تغطية دراك (3)

[DARK NIGHT]

تغطية دراك رقم(3)

اليكم

FINAL - Billes holds his ground; Scores victory for Canada



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Al Billes defeated Ed Hoover to win his first-ever NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge event. He also becomes the first Canadian to achieve such an honor.

(3-21-2004) - Al Billes doesn’t mind shying away from all the fanfare and hoopla that sometimes permeates the Pro Modified community. On a day at the 35th annual MAC Tools NHRA Gatornationals when upsets reigned supreme, Billes, the seventh quickest in an eight-car field, looked anything but an underdog. The Barrie, Ont.-based engineer drove his 1953 Corvette to the first AMS Pro Modified Challenge event victory of the season. It was also his first one as well.

Billes took out the #2, #3 and #4 and four ranked drivers in that order to seal the victory. When Ed Hoover blew the tires off at the hit, it marked the third driver to do so against Billes.

“I just don’t get up into all of that talking stuff,” Billes said. “I just like to do my thing and keep a low profile. I don’t think it had any effect on our win today. We won because we made the right calls. Besides, I had to win this one for Mom and Dad; they do so much for me.”



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Billes fired the first shot and it was the one heard ‘round the entire Pro Modified world. Billes ripped off a .001 reaction time and it proved to be more than he needed en route to a 6.246, 230.29 lap. Smith missed the combination and blew the tires off at the 1-2 shift. Beyond that, the quicker qualified cars of Hoover (Zach Barklage), Mike Janis (Rickie Smith) and Mike Ashley (Mitch Stott) advanced to the semis. Ashley proved to be the only winner to dip into the 6-teens all day with a 6.194, 229.88.

In the next round, Billes scored another huge triumph with a quicker reaction and a 6.215, 230 as Ashley shook the tires so hard on his Unique Performance-sponsored Shelby G.T. 500 that it turned the car nearly sideways.

Hoover, for his part, had a strong run to the final round. After earning his way into the field with the fourth quickest run, his first round opponent was 19-year old Zach Barklage, who was enjoying the event of his life. A personal best on Friday couldn’t help him against Hoover, who laid down a 6.246, 226.87. Barklage lost with a 6.325.



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Rickie Smith entered eliminations as the only nitrous car. He was a first round casualty.

Hoover averted disaster on the top end as he easily covered low qualifier Mike Janis with a 6.216, 228.71. Janis was clearly off the pace of earlier, but encountered handling problems on the top end and drifted into Hoover’s lane. There was no contact for either car.

In the final round, Hoover developed an air gap problem in his clutch and that was more than enough advantage for Billes to take advantage of. Billes was untouched to the stripe with a 6.206, 229.88. Hoover absorbed the loss with a 15.744.



SATURDAY - Janis vaults to the top in Saturday’s final session



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Mike Janis, competing in only his second NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge event since June of last year, thundered down the Gainesville Raceway quarter-mile with a 6.157, 230.94. .
(3-20-2004) - Mike Janis will admit it. He had to go all the way to St. Louis to qualify number one in Gainesville.

That’s exactly how far the former IHRA World Champion, now sporting the livery of Eaton Automotive, had to reach into his notes to find the suitable combination that vaulted him into the top spot of final AMS Pro Modified Challenge competition during the 35th annual MAC Tools NHRA Gatornationals.

Janis, competing in only his second NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge event since June of last year, thundered down the Gainesville Raceway quarter-mile with a 6.157, 230.94. Just as Mike Ashley’s day of domination was Friday, this day clearly belonged to Janis.

“We just had to find some comparable data,” added Janis. “Since we are used to running IHRA events, where the tracks are prepared in a different way than the NHRA, we consulted the data book to find a good starting point. We came close to going down the track on Friday’s first session, but we missed it a little bit.

“Mike (Ashley) ran quick in the final session today and that showed me the fourth session might end up being the quickest of the four.

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The former Top Alcohol Funny Car standout Von Smith stepped up with their best effort of the weekend, a 6.160, 231.30, after struggling to find their usual groove much of the first two qualifying days.
“Of course I was to thank Eaton Automotive and all of our sponsors for making this possible.”

Knocking on Janis’ door was none other than last season’s second-half dominator Von Smith driving the Tommy Lipar-owned Mustang. The former Top Alcohol Funny Car standout Smith stepped up with their best effort of the weekend, a 6.160, 231.30, after struggling to find their usual groove much of the first two qualifying days.

Ashley, Friday’s superstar, made a valiant bid to retain his status by laying down a 6.175, 228.13 during the quick final session. The real treat for Ashley is that his run came before Janis and automotive legend Carroll Shelby, an endorser on his unique Shelby G.T. 500E, was there to see it.

Ed Hoover rounded out the top half of the field with Paul Trussell’s supercharged ’63 Corvette. The original Pro Modified national event winner failed to improve in the final session, but made his mark in the third session by vaulting to the top, only to have his 6.190 edged out by Janis for the third session by speed.

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Mike Ashley, Friday’s superstar, made a valiant bid to retain his status by laying down a 6.175, 228.13 during the quick final session..
Young Zach Barklage enjoyed his finest weekend ever by qualifying fifth on the strength of his first qualifying attempt. The 19-year old Barklage hit a personal best with a 6.201, 231.48. His speed held up as the best in qualifying.

Defending IHRA World Champion Mitch Stott settled into the 6th spot with a 6.217, 230.06 in his Radiac-sponsored Corvette. Stott’s run came on his third qualifying attempt.

Canadian Al Billes proudly waved the flag for his country as he put his new ’53 Corvette into the seventh spot with a 6.223, 229.24.

Rounding out the field was the lone nitrous entry belonging to past Gators champion Rickie Smith. Smith’s best effort came during the third session with a 6.225, 224.21.







Saturday Notes – Nurses, Surrender flags and a Rolling O...oh my!

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The Awesome Motorsports team withdrew from competition on Saturday.
Tough, tough field – Another slew of notable DNQs led to complaints of the standard eight-car program. As many as 23 entries were attempting to squeeze into only eight final eliminations positions. Among those bitten by the regulation were defending world champions Fred Hahn and Jim Oddy, past national event winners Mike Castellana, Danny Rowe and Thomas Patterson. Previous world championships had no bearing on the outcome as the top two winningest drivers in Pro Modified – Scotty Cannon and Shannon Jenkins were all left out in the cold when Saturday qualifying completed. Cannon would have been on the bubble of the 16-car show with a 6.280.

No Medical Coverage – That’s exactly the response Tommy Lipar’s team was given when NHRA officials were presented with a request for the scantily clad Nurse Tiffany to go out on the starting line with the Dr. Moon’s Rage team driven by Von Smith. She was granted permission as long as she was in a team uniform. She might not have been a hit with NHRA officials, but in the Hot Bod contest on Wednesday’s Gainesville Ale House party, she reached the finals. Maybe a scantily clad team uniform is in order?

You again? – One of the first round match-ups in Sunday’s final eliminations will pit Mike Ashley versus Mitch Stott. The two drivers have met up in the first two eliminations rounds at the Gators every year since 2002. Stott holds the edge in the battle.

Waving the flag…of surrender – While Rickie Smith will be waving the flag for the nitrous camp in Sunday’s eliminations, the duo of Shannon Jenkins and Mike Castellana were waving another flag after the third session. Castellana mortally wounded one of the team’s primary motors forcing the team to withdraw and return to Alabama in order to prepare for next week’s IHRA opener in San Antonio, Texas.

The Rolling O rolls on the next event – Six-time World Champion Scotty Cannon had a tough day in the office with his Oakley-sponsored 1953 Studebaker. After completely changing everything on the car following Friday’s frustrating performance, Cannon and his crew finally completed work at 6 AM Saturday morning only to be faced with the task of a 10:30 session. Both of Cannon’s two Saturday runs fell short of the 6.225.

اتمنة انه تعجبكم مع تحياااااااااتي

[DARK NIGHT]

FRIDAY - "Eleanor" rules in first day of Gainesville Pro Modified qualifying

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_friday_gainesville.jpgMike Ashley was the quickest driver all day on Friday.

(3-19-2004) - New York Mortgage Banker Mike Ashley learned a valuable lesson during the first day of AMS Pro Modified Challenge qualifying at the 35th annual MAC Tools Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla. Noted as one of the pioneering drivers of the class, the Unique Performance-sponsored driver because increasingly aware that a driver could endure the most frustrating season only to have all the frustrating memories erased and replaced with good fortunes and momentum from a new look and new car.

The debut of Ashley’s new Shelby G.T. 500 was more than a tremendous outing.

Ashley left no doubt that he was the driver to beat from the start of Friday qualifying. His 6.197, 229.47 was his first hit out of the box and a 6.20 provided an excellent back-up for the Chuck Ford-tuned machine.

“It just goes to show you that hard work pays off,” explained Ashley, a past winner on the NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge tour. “This team has been through some tough times, but we never gave up. Quitting is not an option for us. Our effort today exemplified the meaning of true grit and effort. I think it’s just the beginning of even more good things to come.”

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_friday_barklage.jpgYoung Zach Barklage enjoyed a quick day by qualifying second with a personal best 6.20.

Ashley is content to take it all in stride, one day at a time.

“I’m not naïve in this game,” Ashley added. “Tomorrow you can go hero to zero real fast. We’re not looking to do that. It’s just one round at a time for us. Each time we go out, we are in preparation mode. We keep preparing for the future.”

Falling in order behind Ashley was the surprising effort of 19-year old Zach Barklage. The sophomore driver’s 6.201, 231.48 was enough to lead the field in the early going, and more than enough to cover the 6.217, 230.06 from Mitch Stott.

Ed Hoover rounded out the top half of the field with a 6.217.

