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Georgia Drag Racing News
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September 2002
The Warren Report
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 29, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts Race Report from
the Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 5th
Finished: 1st Round
Points: 4th
JOHNSON'S BID FOR REPEAT WIN IN CHICAGO ENDS IN FIRST ROUND
CHICAGO - Warren Johnson went to Route 66 Raceway with more
horsepower under the hood of his GM Performance Parts Pontiac and high
hopes that he would repeat as winner of the autumn event at the Chicagoland
supertrack. W.J.'s title defense at the Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA
Nationals ended in a first-round loss to Jeg Coughlin Jr. Jeg took out W.J.
on a holeshot, 6.894 to 6.874, by a razor-thin .004-second margin of
victory. Coughlin went on to score his sixth victory of the season and take
the lead in the NHRA POWERade championship standings.
"Overall we made a decent run, although we were probably a little
too tight on the clutch," said Johnson. "We had enough to win, but I gave
up more than four thousandths on the starting line. If I'd left a little
earlier, I'd have won regardless. That's the way it goes some days."
The Pro Stock field was the tightest in NHRA history, with the
16 qualifiers separated by only .023 seconds. Johnson led the field after
the first qualifying session on Friday afternoon with a 6.822-second e.t.,
and then focused on race setups for the next three runs.
"With 20 years of stability in the Pro Stock rules, parity is
obviously here," said the Professor. "That's evident in the closeness of
the qualifying and the competitiveness of this class. Anybody can win on
any given Sunday."
After three races in three weeks, Johnson and his GM Performance
Parts team will have a two-week break to prepare for the next event in
Dallas. W.J. intends to use the time wisely.
"We'll be back at the shop tomorrow morning working on new projects,"
he reported. "We're going to continue with what we've been doing to improve
the performance of our cars over the last few races. We should have a
little bit more by the time we get to Texas.
"We're certainly in better shape than we were two or three months
ago," W.J. noted. "We'll just continue to work on improving our program."
The fruits of Johnson's labors should be evident when the NHRA
POWERade Drag Racing Series reconvenes at the Texas Motorplex for the
O'Reilly Fall Nationals in Dallas on Oct. 11-13.
WARREN JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 5 at 6.822/201.97 mph
First Round: Jeg Coughlin Jr. (6.894/200.71) defeated Warren
Johnson (6.874/201.04)
Final Round: Coughlin (6.875/200.89) defeated Ron Krisher (6.896/200.02)
Low ET: Gene Wilson, 6.819 seconds
Top Speed: Allen Johnson, 202.12 mph
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 20 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 6 1361
2. Jim Yates 1 1296
3. Greg Anderson 2 1229
4. Warren Johnson 1 1085
5. Ron Krisher 1 1041
6. Kurt Johnson 0 909
7. Mike Edwards 2 870
8. Allen Johnson 1 833
9. Mark Whisnant 0 810
10. Darrell Alderman 1 784
NEXT RACE
O'Reilly Fall Nationals, Dallas, Oct. 11-13
The Kurt Chronicles
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 29, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco Race Report from the Craftsman
75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 8th
Finished: Semifinal
Points: 6th
JOHNSON CLIMBS TO SIXTH IN STANDINGS WITH SEMIFINAL FINISH IN CHICAGO
CHICAGO - Kurt Johnson climbed another rung on the NHRA
POWERade championship ladder, gaining the sixth spot with a semifinal round
finish at the Sears Craftsman 75th Anniversary Nationals at Route 66
Raceway. Johnson defeated Mark Whisnant and No. 1 qualifier Gene Wilson
before falling to eventual winner Jeg Coughlin Jr. in the semifinal.
Kurt's first-round opponent, Mark Whisnant, was too quick off the
starting line and fouled. Johnson ran 6.900 to take the automatic win. He
then dispatched No. 1 qualifier Gene Wilson in the second round with a
.427-second reaction time and a 6.877-second elapsed time.
K.J. faced Coughlin, the hottest driver in Pro Stock, in a
crucial semifinal contest. Kurt was first off the starting line with a
.449-second reaction time, but Coughlin caught him in the first 60 feet and
took the win, 6.864 to 6.883.
"The tires just weren't hooked up," Kurt reported after the
disappointing loss. "The track temperature went up eight degrees and we
compensated for that, but not quite enough. We lost lane choice in the
semifinal by eight thousandths of a second. Jeg took the left lane, which
was a couple of hundredths quicker in the first 60 feet, and that made the
difference. These cars are so close that you have to have the good lane to
win."
Johnson achieved his goal of qualifying in the top half of the
field, putting his ACDelco Cavalier in the No. 8 spot with a 6.829-second
run on Friday night.
"We were just glad to be in the show because the field was the
tightest ever, with just 23 thousandths from the No. 1 to the No. 16
qualifier," Johnson said. "We tried a new engine in the last qualifying
session, and it appeared to accelerate better than our other motor. We can
run with anyone down track. The key is to get off the starting line before
the other guy."
Johnson's semifinal finish moved him to sixth in the NHRA
POWERade standings.
"We're winning rounds and I drove well again today," said K.J. "The
wins will come. Jeg keeps getting in my way to the winner's circle, but
we'll get around that yellow car eventually."
Johnson will be on familiar turf in two weeks when he returns to the
Texas Motorplex near Dallas for the O'Reilly Fall Nationals on Oct. 11-13.
