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 .
(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 .
posted by David @ 9:19 PM
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