The blown entries of Mike Janis and Von Smith were at the top of the game for the second half of the show.

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_friday_payne.jpgJay Payne made his debut in Brad Anderson's Pro Modified Camaro.

The only nitrous cars that made the show were the members of the Awesome Motorsports group. Mike Castellana (6.240) and Shannon Jenkins (6.206) rounded out the eight-car field.

A who’s who of non-qualifiers for the first day included Rickie Smith (6.259), Scotty Cannon (6.280), Thomas Patterson (6.360) and Jay Payne (6.733).






Friday Notes - Ashley nails down top spot in first session, Nitrous testing and the Janis introduction to NHRA Pro Modified

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_friday_cannon.jpgScotty Cannon's return to Pro Modified was made official on Friday morning.

Gone in 6.19 seconds - Mike Ashley has a way of rewarding new sponsors. Two years ago, he debuted his InfiNet Insurance and Financial Services sponsorship with a victory in the first outing. This weekend, Ashley debuted his new Shelby GT500E for sponsor Unique Performance. His reward this time? The New York Mortgage Banker went to the top of the qualifying order with a 6.197, 229.47 lap.

Need a Little More Rage Dr. Moon – On his team shaking the tires on the first attempt, Von Smith’s crewchief Howard Moon quipped, “It was better than we thought. This track has always been good. We should have remembered that.”

Zach Attack – Nineteen-year old former Pro Street racer turned Pro Modified runner Zach Barklage set the tone for the season in the very first pair of cars to travel the Gainesville quarter-mile. Barklage, of Lake Ozark, Mo., pushed his supercharged Grand am to a 6.201, 231.48. The run served as a personal best for the driver whose tuning chores are handled by Chad Wilson and Zach’s father Mark Barklage. Barklage added, “I am so happy right now. I had no clue that it would run that. I guess its hard to conceal the fact we had it on kill.”

Cannon’s First Shot – Pro Modified’s winningest driver Scotty Cannon admitted his initial return to the class’ pecking order could have been better. Cannon successfully navigated the Gainesville Raceway surface for the sixth quickest lap of the first session with a 6.280, 225.67. ‘s Cannon added, “It felt good…the car was just weak…that’s all. We’ll have to turn up the wick because these boys don’t play. If I don’t I’ll be watching on Sunday.

When asked if he felt as if he had something to prove on this day, Cannon added, “The only think I better prove is that I’ve got enough sense to get this car in the field.”

The Nitrous Factor – After one session, the quickest of the nitrous cars was Rickie Smith. One thing that three of the four nitrous cars in attendance had in common was testing in Florida during the off-season. Although the teams tested south west of Gainesville in Bradenton, the sessions yielded very little input. According the Jenkins, “The tracks are prepared totally different. We couldn’t get down the track there and came over here and it went straight down.

Jenkins was 7th after the first session and teammate Mike Castellana was one spot lower in 8th after the first session.

Welcome to the NFL – Former IHRA World Champion Mike Janis found out the hard way what happens to the new kid on the block when they come over to the NHRA side. They are put at the front of the qualifying list. Janis added, “I hate being there. But, you have to earn your spot in the rear.” Janis shook the tires and aborted his first attempt. Janis debuted a new sponsorship with Eaton this weekend.


Thursday Notes - "Eleanor" strolls in, Party Central on Wednesday evening and Cannon's return

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/nhra_ams_logo.jpgAs news breaks, we'll pass it on to you.

Yes, she's fast and no, you can't touch her - Mike Ashley has collectively learned the art of change through many economic trends in business. It has all worked as a positive for him. Headed into this weekend’s NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals, the Unique Performance-sponsored driver will assume a new role on his Gotham City Racing team as the marketing flagship for Unique Performance’s Shelby G.T. 500E line of Carroll Shelby-endorsed musclecars. Change is a good thing, but with Ashley, the only thing that has changed is the car. Unchanged is the team’s desire to earn the number one ranking in the Pro Modified division.

If history repeats itself in Gainesville for Ashley, this might be the season that the veteran Pro Modified driver gives credence to his team’s “Gone in 6.0 Seconds” moniker. He’ll even have the legend Shelby on hand to supervise.

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_thursday_gotham.jpgMike Ashley (left) and Danny Rowe will be paired up in 2004. Ashley's Shelby G.T. 500E drew rave reviews as did Rowe's '63 Corvette.

Ashley’s first order of business before hitting the track for the first of two scheduled sessions on Friday took place on Wednesday evening as a special guest for a pre-race party at the Gainesville Ale House. It’s billed as a party, but the true meaning of the gathering is much larger.

“We wanted to show the great people of Gainesville that the Pro Modified division is the best doorslammer category in drag racing,” explained Ashley. “We took part in this same program back in 2002 and the interaction with the fans that night made Pro Modified more personable. I think we gained a lot of fans because of that.

“I think we gained a lot more this time. This is a very marketable class and it’s all about showing what a tremendous opportunity is out there for a prospective sponsor.”

Overheard - "If NHRA would commit to make these things a class, both of us would jump in a Pro Modified." - Troy Coughlin

Bring it on Better Homes & Gardens - On CompetitionPlus' prediction of Greg Anderson to finish 6th in Pro Stock points, Pro Mod tuner and TAFC Champion, Jimmy Rector opined: "Anyone could have read Home and Garden and gotten enough information to make a better pick than that."

Still laughing, Rector further stated, "I like Bobby and love to bust his chops on things like this."

Jimmy, I'm a married man...I don't need any help in that department. - Bobby


Stivers No Party Animal - Kentucky-based Pro Modified racer Rick Stivers was unable to make the AMS pre-race party at the Gainesville Ale House. During the trip to Florida, a 5-gallon jug of kerosene reportedly spilled on the floor of the rig causing the surface to peel. The crew was up all night cleaning instead of partying. Added Stivers, "A million dollar operation and we had a piece of duct tape for a lid. A little stupid can wipe out a lot of smart and hard work."

One stinking round – Falling one round short of claiming the 2003 NHRA AMS Pro Modified Championship left Thomas Patterson with an abundance of emotions. Of course, the primary feeling running through his mind at the completion of the NHRA ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals, the tenth race on the ten-event tour; was one of frustration. One round was all that separated him from his first career world championship. That led to another problem for the Houston, Texas-based driver for Richard Patterson’s operation.

How was he going to top what was already considered the best event of his career?

“I was thinking the same thing,” answered Patterson. “We had a career season. One of the more valuable lessons we learned is just how important each round is. You never take those things into consideration until you lose a championship by one stinking round.”

That’s exactly what kept him from putting the number one on his window in 2004, a final round loss to Von Smith. This year's NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals could provide another storyline.

Just to think, had Patterson qualified his Vanishing Point Race Cars-built, 1941 Willys at last season’s NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals, he would be the champion today. Would have…could have…should have…are the phrases that come to mind for Patterson. The threat of rain on Saturday’s qualifying led officials to push the session forward by an hour. An overabundance of maintenance work prevented from making the call.

“It was a bad deal,” added Patterson. “You will always run into those kinds of situations and you just have to deal with them the best you can."



One stinking championship? We want two - Top Alcohol Funny Car stadout turned Pro Modified terror Von Smith says a World Championship would be nice, but two is what he's gunning for. He wants an NHRA and IHRA title to add to his resume as driver of Tommy Lipar's Mustang.

Smith is not stressing though.

"The burden is not on me. I'm the lucky guy who gets to drive this Lipar Racing Mustang. The burden is on everybody else -- mainly the crew and sponsors. My work schedule allows me to get away when I need to and be where I need to be. The pressure is usually on everybody else."





http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_thursday_smith.jpgAs graphically appealing as Von Smith's "Dr. Moon's Rage" Mustang theme was, it is Nurse Tiffany that steals the show.

The Harold Martin Show - Coming off a strong 2003 campaign, Harold Martin and his crew spent the off-season finding ways to improve their program even further. Having made what they feel are significant gains, they are ready to build on their success, and anxiously await their return to action this weekend in the Sunshine State.

"We're pumped to get out there and begin our journey," said Martin. "You don't know how good you are until you stack yourself up against the best in the world, and the ACDelco Grand Am Racing team is excited to have that opportunity this weekend.

"We think we've done a lot in preparation for the 2004 season. We've been cautious and careful not to lose what we had at the end of last year, but, at the same time, we've rolled up our sleeves and worked really hard in the R & D department to develop some horsepower. Now we need to make sure we harness it and capitalize on it in prime time."

This event will mark Martin's first race at this legendary Florida facility, a task further complicated by the unique eight-car field used by the NHRA with the Pro Modified class.

"Clearly, in my mind a professional race has always started with sixteen cars," said Martin. "Having to compete in a field half that size requires a lot of skill and a certain amount of luck, so you have to have those fortunes tied together. With only an eight-car field, every run must be a great one.

"We'll enter this event with a certain degree of caution, because we can't say for sure that we have enough history under our belts to fully understand the NHRA tracks and track preparation. In addition, we don't have previous data on Gainesville Raceway to refer back to, so it brings a certain amount of humbleness to our approach. We're going to hope and pray that the weather is good and the track predictable. If not, we'll be behind the eight ball.

"With all things being equal, we're confident of having the performance to compete at this level. However, with only an eight car field, there is no room for error, with the No. 1 qualifier just as easily being fifteenth."



http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_thursday_cannon.jpgScotty Cannon is diving headfirst back into Pro Modified.

Closing the Chapter – When the NHRA POWERade tour kicked off in Pomona, Ca., Scotty Cannon was in Douglas, Ga., with a cell-phone to his ear. The former Funny Car driver from Lyman, SC., was curious how his former comrades qualified. A week later, Cannon never called. He didn’t have time to. The six-time Pro Modified champion was too busy preparing his trademark 1953 Studebaker for a run at the NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge tour starting this weekend in Gainesville, Fla., at the NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals.