Kurt knows the way to the winner's circle in Texas; he's scored three
career victories in five final-round appearances at the Motorplex.
KURT JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 8 at 6.829/201.16 mph
First Round: Johnson (6.900/200.80) defeated Mark Whisnant (6.897/200.02
- foul)
Second Round: Johnson (6.877/200.98) defeated Gene Wilson (6.886/200.98)
Semifinal: Jeg Coughlin Jr. (6.864/200.68) defeated Johnson (6.883/200.86)
Final Round: Coughlin (6.875/200.89) defeated Ron Krisher (6.896/200.02)
Low ET: Gene Wilson, 6.819 seconds
Top Speed: Allen Johnson, 202.12 mph
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 20 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 6 1361
2. Jim Yates 1 1296
3. Greg Anderson 2 1229
4. Warren Johnson 1 1085
5. Ron Krisher 1 1041
6. Kurt Johnson 0 909
7. Mike Edwards 2 870
8. Allen Johnson 1 833
9. Mark Whisnant 0 810
10. Darrell Alderman 1 784
NEXT RACE
O'Reilly Fall Nationals, Dallas, Oct. 10-13
Sol and Anne Stewart's 2nd Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion Photos
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
I have posted a few photos from the reunion with more pics and an article to follow as soon as I can squeeze it in. The reunion was a blast thanks to Sol, Anne, James Finch, and anyone else that helped put the event together!
Photos
Gene Wilson Qualifies #1 in Pro Stock at the NHRA POWERade Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Gene Wilson set Low ET ( 6.819 ) while qualifying #1 in Pro Stock.
Warren Johnson (#5), Kurt Johnson (#8), and Mark Whisnant (#9) also qualified.
Mark Whisnant fouled to KJ in round one while WJ went down to Jeg Coughlin. Gene Wilson lost to Kurt Johnson in round 2. Kurt was finally stopped in the semi-finals by event winner ( and new points leader ) Jeg Coughlin.
Pro winners:
Top Fuel- Doug Kalitta
Funny Car - Tony Pedregon
Pro Stock - Jeg Coughlin
NHRA Recap
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER
REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 29, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles
336-798-7212
704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Exits in Round 1
JOLIET, Ill. – Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Chevrolet Cavalier, entered eliminations at the 2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals holding the 9th position on the Pro Stock ladder.
For the fourth time this season, Whisnant met fellow Georgian Kurt Johnson in Round 1. Johnson extended his win record over Whisnant when Whisnant gave the race away on the starting with a red light. Johnson ran a 6.900 / 200.80 mph to Whisnant’s red lighting 6.897 / 200.02 mph.
“I’m very disappointed,” said Whisnant. “I had a great racecar, but I also knew I had to be good on the tree to get past Kurt. I gave that race away, and I’m not happy about it.
“We are going to go home, and head right to the test track. We will work on the car and the driver, and be back in Dallas to try again.”
The next race on the 2002 POWERade NHRA Drag Racing series will be the 17th Annual O’Reilly Fall Nationals presented by Castrol Syntec in Dallas Texas Oct. 10-13.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 9th in NHRA Pro Stock Points
4th in King Demon Points
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka & Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Number 1 Qualifier at Seattle 2002
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best mph 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Monday, September 30, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER
REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 28, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles
336-798-7212
704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant To Race KJ In Chicago
JOLIET, Ill. – Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Pro Stock Chevrolet Cavalier, will enter the 2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals holding the Ninth position on the Pro Stock eliminations ladder.
In the second session of qualifying Whisnant drove his Cavalier to a 6.832 / 201.31 mph to secure his position in tomorrow’s race.
“Being fast and Number 1 qualifier is cool, but running well on race day is what it is all about.
“The car is very good right now. It feels real snappy on acceleration, and is very smooth through the gear changes. It is responding and handling better than it has all season. Bottom line is that I have a great racecar for eliminations tomorrow.
“Making fast runs in the slow session is what you need to do to be competitive in this Pro Stock class. We used today to make this racecar as competitive as possible. Today we made two good runs, and those are the kind of runs that we need to make on Sunday
Whisnant’s opponent in Round 1 will be Kurt Johnson. So far this season Whisnant and Johnson have met three times in Round 1. The score to date is Johnson 3, Whisnant zero.
“It’s my turn,” said Whisnant. “My record against Kurt has not been very good. I am going to change that tomorrow morning.”
Eliminations at the 2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals will begin at 11:00 AN CST on Sunday Sept. 29.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 9th in NHRA Pro Stock Points
4th in King Demon Points
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka & Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Number 1 Qualifier at Seattle 2002
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best mph 202.73 (Englishtown 2002
Old Drag Racer's Reunion and Website Updates
Posted Friday, September 27, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
I'll be in Panama City Beach, Florida this weekend attending Sol and Anne Stewart's Second Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion, so the normal news updates will not be furnished until Monday. But, if you want to find out the latest NHRA, IHRA, and other drag racing news, go to these sites and enjoy!
Drag Race Central
NHRA
IHRA
Mark Whisnant Chicago Preview
Posted Wednesday, September 25, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 24, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-798-7212 704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Returns to Chicagoland
Joliet, Ill. – This weekend the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing series returns to the Chicagoland Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Ill., for the running of the 2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals.
Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Pro Stock Chevrolet Cavalier, is looking forward to his return to the windy city. He hopes to take advantage of the cool fall weather conditions, and the excellent racing surface provided by Chicagoland Raceway to place his Chevrolet in the top half of the qualifying order.
