2008 Old Drag Racers Reunion Photos

Thanks to Fred Simmons for sharing these photos from Sol and Anne Stewart's 2008 Old Drag Racers Reunion held last weekend in Panama City, Florida! Jim Cagle is standing next to his newly constructed Phil Bonner "Georgia Peach" Falcon in the bottom photo. For more of Fred's photos, click here.

National Dragster Challenge at SGMP - Marvin T. Smith Photos

Thanks to Marvin T. Smith for sending photos from last weekend's National Dragster Challenge at SGMP!
Photos Here

2008 SUPER CHEVY SHOW AT ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY

FIRST TIME AT ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY
OCTOBER 3-5, 2008

Location: AMS infield including the Sprint Cup Garage, Nationwide Garage, Media Center Lot, and the Pit-Road Drag Strip

Parking: AMS Front Parking Areas

Show Entrance: Enter through Gate 15

Gate Times: Friday = 12:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday = 8:00 a.m.

Admissions Prices: Single-Day (Friday) entry - $10
Single-Day (Sat. and Sun.) entry - $22
Weekend Pass - $32
Junior (ages 11-15) Single-Day entry – $10
Junior (ages 11-15) Weekend Pass - $15
Children ages 10 and under are admitted for free

Competitor Prices: Drag Race entry (Weekend Pass) - $60
Car Show entry (Weekend Pass) - $45
Show N’ Shine entry (non-judged car show, Weekend Pass) - $35
Swap Meet/Car Corral Space (10x20’) - $45
Burn-Out Competition Entry – No fee with any of the above entries

Attractions: The Atlanta edition of the Super Chevy Show will feature the King of the Street drag racing competition. This "old school" event will shun the use of an electronic ‘tree' for timing, but instead use hand-flagged starts for 1/8-mile racing exclusively showcasing Chevy power. In addition, the event will feature a huge GM Show N' Shine, a jet car showcase, a vendor midway and a collector car auction in the Sprint Cup garage. Potts Auction Company will hold a collector and classic car auction on Saturday, October 4 in Atlanta Motor Speedway's infield Sprint Cup garage. The event will also include a trade show, swap meet and car corral. Open drag racing participation at the Super Chevy Show is available for any GM dragster, bracket car or street car.
Camping: Available through the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 770-946-4211.
Show Info: http://www.superchevyshow.com/
AMS Media Contact: Marcy Scott

AWARDS PRESENTED TO 2008 ATLANTA DRAGWAY CHAMPIONS

by Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – September 27) The awards ceremony for the newly crowned 2008 Atlanta Dragway champions was presented at the track, immediately after the race was completed, in response to America’s current economic situation, and scarce availability of fuel. Not only was the decision considerate, but gave a pleasant, raw setting at the starting line, the moonlit track behind the table of impressive championship trophies. Each champion received one of the trophies, along with champion jackets and money prizes for the adult categories.

Jim McKelvey is “on cloud nine” with his ’08 Super Pro championship, stating boldly, “Youth and enthusiasm is no match for old age and treachery.” McKelvey, in his self-proclaimed “’96 Junk,” made it to the top without winning a single race in the 2008 season. McKelvey did the same thing exactly ten years ago, winning the ’98 Super Pro championship in a Chevelle, and perhaps being the only racer to duplicate the rare situation. Super Pro is noted for being a tough class to dominate, and the winner of the championship was not determined until the last race. The preceding points listing found itself completely rearranged, with the exception of McKelvey heading the class by ten points. Coupled with his racing, McKelvey helped work events, particularly the Junior Dragster program. “It was stressful at first…I’m a big kid at heart,” McKelvey stated while drying off from his championship cooler-dumping courtesy of the Junior Dragster racers. McKelvey thanked God, his wife and children, Scott Preves, Sid Neal, and everyone that lost to him. He also thanked Thomas Bell, who insisted on the winner-take-all handout for the Super Pro racing fund, which had raised $1800 for the Super Pro champion, after McKelvey had suggested a three-way split. “Now I’m taking it all.” McKelvey smiled widely. “I went from chump to champ just like that.” The top five in Super Pro, from greatest to least in points, are Jim McKelvey (390), Robby Brown (380), Hank Wilhelm (380), Jeremy Hancock (360), and Michael Brown (340). Former champion Stan Sinack finished the season in sixth place (310), and there was a five way tie for seventh at 320 points. They were: Lloyd Kaylor, Stacy Blanton, Brian Smith, Tracy Barnes and last of all, Thomas Bell.

Randall Roop was thrilled to receive the ’08 Pro class championship. Roop began his racing career in 1995, and won the ’98 B&M championship. After his B&M success, Roop strove to clinch a track championship, considering it a greater challenge and the next step to sealing his name as a threat in competition. A decade later, Roop took the Atlanta Dragway Pro class championship, realizing his goal after gaining an edge in his new vehicle, the ’94 Team Ford Thunder Mustang. Roop recalled struggling since his B&M triumph, until he built his car with the help of Steve Garland. Roop stayed in the top ranks of the Pro points throughout the season, making it down to five and six cars every race, consistency being the key in his achievement. Roop thanked his mom and dad, Steve Garland for all his help, and Al Baker for all his support. Roop beamed, saying, “To be in a class with [previous championship winners] Wanda Glover and Jacob Rutledge, this puts my name in history.” The top five in Pro, from greatest to least in points, are Randall Roop (480), Howard Warren (420), Chad Brewer (420), Justin Buchanan (370), Greg Allen (350). They were followed by Rob Hogue (340), Jim “Doc” Burford (320), Woody Bryant (320) Sue Wilson (300) and Eric Lewis (300).

D.A. Streber accepted his Sportsman championship trophy with absolute optimism and genuine appreciation. Known for driving “the Wingyding,” Streber has managed to do fairly well in his ’02 Hyundai, a formidable import against the dominant American makes racing in the field. Streber has been racing for 15 years, 2008 marking his first track championship and the final year in his import, as he plans on debuting a new car next season. Streber won one race during the season, but regularly fought his way through each race, accruing enough points to stand at the top. Streber proudly declared, “Atlanta Dragway is the best track in the world, with the best racers in the word,” lending credence to his top ranking. Streber thanked Fast Friday, and Year One for keeping street racing off the streets. Streber hopes to help the Atlanta Dragway team at the ’08 finals just around the corner. The top five in Sportsman, from greatest to least in points, are D.A. Streber (380), Harold Wilson (340), Scott Preves (330), Mel Abney (330), and Allen Schaffer (310).

Jay “Bird” Rhyne, who has raced 17 years, claimed the ’08 Motorcycle championship, his fifth track championship. Notably, over the years the Motorcycle competition has grown at Atlanta Dragway, increasing the challenge and gratification of obtaining the final victory. Rhyne began the last race 50 points ahead of the next contender in line, going out in the third round against Michael Wilson. Rhyne conceded, “This year was the hardest one yet. I made it as far as I needed to.” Halfway through the season, Rhyne brought in a new bike with a stunning paint job (he also won the ‘Best Looking Motorcycle’ award), advancing to the win spot more consistently, after a quiet spell following the first win of the season. He came to the track with his race face on, though heavily emphasized his friendship with the other Motorcycle participants. Rhyne thanked fellow racer Tim Sutton and his wife Jennifer. “We’re all buddies… it’s just all fun. That’s what it’s all about.” Rhyne plans on racing, “as long as I can walk and I’ve got the money for it.” Rhyne stressed that, “You can never master this sport. I’m just reaping the rewards of experience.” The top five in Motorcycle, from greatest to least in points, are Jay Rhyne (380), Tim Sutton (320), Jeff Shropshire (320), Steve Winn (240), and Howard Bowman (220).

Additional awards were given for the four main classes. Along with Rhyne’s “Best Looking Motorcycle” award, J.D. Burford won “Best Looking Sportsman Car,” Bill Boomhower won “Best Looking Pro Car,” and Travis Bryant won “Best Looking Super Pro Car.” Robby Brown was named “Most Improved Driver,” and Gerald Aldridge won “Most Inspirational Driver.” Jim Onda won the “Sportsmanship Award,” and Mike Savage won the “Employee of the Year” title.

The Junior Dragster awards ceremony preceded the race day “big car” eliminations, giving each non-ranking participant a ribbon, and trophies for the top ten in the 8-12 and 13-17 categories. Along with championship trophies, the champions will receive championship jackets. The ceremony was a warm one, surrounded by the racers’ parents, showing the program to be a very family-oriented series.

Mackenzie Butler took hold of the 8-9 Junior Dragster championship, placing first in her age category and second in the expanded 8-12 Junior Dragster category. Butler began racing after she saw her friend racing, and Butler’s dad asked if she was interested in starting the hobby up. With a yes, Butler began, never expecting her big improvement in the ’08 season. Butler thanked God and Jesus for letting the events happen, her dad (and crew chief) for all his hard work, her sponsors, and Havoline Express Lube, along with everyone who supported her.