Just like that, the Oakley-sponsored Cannon said goodbye to life as he knew it of the last four seasons and ushered in another run in the division that set him up for the opportunity to pursue a dream of racing against his hero John Force.

“We’re ready for this,” Cannon explained, a sense of excitement stirring in his voice. “Some people have said I’m taking a step back, but I think I’m just taking a step to the side. Driving a Funny Car and a Pro Modified has a lot of parallels. One is just as hard as the other in some instances.”

The Mohawk is still there, even though it has that weathered look these days. He’s back in the routine of working long hours and being on the run constantly. Just two weeks ago, the Pro Modified legend was elbow to elbow with veteran paint craftsman Barney Squires and his Performance Auto Crafters crew painting the rig Oakley red.

“It’s still about the attitude,” explained Cannon. “Our number one goal was and still is to market Oakley’s product line. Just because I am running Pro Modified doesn’t mean that I am any less committed to keeping Oakley’s name in the spotlight. There could be no prettier a site than to see that Oakley logo in the winner’s circle.

“You can bet your butt, I’m gonna do everything in my power to get it there. It ain’t gonna be easy though.”



Opening New Chapter - Last season, a wearied Danny Rowe couldn’t help but feel that he’d been through three years in the span of one. The West Coast-based Pro Modified driver from Laguna Hills, Ca., experienced about as many misfortunes as a driver could, yet his never-quit spirit kept him coming back for more. New car bugs combined with various electrical gremlins proved to be the source of frustration for a driver that had more than proved his worth by winning two NHRA Pro Modified national events and a West Coast Pro Modified Association Championship.

Content to put the memories of 2003 behind him and concentrate on 2004, Rowe’s foremost objective was to regain the same momentum that drove him to the final round at the 2001 NHRA U.S. Nationals. Pro Modified team owner Mike Ashley and his Gotham City Racing team always considered Rowe a formidable opponent despite any gremlin that may have hampered his efforts. It became clear that Rowe was the perfect driver to complete the expanding Gotham City team.

Rowe is extremely excited headed into qualifying tomorrow for the NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla.

“I have high hopes for this year,” added Rowe. “Mike Ashley and his team represent a first class operation and I am proud to be involved. I have been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to be a part of the InfiNet Insurance & Financial Network as well as Gotham City Racing.”

When the union of East and West Coast was announced last October, the initial plan was for Rowe to drive the team’s award-winning 1941 Willys. That has since changed and Rowe will do battle in a 1963 Corvette. This classic Chevrolet features another rendition of the trademark Gotham City mural that has become a common feature for the Long Island, NY-based operation.



http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/ams_gainesville_thursday_stawicki.jpgIn preparations for the new season Stawicki has secured some associate backing from Speed Transportation, Integrated Quality Solutions, B.A. Enterprises, and NGK. (Photo by Jeff Burk, www.dragracingonline.com (http://www.dragracingonline.com/))

The Hoover Vacuum - Momentum can make or break a drag racer at the start of the season. Just one year ago, Ed Hoover and team owner Paul Trussell took delivery of a supercharged car a few weeks before the NHRA AMS Pro Modified Challenge kicked off its ten-race tour. Knowing the eight-car field was going to demand the best effort a team had to offer, Hoover began testing early in the season. He made appearances in Darlington and Virginia for a few acclamation outings and as desperately as he hoped to get the feel he’d experience the last two decades with a nitrous car – he couldn’t feel it.

Two weeks earlier, he’d wounded his nitrous motor at the IHRA season-opener in San Antonio, Tex., trying to keep pace with the supercharged cars. The test session in Virginia yielded less than spectacular results. All Hoover could do was wave the white flag of surrender temporarily.

Time has a way of healing all wounds, even if those scrapes are related to gaining seat time in a blower car.

“We just didn’t have it all together,” explained Hoover, referring to sitting out last year’s NHRA Gatornationals. “We remained in battle with the nitrous car, all the while bringing the blower car up to speed. We’re ready to contend. Last year was our rookie season.”



Stawicki's Got Speed? - The Pro Modified team of Mike Stawicki and Jim Salemi are looking forward to improving on their 2003 season. In preparations for the new season Stawicki has secured some associate backing from Speed Transportation, Integrated Quality Solutions, B.A. Enterprises, and NGK.

Team G-Force will take the track this year with the same trusty '63 Corvette that powered them to a 6.190 at 229.74 in the heat of the day at Rockingham last year. Crew member Jon Salemi said, "This car really started to show some promise after Norwalk last year. It's all about making efficient and smooth runs. If we can improve a little on what we did last we should be in good shape. The unfortunate thing is that this is drag racing and everything doesn't always go as planned."

Speed Transportation, a world wide shipping and transportation company headquartered in the western New York area has been great help to the team in 2004. "Every little bit of support helps Jim and I be more competitive on the circuit. With the help of everyone from Speed Transportation and I.Q.S we have more of the tools it takes to run one of these cars throughout the season," said Stawicki.

Also onboard this year is B.A. Ent. a motorcycle shop that specializes in complete machine work and performance upgrades for any American-made bike. B.A also offers custom-built bikes in the off season. "Dave at B.A. Enterprises is a friend of mine and a true Pro Mod fan," said Salemi. "We work together on projects Dave has that involve fabrication and welding, and the G-Force custom line of pipes can be seen on all of B.A.'s creations."

A complete line of products from NGK will provide "spark" for the team.

http://www.competitionplus.com/ads/vtwin_02.gif (http://www.vtwinplus.com/)

It was a heck of a party, again…



http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/alehouse_01.jpg

(3-18-2004) - What happens when you combine 5 of the most graphically appealing Pro Modified entries, the Gainesville Ale House, scores of hungry and passionate race fans, John Force, a hot body contest and a classic Shelby GT500E from Unique Performance? Well if you’re Kenny Nowling at Nowling Motorsports Management, you score a promotional home run.

It was just two years ago that Nowling orchestrated a kickoff party of the same magnitude that ushered in the AMS Pro Modified Challenge. The maestro was up to his same antics as emcee Bret Kepner brought a standing room-only crowd to a frenzy that should bring in a few more fans of the Pro Modified class, and of course, encourage ticket sales for the event this weekend in Gainesville.

Force, long known for his admiration of the class, stepped to center stage and proclaimed the NHRA’s exhibition division to be one that has always caught his eye. He gave credit to the teams for their creativity in themes by saying, “You gotta love these guys they put on the side of the car what they want to put.”



http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/alehouse_02.jpg

That led to recognition of Mark Brown and Illusions Paint & Body for having painted four of five cars on display.

The five cars on display were Mike Ashley’s Unique Performance-sponsored 1967 Shelby GT500, Danny Rowe’s InfiNet-sponsored 1963 Corvette, Zach Barkledge’s supercharged Grand-Am, Von Smith in Tommy Lipar’s supercharged Mustang and the flagship for AMS Staff Leasing driven by Troy Critchley.



http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/alehouse_03.jpg

Then there was the hot bod contest which was won by a college student named Erin. Of course, that stole the show for most of the partygoers of the male persuasion (and a few of the females)…except for the one Goodyear tire store employee who dropped in to see the cars.

Looking at the 001 limited edition “Eleanor” replica Shelby GT500E from Unique Performance, he rubbed his head and uttered, “Man, I’d give my firstborn child to drive this thing.”

http://www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/photos/alehouse_04.jpg

[DARK NIGHT]

SUNDAY -STOFFER JOINS ELITE GROUP OF FEMALE WINNERS IN NHRA HISTORY; BERNSTEIN, WILKERSON AND ANDERSON ALSO WIN AT O'REILLY SPRING NATIONALS IN HOUSTON



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/psb_final.JPGPro Stock Bike -- Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.159, 186.38 def. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.176, 186.05.

(4-18-2004) - Karen Stoffer became the seventh woman in NHRA history to win a professional race Sunday, earning the Pro Stock Bike title of the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals at Houston Raceway Park.

Brandon Bernstein, Tim Wilkerson and Greg Anderson also earned victories in their respective categories at the $1.9 million race, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.

Stoffer earned her first career victory in the two-wheel category by beating Antron Brown in the final. Stoffer rode to the win with a 7.159-second pass at 186.38 mph to top Brown's run of 7.176 at 186.05 in a battle between two Suzukis. The final margin of victory was .0018 seconds, or approximately six inches.

"I knew it was going to be a tough road for us because we had such good competition on our side of the ladder," Stoffer said. "But we are a tough team too and right now anything seems possible. All I can say is 'wow' because I don't know how to describe it any other way."
At one point last week, Stoffer wasn't sure if she was going to be able to race this weekend. Her sponsor, Geico Insurance, signed an extension with her, allowing her to come to the race. She will compete at the full slate of POWERade series events.

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/tf_final.jpgTop Fuel -- Brandon Bernstein, 4.695 seconds, 271.79 mph def. Clay Millican, 5.032 seconds, 238.81 mph.

"For a team that might not have been here, this is just amazing," Stoffer said.

Bernstein earned the fifth Top Fuel win of his career in his Budweiser/Lucas Oil dragster and is a perfect five-for-five in final round appearances. Bernstein went 4.695 at 271.79 to beat first-time finalist Clay Millican's 5.032 at 238.81.

Bernstein has earned five wins in just 13 career races. He was quick to give credit to the tuning ability of crew chief Tim Richards.

"I can't say enough about the performance of the car," Bernstein said. "Tim and the entire team are doing such an incredible job. I feel very fortunate to have a great car and a great ride. This is a dream come true."