"It is going to be fast this weekend in Chicago," said Whisnant of Stockbridge, Ga. "If we get the cool weather they are predicting for this weekend, you could see some record runs on Friday night. And I feel like we could be one of the cars out there with a good chance of breaking the record.
"This is the first track that we have been back to since the beginning of the season. We ran well here in the spring, so we have some good data to fall back on. That data gives us a starting point. As a rookie team, our lack of track data, up until this point, has given the older teams a slight advantage over us. Having an idea what the track will be like before we get there gives a chance to prepare.
"The cool weather is also going to work to our advantage. James (Crew Chief James Reichard) has a good cold weather tune up for this Cavalier. We ran very well in Seattle in conditions similar to what we should see here this weekend. He consistently gives me a great racecar to drive every weekend; I don’t know why this race should be any different.
"When you get right down to it, there will be forty other cars here trying to do the same thing that we are going to be doing, and that is to qualify for this race. As always, that is our first priority. You have to qualify first, to go rounds on Sunday. A record book run, it would be nice, but really it would just be icing on the cake."
Qualifying at the 2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals will begin on Friday Sept. 27, and continue on Saturday Sept. 29. Eliminations will take place at 11:00 AM EST on Sunday Sept. 29.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 9th in NHRA Pro Stock Points (778 points)
4th in King Demon Points (1565 points)
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka, Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best MPH 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
2nd Annual Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals
TV Schedule
Qualifying Highlights
Saturday Sept. 28 4:00 – 5:30 PM EST (ESPN2)
Eliminations Coverage
Sunday Sept. 29 8:00 – 10:30 PM EST (ESPN2)
Repeat Eliminations
Tuesday Oct. 2 3:00 – 5:30 AM EST (EPSN2)
The Warren Report
Posted Wednesday, September 25, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 24, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts News & Notes for
the Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals, Chicago, Sept. 27-29
JOHNSON PRIMED FOR REPEAT VICTORY AT ROUTE 66 RACEWAY
Chicago is Warren Johnson's kind of town. The city with big shoulders
has been good to the racer with big horsepower. W.J. has advanced to the
final round three times in the six races contested at Route 66 Raceway, the
site of this weekend's Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals. He won
last year's inaugural autumn event at the stadium-style supertrack, and
he's primed his GM Performance Parts Pontiac with more firepower to defend
his title.
Johnson set the performance pace at the preceding event in Memphis,
Tenn., where he qualified No. 1 and ran the quickest elapsed time of the
event. Warren promises there's more to come from his top-secret engine
shop.
"We're exploring a new direction," Johnson said. "We've completed
about two-thirds of the program at this point, and the engine's top-end
power just keeps climbing. Now we're working on bolstering the bottom and
middle of the power curve. If we're successful, I foresee a significant
performance gain."
Johnson relishes his return to Route 66 Raceway. He was runner-up to
Mike Thomas in the track's inaugural event in 1998. He won in 1999 over
Troy Coughlin and defeated Darrell Alderman in last year's fall race. The
prospect of cool weather in Chicago has raised Warren's expectations for
another successful weekend at Route 66 Raceway.
"If the predictions of 60-degree temperatures prove accurate, the
track will be incredibly fast," he promised. "Depending on how well the
track held up over the summer, we should have a good racing surface as long
as the temperatures are cool. If it's hot, though, the rubber has a
tendency to pull up, and then all bets are off."
While Johnson has been relentless in his pursuit of power, the
other members of his GM Performance Parts team have worked on repairing
body damage sustained by W.J.'s Grand Am when it broke loose inside the
transporter en route to Memphis.
"Some of my competitors thought that our impromptu repairs were a ploy
to gain an aerodynamic advantage," Johnson laughed. "I volunteered to drop
a few tires on anyone's race car if they truly believed that duct tape was
a speed secret.
"Of course, I was deeply disappointed that we didn't receive the
Best Appearing Car award," Warren added with a wink.
WARREN JOHNSON'S ROUTE 66 RACEWAY RECORD
Year Qual. Result
1998 1 Runner-up (to Thomas)
1999 2 Winner (over T. Coughlin)
2000 12 First Round
2001 Spring 12 Semifinal
2001 Fall 4 Winner (over Alderman)
2002 Spring 6 First Round
The Kurt Chronicles
Posted Wednesday, September 25, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 24, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco News & Notes for the Craftsman
75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals, Chicago, Sept. 27-29
KURT JOHNSON EXPECTS RECORD PERFORMANCES IN CHICAGO
One year ago, Kurt Johnson set the Pro Stock national elapsed time and
top speed records in the inaugural autumn event at Route 66 Raceway. He
won't be surprised if this weekend's Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA
Nationals turns out to be another record-setting race.
"I'm excited just looking at the weather forecast," said Johnson,
driver of the ACDelco Pro Stock Cavalier. "We're looking at a 6.73 or a
6.74 for the No. 1 qualifier. I figure it will take a 76 or 77 to get in
the show."
If K.J.'s prediction is accurate, the current national e.t. record,
which stands at 6.750 seconds, is toast.
"I didn't even look at my notes from the spring race at Route 66
because it's an entirely different track in the fall," he continued. "Last
year it was 57 degrees on Friday night when we ran the low e.t. I looked in
my bag of tricks and built a set of carburetors just like the ones that we
used last year. My Cavalier's chassis setup is already very close to what
we ran when we set the record in Chicago. We're ready!"