Wesley Mayfield made a big finish as the 10-12 champion in Junior Dragsters, winning the final race as well as assuring his championship despite a close run in points. Mayfield has been racing since the age of eight, and in four years has acquired four championships (also winning championships at other race tracks). Mayfield thanked his dad and mom, Whaley Motorsports, and Motivational Tubing. Mayfield has truly established his quality as a racer, after winning five races this season, giving the 13-17 category something to think about as his entry in the older league draws near. The top five in 8-12 Junior Dragsters, from greatest to least in points, are Wesley Mayfield (360), Mackenzie Butler (310), Cole Wood (300), Brittney Hellemn (300), and Chris Bowden (270).

Chase Mullinax won the 13-17 Junior Dragster championship with a total of 310 points, holding his place by a twenty point lead. He was “very excited” to win his first track championship, after struggling with blowing up three motors earlier in the year. “It’s been fun, and different. There are a lot of new people.” Mullinax won twice, and finished second once in the ’08 season. He thanked his parents, God, everyone that puts on the races, and Bill and Matt Gillen for help with his motor and clutch. After four years of junior dragster competition, Mullinax plans on entering the Super Pro category, while additionally running his junior dragster one more year. The top five in 13-17 Junior Dragsters, from greatest to least in points, are Chase Mullinax (310), Kelsey Lynn (290), Dylan Hutchins (290), Brett Bowman (280), Jackie Lastinger (270).

Additional awards were given to the junior racers. “Most Improved Junior Dragster racer” went to Brittney Hellemn (fourth in 8-12 points), and the “Junior Dragster Sportsmanship” award went to Jordan Thurmond. The “Best Looking Junior Dragster” award went to 13-17 champion Chase Mullinax, and the “Parent of the Year” award went to Chase’s mother, Karen Mullinax.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2008 events may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

2008 SEASON AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY WRAPS UP

by Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – September 27) Tonight’s race was the last Summit ET Series event of the season, beginning with no certain track champions; points leaders had to defend their territory against competitors hungry for a chance at a pack leader. The night featured a full set of the regular categories, and also included an awards ceremony for accomplished racers this season.

The Super Pro class had a first-time winner tonight, with Michael Brown taking over by his winning dial-in-time. Brown, from Covington, GA, launched his ’96 Horton with a .127 reaction time, crossing the win stripe at 125.06 mph with a 5.22 on a 5.20 second prediction. His run fared better than his opponent, Joshua Cohen (Lawrenceville, GA), who’s ’77 Camaro took off with a .114 reaction time, and ran three-tenths of a second over his 6.69 dial-in (6.99) at 95.56 mph, giving Brown the advantage of the run. Brown was proud to win in the difficult category, calling his night “extraordinary,” after racing five years in his dragster, and stated, “This track’s got the best races out of any I go to.” Brown brought the whole family along, racing alongside his dad, brother, and uncle. He thanked his dad, his wife Wendy, his kids, Uncle Floyd, and anyone else that supported his racing. With no problems all day, Brown hopes to “pick up where we left off, next time we’re racing.” Lloyd Kaylor (’87 Regal – Winder, GA) finished in the semis along with Jeremy Hancock (’05 M&M Dragster – Commerce, GA), who shot up in the points from sixth place to fourth in the season’s overall ranking.

The Pro category ended its season on an exciting note, with the ’08 Pro Champion Randall Roop (’94 Mustang – Canton, GA) pitted against Howard Warren (’72 Maverick – Douglasville, GA) in the final round. The run was tight, as Warren began with a .037 reaction time, and Roop followed with a .039 light. Roop finished his run at 6.45 seconds on his 6.43 guess, at 107.06 mph, leaving just enough space for Warren to activate the win light. Warren ran dead-on at 7.09, just .003 of a second from a near-perfect run. Though taking out the Pro champ, and also the Hayes Bracket Bounty on Roop (who won last weekend’s event), Warren insisted, “I was just racing for the money today. It was my last chance to win, and I had to go for it.” He also reflected, “It was a good year – lots of fun, with a tight end.” Warren thanked his wife “for putting up with my racing habit,” his boss, and G&T Napa at Carrollton “for good racing deals.” Together with points leaders Randall Roop and Howard Warren, third place (at a tie with Warren) Pro racer Chad Brewer (’67 Camaro – Canton, GA) finished third in tonight’s race.

Marietta’s Mike Newby (who is only a “Newby” by name!) won the Sportsman category in his immaculate ’69 Chevelle. His opponent and fellow Marietta resident, Russell Haskins (’08 Ford F-250), red-lit, automatically flashing Newby’s win light before the cars could cross the final beams. Russell Haskins also took the Hayes Bracket Bounty after beating Matt Wilhelm in a previous round. Scott Reynolds, from Cartersville, GA, ended in third place in his ’05 Chevy Truck.

After missing some races this season, Michael Wilson, out of Tallapoosa, GA, overtook the Motorcycle class. He eliminated the ’08 Motorcycle champion Jay “Bird” Rhyne in the quarter-finals, acquiring the Hayes Bracket Bounty on Rhyne. In the following round, he beat his brother, Brian Wilson, who placed in the top ten in the Motorcycle points. Wilson won the double-breakout final against Jeff Shropshire, cutting the better light of .011 on his ’94 Suzuki Katana, against Shropshire’s .034 reaction time. Shropshire (Dallas, GA) ran a 6.08 on a 6.15 forecast on his ’08 ZX-14, at 108.68 mph, while Wilson ran much closer, with a 5.26 second run on his 5.29 guess, at 129.08 mph. Wilson has been competing since he was 15, in the junior dragster category, and has run in the bike category for five years. Wilson established himself when he won the 2002 NHRA Division Two ET Finals, and has kept up racing as a family affair, with his mom, dad and brothers all racers. Wilson thanked his wife, mom, and dad. Wilson’s brother Brian Wilson (’82 Suzuki – Tallapoosa, GA) finished in the semi-finals, along with Ed Mazzolini (’83 GS1100 Suzuki – Cumming, GA).

Wesley Mayfield (12 – Gainesville, GA), who won the ’08 8-12 Junior Dragster championship, also won the final race of the season, securing his points lead with a well-deserved victory. Mayfield won with a .046 reaction time, and an 8.96 run on his 8.94 dial-in, at 66.98 mph. His challenger, Alex Krause (10 – Peachtree City, GA), lost with a .089 light, running a looser package of 9.02 on an 8.99, at 73.64 mph. Cole Wood (11 – Jefferson, GA) and Shelby Nelson (10 – Ft. Payne, AL) ended their day in the semi-finals.

Bailey Denton (14 – McDonough, GA) won the 13-17 Junior Dragster category, rocketing through the ranks into the top ten. The girls of the class governed the top spots, with Kelsey Lynn (14 – Marietta, GA – ranking second place in points) as the runner-up, and Brittany Vancica (15 – Lawrenceville, GA) the semi-finalist. Bailey was “pretty excited” to make it so far in the final race, and thanked her dad Rusty, her brother Kyle, “Mister” Bill Gillen, and her grandpa Tommy Thrasher.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2008 events may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/ .

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SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Michael Brown ’96 Horton Covington, GA 5.22 125.06 (5.20)
R/U: Joshua Cohen ’77 Camaro Lawrenceville, GA 6.99 95.56 (6.69)
Semi: Lloyd Kaylor ’87 Regal Winder, GA
Semi: Jeremy Hancock ’05 M&M Dragster Commerce, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Howard Warren ’72 Maverick Douglasville, GA 7.09 93.93 (7.09)
R/U: Randall Roop ’94 Mustang Canton, GA 6.45 107.06 (6.43)
Semi: Chad Brewer ’67 Camaro Canton, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Mike Newby ’69 Chevelle Marietta, GA 8.57 80.84 (8.64)
R/U: Russell Haskins ’08 F-250 Marietta, GA 8.92 77.29 (8.98) (foul)
Semi: Scott Reynolds ’05 Chevy Truck Cartersville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Michael Wilson ’94 Suzuki Katana Tallapoosa, GA 5.26 129.08 (5.29)
R/U: Jeff Shropshire ’08 ZX-14 Dallas, GA 6.08 108.68 (6.15)
Semi: Brian Wilson ’82 Suzuki Tallapoosa, GA
Semi: Ed Mazzolini ’83 GS1100 Suzuki Cumming, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Wesley Mayfield 11 Gainesville, GA 8.96 66.98 (8.94)
R/U: Alex Krause 10 Peachtree City, GA 9.02 73.64 (8.99)
Semi: Cole Wood 11 Jefferson, GA
Semi: Shelby Nelson 10 Ft. Payne, AL
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13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Bailey Denton 14 McDonough, GA 8.04 82.49 (8.02)
R/U: Kelsey Lynn 14 Marietta, GA 7.94 82.96 (7.95)
Semi: Brittany Vancica 15 Lawrenceville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————

Heads-Up and Summit Bracket Series combined at South Georgia Motorsports Park

Cecil, Ga. September 20-21

by Marvin T. Smith
Photos

It was a big weekend of racing at South Georgia Motorsports Park as the two day Summit Bracket series event was combined with the monthly Heads Up Havoc series on Saturday.