Bernstein had a full house of guests this weekend. The Texas native graduated from Texas A&M and had his grandfather, Bert Bernstein and mother, Donna Easom, cheering him on.
"I had some college buddies here and it was great to see them along with my mom and grandfather here too," Brandon Bernstein said. "My mom has been to a lot of races but she hadn't been to one that I won before."



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/fc_final.JPGFunny Car -- Tim Wilkerson, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.896, 303.30 def. Jerry Toliver, Toyota Celica, 5.081, 277.03.

With the win, Bernstein moved closer to the top of the point standings. Tony Schumacher lost to Larry Dixon in the second round and saw his points lead cut to 38 - less than two rounds of competition.

"It's still early in the season but someone needs to stop him before he runs away with (the championship)," Bernstein said. "It's going to be a tough battle. I'm not going to say that I was cheering for (Dixon, during the second round matchup against Schumacher) but I will say that I was happy that I saw the win-light on that side of the track."

Wilkerson earned the fourth win of his career in Funny Car with a 4.896 pass at 303.30 in his Levi, Ray & Shoup Chevy Monte Carlo to beat Jerry Toliver's 5.081 at 277.03 in his Schick Toyota Celica.

Wilkerson beat Funny Car points leader Del Worsham in the semifinal round before claiming the victory. The win helped Wilkerson move into the No. 3 spot of the points order.

"We were lucky to get around Del," Wilkerson said. "It seems like every time we meet it is the darndest race. We're going to keep chasing him and hopefully we'll meet enough in the later rounds that we will been in the hunt at the end of the season."
Wilkerson said the car got better as the day wore on.

"The track was a little funky for us," Wilkerson said. "But it came around to us. It's wonderful."

Anderson beat his teammate in the Pro Stock finale in a duel between a pair of Pontiac Grand Ams. Anderson earned the 20th win of his career by turning in a 6.738 run at 205.57 in the Vegas General Construction car to top Jason Line's 9.466 at 98.16 in the KB Framers car.
It was the first time Line had been in a final round. The 1993 Stock eliminator champion now has just nine events on his professional resume.



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/ps_final.JPGPro Stock -- Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.738, 205.57 def. Jason Line, Grand Am, 9.466, 98.16.

"Jason had a better light (reaction time) and he was faster to the 60-foot mark," Anderson said. "But then his car got out of the groove and I am not sure if anyone could have saved it. He shut it off before hitting the wall. I would have been happy if he won too. It would have been a better race if the car hadn't had problems."

Line said he hopes he gets another shot at beating his boss.

"It should have been a better race and I hope I get another chance to race Greg in the final," Line said. "The car just went left and I had to shut it off. But it was tuned up to race. It should have been a real good finish. We should have finished so close to where we could have received the Motel 6 'Who Got the Light' award. Next time."

Anderson has four wins in just five national events this season. If he wants to break records, he will break his own. Anderson set the record for the most wins in a season - 12 - last year en route to his first POWERade Pro Stock championship.

While Anderson admits he may be dominating the category now, he said he thinks it is good for the fans.

"The best thing for the category is for everyone to run quicker and faster," Anderson said. "Our team works very hard at finding more power and I think we are just elevating the category. Already other teams have stepped up their team too. Jeg (Coughlin) and Warren (Johnson) both turned in faster runs than I did and that shows you they are finding the power.
"Right now our team does a better job of putting the power to work on the track. Who knows what can happen in two or three months? We might not be the only team who can say that."

The next NHRA POWERade series event is the fourth annual O'Reilly NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway in Bristol, Tenn., April 30- May 2.



Sportsman Results -



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Top Alcohol Dragster -- Mitch Myers, 5.307, 258.17 def. David Wells, 5.355, 263.31.



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/tafc_final.JPGTop Alcohol Funny Car -- Jay Payne, Chevy Camaro, 5.560, 260.36 def. Steve Gasparrelli, Pontiac Firebird, 5.885, 240.81.





http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/comp_elim_fina;.JPGCompetition Eliminator -- Michael Johnson, Chevy Cavalier, 8.812, 144.13 def. Joey Tanksley, Dragster, 6.941, 187.34.





http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/ss_final.JPGSuper Stock -- Larry Stewart, Chevy Nova, 9.971, 128.03 def. Pete Peery, Oldsmobile Calais, 9.677, 137.26.





http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/stk_final.JPGStock Eliminator -- Lee Zane, Buick Apollo, 11.964, 97.29 def. Jeff Miller, Chevy Camaro, foul.





http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sg_final.JPGSuper Gas -- Erica Enders, Chevy Corvette, 9.933, 162.51 def. Jonathan Johnson, Pontiac Firebird, 9.912, 150.40.





Final round-by-round results from the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series -

TOP FUEL:

ROUND ONE -- Cory McClenathan, 4.577, 311.34 def. Darrell Russell, 6.322, 146.13; Clay Millican, 4.597, 314.31 def. Mark Kinsella, 4.886, 270.75; Larry Dixon, 4.609, 302.69 def. Brady Kalivoda, 4.783, 272.89; Doug Herbert, 4.817, 296.89 def. Scott Palmer, 4.851, 284.03; Scott Kalitta, 4.629, 315.27 def. David Grubnic, 4.639, 307.58; Tony Schumacher, 4.588, 318.32 def. Bruce Litton, 4.782, 273.11; Doug Kalitta, 4.560, 316.67 def. David Baca, 4.599, 311.34; Brandon Bernstein, 4.609, 313.58 def. John Smith, foul; TOP FUEL:

QUARTERFINALS -- S. Kalitta, 4.612, 312.21 def. Herbert, 4.735, 293.92; Dixon, 4.562, 317.94 def. Schumacher, 6.820, 117.70; Bernstein, 5.415, 253.75 def. McClenathan, 6.135, 257.58; Millican, 4.869, 284.81 def. D. Kalitta, 5.094, 264.44;

SEMIFINALS -- Bernstein, 4.646, 308.92 def. S. Kalitta, 4.812, 250.46; Millican, 4.810, 287.72 def. Dixon, 10.091, 93.15;

FINAL -- Bernstein, 4.695, 271.79 def. Millican, 5.032, 238.81.


FUNNY CAR:

ROUND ONE -- Tim Wilkerson, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.824, 310.77 def. Bob Gilbertson, Pontiac Firebird, 11.488, 86.97; Del Worsham, Monte Carlo, 4.881, 306.40 def. Whit Bazemore, Dodge Stratus, 6.606, 139.34; Jerry Toliver, Toyota Celica, 5.052, 293.03 def. Phil Burkart, Monte Carlo, 8.336, 95.75; Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 6.842, 129.32 def. Jim Head, Celica, broke; John Force, Mustang, 4.847, 308.99 def. Tommy Johnson Jr., Monte Carlo, 4.924, 303.03; Gary Scelzi, Stratus, 5.037, 309.56 def. Jeff Arend, Chevy Corvette, 9.057, 100.28; Eric Medlen, Mustang, 4.921, 302.41 def. Cruz Pedregon, Monte Carlo, 4.904, 302.14; Tony Pedregon, Chevy Camaro, 4.892, 296.63 def. Ron Capps, Monte Carlo, 4.947, 306.81;

QUARTERFINALS -- Wilkerson, 4.918, 308.00 def. Medlen, 6.845, 132.26; Worsham, 4.941, 296.50 def. Scelzi, 5.010, 300.40; Toliver, 6.174, 221.16 def. Force, broke; Densham, 5.488, 248.98 def. T. Pedregon, 6.182, 178.26;

SEMIFINALS -- Toliver, 5.429, 273.55 def. Densham, 13.224, 86.95; Wilkerson, 4.964, 303.16 def. Worsham, 4.963, 297.02;

FINAL -- Wilkerson, 4.896, 303.30 def. Toliver, 5.081, 277.03.


PRO STOCK:

ROUND ONE -- Larry Morgan, Dodge Stratus, 6.787, 203.06 def. Jim Yates, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.813, 202.97; Dave Connolly, Chevy Cavalier, 6.819, 203.25 def. Darrell Alderman, Dodge Stratus R/T, 6.787, 203.65; Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.792, 203.40 def. Rickie Smith, Cavalier, 6.793, 203.71; Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.789, 203.03 def. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.818, 202.52; Jason Line, Grand Am, 6.745, 204.60 def. Steve Johns, Cavalier, 6.787, 203.83; Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.761, 204.82 def. Allen Johnson, Stratus, 6.767, 204.01; Greg Anderson, Grand Am, 6.731, 204.54 def. Mark Whisnant, Cavalier, 6.789, 203.71; Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.757, 204.85 def. Bruce Allen, Grand Am, 6.781, 203.58;

QUARTERFINALS -- Edwards, 6.803, 203.98 def. W. Johnson, 6.827, 204.17; J. Coughlin, 6.762, 204.57 def. K. Johnson, 6.770, 203.80; Line, 6.760, 204.17 def. Connolly, 6.795, 203.55; Anderson, 6.736, 205.07 def. Morgan, foul;

SEMIFINALS -- Line, 6.766, 203.83 def. Edwards, 6.878, 202.73; Anderson, 6.738, 204.82 def. J. Coughlin, 7.336, 147.99;

FINAL -- Anderson, 6.738, 205.57 def. Line, 9.466, 98.16.