Johnson has competed six times in NHRA national event competition at
Route 66 Raceway. He was the No. 1 qualifier in 1999 and in last year's
fall event, where he set the national e.t. mark at 6.801 seconds and the
speed standard at 202.70 mph. Those marks were subsequently eclipsed one
week later in Reading, Pa.
While Johnson is still searching for his first victory of the season,
he comes into the race with the momentum of a strong showing in Memphis,
Tenn. K.J. lost to eventual winner Jeg Coughlin Jr. in the second round.
Both drivers carded identical reaction times, but lane choice proved to
be Coughlin's decisive advantage.
"I finally got the driving part down and the car is running
exceptionally well," Kurt noted. "Now I have to work on keeping lane
choice. We simply have to run better when the opportunity arises. That's
the key to winning."
Johnson will have some additional power under his Cavalier's sloping
hood to aid his cause.
"Dad's working on engine R&D now, and that's going to transfer over to
my program as well," he said. "We have three motors apart, and they'll all
be ready for Chicago. Get out the record book!"
KURT JOHNSON'S ROUTE 66 RACEWAY RECORD:
Year Qual. Result
1998 8 Second Round
1999 1 First Round
2000 6 Semifinal
2001 Spring DNQ
2001 Fall 1 Second Round
2002 Spring 15 First Round
Atlanta Dragway Results by Tim Glover
Posted Wednesday, September 25, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RACE DATE: September 21, 2002
FROM: Tim Glover
EVENT: Last Summit ET Series race at Atlanta Dragway
ALL TRACK CHAMPIONSHIPS DETERMINED. BUT ONE, AT FINAL ATLANTA DRAGWAY SUMMIT
ET SERIES POINTS RACE
by Tim Glover
(September 21, 2002) Rain won again for the second week in a row, but not
before two rounds of competition had been completed in the final 2002 Summit
ET Series points race held at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, GA. Some of the
points leaders were hoping for a rainout, which did happen, but only after
two rounds were in the books.
The 8-12 year old Jr. Dragster points chase featured the most drama. Eleven
year old "Mad Matt" Gillen and 11 year old rookie Lauren Turner have swapped
and shared the points lead in that class for several months. Turner came
into the last race with a 10 point lead (one round win) over Gillen. After
round two, Gillen had tied with her again, and as luck would have it, they
drew each other for round three, which would have settled the championship.
Now, because of the rain, their parents have to endure two more weeks of
anxiety until the final showdown, which is scheduled to be at the Phillips
Motorsports Second Annual Fall Classic. Thomas Davis-Cox, 13, came in third
at 560, and Bradley Myers, 13, came in fourth with 510. Kyle Denton, 12,
finished out the top five with 470 points.
In 13-17 year old Jr. Dragster competition, Kelly Gray, 15, had all but
locked up the championship coming in to today, with a 60 point lead. After
the race was called, Gray was crowned champion with 570 points. Her closest
competitor, Heath Snelgrove, 14, finished with 530 points. Fifteen year old
Kelly Moore was next, with 500, followed by Kristen Neal, 17, with 490.
Fifteen year old Alton Clements III and Lauren Turner's brother, Johnny
Turner, 13, finished the year tied for fifth place with 480 points.
Super Pro champion "John Boy" Smith was considering doing a rain dance
today, because he had a 30 point lead over Jim McKelvey, even though he had
missed two races earlier this year. "I wanted this bad, it's my first
championship. I've had a lot of torque converter problems this year, and a
few small ones the last couple of weeks," said Smith. He finished the
evening with 560 points. Former Jr. Dragster "grad" Jeremy "Hollywood"
Hancock and Jim McKelvey tied for second with 520 points. Mike Ramsey was
next with 490, and Brad Howard took over fifth place tonight with 480.
Incidentally, Smith's championship dragster may be up for sale now. He said
he's considering looking for a door car to race next year.
Former Sportsman champ Jacob Rutledge had already locked up first place in
Sportsman, leaving the battle for second up for grabs. Rutledge finished
his year with 720 points. Cindy Williams stepped up and tied for second
place with another former champ, Rob Hogue. Both had 610 points. Joe
Haddon was next with 570. Mack Everett came in fifth, with 510.
Brian Harris dominated Trophy Street this year, knocking down 620 points.
Derek Anderson was next, with 550. Mark Hefley was third, with 510, and
Steve Marcum finished fourth, with 480. Former champ Mardy Kennedy came in
fifth with 460.
Jay Rhyne added another Motorcycle championship to his resume with 390
points. Another former champ, Joey Rutledge, finished in second with 100.
RACE DATE: September 22, 2002
FROM: Tim Glover
EVENT: Snap-On Tools Day at the Races at Atlanta Dragway
SNAP-ON TOOLS DAY AT THE RACES A HIT AGAIN IN SPITE OF RAIN
By Tim Glover
(September 22, 2002 - Atlanta Dragway) Each year, Snap-On Tools Corporation
puts on the "Day at The Races" for its customers, which has become an
extremely popular event. Spectator admission and racing is paid for by
Snap-On. All its customers have to do if they want to race is show up with
the invitation given out by Snap-On Tools representatives.
In spite of the rains that ended the day prematurely for the thousands of
Snap-On tools customers, all had a good time. Everyone who wanted to was
able to make time trials, and several rounds of competition were completed
before rain paid yet another visit to the facility.