The Saturday Summit Series bracket race was run first. Scott Bishop won Super Pro with a R/T of .012 and a 6.500 on his 6.49 dial when his opponent broke out. Lisa Walker took the Pro division over frequent winner Kenny Bevins when Bevins went red. Lisa ran a great 7.471 on her 7.47 dial and had a reaction time of .020 that would have been hard to beat. Brian Moore beat Gaines Hickman in Sportsman by running a perfect 8.350 on his 8.35 dial. In Advanced Junior Dragster, Sam Slater beat Cory Cox, and in Intermediate Jr. Dragster, A. J. Williams beat Chris Bowman in the finals when Bowman fouled.

Following the completion of the Summit Series race, the Heads Up Havoc series event was run. In the King of the Strip (Quick 8) class for Pro Modifieds and Top Sportsman, Erwin Rackley was number one qualifier at 4.23 @169mph. Fifteen cars vied for the eight spots, and the bump spot was Lance Styck at 4.455. In the finals, Rackley beat number two qualifier Clarence Cloud with a great light. Rackley’s .018 light beat Cloud’s .107 and his 4.301 held off Cloud’s low elapsed time of the event 4.223. Ralph Edelen and Jimmy Sandefur lost in the semi-finals.

Only five cars attempted to qualify for the Outlaw Drag Radial race. Last month’s winner Will Stevenson continued to dominate the class. He qualified number one with a 4.846 at 151 mph, and ran a better 4.831 in the final to beat Ali Belford who slowed to an 8.37 after qualifying number two with a fine 4.944.

The 6.0 Index class was won by James Williams over Allan Padgett. Williams better R/T gave him the holeshot win 6.03 to 6.01.

Brandon Wood won the 7.0 Index class over Kelly King who fouled. Brandon would have broken out with his 6.96 if King had not fouled. King ran a fine 7.01 in his losing effort.

In the Open Comp bracket, Bill Jones beat Gerald Sessions in the final round.

On Sunday, the Summit Series returned for their season finale. Past series champ Carey “Crow” Locke won Super Pro when Larry McDuffie broke. Dyno Don Temples beat Robert Weeks in a double breakout thriller to take the Pro win. Joe Tillman beat a fouling Beau Gay for the Sportsman crown. Advanced Junior Dragster went to Jud Nichols over April Spell. The reaction times were nearly equal, but Nichols’ 7.904 on his 7.90 dial beat Spell’s 7.995 on her 7.98 dial. Eric Bowman won Intermediate Junior Dragster beating Matt Cook in the final round when Cook fouled.

With the season’s long series of points events completed, the Summit Series track champions for 2008 are: Super Pro ­- Kevin Powers, Pro - Roger Kelly, Sportsman – Kenny Bevins, Jr., Advanced Junior Dragster – Cory Cox, and Intermediate Junior Dragster Drew Hostetter who narrowly beat Jordan Arnold by only eight points. Congratulations to a fine bunch of racers!

TWO RACERS PULL INTO POINTS LEAD BY WINNING THEIR CLASS AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

RACE DATE: September 21, 2008
EVENT: Summit ET Series event at Atlanta Dragway in 2008
By: Amy and Tim Glover

(Commerce, GA – September 21) The points season is winding down, pressuring racers to give their all in the competition. In addition to the Summit ET Series event (excluding Junior Dragster participation), fans were treated to the 20th annual NMCA race, featuring 11 different muscle car classes along with exhibition passes by Elaine Larsen in her Embry Riddle Jet Dragster. Despite a slew of obstructions, including two oil downs and some light sprinkling, the occasion wrapped up close to schedule. Randall Roop (Pro) and Jay Rhyne (Motorcycle) pulled into the Summit points lead with their wins tonight.

Fans were wowed by Elaine Larsen, who was either at her trailer signing autographs, or on the track talking to the fans from the cockpit of her Embry Riddle Jet Dragster via the public address system. She then made her fire show even more exciting by doing it to the beat of the song “We Will Rock You.” Spectators also enjoyed a muscle car show at the end of the vendor midway. The Power Mall featured many different hardware vendors including Harland Sharp rockers, TRZ Motorsports and Mahle Pistons. Nitto Tires had a huge exhibit, with all types of performance tires on display, some mentionables such as drifting tires, 14 inch wide Viper tires, off-road truck tires, and most importantly, many sizes of drag radials for the racers.

Congratulations to last week’s Summit Sportsman winner, Jim “Doc” Burford, who won the NMCA True Street 13 second class Saturday. Burford won the class with a 13.029 second average ET, calculated over three passes.

Phil Owens (Lithia Springs, GA) took over the Super Pro finals tonight, keeping his ’05 M&M dragster steady against Brian Smith (Flowery Branch, GA), whose ’04 Undercover dragster’s reaction time was .003 seconds too soon, giving Owens the win light at the starting line. Owens called it “lucky,” but one can wonder at his last win, taking place in September 2007 – making September his power month. A racing veteran of 42 years behind the wheel, Phil has come less often due to the recent rise in oil prices. Owens thanked his wife Donna, for helping him out. Robby Brown of Winder, GA, finished third in his ’98 S-10.

The Pro class gave a tight run in the finals, pitting Mustang owners Randall Roop (Canton, GA) and Eric Lewis (Cleveland, GA) against each other. Lewis beat Roop on the tree with a .039 reaction time in his ’82 model, Roop launching his ’94 model with a .041, but the top end determined the victor after Lewis broke out by going .004 of a second faster than his prediction of 6.78 seconds. Roop also broke out, but only by .003 of a second quicker than his 6.40 dial-in. Roop, of Team Ford Thunder, thanked his mom and dad, “for putting up with all this, and letting me be a little boy.” Roop noted he had a back-up car, just in case his primary car would fail, but local gas stations lacking gasoline at the pump prevented him from bringing it. He also thanked Steve Garland, who has done a lot for him, including aiding Roop in fixing his car’s overheating problem, which was keeping Roop out of success’s reach in previous races. Roop ended his evening proudly, pulling through to the number one spot in Pro points, with one race left to defend his position. Paul Smith, Jr. ended in third place with his ’98 Corvette (which won the Pinks All Out event earlier in the season).

Sportsman class featured a first time winner; Matt Wilhelm, brother of last weekend’s Super Pro winner, Hank Wilhelm. The Commerce, GA native took control in his ’98 Chevy Truck, running dead-on his 11.19 dial-in time, with a .059 green light. Wilhelm’s opposition, Cumming resident Mel Abney, overshot the run, after running 8.35 on his 8.31 seconds prediction in his ’67 Camaro. Wilhelm made a big impression on the class, winning his first race after moving from a year of junior dragsters to the “big cars.” Wilhelm thanked his brother Hank for teaching him how to race the finish line. He also thanked his dad Marty, Jacob Stats, Johnny Brown, Jeremy Hancock, and Robby Brown. Wilhelm has only been racing a few weeks, having gotten his license just four weeks ago, and plans to move on to a dragster in next year’s lineup. Jeff Wagner (’71 Duster – Winder, GA) and David Robinson (’90 Mustang – Gray Court, SC) went out in the semi-final round.

Motorcyclist Jay “Bird” Rhyne secured a solid lead in the Motorcycle points, making a comeback from a succession of defeats after winning the first two points races of the year. Rhyne (Athens, GA) ran a tighter package on his ’82 Suzuki, crossing the win stripe with a 6.37 on a 6.24 dial-in, after his .129 light. His opponent, Mario Johnson (Athens, GA), raced a much looser run in his ’04 Hayabusa, with 7.11 seconds on his 6.78 guess. Rhyne thanked Winner Circle Motorsports, and Cycle World. He performed a victory dance for getting back in the groove, but finished on a serious note. “I’ll come next weekend with my gear, and my race face on.” Steve Winn (’92 Suzuki – Winterville, GA) left in third place.


Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2008 events may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com.

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Phil Owens ’05 M&M Dragster Lithia Springs, GA 4.74 139.41 (4.65)
R/U: Brian Smith ’04 Undercover Flowery Branch, GA 5.16 133.08 (5.19) (foul)
Semi: Robby Brown ’98 S-10 Winder, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Randall Roop ’94 Mustang Canton, GA 6.39 107.31 (6.40)
R/U: Eric Lewis ’82 Mustang Cleveland, GA 6.77 101.72 (6.78)
Semi: Paul Smith, Jr. ’98 Corvette Alpharetta, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Matt Wilhelm ’98 Chevy Commerce, GA 11.19 62.67 (11.19)
R/U: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 8.35 83.24 (8.31)
Semi: Jeff Wagner ’71 Duster Winder, GA
Semi: David Robinson ’90 Mustang Gray Court, SC
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’82 Suzuki Athens, GA 6.37 100.57 (6.24)
R/U: Mario Johnson ’04 Hayabusa Athens, GA 7.11 110.45 (6.78)
Semi: Steve Winn ’92 Suzuki Winterville, GA
PRO STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Vinny Budano ’68 Camaro Hicksville, NY 6.35 221.38
R/U: Chris Rini ’07 Stratus Carmel, NY 6.47 214.59
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SUPER STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Spiro Pappas ’69 Camaro Glenview, IL 6.85 206.23
R/U: Tony Nesbitt ’02 Corvette Lombard, IL 7.01 201.82
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NOSTALGIA PRO STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Kevin Parent ’69 Nova Rochtester Hills, MI 7.57 183.12
R/U: David Beeson ’74 Camaro Baton Rouge, LA 7.67 175.62
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XTREME STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Bill Trovato ’78 Olds Starfire Rochester, NY 8.03 170.97
R/U: Cameron Coble ’04 Mustang Lewisburg, TN 17.13 47.63
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PRO STOCK CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Andy Schmidt ’85 Mustang Highland, IN 8.62 157.72
R/U: Michael DeMayo ’95 Mustang West Sunbury, PA 8.62 156.35
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STREET RACE CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: John Macaluso ’93 Mustang Port St. Lucie, FL 8.78 156.32
R/U: Tim Hendricks ’94 Pontiac Sterling, IL 9.37 150.48
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NOSTALGIA SUPER STOCK CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: TD Holland ’68 AMX Huntington, TN 10.58 122.77
R/U: Mark Artis ’63 Galaxie Frisco, TX 9.99 137.06