PRO STOCK BIKE:

ROUND ONE -- Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.174, 186.59 def. Fred Collis, Suzuki, foul; Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.112, 187.83 def. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.267, 186.67; GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.216, 186.20 def. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, foul; Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.130, 188.04 def. Fred Camarena, Suzuki, 7.301, 179.18; Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.216, 184.19 def. Josh Helvie, Kawasaki, foul; Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.248, 184.70 def. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.267, 185.26; Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.160, 187.44 def. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.224, 187.81; Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.172, 188.31 def. Chip Hunter, Suzuki, broke;

QUARTERFINALS -- Brown, 7.223, 185.31 def. Gann, 7.210, 186.36; Scali, 7.118, 188.41 def. Savoie, 7.289, 185.82; Stoffer, 7.134, 185.82 def. Tonglet, 7.184, 187.68; Hines, 7.132, 189.52 def. Berry, 7.239, 184.67;

SEMIFINALS -- Stoffer, 7.196, 184.98 def. Hines, 7.215, 177.00; Brown, 7.214, 184.47 def. Scali, 7.193, 186.82;

FINAL -- Stoffer, 7.159, 186.38 def. Brown, 7.176, 186.05.

[DARK NIGHT]

SATURDAY - BERNSTEIN, DENSHAM, ANDERSON AND HINES QUALIFY AT THE TOP AT O'REILLY SPRING NATIONALS

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_anderson.jpgGreg Anderson continues to raise the bar in NHRA Pro Stock racing as he earned the No. 1 qualifying position for the 10th consecutive event.

(4-17-2004) - Greg Anderson continues to raise the bar in NHRA Pro Stock racing as he earned the No. 1 qualifying position for the 10th consecutive event Saturday during the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals at Houston Raceway Park.

Brandon Bernstein, Gary Densham and Andrew Hines also earned the No. 1 qualifying position in their respective categories at the $1.9 million race, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. It is the second of 15 national events for the Pro Stock Bike category.

Anderson earned the 22nd No. 1 qualifying position of his career in his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am by setting both ends of the track record with a 6.693-second pass at 205.72 mph.

Anderson produced the best season in NHRA history en route to winning the 2003 Pro Stock championship. The 2004 season has already produced three wins along with nine track records.

"I'm very proud of what we've been able to accomplish because you can come up with all of the horsepower in the world but if you don't know how to put it on the track, it won't mean anything," Anderson said.

The record for the most consecutive No. 1 qualifiers is 23, set by former Pro Stock driver Bob Glidden between the 1986-'88 seasons.

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_bernstein.jpgBrandon Bernstein earned the third top qualifier of his career with a 4.516 run at 320.58 in his Budweiser dragster to lead Top Fuel.

"I keep thinking that I am going to wake up and this will all be over," Anderson said. "Life has never been so fun as far as racing is concerned. It's never been quite this fun. This team is successful because we have been so consistent. Everyone pulls their weight around the shop and the track."

Bernstein earned the third top qualifier of his career with a 4.516 run at 320.58 in his Budweiser dragster to lead Top Fuel.

Bernstein is aiming for his fifth career victory and second of the season on Sunday.
"It's real important that we are consistent because we don't want (points leader) Tony Schumacher running away with the points lead," Bernstein said. "It's difficult to get points back at the end of the season."

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_densham.jpgGary Densham paced the Funny Car class with a run of 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang for his eighth career No. 1 spot and second of the season.

Densham paced the Funny Car class with a run of 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang for his eighth career No. 1 spot and second of the season.

"I figured with the heat we had today that our time (from Friday night) had a very good chance of staying at the top," Densham said. "(Crew chief) Jimmy Prock is making great tuning calls and the car is just plain fast."

Hines earned the second top qualifying position of his career and second of the season when he rode his Screamin' Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson to a track-record time of 7.072 run at 187.94 to lead the Pro Stock Bike category.



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_hines.jpgAndrew Hines earned the second top qualifying position of his career and second of the season when he rode his Screamin' Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson to a track-record time of 7.072 run at 187.94 to lead the Pro Stock Bike category.

Hines said he didn't think the bike ran a No. 1 time.

"The bike moved over to the center and I thought that there was no way the run was going to be good enough for the No. 1 spot," Hines said. "This track threw us off for a little bit, but hopefully we have our tuneup set and ready for eliminations."

Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. Sunday.

First-round pairings for professional eliminations Sunday for the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Pairings based on results in qualifying, which ended Saturday.


Top Fuel -- 1. Brandon Bernstein, 4.516 seconds, 320.58 mph vs. 16. John Smith, 4.716, 305.22; 2. Doug Kalitta, 4.533, 322.81 vs. 15. David Baca, 4.704, 307.72; 3. Tony Schumacher, 4.544, 320.20 vs. 14. Bruce Litton, 4.703, 309.56; 4. David Grubnic, 4.548, 320.28 vs. 13. Scott Kalitta, 4.691, 309.63; 5. Doug Herbert, 4.576, 320.43 vs. 12. Scott Palmer, 4.675, 313.95; 6. Larry Dixon, 4.577, 324.75 vs. 11. Brady Kalivoda, 4.632, 311.77; 7. Clay Millican, 4.578, 310.98 vs. 10. Mark Kinsella, 4.630, 311.70; 8. Darrell Russell, 4.592, 320.66 vs. 9. Cory McClenathan, 4.607, 305.29.


Funny Car -- 1. Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 4.846, 311.20 vs. 16. Jim Head, Toyota Celica, 5.195, 263.10; 2. Tim Wilkerson, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.874, 305.08 vs. 15. Bob Gilbertson, Pontiac Firebird, 5.146, 283.85; 3. Jeff Arend, Chevy Corvette, 4.878, 299.53 vs. 14. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 5.080, 297.48; 4. Phil Burkart, Monte Carlo, 4.891, 308.07 vs. 13. Jerry Toliver, Celica, 5.023, 288.46; 5. Tommy Johnson Jr., Monte Carlo, 4.896, 311.20 vs. 12. John Force, Mustang, 4.958, 300.33; 6. Del Worsham, Monte Carlo, 4.898, 296.63 vs. 11. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.927, 300.13; 7. Eric Medlen, Mustang, 4.901, 297.22 vs. 10. Cruz Pedregon, Monte Carlo, 4.923, 294.50; 8. Ron Capps, Monte Carlo, 4.912, 312.71 vs. 9. Tony Pedregon, Chevy Camaro, 4.912, 298.27.


Pro Stock -- 1. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.693, 205.72 vs. 16. Mark Whisnant, Chevy Cavalier, 6.778, 203.92; 2. Jason Line, Grand Am, 6.723, 205.26 vs. 15. Steve Johns, Cavalier, 6.776, 204.82; 3. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.737, 204.51 vs. 14. Allen Johnson, Dodge Stratus, 6.770, 204.48; 4. Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.745, 205.51 vs. 13. Bruce Allen, Grand Am, 6.765, 203.58; 5. Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.749, 204.57 vs. 12. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.763, 203.89; 6. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.753, 203.74 vs. 11. Rickie Smith, Cavalier, 6.762, 204.60; 7. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.755, 204.01 vs. 10. Darrell Alderman, Dodge Stratus, 6.760, 204.14; 8. Larry Morgan, Stratus, 6.756, 204.29 vs. 9. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.757, 203.61.


Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.072, 190.03 vs. 16. Fred Camarena, Suzuki, 7.223, 184.45; 2. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.074, 187.94 vs. 15. Josh Helvie, Kawasaki, 7.221, 183.22; 3. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.076, 191.02 vs. 14. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.198, 188.36; 4. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.103, 188.57 vs. 13. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.193, 185.15; 5. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.107, 190.06 vs. 12. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.191, 188.41; 6. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.125, 187.00 vs. 11. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.184, 185.61; 7. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.146, 187.81 vs. 10. Chip Hunter, Suzuki, 7.173, 187.76; 8. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.157, 187.44 vs. 9. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.171, 187.44.

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FRIDAY - BERNSTEIN, DENSHAM, ANDERSON AND BROWN EARN TOP QUALIFYING SPOTS AT O'REILLY SPRING NATIONALS



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/bernstein.JPGBrandon Bernstein raced to the provisional No. 1 qualifying position Friday.

(4-16-2004) - Texas native Brandon Bernstein raced to the provisional No. 1 qualifying position Friday during the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals at Houston Raceway Park.

Gary Densham, Greg Anderson and Antron Brown also led their respective categories at the $1.9 million race, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. It is the second of 15 national events for the Pro Stock Bike category.

Bernstein used a 4.516-second pass at 320.58 mph in his Budweiser dragster to lead the Top Fuel category after two rounds of qualifying. If he can stay in the No. 1 position, it will be the first top spot of the season and third in his young career.

"Tim (Richards, crew chief) and the guys really had it hopped up," Bernstein said. "We knew it was getting cooler and the track was getting tight. We saw a couple of good runs in front of us and knew we could turn in a good run."



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/densham.JPGGary Densham ran a 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang to lead the Funny Car class.

Densham ran a 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang to lead the Funny Car class. Densham was the No. 1 qualifier in Phoenix earlier this season and has sixth other top qualifiers in his career.

Anderson drove his Pontiac Grand Am to the top in Pro Stock, setting the elapsed time track record with a 6.693 run at 205.44.

In the first four races of the season, Anderson has set seven of eight possible track records. He has been the No. 1 qualifier at every race dating back to the Chicago 2 event in September. If he can hang on to the top spot this weekend, Anderson will have a 10-race streak at the top.
"We were hoping it would be a little cooler than it was," Anderson said. "We were thinking we could go after the national record if it was in the 50s and 60s. But that really isn't our main concern right now because we already have the national record anyway. Our main concern is running quicker than everyone else."



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/anderson.JPGhttp://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/brown.JPG(Top) Anderson drove his Pontiac Grand Am to the top in Pro Stock, setting the elapsed time track record with a 6.693 run at 205.44. (Bottom). Brown paced the two-wheel category, setting a track record time of 7.074 at 187.94 on his U.S. Army Suzuki.

Brown paced the two-wheel category, setting a track record time of 7.074 at 187.94 on his U.S. Army Suzuki. Brown has six top qualifying positions in his career going into the weekend.

Qualifying continues Saturday with sessions at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. Sunday.