Rain couldn't stop the annual burnout contest, since the point of this event
is spinning the tires and creating as much smoke and excitement as possible.
Kevin Davis from Blairsville won this contest with his red '93 Ford F-150.
His prize was a 1/12 scale ceramic Dale Earnhardt, Jr. race car replica
valued at $525.
Because the winner and runner up in each race car class had not been
determined, all remaining contestants were entered in a drawing. Two names
were drawn from each class, with the first being declared the winner, and
the second one was runner-up. The winner's prize was a $2600 Roll Cab
toolbox. Second place was a 1/12 scale ceramic Dale Earnhardt, Jr. race car
replica valued at $525.
Following is a listing of the winners:
Super Pro Winner Lloyd Kaylor '87 Regal Winder, GA
Super Pro Runner Up Gary Woods '76 Vega Jackson, GA
Sportsman Winner Wayne Looper '73 Dodge Easley, SC
Sportsman Runner Up Gary Ester '71 Z/28 Silver Creek, GA
Motorcycle Winner Michael Howard bike Pelzer, SC
Motorcycle Runner Up Michael Wilson '83 Katana Tallapoosa, GA
Trophy Street Winner Clay Stancil '72 Chevelle Athens, GA
Trophy Street Runner Up Chad Kennedy '92 Mustang Auburn, GA
Thanks again to Snap-On Tools for a great day.
The Warren Report
Posted Tuesday, September 24, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 23, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts Race Report from
the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 1st
Finished: 2nd Round
Points: 4th
W.J. MEANS BUSINESS IN MEMPHIS, QUALIFIES NO. 1 FOR FIRST TIME IN 2002
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Give Warren Johnson a few days to work on his powerful
GM engines and he'll take 6.840 seconds to put his GM Performance Parts
Pontiac on the Pro Stock pole. Johnson was the No. 1 qualifier in Pro Stock
at the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals at Memphis Motorsports Park, claiming
the top spot for the first time this season and the 126th time in his
career.
"The car has been good all year long, but we didn't necessarily make the
best choices as far as changing the car for track and weather conditions,"
said Johnson, who qualified No. 1 in Memphis in 1998 and 1999. "We've had
time to work on our engine program for the last couple of weeks. It all
came together at the same time and it shows on the racetrack."
Johnson's Grand Am sustained minor damage when it broke loose in
the transporter en route to Tennessee. W.J.'s GM Performance Parts team
made impromptu repairs and had the car ready for the first qualifying
session on Friday.
"Those were basically just flesh wounds," Johnson quipped. "Cosmetically
the car's not as nice as it could be, but we'll get that taken care of this
coming week."
Johnson stepped up his performance pace in the first round of
eliminations, defeating Allen Johnson with a 6.810-second e.t., the
quickest run of the race.
"That was as good a run as we could have made under the conditions,"
Warren reported. "We might have been able to tweak a couple of thousandths
here or there, but it was practically a flawless run."
Johnson then lost to Mike Edwards in the second round on a holeshot,
as Edwards' 6.877 eclipsed W.J.'s quicker 6.851-second pass.
"Something happened on that run because the engine shut off for an instant
as it went into third gear," Johnson explained. "The g-meter went down, and
I heard it miss. I don't know what it was, but it was enough for him to get
by us."
Despite his early exit on race day, Johnson is optimistic about his chances
in the final four events on the NHRA schedule.
"We're on the road to recovery," he declared. "Some of our competition
got ahead of us, but now we are back where we need to be. Hopefully we can
extend this performance in the near future."
The future is imminent as the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series goes to
Route 66 Raceway near Chicago next weekend for the Craftsman 75th
Anniversary NHRA Nationals, the third of three consecutive races.
WARREN JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 1 at 6.840/201.31 mph
First Round: Johnson (6.810/201.73) defeated Allen Johnson (6.851/201.76)
Second Round: Mike Edwards (6.877/199.88) defeated Johnson (6.851/200.77)
Final Round: Jeg Coughlin Jr. (6.849/200.80) defeated Gene
Wilson (6.877/200.20)
Low ET: Warren Johnson, 6.810 seconds
Top Speed: Allen Johnson, 201.76 mph (track record)
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 19 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jim Yates 1 1261
2. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 5 1249
3. Greg Anderson 2 1178
4. Warren Johnson 1 1051
5. Ron Krisher 1 949
6. Mike Edwards 2 860
7. Kurt Johnson 0 836
8. Allen Johnson 1 796
9. Mark Whisnant 0 778
10. Darrell Alderman 1 774
NEXT RACE
Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals, Chicago, Sept. 27-29
The Kurt Chronicles
Posted Tuesday, September 24, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 23, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco Race Report from the
O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 7th
Finished: 2nd Round
Points: 7th
JOHNSON HONES REACTION TIMES IN MEMPHIS
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Going into the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals at
Memphis Motorsports Park, Kurt Johnson was determined to improve his
starting line performance on race day. K.J.'s focus on reaction times paid
off in Tennessee as Johnson advanced his ACDelco Cavalier to the second
round of eliminations.
Johnson turned in another solid qualifying effort after heavy rain
inundated the track on Friday. He qualified his ACDelco Chevy in the
seventh slot on Saturday morning with a 6.856-second elapsed time.
"We were happy to take the number seven spot because that gave us lane
choice for the first round," Kurt noted. "We were a little disappointed
that we didn't run better in the second session on Saturday, but we were
testing headers and some other pieces. We thought that our 6.85 would be
good enough to hold onto seventh on the qualifying list.