NOSTALGIA MUSCLE CAR CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Jim Barr ’69 GTO Naples, FL 10.06 120.68
R/U: Keith Seymore ’74 Chevelle Troy, MI 10.52 125.86
———————————————————————————————————————————————
OPEN COMP CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Susan McClenaghan ’01 Mustang Livonia, MI 10.71 124.81
R/U: Jamie Rickman ’79 Mustang Hornsby, TN 9.09 152.71
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MEAN STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Jeff Swanson ’88 Mustang Arlington, TN 10.09 132.19
R/U: Don Baskin ’67 Chev II Covington, TN 12.08 89.62
———————————————————————————————————————————————
LATE-MODEL EFI CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: John McPartlin ’98 Trans Am Frankfort, IL 12.01 97.24
R/U: Doug Winters ’99 Camaro Washington, MI 14.05 100.05

Randy Payne in Hospital

Please keep Randy Payne (and his family) in your prayers. He is currently in intensive care (hospital in Gadsen, Alabama) with some serious health issues. Get well, Biggg!

Bogan Renfroe's Willys in November Hot Rod Magazine!

Check out the November 2008 issue of Hot Rod Magazine for an early look at Drag Racing Hall of Famer Bogan Renfroe's (GeorgiaDragRacing.com's top sponsor) Willys project. The soon to be street driven car will have all sorts of great features! Bogan is not forgetting his drag racing roots as the Willys will be painted candy apple red with "Cat Skinner" ghosted into the paint! Check out HOT ROD's Roddin' at Random PROJECT GARAGE section for more details and a couple of photos of the unfinished car.

Southern Nostalgia Festival and Night of Fire October 24-26, 2008 at SGMP

by Marvin T. Smith

South Georgia Motorsports Park presents the Southern Nostalgia Festival and Night of Fire October 24-26. This incredible event combines nostalgia drag racing, Vintage Thunder nostalgia circle track racing, a Saturday evening cackle event, a car and bike show with over 40 classes, and a swap meet into one fantastic weekend of family fun. Special guests for the event include Funny Car World Champion Shirl Greer with his restored funny car and NASCAR winternationals competition eliminator Bunky Bobo with his National Hot Rod Reunion memory lane award-winning Hemi Hurricane Willys. See Denny Fenstermakers’ restored Roger Gates California Top Fuel Dragster from the 60s. Bring the kids out for the Saturday Halloween costume contest, Halloween trailer decorating contest, and to meet Scooby Do. See front-engined dragsters, funny cars, altereds, and gassers battle on the drag strip, while vintage cars battle on the circle track. There will be a jet car and wheelstander exhibition.

Drag race classes include Top Fuel/Open Fuel ($3000 to winner), Funny Car (contact Wade Rich to participate), Super Eliminator ($2000 winner), Nostalgia Comp ($1000 winner) Gassers ($1000 winner), Nostalgia Open Comp ($1000 winner), Hot Rod Pro Eliminator 9.10 and faster 1/8 mile bracket ($800 winner), Street Rod Eliminator Bracket race 8.20 and slower ($500 winner), and Flat Head/Inline Eliminator ($500 winner). Full purse structure, schedule, and rules are posted at RaceSGMP.com. Funny Cars and exhibition cars should contact Wade Rich at (386) 209-4213 to enter.

This will be the biggest nostalgia race in the Deep South. BE THERE.

EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME NEWS

.....EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME.....

No matter what your preference in vehicles is, be it classic hot rods, muscle cars, nostalgia drag machines, or restored antiques, Henderson, NC is the place to be during the weekend of October 17, 18, 19, 2008. Hosted by the Vance Country Tourism Board and under the guidance of Director/Promoter Nancy Wilson, this event now in its seventh year has grown in size and stature to become one of the east coast’s premier attractions for the performance enthusiast. It’s a three day gathering that will draw an estimated 1,700 entries, some for Show & Shine and others from drag racings Golden Years, the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. It turns the main avenue and surrounding side streets of downtown Henderson into a giant pedestrian mall as one vehicle after another stands proud for all to see.

Several cars will be returning from years past including the Pacers, S & S Team, King Kong Anglia, Jerry Baltes AA/FD, Bob Glidden’s ‘78 Ford (undefeated car), and the Tin Indian just to name a few. But that’s not all. Appearing for the first time will be Bill Jenkins Monza, Billy Lynch’s new AA/Fuel dragster, Dave Koffel’s ‘68 AXS Barracuda (won US Nationals ) as well as his 1948 Packard gasser, Johnny Rocca’s “Iron Horse” Mercury, Fermier Brothers record holding ‘62 Ford Galaxie (original restored) , Kenny Warren’s ’70 Challenger funny car along with driver Tom “Smoker” Smith, Bob Thomas’s “Strip Teaser” Ford Fairlane (fully restored), and K.S. Pitman’s 1933 AA/GS Willy’s (recreated by Rocky Pirrone, it has doors and other parts from the original car built in 1966).

In addition, the East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame pays tribute to those pioneers who helped
make drag racing the great form of motorsports it is today. This years inductees include Dan Weis, Dave Koffel, David Frye, Ewing Brothers (Ken, Gary, Wayne), Harry Coombs, Herman Lewis, Joe Gerdleman, Johnny Rocca, Mark Pressley, Pacers Team (George Snizek, Charlie “Dodge” Hagenmeyer, Otto Qualliotine, Ken “KB” Braun), Tommy Grove, Wally Bell, Distinguished Achievement Award in Drag Racing: Arnie Beswick, Posthumous Awards: Ron Lyles and Dick Swecker, Ronnie Sox Memorial Award: Herb McCandless, Thomas Woody Andrews Memorial Award: Bobby Starr, Wally Parks Motorsports Statesman Memorial Award: Robert “Bones” Balogh and Ed Iskenderian.

It’s a busy three days with opportunity to meet legendary drag racers like Hubert Platt, Phil Bonner, Pee Wee Wallace, Tommy Grove, Bunky Bobo, Tom Raley, Jim & Allison Lee,
Huston Platt, Sam Carroll, and other quarter-mile veterans who will be attending and check out the Show & Shine entries to see what has made their street rods, muscle cars, and restored antiques unique.

For additional information call Vance County Tourism at (866) 438-4565 ext. 21(toll free) / (252) 436-2222 (local) or visit http://www.kerrlake-nc.com/ and http://www.eastcoastdragtimeshalloffame.com/

Despite its Unusual Ending, KJ’s Runner-Up Finish in Concord Propels Him to the Points Lead

Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing

Event: Inaugural Carolina NHRA Nationals
Day/Date: Sunday, September 14, 2008
Location: zMAX Dragway, Concord, NC

For the first three rounds of Sunday’s final eliminations of the inaugural Carolina Nationals, in Concord, NC Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Cobalt Racing team seemed poised to score their fourth win of the season. Starting from the No. 1 position, Johnson opened his competitive effort at zMAX Dragway with a solid 6.701-second, 207.43 mph to defeat newcomer Vinnie Deceglie.

The next step was a crucial second-round encounter with archrival Greg Anderson, who had entered the weekend as the Pro Stock points leader. Once again, Johnson proved up to the challenge, using an almost perfect .003 reaction time to gain the advantage by three hundredths of a second and never looked back, with his 6.694-second, 207.34 mph pass outdistancing Anderson’s 6.708-second effort. Defeating veteran V. Gaines in the semifinals with the quickest pass of the day at 6.688-seconds sent Johnson to the 72nd final round of his career, and fifth of the 2008 season.

The last obstacle between KJ and his 40th career national event win was a final round match-up between quasi-teammates, as he would face Justin Humphreys, who had switched to using Johnson motors for this event.

Unfortunately, when the time came, KJ was unable to start his car for the final. After quickly attempting to repair the problem, the crew resorted to pushing the car, and, much to the delight of the capacity crowd, they were able to fire the engine and roll to the line. Even so, Kurt was unable to race, as push-starting is not allowed under the NHRA rules. This allowed Humphreys to run uncontested for his first national event win. Despite the disappointment, Johnson took some solace in that another strong showing had propelled him into the championship points lead.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever had something like that happen. I hit the ignition switch to get the starter spinning, and the engine must have tried to fire right away, because it kicked back and chipped a tooth on the starter drive gear. We took it apart once we got back to the pits and found that a sliver the size of a penny nail had jammed in the armature cost us a chance at winning the race, twenty championship points, and a little bit of money.