Results Friday after qualifying for the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park, fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Sunday's final eliminations.


Top Fuel -- 1. Brandon Bernstein, 4.516 seconds, 320.58 mph; 2. Doug Kalitta, 4.533, 322.81; 3. Tony Schumacher, 4.544, 320.20; 4. David Grubnic, 4.548, 320.28; 5. Doug Herbert, 4.576, 320.43; 6. Larry Dixon, 4.577, 324.75; 7. Clay Millican, 4.578, 310.98; 8. Darrell Russell, 4.592, 320.66; 9. Mark Kinsella, 4.630, 311.70; 10. Brady Kalivoda, 4.632, 311.77; 11. Cory McClenathan, 4.650, 303.78; 12. Scott Palmer, 4.675, 313.95; 13. Bruce Litton, 4.703, 309.56; 14. David Baca, 4.704, 307.72; 15. John Smith, 4.716, 305.22; 16. T.J. Zizzo, 4.886, 290.01.


Funny Car -- 1. Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 4.846, 311.20; 2. Jeff Arend, Chevy Corvette, 4.878, 299.53; 3. Phil Burkart, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.891, 308.07; 4. Tommy Johnson Jr., Monte Carlo, 4.896, 311.20; 5. Eric Medlen, Mustang, 4.901, 286.56; 6. Ron Capps, Monte Carlo, 4.912, 312.71; 7. Whit Bazemore, Dodge Stratus, 4.927, 297.68; 8. Cruz Pedregon, Monte Carlo, 4.956, 294.50; 9. Tim Wilkerson, Monte Carlo, 4.994, 289.76; 10. Del Worsham, Monte Carlo, 5.004, 295.08; 11. Tony Pedregon, Chevy Camaro, 5.034, 291.01; 12. Bob Gilbertson, Pontiac Firebird, 5.185, 282.07; 13. Jerry Toliver, Toyota Celica, 5.537, 281.95; 14. John Force, Mustang, 5.559, 252.66; 15. Tony Bartone, Firebird, 5.808, 164.95; 16. Jim Head, Celica, 8.079, 100.58.


Pro Stock -- 1. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.693, 205.44; 2. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.737, 204.51; 3. Jeg Coughlin, Chevy Cavalier, 6.745, 204.73; 4. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.753, 203.61; 5. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.755, 203.89; 6. Larry Morgan, Dodge Stratus, 6.756, 204.29; 7. Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.757, 204.11; 8. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.757, 203.61; 9. Darrell Alderman, Dodge Stratus, 6.760, 204.14; 10. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.763, 203.89; 11. Jason Line, Grand Am, 6.768, 204.54; 12. Steve Johns, Cavalier, 6.776, 204.35; 13. Allen Johnson, Stratus, 6.777, 203.89; 14. Mark Whisnant, Cavalier, 6.778, 203.92; 15. Mark Pawuk, Grand Am, 6.778, 203.19; 16. Rickie Smith, Cavalier, 6.783, 203.95.


Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.074, 187.94; 2. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.076, 191.02; 3. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.082, 190.03; 4. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.107, 189.79; 5. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.125, 186.07; 6. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.146, 187.81; 7. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.148, 188.57; 8. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.157, 187.44; 9. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.171, 187.44; 10. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.198, 188.36; 11. Fred Camarena, Suzuki, 7.223, 184.45; 12. Kurt Matte, Suzuki, 7.226, 187.21; 13. Josh Helvie, Kawasaki, 7.230, 181.59; 14. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.231, 184.14; 15. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.236, 185.61; 16. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.242, 188.41.


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THURSDAY NOTES – Racers eager to try out newly resurfaced quarter-mile at HRP

Johnson looking to begin new streak - Tommy Johnson will attempt to begin a new qualifying streak at Houston behind the wheel of his blue Skoal Racing Chevy Monte Carlo Funny Car. Johnson failed to qualify two weeks ago in Las Vegas, ended a 37-race qualifying streak.

Pedregon racing in front of new sponsor – POWERade Funny Champion, Tony Pedregon, will likely feel some added pressure at the O’Reilly Spring Nationals. Pedregon will be racing at the corporate home of his new sponsor, Quaker State. The defending champ has enjoyed considerable success in Houston during his Funny Car career and expects another strong showing this weekend with his new team.

Something Batty? – When it comes to building momentum, NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Bike rider Lloyd Straus had never experienced an adrenalin rush on the series like he did during the Gatornationals. Headed into the final day of qualifying, Straus was living on Cloud Nine with a spot in the ultra-competitive 16-bike field. Qualifying ended with Straus just two clicks on the outside, but the message is clear. The InfiNet/Gotham City team is one that will be in contention in the events to come.

Straus and his tuner G.T. Tonglet has certainly caught the attention of some of the best riders the class has to offer.

“This is such a tough class to qualify in, that anytime you can come close, you have accomplished something to be extremely proud of,” explained Straus. “I think our performance sends a strong message that we are more than ready for the challenge. All we need is a break here and there and we’ll be more than up to the challenge. We are certainly using the Gainesville event as a motivational experience to show what hard work and dedication will provide.”


Scelzi still the quickest in Houston – Gary Scelzi still holds the track elapsed time record at Houston Raceway Park. Scelzi set the E.T. mark in 1999, running a 4.480 while driving the Winston-sponsored Top Fuel dragster. Scelzi, who is in his third year behind the wheel of a fuel flopper, will be looking for his first win of the season in his HEMI-powered Oakley Dodge Stratus Funny Car.

Millican loves the Lone Star State – Defending IHRA Top Fuel champion Clay Millican will be celebrating the one-year anniversary of the debut of his NHRA sponsor, 104+ Performance Additives. Millican, who won the IHRA event in San Antonio two weeks ago, made the best run of his career in Houston last year with a stunning 4.50 at 330 mph. The Lehman Racing team will be gunning for their first NHRA victory this weekend.

Kalitta still looking for first victory of 2004 – Doug Kalitta would be happy to repeat his efforts from last season in Houston this weekend. Kalitta, who drives the red Mac Tools dragster, the quickest and fastest Top Fueler in the world, won the first of four victories here last season, setting the track speed record in the process with a run of 333.91 mph.

Dixon determined heading into Houston – If the weather and track cooperate, two-time and defending NHRA POWERade Top Fuel champion Larry Dixon will be looking to return to the 4.40 elapsed time zone this weekend in Houston. It was five years ago this weekend that Dixon made drag racing history in Houston when he became the first driver to make a run in the 4.40’s with a 4.486 elapsed time in the Miller dragster. Dixon has failed to dip into the 4.40’s since but it has not stopped him from winning a pair of NHRA crowns.

Wilkerson closing in on 100th career round win – Tim Wilkerson has the opportunity to earn his 100th round win in Houston this weekend. The driver of the Levi, Ray and Shoup Chevy Monte Carlo is just two rounds away from the century mark.

Burkart earns first win for Chevy Monte Carlo Funny Car – Phil Burkart’s second career NHRA national event win was the first ever for the new Chevy Monte Carlo, which made its NHRA debut in February at Pomona. The win was Chevrolet’s 65th all-time NHRA Funny Car win in 135 final round appearances. The victory moved the Team Blue Checker, Schucks, Kragen driver into sixth place in the current POWERade Funny Car points standings.

KJ hoping for repeat in Houston – Pro Stock driver, Kurt Johnson, would love to repeat his performance from Houston last year. Johnson drove his ACDelco Cavalier to victory at last year’s Spring Nationals, setting a new Pro Stock national speed record with a 205.57 mph blast en route to the win. The 205-mph run is still the track speed record for the class.

Anderson still a long way from qualifying record – Greg Anderson has driven to nine consecutive No. 1 qualifying positions dating back to last September’s NHRA Nationals in Joliet, Ill. While the streak is the longest in the class in almost 17 years, the defending POWERade Pro Stock champ still has a long way to go to break the current mark, which is held by the legendary Bob Glidden. Glidden holds the record with 23 consecutive No. 1 qualifying positions, stretching over three seasons from 1985 through 1987.

Stoffer headed to Houston – Pro Stock Bike rider, Karen Stoffer, has decided to compete at the Spring Nationals in Houston, the second race of the season for the class. Stoffer’s successful semifinal finish at the Gatornationals in March convinced the team to go to Houston. Solidifying the decision was the addition of Cycle-Gard by Geico Direct, who will provide additional support at selected events on the 2004 tour.

U.S. Army Pro Stock Bike team looking to improve in Houston – Antron Brown and Angelle Savoie will put their disappointing season opening race in Gainesville behind them as they head to the Spring Nationals. Brown advanced to the quarterfinals but Savoie survived a qualifying crash only to lose on a holeshot in the first round. Both drivers expect to improve on their performances dramatically at Houston, where Brown earned his first No. 1 qualifying spot in 2001 and Savoie won the event in 2001 and 2003.

[DARK NIGHT]

SATURDAY - BERNSTEIN, DENSHAM, ANDERSON AND HINES QUALIFY AT THE TOP AT O'REILLY SPRING NATIONALS

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_anderson.jpgGreg Anderson continues to raise the bar in NHRA Pro Stock racing as he earned the No. 1 qualifying position for the 10th consecutive event.

(4-17-2004) - Greg Anderson continues to raise the bar in NHRA Pro Stock racing as he earned the No. 1 qualifying position for the 10th consecutive event Saturday during the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals at Houston Raceway Park.

Brandon Bernstein, Gary Densham and Andrew Hines also earned the No. 1 qualifying position in their respective categories at the $1.9 million race, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. It is the second of 15 national events for the Pro Stock Bike category.

Anderson earned the 22nd No. 1 qualifying position of his career in his Vegas General Construction Pontiac Grand Am by setting both ends of the track record with a 6.693-second pass at 205.72 mph.