K.J. dispatched Mark Whisnant in the first round of eliminations with
a 6.851-second e.t. and a .433-second reaction time. In the second
round, Johnson and Jeg Coughlin Jr. had identical .437-second reaction
times, but Coughlin took the victory by .022 seconds, 4.857 to 4.879.
Coughlin went on to score his fifth victory of the season when he defeated
Gene Wilson in the final round.
"It came down to lane choice," said Johnson, who ran in the unfavored
right lane. "The speeds were down in the right side because the tires were
spinning over the bumps.
"I drove well today, with a .433-second reaction time in the first round
and a .437 in the second round," he continued. "Sooner or later, it's all
going to fall into place and I'll win my share of races."
Johnson's next opportunity to put his ACDelco Cavalier in the winner's
circle will come this weekend at the Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA
Nationals at Route 66 Raceway near Chicago.
KURT JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 7 at 6.856/200.23 mph
First Round: Johnson (6.851/200.98) defeated Mark Whisnant (7.022/193.49)
Second Round: Jeg Coughlin Jr. (6.857/200.59) defeated Johnson
(6.879/200.17)
Final Round: Coughlin (6.849/200.80) defeated Gene Wilson (6.877/200.20)
Low ET: Warren Johnson, 6.810 seconds
Top Speed: Allen Johnson, 201.76 mph (track record)
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 19 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jim Yates 1 1261
2. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 5 1249
3. Greg Anderson 2 1178
4. Warren Johnson 1 1051
5. Ron Krisher 1 949
6. Mike Edwards 2 860
7. Kurt Johnson 0 836
8. Allen Johnson 1 796
9. Mark Whisnant 0 778
10. Darrell Alderman 1 774
NEXT RACE
Craftsman 75th Anniversary NHRA Nationals, Chicago, Sept. 27-29
Old Drag Racer's Reunion This Weekend! Panama City Beach, Florida - Be There!
Posted Monday, September 23, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Here is your last reminder to come mingle with the legends! "Dyno" Don Nicholson is one of many scheduled to attend! For more info contact:
Sol or Anne Stewart
P.O. Box 144
Jackson, Alabama 36545
Phone 251-246-5588 ( Call after 7:00 P.M. CST )
E-Mail: t_pet@bellsouth.net
Gene Wilson Goes to His First NHRA Pro Stock Final Round at the NHRA POWERade O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil
Posted Monday, September 23, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Gene Wilson makes it to his first NHRA Pro Stock final, losing a close race to Jeg Coughlin. Gene is now in 15th place in the points race.
Mark Whisnant loses to Kurt Johnson in the first round, but is currently 9th in points.
Kurt goes down in round two to Jeg Coughlin. Kurt is now 7th in points.
WJ qualifies #1, sets Low E.T., but loses to Mike Edwards in the second round. Warren is #4 in points.
Joe LoCicero makes it to the fourth round in S/S.
Top Fuel is won by Larry Dixon ( RU- Tony Schumacher ), extending his narrow points lead over Kenny Bernstein.
Tony Pedregon wins Funny Car over Del Worsham and tightens up the points race with his boss ( John Force ).
Shannon Jenkins wins Pro Mod over Mike Ashley.
NHRA Results
Joe LoCicero ( Super Stock- Snellville, GA ) Advances to Round 4 at NHRA POWERade O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil
Posted Sunday, September 22, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Correction: I had earlier posted that Sherman Adcock won the third round of Super Comp. Apparently the information that I based this on ( from another website )was incorrect. Sherman lost in the third round.
Results
WJ Qualifies #1, Gene Wilson #5, Kurt Johnson #7, and Mark Whisnant #10 in Pro Stock at NHRA POWERade O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil
Posted Sunday, September 22, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Pro Stock Qualifying Results
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Saturday, September 21, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 21, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-798-7212 704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Draws Johnson in Round 1
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Pro Stock Chevrolet Cavalier, came to the 15th Annual Mid-South Nationals with two goals. The first goal was to qualify his Chevy for the race on Sunday, and his second goal is to improve his eliminations record.
Today Whisnant, of Stockbridge, Ga., achieved his first goal for this race. It was in the second session of qualifying that Whisnant drove his RW Performance ride to a 6.866 / 200.77 mph to take the tenth position on tomorrow’s eliminations ladder. Tomorrow in Round 1, Whisnant will race fellow Georgian Kurt Johnson.
So far this season Whisnant and Johnson have met twice in eliminations. Both times they have met in Round 1, and both times Johnson has come out the victor.
"Round 1 is going to be big for this team," said Whisnant. "To get past Kurt tomorrow morning, will not only help us accomplish the goals we put on ourselves for this race, but it also means we get to take the bragging right back home to Georgia. Bragging rights aside; we are determined to go rounds tomorrow.
"Tonight we will be working overtime getting ready for eliminations. We will make sure all the T’s are crossed and i’s dotted before we leave here tonight, and them double check it all again in the morning.
"We are working as hard, and are as dedicated, as any team out here; but some times hard work and dedications is not enough. Sometimes you have to have a little luck to go along with it. What we are looking for tomorrow is a little old fashioned racing luck to go along with our hard work and dedication, and hopefully that will get us past Round 1 and all the way to the winner’s circle."
Eliminations at the 15th Annual O’Reilly Mid-South Nationals will begin at 11:00 AM EST on Sunday Sept. 22.