“It’s good to have a Johnson motor in the winner’s circle – I only wish it had been the one in my car. I’m happy for Justin and his crew, and congratulate him on his first win – I just would have liked to give him a run for his money.

“Despite how things ended up, I prefer to look at it on the positive side. It could have happened earlier in the day, I could have gone red in the second round instead of that .003, or it could have been someone else in the other lane. There are a lot of things that could have gone wrong, but we made to the final, our ACDelco Cobalt ran flawlessly and we leave here with the points lead.

“Still, losing a race that way only serves to motivate me even more. I’m as hot as the headers after a run. We’ll put today behind us and move on, determined to complete the picture next week in Dallas.”

Points Standings (as of 9/14/08)

1. Kurt Johnson - 2158
2. Greg Anderson - 2143
3. Jeg Coughlin - 2127
4. Jason Line - 2093
5. V. Gaines - 2071

HANK WILHELM TAKES THRONE IN KING OF THE TRACK EVENT

RACE DATE: September 13, 2008
FROM: Amy Glover
EVENT: Summit event at Atlanta Dragway in 2008

(Commerce, GA – September 13) As the racing season nears its end, Atlanta Dragway competitors are just getting started in defending their points standings, relentless in pursuing their mutual passion. Beautiful weather coupled with no delays kept the racers moving, leaving little time to breathe between rounds. Along with the regular winnings, tonight’s race provided a unique opportunity for racers to strut their stuff, with the King of the Track honor. The winner from the four adult classes; Motorcycle, Sportsman, Pro, and Super Pro competed to achieve the tightest package; which meant the closest dial-in time coupled with the quickest reaction time would secure the title, along with a Wally. The scoreboards were darkened, leaving no man to know who would take the throne until the suspenseful announcement – Rob Hogue’s ’68 Camaro broke out by just eight thousandths of a second, Jeff Shropshire’s ’08 ZX14 overshot his dial-in, and J.D. Burford’s Corvette lost the heat of overlapping rounds, pulling an 8.61 on an 8.58 dial. This left the title to Hank Wilhelm, who cut a .044 light, and ran a 5.17 second lap on the 5.15 dial-in time, leaving him with the crown winning .065 package.

Hank Wilhelm’s Super Pro performance lent him a great advantage in the Summit points, thanks to his all-day consistency using a 5.15 dial-in, a considerably difficult thing to achieve in the testy world of racing engines. The final round in Super Pro was all about sticking to the prediction, something Wilhelm (Commerce, GA) managed in his ’96 Ed Quay Dragster by running a 5.16 on his 5.15 dial, with a .025 light. This proved to be a tighter package against Lloyd Kaylor (Winder, GA), whose ’87 Regal left the line with an impressive .002 light, but trailed across the stripe with a 7.60 on his 7.56 dial. Wilhelm then proceeded to conquer the King of the Track contest, obtaining his second Wally, his first being won in an event just one year before. Hank’s new reign was received with a number of goodies, including an Aerospace Components, Inc. t-shirt, a $100 Aerospace Components Inc. gift certificate, winner stickers, a King of the Track Hat, and last but not least, the coveted Wally, all atop his Super Pro prize money. Hank was surrounded be cheering family and friends, yet his gratitude went to an opponent, thanking fellow racer Thomas Bell for betting $100 against Wilhelm’s father that Hank would lose in the finals. This leaves the question of whether the appreciation was for an extra $100 or a helpful jinx. Joshua Cohen (’77 Camaro – Lawrenceville, GA) and Jesse Young (’00 Undercover Dragster) ended their night in the semi-final round.

The Pro finals were dominated by Rob Hogue, whose consistency and quick reaction lent him a deadly edge before the King of the Track was determined. After cutting a .019 light, Hogue, hailing from Loganville, GA, crossed the finish line in his ’68 Camaro, dead-on at a 7.57. Justin Buchanan, of Six Mile, SC, could not overtake Hogue, beginning with his .068 light, and ending by breaking out with a 7.10 on a 7.13 dial in his ’72 Nova. Hogue notably began the season with his ’08 Super Chevy Show win, coming in after a 22 month break and no time trials. Since then, Hogue’s stayed out of the ranks, surfacing tonight with his deserved success. Hogue finished the night by thanking his wife Jennifer, and their two daughters Chloe and Kyra. Allen Clark (’73 Camaro – Buford, GA) completed his day in third place.

The Sportsman category was overtaken by double-dipper J.D. “Doc” Burford, who entered his jet black C6 Corvette in both the Sportsman and Pro classes. After being taken out in the Pro quarter-finals, Burford’s focus shifted to the Sportsman battle. Burford, out of Greenville, SC, ran an 8.61 time on his 8.59 prediction, following a .084 light. His competitor, Austell, GA’s Allen Schaffer, broke out in his ’04 Dodge Rumble Bee, finishing with a 9.868, just two thousandths of a second below his 9.87 forecast. Asked about the craziness of his double-dipping routine, an enthused Burford exclaimed, “I love the excitement of every lap down the track… it’s a tremendous release, you never lose concentration when you’re double-entered.” Burford thanked his long-time mechanics Hal Rhodes, Tom McMakin, and Dwayne Reinhardt. Scott Reynolds (Cartersville, GA) finished third-place in his ’05 Chevy truck.

Nightfall seemed to steal the advantage from the Motorcycle finals, with both Jeff Shropshire (’08 ZX14, Dallas, GA) and Tim Sutton (’83 Suzuki – Clermont, GA) running much slower than their dial-ins suggested. Shropshire’s win-light flashed, given his two-tenths difference with a 6.35 on a 6.15, against Sutton’s three-tenths difference; a 6.02 on a 5.72 target. Shropshire’s fast ride is a deceptive piece of work, remaining street legal but ever the race bike it was meant to be. Shropshire’s racing career has been steady since age 16, only taking a break for kids – Shropshire thanked his family for their support, stating, “Because they let me race.” Steven Jackson (Bogart, GA), the less fortunate ’08 ZX14 owner, finished in the semis.

Chase Mullinax 17 – Buford, GA) made it to the 13-17 Junior Dragster finals for the second consecutive weekend, this time attaining the win, amongst a group of female challengers. Mullinax and Jackie Lastinger (15 – Lilburn, GA) both dialed a 7.90, Lastinger breaking out with a 7.89 while Mullinax stayed afloat with his 7.95 time. Mullinax not only ruled the top end, but won at the tree with a .030 against Lastinger’s .100 reaction time. Kelsey Lynn (14 – Marietta, GA) and Brittany Vancica (15 – Lawrenceville, GA) finished the day in the semi-finals.

Chris Bowden (12 – Homer, GA) won the 8-12 Junior Dragster category. Before Bowden reached the win stripe, the race was decided by his opponent and points leader Wesley Mayfield’s -.013 foul. Mayfield (12 – Gainesville, GA) also broke out with an 8.84 on an 8.93, while Bowden stayed legit with a 9.55 on a 9.51 dial. Bowden had been struggling since he blew his engine in Bristol, at the NHRA O’Reilly Auto Parts Jr. Drag Racing League Eastern Conference Finals. Dad Bobby parked his Pro-class S-10 to take care of Chris, staying on top by changing the oil every round and paying attention to the many other details necessary to win. Chris remarked, “Today was the best my engine has run.” Cole Wood (11 – Jefferson, GA) left the track in third place.

The race track was visited by a testing-turned-exhibition driver Danielle Jordan. Jordan had only made a handful of passes, harnessing an animal of a supercharged, alcohol-burning front-end dragster built by Julius Hughes, with the intention of joining either the Nostalgia circuit or the Top Alcohol tour. The personable Jordan jumped right into the game, with no baby steps leading to the fast dragster, her previous experience limited to a three year tour with Don Prudhomme, as well as being an NHRA trophy girl.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2008 events may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com.