Anderson produced the best season in NHRA history en route to winning the 2003 Pro Stock championship. The 2004 season has already produced three wins along with nine track records.

"I'm very proud of what we've been able to accomplish because you can come up with all of the horsepower in the world but if you don't know how to put it on the track, it won't mean anything," Anderson said.

The record for the most consecutive No. 1 qualifiers is 23, set by former Pro Stock driver Bob Glidden between the 1986-'88 seasons.

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_bernstein.jpgBrandon Bernstein earned the third top qualifier of his career with a 4.516 run at 320.58 in his Budweiser dragster to lead Top Fuel.

"I keep thinking that I am going to wake up and this will all be over," Anderson said. "Life has never been so fun as far as racing is concerned. It's never been quite this fun. This team is successful because we have been so consistent. Everyone pulls their weight around the shop and the track."

Bernstein earned the third top qualifier of his career with a 4.516 run at 320.58 in his Budweiser dragster to lead Top Fuel.

Bernstein is aiming for his fifth career victory and second of the season on Sunday.
"It's real important that we are consistent because we don't want (points leader) Tony Schumacher running away with the points lead," Bernstein said. "It's difficult to get points back at the end of the season."

http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_densham.jpgGary Densham paced the Funny Car class with a run of 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang for his eighth career No. 1 spot and second of the season.

Densham paced the Funny Car class with a run of 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang for his eighth career No. 1 spot and second of the season.

"I figured with the heat we had today that our time (from Friday night) had a very good chance of staying at the top," Densham said. "(Crew chief) Jimmy Prock is making great tuning calls and the car is just plain fast."

Hines earned the second top qualifying position of his career and second of the season when he rode his Screamin' Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson to a track-record time of 7.072 run at 187.94 to lead the Pro Stock Bike category.



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/sat_hines.jpgAndrew Hines earned the second top qualifying position of his career and second of the season when he rode his Screamin' Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson to a track-record time of 7.072 run at 187.94 to lead the Pro Stock Bike category.

Hines said he didn't think the bike ran a No. 1 time.

"The bike moved over to the center and I thought that there was no way the run was going to be good enough for the No. 1 spot," Hines said. "This track threw us off for a little bit, but hopefully we have our tuneup set and ready for eliminations."

Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. Sunday.

First-round pairings for professional eliminations Sunday for the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Pairings based on results in qualifying, which ended Saturday.


Top Fuel -- 1. Brandon Bernstein, 4.516 seconds, 320.58 mph vs. 16. John Smith, 4.716, 305.22; 2. Doug Kalitta, 4.533, 322.81 vs. 15. David Baca, 4.704, 307.72; 3. Tony Schumacher, 4.544, 320.20 vs. 14. Bruce Litton, 4.703, 309.56; 4. David Grubnic, 4.548, 320.28 vs. 13. Scott Kalitta, 4.691, 309.63; 5. Doug Herbert, 4.576, 320.43 vs. 12. Scott Palmer, 4.675, 313.95; 6. Larry Dixon, 4.577, 324.75 vs. 11. Brady Kalivoda, 4.632, 311.77; 7. Clay Millican, 4.578, 310.98 vs. 10. Mark Kinsella, 4.630, 311.70; 8. Darrell Russell, 4.592, 320.66 vs. 9. Cory McClenathan, 4.607, 305.29.


Funny Car -- 1. Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 4.846, 311.20 vs. 16. Jim Head, Toyota Celica, 5.195, 263.10; 2. Tim Wilkerson, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.874, 305.08 vs. 15. Bob Gilbertson, Pontiac Firebird, 5.146, 283.85; 3. Jeff Arend, Chevy Corvette, 4.878, 299.53 vs. 14. Gary Scelzi, Dodge Stratus, 5.080, 297.48; 4. Phil Burkart, Monte Carlo, 4.891, 308.07 vs. 13. Jerry Toliver, Celica, 5.023, 288.46; 5. Tommy Johnson Jr., Monte Carlo, 4.896, 311.20 vs. 12. John Force, Mustang, 4.958, 300.33; 6. Del Worsham, Monte Carlo, 4.898, 296.63 vs. 11. Whit Bazemore, Stratus, 4.927, 300.13; 7. Eric Medlen, Mustang, 4.901, 297.22 vs. 10. Cruz Pedregon, Monte Carlo, 4.923, 294.50; 8. Ron Capps, Monte Carlo, 4.912, 312.71 vs. 9. Tony Pedregon, Chevy Camaro, 4.912, 298.27.


Pro Stock -- 1. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.693, 205.72 vs. 16. Mark Whisnant, Chevy Cavalier, 6.778, 203.92; 2. Jason Line, Grand Am, 6.723, 205.26 vs. 15. Steve Johns, Cavalier, 6.776, 204.82; 3. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.737, 204.51 vs. 14. Allen Johnson, Dodge Stratus, 6.770, 204.48; 4. Jeg Coughlin, Cavalier, 6.745, 205.51 vs. 13. Bruce Allen, Grand Am, 6.765, 203.58; 5. Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.749, 204.57 vs. 12. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.763, 203.89; 6. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.753, 203.74 vs. 11. Rickie Smith, Cavalier, 6.762, 204.60; 7. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.755, 204.01 vs. 10. Darrell Alderman, Dodge Stratus, 6.760, 204.14; 8. Larry Morgan, Stratus, 6.756, 204.29 vs. 9. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.757, 203.61.


Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.072, 190.03 vs. 16. Fred Camarena, Suzuki, 7.223, 184.45; 2. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.074, 187.94 vs. 15. Josh Helvie, Kawasaki, 7.221, 183.22; 3. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.076, 191.02 vs. 14. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.198, 188.36; 4. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.103, 188.57 vs. 13. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.193, 185.15; 5. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.107, 190.06 vs. 12. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.191, 188.41; 6. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.125, 187.00 vs. 11. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.184, 185.61; 7. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.146, 187.81 vs. 10. Chip Hunter, Suzuki, 7.173, 187.76; 8. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.157, 187.44 vs. 9. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.171, 187.44.

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FRIDAY - BERNSTEIN, DENSHAM, ANDERSON AND BROWN EARN TOP QUALIFYING SPOTS AT O'REILLY SPRING NATIONALS



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/bernstein.JPGBrandon Bernstein raced to the provisional No. 1 qualifying position Friday.

(4-16-2004) - Texas native Brandon Bernstein raced to the provisional No. 1 qualifying position Friday during the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals at Houston Raceway Park.

Gary Densham, Greg Anderson and Antron Brown also led their respective categories at the $1.9 million race, the fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. It is the second of 15 national events for the Pro Stock Bike category.

Bernstein used a 4.516-second pass at 320.58 mph in his Budweiser dragster to lead the Top Fuel category after two rounds of qualifying. If he can stay in the No. 1 position, it will be the first top spot of the season and third in his young career.

"Tim (Richards, crew chief) and the guys really had it hopped up," Bernstein said. "We knew it was getting cooler and the track was getting tight. We saw a couple of good runs in front of us and knew we could turn in a good run."



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/densham.JPGGary Densham ran a 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang to lead the Funny Car class.

Densham ran a 4.846 at 311.20 in his Auto Club Ford Mustang to lead the Funny Car class. Densham was the No. 1 qualifier in Phoenix earlier this season and has sixth other top qualifiers in his career.

Anderson drove his Pontiac Grand Am to the top in Pro Stock, setting the elapsed time track record with a 6.693 run at 205.44.

In the first four races of the season, Anderson has set seven of eight possible track records. He has been the No. 1 qualifier at every race dating back to the Chicago 2 event in September. If he can hang on to the top spot this weekend, Anderson will have a 10-race streak at the top.
"We were hoping it would be a little cooler than it was," Anderson said. "We were thinking we could go after the national record if it was in the 50s and 60s. But that really isn't our main concern right now because we already have the national record anyway. Our main concern is running quicker than everyone else."



http://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/anderson.JPGhttp://www.competitionplus.com/04_15_2004/photos/brown.JPG(Top) Anderson drove his Pontiac Grand Am to the top in Pro Stock, setting the elapsed time track record with a 6.693 run at 205.44. (Bottom). Brown paced the two-wheel category, setting a track record time of 7.074 at 187.94 on his U.S. Army Suzuki.

Brown paced the two-wheel category, setting a track record time of 7.074 at 187.94 on his U.S. Army Suzuki. Brown has six top qualifying positions in his career going into the weekend.

Qualifying continues Saturday with sessions at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are set for 11 a.m. Sunday.

Results Friday after qualifying for the 17th annual O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park, fifth of 23 events in the $50 million NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Sunday's final eliminations.


Top Fuel -- 1. Brandon Bernstein, 4.516 seconds, 320.58 mph; 2. Doug Kalitta, 4.533, 322.81; 3. Tony Schumacher, 4.544, 320.20; 4. David Grubnic, 4.548, 320.28; 5. Doug Herbert, 4.576, 320.43; 6. Larry Dixon, 4.577, 324.75; 7. Clay Millican, 4.578, 310.98; 8. Darrell Russell, 4.592, 320.66; 9. Mark Kinsella, 4.630, 311.70; 10. Brady Kalivoda, 4.632, 311.77; 11. Cory McClenathan, 4.650, 303.78; 12. Scott Palmer, 4.675, 313.95; 13. Bruce Litton, 4.703, 309.56; 14. David Baca, 4.704, 307.72; 15. John Smith, 4.716, 305.22; 16. T.J. Zizzo, 4.886, 290.01.