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 10th in NHRA Pro Stock Points (746points)
4th in King Demon Points (1450 points)
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka, Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best MPH 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
GDR Website Updated
Posted Saturday, September 21, 2002 by johndilbeck
David wrote a memorial tribute for Julius Hughes, Jr., and I've added it to his page. (I also retired the old Julius Hughes page when I realized his proper name was Julius Hughes, Jr.) I've added a link to him on the Rest In Peace page.
Cowin, T. Pedregon, and WJ lead Pro Qualifying at the Rain Delayed NHRA POWERade O'Reilly NHRA Mid-South Nationals presented by Pennzoil
Posted Saturday, September 21, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
After one Pro Stock session, Warren Johnson ( Sugar Hill, GA ) leads the pack with a 6.865 @ 200.14. Gene Wilson ( Canton, GA )is #7 with a 6.892 @ 198.55, Kurt Johnson ( Sugar Hill, GA )is #8 with a 6.898 @ 199.67, and Mark Whisnant ( Stockbridge, GA )is in the #9 position with a 6.902 @ 198.85 pass.
NHRA.com Friday Recap
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Friday, September 20, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER
REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 18, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles
336-798-7212
704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
A Determined Whisnant Heads For Memphis
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – This weekend Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Pro Stock Chevrolet Cavalier, will travel to Memphis, Tenn. to race the 15th Annual O’Reilly Mid-South Nationals.
At the last three races Whisnant has had what he calls ‘disappointing’ finishes. In the last three races he has exited the race in the first round twice, and the second round once. Although Team RW has consistently qualified well, Whisnant is not content with his performance as of late, and is determined to turn his luck around in Memphis.
"To say that I was very disappoint with myself after Reading would be an understatement," said Whisnant. "Lately I have been letting my team down and not getting the job done. We have also had some mechanical failure, which cost us the race in Indy. It’s very discouraging to know that you have your opponent covered, and then give the race away at the starting line, or have the car break.
As any driver will tell you a string of bad luck can mess with a driver’s mind. There is enough pressure on a driver to perform, but when you add the extra pressure the driver puts on himself after a few bad races, it will undermine the driver’s confidence. That kind of tension will make a driver get out of sync, throw off his timing, and make him second-guess his self.
"To be a good driver you have to be able to disregard the pressure, and concentrate on driving. When you pull up to the starting line it has to be automatic, if you think too much, you will be in trouble. I guess that has been my problem lately, thinking too much. I need to get out of this rut for myself, but more importantly for my guys.
"This RW Performance team gives me a great racecar every weekend. They dig hard, and consistently give me a car that could win every race. They’re good, but going out first round is wearing on them too.
"Together as a team, we are determined to turn our performance around in Memphis. This weekend I am going to dig deep and concentrate harder on driving this Cavalier. My crew is going to concentrate on giving me the best possible racecar. Together we are going to wrestle this monkey off our backs and get back to racing like we know we can."
Qualifying at the 15th Annual O’Reilly Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, Tenn., begin on Friday Sept. 20, and continues on Saturday Sept. 21. Eliminations begin at 11:00 AM EST on Sunday Sept. 22.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 10th in NHRA Pro Stock Points (746points)
4th in King Demon Points (1450 points)
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka, Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best MPH 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
15th Annual O’Reilly Mid-South Nationals
TV Schedule
Qualifying Highlights
Sunday Sept. 22 1:00 – 2:30 PM EST (ESPN2)
Eliminations Coverage
Sunday Sept. 22 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM EST (ESPN2)
Final Round Coverage
Sunday Sept. 22 5:30 – 7:00 PM EST (ESPN)
Repeat Eliminations
Monday Sept. 23 2:00 – 3:30 AM EST (EPSN2)
The Warren Report
Posted Friday, September 20, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 19, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts News & Notes for
the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals, Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 20-22
JOHNSON BRINGS MORE POWER TO MEMPHIS
Time, tides and the NHRA POWERade championship wait for no man. With
five races remaining on the NHRA schedule and a 213-point deficit to leader
Jim Yates, Warren Johnson knows that it's time to hit his stride.
Johnson has a powerful ally in his quest for a seventh NHRA Pro
Stock title: the 500ci GM Drag Race Competition Engine beneath the bulging
hood of his GM Performance Parts Pontiac. Another week of intense R&D work
has raised the performance level of W.J.'s powerplant - and raised his
expectations for another strong performance in this weekend's O'Reilly
Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, Tenn.
"We're focusing on our own engine program now instead of other
projects, and that effort is starting to bear fruit," said Johnson from his
top-secret R&D facility in Sugar Hill, Ga. "We've raised our game for
Memphis, and I believe we'll have an even better combination for Chicago in
two weeks."
Johnson's Grand Am flexed its muscles at the preceding race in
Reading, Pa. Warren was the only Pro Stock driver who ran quick enough to
have qualified in two sessions; everyone else made the show in a single
session under optimum conditions. W.J.'s semifinal finish at the Lucas Oil
NHRA Nationals was his best showing since the Mopar Parts Mile-High
Nationals in July.
"We've broadened the engine's power curve significantly," Warren
revealed. "We've raised the power peak more than 300 rpm and extended the
power at high engine speeds without sacrificing performance at lower rpm.
We're using some very sophisticated tools to analyze the valvetrain, and
we're seeing positive results."