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Hank Wilhelm ’96 Ed Quay dragster Commerce, GA 5.16 124.43 (5.15)
R/U: Lloyd Kaylor ’87 Regal Winder, GA 7.60 89.97 (7.56)
Semi: Joshua Cohen ’77 Camaro Lawrenceville, GA
Semi: Jesse Young ’00 Undercover Danielsville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Rob Hogue ’68 Camaro Loganville, GA 7.57 93.36 (7.57)
R/U: Justin Buchanan ’72 Nova Six Mile, SC 7.10 94.06 (7.13)
Semi: Allen Clark ’73 Camaro Buford, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: J.D. Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC 8.61 86.57 (8.59)
R/U: Allen Schaffer ’04 Dodge Rumble Bee Austell, GA 9.86 70.92 (9.87)
Semi: Scott Reynolds ’05 Chevy Truck Cartersville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jeff Shropshire ’08 ZX14 Dallas, GA 6.35 113.55 (6.15)
R/U: Tim Sutton ’83 Suzuki Clermont, GA 6.02 105.40 (5.72)
Semi: Steven Jackson ’08 ZX14 Bogart, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Chris Bowden 12 Homer, GA 9.55 66.66 (9.51)
R/U: Wesley Mayfield 12 Gainesville, GA 8.84 73.72 (8.93) (foul)
Semi: Cole Wood 11 Jefferson, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Chase Mullinax 17 Buford GA 7.95 81.28 (7.90)
R/U: Jackie Lastinger 15 Lilburn, GA 7.89 82.04 (7.90)
Semi: Kelsey Lynn 14 Marietta, GA
Semi: Brittany Vancica 15 Lawrenceville, GA

MUSCLE CAR GATHERING ATTRACTS ENTHUSIASTS, OLD AND NEW, TO ATLANTA DRAGWAY

RACE DATE: September 6, 2008
EVENT: Hayes Automotive American Muscle event presented by Year One at Atlanta Dragway in 2008

MUSCLE CAR GATHERING ATTRACTS ENTHUSIASTS, OLD AND NEW, TO ATLANTA DRAGWAY

By: Amy & Tim Glover

(Commerce, GA – September 6) The Hayes Automotive group and Year One teamed up in 2008 and brought the Hayes Automotive American Muscle Meet, presented by Year One, to Atlanta Dragway. The show featured all makes of American muscle cars in many different settings, including a Car Show, Swap Meet and Car Corral. In addition, the car owners were allowed to flex the car’s muscle on the track surface, beginning with the Car Show Parade of Muscle in front of the grandstands. Some show car owners showed their enthusiasm a bit more than others with a bit of tire smoke in front of the fans. All makes and models of American muscle cars were featured in the Car Show. Billy Head from Gainesville, Ga. displayed his immaculate 1964 Impala Super Sport. Head bought this car new from Stamey Chevrolet in Cleveland, Ga., special ordering the 409 engine, Muncie 4-speed transmission, and AM-FM radio with a reverb box. Another great looking ride was the 2000 Dakota Sidewinder R/T, featuring a shaker style hood scoop and “too many mods to mention” belonging to Darren Alcorn. Local racer Lonnie Cothran showed his 1969 Nova, which has never been tagged for the highway. The car was built to run Super Stock and has been raced all of its life. Chris Taylor from Norcross, Ga. brought his “interesting” ’95 Dodge RAM, featuring a Herculiner paint job. Car Show winners in each class were rewarded with $500 Year One Gift Certificates. The Car Corral featured many older model muscle cars available for sale, like a 273 cubic inch V-8 equipped ’66 Valiant convertible and a recently discovered ’70 Super Bee belonging to J.D. Garrard from Braselton, Ga. The cars varied in state of repair, and were priced accordingly.

Junior Godfrey, a long time Mopar supporter, was on hand at the Mopar trailer, displaying his brand new Limited Edition 2008 Challenger, #2051 of 6400. Godfrey also owns a ’70 440 6-pack Challenger R/T, and recently displayed them together, showing off his blast from the past and wave of the future machines. “It’s neat having something from two different generations. The 2008 Challenger is definitely a 21st century muscle car. It’s amazing how much thought Chrysler put into it,” added Godfrey. The Mopar trailer also featured different variations of new Hemi crate engines for sale. A 6.1 liter Hemi, equipped with optional dual four barrel carburetors and a cutaway six speed transmission showed hot rodders what they could do for their cars. Also on hand was a 392 Hemi engine, featuring all the modern improvements, like fuel injection and individual coils for each spark plug. The manufacturer’s midway was packed with many different restoration parts, both new and used, for sale. The Year One booth was very popular, along with the Hayes Dealerships display. In addition, two technical seminars were available to anyone interested, given by Galen “Mr. Mopar” Govier and Gilbert Propes, who gave a GM Restoration Tips seminar. Diesel Performance Motorsports had their mobile chassis dyno on the grounds again, and there was no charge, thanks to Hayes Mopar. Cars were allowed, but several 600hp diesel trucks seemed to enjoy the testing as well.

Fans were thrilled by the high horsepower displays put on by two NHRA Pro Stock standouts. Allen Johnson from Tennessee and Warren Johnson of nearby Sugar Hill, Georgia made national event side by side style passes, with Warren Johnson posting 6.77 and 6.82 second passes at 203 and 204mph. Allen Johnson struggled a bit with his combination, posting slightly slower passes.

The annual Pritchett Tire burnout contest has been dominated for many years by the Minette family, but this time a newcomer earned the $500 certificate toward four new tires from Pritchett Tire. Hayden O’Leary from Auburn, Ga. cooked the tread off the rear tires on his ’04 Silverado in less than one minute, delighting the fans in the stands. The winner was determined by the loudest cheer from the crowd, and the volume was so close, it took three times to determine the winner. After the contest, the Minettes personally congratulated O’Leary for his win. The Minette family had won the contest ten straight years, with John taking five, Diane taking four and Alan taking one. O’Leary added, “I want to thank my kids, and also the Hayes Dealerships for a great place to work.”

Seven different classes were contested on the track surface in the Drag Racing portion of the program, ranging from the popular Jr Dragsters for kids eight to seventeen years old to the ultra quick Super Pro machines. The NADM group brought three classes of diesel powered race machines to the show, along with two exhibition vehicles powered by 5.9 liter Cummins Diesel engines. Bo Layne of Terre Haute, Indiana laid down the quickest diesel powered pass with his Scheid Diesel ’04 Spitzer dragster, running 7.02 seconds at 196.04mph. Darren Morrison’s crew was thrilled when he posted their first seven second pass in his ’02 Chevrolet S10 pickup, running 7.999 seconds at 161.07mph.

The Super Pro class made for an interesting race, replacing the usual tight runs with a slapdash go for the finish line, both racers leaving before the tree was ready. Tim Gibson of Walhalla, SC jumped the gun in his ’70 Dart, automatically giving the win to Gainesville’s Bubba Rich. Rich felt lucky after his ’02 Firebird jumped before the green, and let off the gas for his predetermined victory lap. The ’08 Super Pro win made Bubba Rich the undefeated Hayes event champion for two years running, a daunting title despite his comment on the run, being “the sloppiest final [he] ever won.” Rich thanked the staging lanes coordinator Debbie Blackwell, “for doing such a good job.” Stan Sinack from Lilburn, GA stayed behind with a semi-final placement in his ‘69 Dart.

The Pro class final produced a double-breakout, with Mac Everett (Blairsville, GA) predicting the lesser of two evils in his ’85 Mustang. Everett ran an 11.74 on an 11.78 dial-in, against Ed Nalley’s ’76 Vega, the Maysville man running a 9.48 on a 9.53 dial-in, a one-hundredth of a second disparity making all the difference. Everett reported having gone to every Hayes event since the occasion began over a decade ago, and noted, “If I’m still livin,’ I’ll be back next year.” He also thanked God, and Mike Hayes for putting on the show. Tom Moran (Walhalla, SC) finished in third place in his ’72 Plymouth.

Sportsman winner Mel Abney of Cumming, GA, claimed victory in his ’67 Camaro despite breaking out (A 12.98 run on a 13.09 dial), owing to runner-up Tracy Schaffer’s nervousness. Schaffer (Austell, GA) pulled a -.016 foul in her ’68 Camaro, while also breaking out at the top end, with a 13.69 on a 13.70 prediction. Regardless of the run, the dueling Camaro enthusiasts agreed on a near-even split, rewarding both with a malign-free finish. Abney said, “It was a long day, but it was fun,” adding, “I just want to thank my wife for letting me come out here.” Chris Moore of Greer, SC placed in the semi-final round in his ’08 Jeep SRT8.

The ET Diesel class, brought in by the NADM organization, gave fans something new, with a line of smoke-spewing trucks from the East Coast competing for recognition in the budding Diesel component of drag racing. The final came down to Kurt Lincoln’s close dialing, running a 14.92 on a 14.90, against Howard Bowman’s 16.54 on a 16.35. Lincoln traveled far from his hometown of Altamonte Springs, FL, looking to prove his worth in his Dodge Ram 2500. The Hayes event was his first NADM win, after traveling all around, from Alabama, to Georgia and North Carolina. Lincoln thanked Diesel Specialists Inc., FTI Competition Converters, and Airdog for the support, including his team of Bill Hartzell, Scott Hayes, Greg from FTI, and Rondle David. Lincoln’s competitor, Howard Bowman (Homer, GA), was hoping to win to join his son Brett as a Hayes winner, who won the Jr Dragster class. Unfortunately, his ’07 Chevy didn’t run the number, pulling off the 16.54 on a 16.35 dial. Bowman normally runs a Harley in Atlanta Dragway’s Summit ET series races, though in lieu of no Motorcycle class for the Hayes event, Bowman joined in on his family’s fun (both his wife and son race) with the family tow-truck. Bill Counts (’04 Dodge – North Augusta, SC) ended the night as a semi-finalist.

The Quick Diesel class was another offshoot of the NADM, providing an index class dependent on fine tuning to the tune of 12.00 seconds to make it to the finish line. Scotty Bradshaw (Haw River, NC) claimed the win in his ’00 Ford F250, after Brian Buchanan (High Point, NC) red-lit in his ’97 Dodge. Bradshaw competes all over the country, on the east coast mostly, noting he’d just been in Indiana two weeks prior to the event. The bottom end of his Ford’s motor is bone stock, its consistency attributed to countless hours of tuning and over 200 passes on the same setup. Bradshaw thanked Swamps Diesel Performance, River City Turbo, and Brian’s Truck Shop. Matt Wells (’95 RAM 2500 – Middleburg, Fla.) was the semi-final finisher.

