Hobb's run was also off, 12.10 at 117.35 mph (11.80 target). Dave Garrett ('00 Viper – Alpharetta, GA) was the lone SRT semi-finalist.
posted by David @ 12:47 AM
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Allen Johnson at the Hayes Southeastern Mopar Meet at Atlanta Dragway last Saturday. Photo by Fred Simmons.
posted by David @ 11:01 PM
I've posted a few Hayes Southeastern Mopar Meet photos here. Photos taken at Atlanta Dragway (Commerce, GA) September 10, 2005. I'll be adding more photos to the album over the next few days.
posted by David @ 2:51 AM