Funny Car -- 1. Gary Densham, Ford Mustang, 4.846, 311.20; 2. Jeff Arend, Chevy Corvette, 4.878, 299.53; 3. Phil Burkart, Chevy Monte Carlo, 4.891, 308.07; 4. Tommy Johnson Jr., Monte Carlo, 4.896, 311.20; 5. Eric Medlen, Mustang, 4.901, 286.56; 6. Ron Capps, Monte Carlo, 4.912, 312.71; 7. Whit Bazemore, Dodge Stratus, 4.927, 297.68; 8. Cruz Pedregon, Monte Carlo, 4.956, 294.50; 9. Tim Wilkerson, Monte Carlo, 4.994, 289.76; 10. Del Worsham, Monte Carlo, 5.004, 295.08; 11. Tony Pedregon, Chevy Camaro, 5.034, 291.01; 12. Bob Gilbertson, Pontiac Firebird, 5.185, 282.07; 13. Jerry Toliver, Toyota Celica, 5.537, 281.95; 14. John Force, Mustang, 5.559, 252.66; 15. Tony Bartone, Firebird, 5.808, 164.95; 16. Jim Head, Celica, 8.079, 100.58.


Pro Stock -- 1. Greg Anderson, Pontiac Grand Am, 6.693, 205.44; 2. Warren Johnson, Grand Am, 6.737, 204.51; 3. Jeg Coughlin, Chevy Cavalier, 6.745, 204.73; 4. Mike Edwards, Grand Am, 6.753, 203.61; 5. Dave Connolly, Cavalier, 6.755, 203.89; 6. Larry Morgan, Dodge Stratus, 6.756, 204.29; 7. Kurt Johnson, Cavalier, 6.757, 204.11; 8. Jim Yates, Grand Am, 6.757, 203.61; 9. Darrell Alderman, Dodge Stratus, 6.760, 204.14; 10. Ron Krisher, Cavalier, 6.763, 203.89; 11. Jason Line, Grand Am, 6.768, 204.54; 12. Steve Johns, Cavalier, 6.776, 204.35; 13. Allen Johnson, Stratus, 6.777, 203.89; 14. Mark Whisnant, Cavalier, 6.778, 203.92; 15. Mark Pawuk, Grand Am, 6.778, 203.19; 16. Rickie Smith, Cavalier, 6.783, 203.95.


Pro Stock Bike -- 1. Antron Brown, Suzuki, 7.074, 187.94; 2. Geno Scali, Suzuki, 7.076, 191.02; 3. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 7.082, 190.03; 4. GT Tonglet, Harley-Davidson, 7.107, 189.79; 5. Fred Collis, Suzuki, 7.125, 186.07; 6. Shawn Gann, Suzuki, 7.146, 187.81; 7. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 7.148, 188.57; 8. Michael Phillips, Suzuki, 7.157, 187.44; 9. Mike Berry, Suzuki, 7.171, 187.44; 10. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 7.198, 188.36; 11. Fred Camarena, Suzuki, 7.223, 184.45; 12. Kurt Matte, Suzuki, 7.226, 187.21; 13. Josh Helvie, Kawasaki, 7.230, 181.59; 14. Craig Treble, Suzuki, 7.231, 184.14; 15. Angelle Savoie, Suzuki, 7.236, 185.61; 16. Blaine Hale, Suzuki, 7.242, 188.41.


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THURSDAY NOTES – Racers eager to try out newly resurfaced quarter-mile at HRP

Johnson looking to begin new streak - Tommy Johnson will attempt to begin a new qualifying streak at Houston behind the wheel of his blue Skoal Racing Chevy Monte Carlo Funny Car. Johnson failed to qualify two weeks ago in Las Vegas, ended a 37-race qualifying streak.

Pedregon racing in front of new sponsor – POWERade Funny Champion, Tony Pedregon, will likely feel some added pressure at the O’Reilly Spring Nationals. Pedregon will be racing at the corporate home of his new sponsor, Quaker State. The defending champ has enjoyed considerable success in Houston during his Funny Car career and expects another strong showing this weekend with his new team.

Something Batty? – When it comes to building momentum, NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Bike rider Lloyd Straus had never experienced an adrenalin rush on the series like he did during the Gatornationals. Headed into the final day of qualifying, Straus was living on Cloud Nine with a spot in the ultra-competitive 16-bike field. Qualifying ended with Straus just two clicks on the outside, but the message is clear. The InfiNet/Gotham City team is one that will be in contention in the events to come.

Straus and his tuner G.T. Tonglet has certainly caught the attention of some of the best riders the class has to offer.

“This is such a tough class to qualify in, that anytime you can come close, you have accomplished something to be extremely proud of,” explained Straus. “I think our performance sends a strong message that we are more than ready for the challenge. All we need is a break here and there and we’ll be more than up to the challenge. We are certainly using the Gainesville event as a motivational experience to show what hard work and dedication will provide.”


Scelzi still the quickest in Houston – Gary Scelzi still holds the track elapsed time record at Houston Raceway Park. Scelzi set the E.T. mark in 1999, running a 4.480 while driving the Winston-sponsored Top Fuel dragster. Scelzi, who is in his third year behind the wheel of a fuel flopper, will be looking for his first win of the season in his HEMI-powered Oakley Dodge Stratus Funny Car.

Millican loves the Lone Star State – Defending IHRA Top Fuel champion Clay Millican will be celebrating the one-year anniversary of the debut of his NHRA sponsor, 104+ Performance Additives. Millican, who won the IHRA event in San Antonio two weeks ago, made the best run of his career in Houston last year with a stunning 4.50 at 330 mph. The Lehman Racing team will be gunning for their first NHRA victory this weekend.

Kalitta still looking for first victory of 2004 – Doug Kalitta would be happy to repeat his efforts from last season in Houston this weekend. Kalitta, who drives the red Mac Tools dragster, the quickest and fastest Top Fueler in the world, won the first of four victories here last season, setting the track speed record in the process with a run of 333.91 mph.

Dixon determined heading into Houston – If the weather and track cooperate, two-time and defending NHRA POWERade Top Fuel champion Larry Dixon will be looking to return to the 4.40 elapsed time zone this weekend in Houston. It was five years ago this weekend that Dixon made drag racing history in Houston when he became the first driver to make a run in the 4.40’s with a 4.486 elapsed time in the Miller dragster. Dixon has failed to dip into the 4.40’s since but it has not stopped him from winning a pair of NHRA crowns.

Wilkerson closing in on 100th career round win – Tim Wilkerson has the opportunity to earn his 100th round win in Houston this weekend. The driver of the Levi, Ray and Shoup Chevy Monte Carlo is just two rounds away from the century mark.

Burkart earns first win for Chevy Monte Carlo Funny Car – Phil Burkart’s second career NHRA national event win was the first ever for the new Chevy Monte Carlo, which made its NHRA debut in February at Pomona. The win was Chevrolet’s 65th all-time NHRA Funny Car win in 135 final round appearances. The victory moved the Team Blue Checker, Schucks, Kragen driver into sixth place in the current POWERade Funny Car points standings.

KJ hoping for repeat in Houston – Pro Stock driver, Kurt Johnson, would love to repeat his performance from Houston last year. Johnson drove his ACDelco Cavalier to victory at last year’s Spring Nationals, setting a new Pro Stock national speed record with a 205.57 mph blast en route to the win. The 205-mph run is still the track speed record for the class.

Anderson still a long way from qualifying record – Greg Anderson has driven to nine consecutive No. 1 qualifying positions dating back to last September’s NHRA Nationals in Joliet, Ill. While the streak is the longest in the class in almost 17 years, the defending POWERade Pro Stock champ still has a long way to go to break the current mark, which is held by the legendary Bob Glidden. Glidden holds the record with 23 consecutive No. 1 qualifying positions, stretching over three seasons from 1985 through 1987.

Stoffer headed to Houston – Pro Stock Bike rider, Karen Stoffer, has decided to compete at the Spring Nationals in Houston, the second race of the season for the class. Stoffer’s successful semifinal finish at the Gatornationals in March convinced the team to go to Houston. Solidifying the decision was the addition of Cycle-Gard by Geico Direct, who will provide additional support at selected events on the 2004 tour.

U.S. Army Pro Stock Bike team looking to improve in Houston – Antron Brown and Angelle Savoie will put their disappointing season opening race in Gainesville behind them as they head to the Spring Nationals. Brown advanced to the quarterfinals but Savoie survived a qualifying crash only to lose on a holeshot in the first round. Both drivers expect to improve on their performances dramatically at Houston, where Brown earned his first No. 1 qualifying spot in 2001 and Savoie won the event in 2001 and 2003.

[DARK NIGHT]

اتمنة ان الصور نالت اعجابكم



تحيااااااااااااااتي




DARK NIGHT

[ssz28ss]

السلام000

يسلمو حبيبي على التغطيه الحلووووووووووووووه وناطرين نغطيات ثانيه من ايدك

تحياتي000

[علي مطر]

تسلم على الموضوع
يعطيك العافيه على هاي الجهد المبذول

[riffa club]

مشكور اخوي عل صور ...

[DARK NIGHT]

مشكورين على المرور الحلووووووو يا حلويييييييييييييييييييييييين











تحياااااااااااتي

[فرفور 2]

مشكور أخوي
يعطيك ألف عافية
وننتظر منك المزيد

[محرقاوي والنعم]

مشكوووووووووووووور اخوي على الموضوع
يعطيك العافيه ..

[DARK NIGHT]

مشكورين على المرور









تحياتي

[فونكي]

تسلم اخوي على خل الموضوع الرووعه ,,,

[عاشق الهوندا]

يعطيك العافية على التغطية الرائعة المجهود المبذول


وناطرين جديدك

تحياتي

[لابتوب]

مشكور واااااااااايد حلو

[جعفر الغضبان]

يسلمو حبيبي على التغطيه الحلووووووووووووووه وناطرين نغطيات ثانيه من ايدك