Mickey Davis, who recently enjoyed making the field at the Atlanta Pinks All Out event with his Pelham, Ga. based ’97 Dodge RAM, was the winner in AirWerks Unlimited Street. Although he ran a very quick 6.59 at 105.70, his opponent, Phillip Palmer of Cairo, Ga. made the win easier when his ’94 Dodge RAM broke the engine immediately following his starting line launch. Jeff Garmon (’95 Dodge RAM – McDonough, Ga.) took home the semi-finalist money.

The Junior Dragster class may have had the tightest final of the night, without advantage as a result of no tree-end red-lights or top-end breakouts. It came down to the older boys of the category to finish the race, with Brett Bowman (Homer, GA) and Chase Mullinax (Buford, GA), both seventeen. Mullinax cut the better light, with a .053 against Bowman’s .060 reaction time, but Bowman’s win-light flashed after he ran an 8.31 on an 8.30 dial, alongside Mullinax’s 7.92 on a 7.90. Bowman was surprised by his dragster’s consistency, after its broken state for the last two weeks. Bowman remarked, “It was a fun, long weekend,” and thanked his parents, all the fans cheering him on, and all his team members. Hunter Ramsey (10 – Commerce, GA) placed in the semi-final round.

Event promoter Mike Hayes added, “Teaming up with Year One for the Hayes Automotive American Muscle Meet, presented by Year One, was a great success.”

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2008 events may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/ .

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Bubba Rich ’02 Firebird Gainesville, GA 7.48 55.60 (5.24)
R/U: Tim Gibson ’70 Dart Walhalla, SC 6.68 102.17 (6.68) (foul)
Semi: Stan Sinack ’69 Dart Lilburn, GA

PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Mac Everett ’85 Mustang Blairsville, GA 7.12 94.33 (7.06)
R/U: Ed Nalley ’76 Vega Maysville, GA 8.06 85.40 (7.98)
Semi: Tom Moran ’72 Plymouth Walhalla, SC

SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 12.98 107.12 (13.09)
R/U: Tracy Schaffer ’68 Camaro Austell, GA 13.69 100.32 (13.70) (foul)
Semi: Chris Moore ’08 Jeep SRT8 Greer, SC

ET DIESEL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Kurt Lincoln Dodge Ram 2500 Altamonte Springs, FL 14.92 80.40 (14.90)
R/U: Howard Bowman ’07 Chevy Homer, GA 16.54 69.11 (16.35)
Semi: Bill Counts ’04 Dodge North Augusta, SC

QUICK DIESEL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Scotty Bradshaw ’00 Ford F250 Haw River, NC 12.16 108.46 (12.00)
R/U: Brian Buchanan ’’97 Dodge Ram Homer, GA 12.05 105.96 (12.00) (foul)
Semi: Matt Wells ’95 Ram 2500 Middleburg, FL

AIRWERKS STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Mickey Davis ’97 Dodge Ram Pelham, GA 6.59 105.70
R/U: Phillip Palmer ’94 Dodge Ram Cairo, GA broke
Semi: Jeff Garmon ’95 Dodge Ram McDonough, GA

JUNIOR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Brett Bowman 17 Homer, GA 8.31 77.64 (8.30)
R/U: Chase Mullinax 17 Buford, GA 7.92 80.95 (7.90)
Semi: Hunter Ramsey 10 Commerce, GA

Record-Breaking ORSCA event at South Georgia Motorsports Park

by Marvin T. Smith

More Photos Added!

The ORSCA outlaws came to South Georgia Motorsports Park September 5-7, and despite temperatures well into the 90s and high humidity, they shattered five out of eight ORSCA records. Tim Lynch set the Outlaw 10.5 record at 180.60 mph. Terry Elam set both ends of the TCI EZ Street record with a 4.956 at 147.86, only to lose the mph record to Steve Jackson in the final round. Jackson got the record at 148.62. The records in Modified Street went to Bryan Murphy (5.351) and Stacy Parker (134.14).

The headline class was the Mickey Thompson 10.5 class. Tim Lynch dominated the fifteen car field by qualifying number one and running bracket-like elapsed times of 4.42, 4.42, 4.41, and a final 4.45 to beat Brad Brand’s Mustang. Brand ran a good 4.51 in the final, but had run as quick as 4.49 in earlier action. Carlos Zaldivar and Joe Newsham lost in the semifinals.

In Sheppard Race Cars Limited Street presented by Berry Plumbing and Equipment, Keith Szabo piloted his 93 Mustang to a classic Ford vs. Chevy win over Shane Stack’s Montecarlo, 4.891 to a 4.894. Szabo had the better reaction time and never looked back on his way to a 159.97 mph win. Szabo also had the low elapsed time of eliminations at 4.88.

Steve Jackson won TCI EZ Street with a 4.97 at 148 in the final over Chad Henderson’s 5.02 146. Jackson improved every round to take the big win and snatch the speed record from Terry Elam.

Modified Street was won by new elapsed time record holder Brian Murphy. Murphy took the starting line advantage over Kevin Shcrimsher in the final and ran a better 5.42 to the losing 5.53. New speed record holder Stacy Parker lost in the semifinals.

After five rounds, Larry Peavy took his 99 Montecarlo to the Southern Truck Parts 5.0 index win over series champ Jeremy Ellis. Peavy didn’t let the number 1 on the side of Ellis’ car intimidate him. Peavy took the starting line advantage .015 to .020 and held on with a slower 5.010 to Ellis’ 5.006 for the holeshot win. Jeffrey Barker and Bick Bickerstaff were the semifinalists.

The Dutton Grading 6.0 index class win went to James Williams when the 2007 series champ Lebron Hill broke out by .002 seconds. Williams’ 6.023 took the win. Bo Conner and Blaine Aldridge were the semifinalists.

The Integration 4.0 7.0 index class win went to Kenny Ford in a classic double break-out final. Ford went 6.993 to defeat Terry McLendon’s 6.962. Pete Nelson and Ken Buckner lost in Round 4.

Wade Rich and the crew from South Georgia Motorsports Park had the track groomed to perfection. This was a great event with new records, close racing, wild wheelstands and tire-smoking action. Don’t miss the ORSCA action when it comes to your area.

Old Drag Racers Reunion & Hall of Fame September 26-28, 2008

Sol and Anne Stewart's Old Drag Racers Reunion and Hall of Fame will be held September 26-28, 2008 in Panama City, Fl. Below are the 2008 HOF inductees. Be sure to check this 8th annual event out as it has been growing steadily and is a fun event!

These 7 men have been voted on by the membership of the OLD DRAG RACERS REUNION to be inducted into our HALL OF FAME in a ceremony on Sept. 28, 2008 at the Holiday Inn Select ballroom in Panama City, Fla.

Billy Ray Bailey....Dothan, Ala.
"Bunky" Bobo....Silver Creek, Ga.
"Whistle" Blaxton....Albany, Ga.
R. D. (Richard) Helms....Crestview, Fla.
Col. Bob Tensfield....Tavares, Fla.
Ray Thompson....Midland City, Ala.
Bill Tripoli....Covington, La.


THREE DECEASED MEN WERE VOTED IN POSTHUMOUSLY

Frank Butler....Pensacola, Fla.
John Donilson....Birmingham, Ala.
Don York....Dothan, Ala.

Congratulations to all!
More Information
2002 Photos
2002 Article
2003 Photos
2003 Article
2004 Photos
2004 Article
2005 Photos
2006 Photos
2006 Article
2007 Photos

2008 East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame & Reunion

It's almost time for the "local" drag racing reunions for 2008! The East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame & Reunion will take place October 17, 18 & 19, 2008 in Henderson, NC. This has grown into one big time event with several hundred cars on display and many other activities to do.

The 2008 hall of fame inductees and award recipients will be:

Bobby Starr - Thomas Woody Andrews Memorial Award

Dan Weis

Dave Koffel

David Frye

Distinguished Achievement Award in Drag Racing: Arnie Beswick

Ewing Brothers (Ken, Gary & Wayne)

Harry Coombs

Herman Lewis

Joe Gerdleman

Johnny Rocca

Mack Pressley

Pacers Team (George Snizek, Charlie "Dodge" Hagenmayer, Otto Qualliotine & Ken "KB" Braun)

Posthumous Awards: Ronald Lyles and Dick Swecker

Ronnie Sox Memorial Award: Herb McCandless

Tommy Grove

Wally Bell

Wally Parks Motorsports Statesman Memorial Award - Robert "Bones" Balogh

Wally Parks Motorsports Statesman Memorial Award - Ed Iskenderian


For more information, go to East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame & Reunion Site
For a larger view of the flyer, click here.

Upcoming Drag Racing and Show Car Events Atlanta Motor Speedway

LET’S GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!!

Atlanta Motor Speedway invites you to be a part of two major drag racing and show car events within the next month. Race fans, drag racers, family and friends can enjoy the AC Delco Street Drag Nationals on September 19th and 20th. Then get ready for a spectacular show on October 3rd, 4th and 5th when the Super Chevy Show rolls into the speedway. Both events will be jam-packed with drag racing action, car show spectacle, awesome exhibitions and plenty of great family fun. We have listed the event details for both shows and look forward to seeing you at the events.

AC DELCO STREET DRAG NATIONALS
September 19 and 20, 2008
http://www.streetdragnationals.com/
770-946-3954

Street Drag Races in eleven divisions including Pro, Street Outlaw, Sportsman, Domestic Advanced, Pro Four, Trucks, Tuner, Domestic, ATV, Super Bikes and Motorcycles. No starting tree. No timing system. Just straight up starts with a flagman with the first person to the finish line the winner. Rules are according to the Friday Night Drags presented by AC Delco rulebook. http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/documents/2008RulebookFND.pdf
Show-N-Shine car show includes judging in several classes along with a President’s Choice award selected by speedway president Ed Clark. The most popular aspect of the Show-N-Shine is the speedway cruise. All entrants parade around the high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway showcasing their machines in front of the fans. Entries are parked along the front stretch after the parade to show off their custom paint, chrome and candy colors. The fans are allowed to get an up close look at these awesome machines while parked on one of NASCAR’s fastest speedways.
The Burn-Out Contest will be conducted a little different than traditional burn until the blow contests. This will be a competition with the fans being the judge. Competitors will be allowed to roll through the water box and burn-out through the starting line. A true burn-out competition with the drivers being allowed to show off a little to the fans.
Championship Ladder for all drag race divisions. Each division will compete to fill and eight team ladder to decide the AC Delco Street Drag Nationals Champions.
The top six seeds in the Pro, Street Outlaw, Sportsman, Domestic Advanced, Pro Four, Trucks and ATVs are locked into position. The top six drivers in Friday Night Drags presented by AC Delco season point standings were seeded first through sixth.

Pro Division (order of seed): Tony Morse, Billy Clevenger, Alan Kidd, Bobby Daniel, Frank Taylor and Arnie Cobb

Street Outlaw: John Bonner, Jeff Coker, Danny Lowry, Daryl Stiles, Lee Williams, Ross Cole
Pro Four: Mike Chambers, Matt Baade, Jason Miller, Tommy Gillepin, Rafael Velazquez, Tony Taylor

Sportsman: Bill Hatfield, Greg Adamek, Joey Stone, Jerritt Scott, Jeremy Rhodes, Mark Harris
Truck: Dwayne Bethune, Cliff McBurnett, John Schwarz, Mike Kidd, George Swan, Adam Cason

Domestic Advanced: Neil Skipper, Mike Munoz, Chris Rawls, Stephen DeFayette, John Vise, Heath Maddock

ATV: Rodney Tolbert, Chris Sisson, David Brand, Jason Hydrick, Tony Staples, Jerome Washington

The seventh seed will be decided through Friday, September 19th eliminations and the eighth seed is determined by Saturday, September 20th eliminations. Any driver, whether they competed at our summer series or not, will have a chance at making the Championship Ladder on Saturday evening.

The non-points divisions will have their eight seeds determined by the two day total points.
Atlanta Motor Speedway has challenged Nashville Super Speedway to bring the best of their drag race series to take on the best of our drag race series this weekend. We have also received inquiries from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and Florida.

Burn-Out Contest is not a burn til ya blow contest. This contest is judged by the fans and will feature competitors doing a burn-out from the box to or through the starting line. True burn-outs with lots of smoke and noise!!!
We are currently discussing television coverage with two national cable networks for this event. More info soon!

Speed For Sale car show, drag race and cars for sale corral. http://www.speedforsale.com/
Special event trophies will be presented to all the main event winners as well as the Ladder Champions and Ladder Runner-Up.

Friday Night Drags points awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each of the points divisions at this event.
Friday, September 19th will include a HUGE FIREWORKS show!!!!

Schedule of Events

Friday, September 19
6:00pm Pits Open
6:15pm Drag Practice Rounds Open
6:30pm Grandstands Open
6:30pm Show-N-Shine Judging Begins
8:15pm Drag Practice Rounds Close
8:15pm Show-N-Shine Speedway Cruise & Showcase
8:50pm Show-N-Shine Awards Ceremony
9:00pm Opening Ceremonies
9:05pm Drag Race Eliminations Begin
10:00pm FIREWORKS! FIREWORKS! FIREWORKS!

Saturday, September 20
10:00am Pits Open
10:30am Show-N-Shine Judging Begins
11:00am Drag Practice Rounds Open
11:30am Grandstand Open
12:15pm Drag Practice Rounds Close
12:15pm Show-N-Shine Speedway Cruise & Showcase
12:50pm Show-N-Shine Awards Ceremony
1:00pm Opening Ceremonies
1:05pm Drag Race Eliminations Begin
3:30pm Burn-Out Contest
4:00pm Show-N-Shine Weekend Awards
4:30pm Friday Night Drags presented by AC Delco points awards
5:00pm Championship Ladders

Ticket Prices

Spectator: $10 per event/$15 weekend pass
Children six and under admitted for free

Drag Entry: $20 (Friday and Saturday)

Show Entry: $20 (Friday and Saturday)

Burn-Out: $20 (Saturday only)

Two Entry: $30 (Any two events on the same day)

Parking: FREE—outside parking areas
$20—Infield pit area/tailgate area

Camping: $35 for full hook-up sites (water, electric and sewer)
$25 dry-camping sites
* camping reservations – 770-946-4211



SUPER CHEVY SHOW
October 3, 4 and 5, 2008
http://www.superchevyshow.com/
770-946-3954

* Only GM powered vehicles or body allowed at this show

King of the Street Drag Racing – eight divisions
Friday Night Drags rulebook applies for this event.
Exhibition Races with Jet Car Wars, Wheelstanders, Nitro Funny Cars, Mr. 409 and more!
Car Show with hundreds of trophies and awards!
Burn-Out Contest
Swap Meet and Cars For Sale Corral
Potts Classic and Custom Car Auction (Saturday only)

Friday, October 3
10:00am Pit Gates Open
Participant/Show Registration Open
Tech Inspection Open
12:00pm Gate 15 Grandstand Open
12:00pm Test & Tune Drag Racing Open
5:00pm Track Closes

Saturday, October 4
7:00am Pit Gates Open
8:00am Participant/Show Registration Open
Gate 15 Grandstand Open
9:00am Drag Racing Practice Open
10:30am Car Show Judging Seminar
11:00am Potts Auto Auction (Under the grandstands)
11:15am Drag Racing Practice Closes
11:30am Car Show Track Cruise
12:00pm Nitro Coupes, Wheelstanders, Jet Cars and Mr. 409 Showcase
12:30pm Burn-Out Contest
1:00pm King of the Street Drag Race Eliminations
3:30pm Car Show Series ‘Special Saturday’ Awards
4:00pm King of the Street Drag Race ‘Saturday Finals’
4:30pm Nitro Coupes, Wheelstanders, Jet Cars and Mr. 409 Showcase
5:00pm Track Closes

Sunday, October 5
8:00am Pit Gates Open
8:00am Car Show Registration Open
Gate 15 Grandstand Open
8:30am Racers for Christ Chapel Service
9:30am Drag Racing Practice Open
11:00am Youth America Program
11:30am Drag Racing Practice Closes
12:00pm Nitro Coupes, Wheelstanders, Jet Cars and Mr. 409 Showcase
12:30pm Burn-Out Contest
1:00pm King of the Street Drag Race Eliminations
3:30pm King of the Street Drag Race ‘Finals’
4:00pm Nitro Coupes, Wheelstanders, Jet Cars and Mr. 409 Showcase
4:30pm Car Show Series Events Awards
5:00pm Track Closes

Ticket Prices

General Admission
Adults (16 & older) Juniors (11-15)
Friday - $10 Friday - $10
Saturday - $22 Saturday - $10
Sunday - $22 Sunday - $10
Weekend Pass - $32 Weekend Pass - $15

*children 10 and under are admitted for FREE when accompanied by an adult


Drag Race Entry (includes car and driver)
Weekend Pass - $60

Car Show Entry (includes car and driver) – judged competition
Weekend Pass - $45

Show-N-Shine (includes car and driver) – non-judged display only
Weekend Pass - $35

Swap Meet/Cars for Sale Corral (10’ x 20’ space, no food, beverage or apparel items)
Weekend Pass - $45

Burn-Out Competition Entry
No additional entry fee with any of the above entries.

Camping
$35 for full hook-up sites (water, electric and sewer)
$25 dry-camping sites
* camping reservations – 770-946-4211

Potts Auto Auction information:
http://www.pottsauction.com/ or 1-800-601-2888


CLASSIC & CUSTOM CAR AUCTION
October 4, 2008
http://www.pottsauction.com/
800-601-2888

The classic and custom car auction returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway and admission is included with your Super Chevy Show ticket. The auction will take place under the grandstand beginning at 11:00am. You can begin looking at the auction vehicles when the gates open at 8:00am. Many classic and custom vehicles will auctioned and a few will include absolute auction sale. Go to http://www.pottsauction.com/ to see just some of the vehicles that will be available for auction at this event. Call 1-800-601-2888 for more auction information or to register your vehicle.



Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway
770-946-3954 office
http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/