Johnson's experience at Memphis Motorsports Park is another factor in
the complex performance equation. He has competed 14 times in NHRA national
event competition on the Memphis quarter-mile, posting four victories in
five final-round appearances. His most recent win was in 1998 when he
defeated Kurt Johnson in the final round. W.J. was the No. 1 qualifier in
1998 and 1999.
"If the weather forecast is accurate, it looks like it will be a
typical muggy Memphis," Johnson joked. "That may work to our advantage
because our combination tends to run better in hot and humid air. We saw
that in Indy when we had the fastest times in the hot qualifying sessions.
If that pattern continues, we should be contenders in Memphis."
WARREN JOHNSON'S MEMPHIS MOTORSPORTS PARK RECORD
Year Qual. Result
1988 2 First Round
1989 2 Runner-up (to Glidden)
1990 5 Second Round
1991 3 Winner (over Alderman)
1992 3 Winner (over Geoffrion)
1993 2 Second Round
1994 2 Semifinal
1995 2 First Round
1996 5 Winner (over Yates)
1997 4 First Round
1998 1 Winner (over K. Johnson)
1999 1 First Round
2000 11 Second Round
2001 6 First Round
The Kurt Chronicles
Posted Friday, September 20, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 19, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco News & Notes for the
O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals, Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 20-22
KURT JOHNSON IS A WIN WAITING TO HAPPEN
Drag racing is a game of inches, and so far this season Kurt Johnson
has gotten the short end of the stick. His ACDelco Cavalier was one of
the quickest cars at the last race in Reading, Pa., but K.J. was sidelined
in the semifinal round when he came up short at the finish line by .013
seconds.
As a veteran of nine years on the NHRA POWERade championship circuit,
K.J. knows that it's only a matter of time until he gets that elusive first
victory of the season. Johnson has won at least one national event for
seven consecutive seasons; a win at this weekend's O'Reilly Mid-South would
extend that string to eight straight years.
"We have high expectations going into Memphis," said Johnson.
"We're hoping to continue to move up in the points standings, and we've set
our sights high for the rest of the year."
The numbers justify Johnson's confidence. He was the No. 2 qualifier
at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals with a 6.826-second elapsed time. He ran
the second-quickest e.t. in eliminations, and his reaction times on race
day ranged from .436 to .441 seconds.
"We've got the driver and the car tuned up," Kurt commented. "I've
never won in Memphis, so it would be a good place get a trophy.
"We'll run the same combination that worked well in Reading,"
he continued. "The Memphis track is smooth, and we expect it to be humid.
Living and testing in Atlanta, we're definitely used to humidity!
Johnson is also seeking his first No. 1 qualifying position of the
season. He has qualified in the top spot 20 times in his career, and he's
been the No. 2 qualifier twice in 2002. K.J. was second to Jim Yates in
Reading by .001 seconds.
"If we had run a thousandth of a second quicker, we would have won
the $3,000 bonus for qualifying No. 1," Johnson noted. "There are really
two races now in Pro Stock - qualifying and eliminations. Getting qualified
is the first objective, and it isn't easy. One session usually sets the
field, and there are 26 solid cars all shooting for 16 spots. That means
that 10 good drivers are going to go home on Saturday - and we don't plan
to be one of them."
KURT JOHNSON'S MEMPHIS MOTORSPORTS PARK RECORD:
Year Qual. Result
1993 3 Second Round
1994 5 Semifinal
1995 5 First Round
1996 DNQ
1997 1 First Round
1998 11 Runner-up (to W. Johnson)
1999 8 Semifinal
2000 DNQ
2001 14 Second Round
Upcoming Drag Racing Reunions
Posted Wednesday, September 18, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
I was in Panama City Beach, FL last weekend and I got the chance to see the venue for Sol Stewart's Old Drag Racer's Reunion. The location is great! It features a large convention center and a beautiful beach location. Don't miss this one!
Here are a few of the people scheduled to attend:
"Dyno" Don Nicholson
Billy "Big Deal" Jacobs
Emmitt "Snake" Austin
J.C. Sizemore
Larry Reyes
Harold Dutton
Jack Cooley
Sam McQuagge
Hoyt Grimes
and many more!
Sol has just informed me that Joe and Joey Teuton are also coming from Louisiana with 3 Hemi cars! Don't miss this one, you'll be sorry!
OLD DRAG RACER'S REUNION- Sol and Anne Stewart's 2nd Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion in Panama City Beach, FL September 27-29, 2002. Anybody that attended ( or saw the video ) last years reunion knows what a great time everyone had. This one is going to be a lot bigger and better! Contact:
Sol or Anne Stewart
P.O. Box 144
Jackson, Alabama 36545
Phone 251-246-5588 ( Call after 7:00 P.M. CST )
E-Mail: t_pet@bellsouth.net
MORE INFO
EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION- Nancy Wilson is putting together this event again this year and she is going all out! Be there for the SHOW, SHINE, SWINE, & DINE October 5th, 2002 and the EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION October 6th, 2002 in Henderson, North Carolina. For more info contact Nancy Wilson at: 252-438-2222 or vctourism@gloryroad.net or
MORE
INFO
Nancy Wilson informed me that Ronnie Sox, Ed Miller, Bob Bernandon,
Julio Marra, Kenny Warren, and many other famous ( and not so famous ) racers are scheduled to attend. This is another event that you need to attend or you'll probably regret it later!
I can hardly wait to run down to Florida and then up to North Carolina for these shows!- David
The Warren Report
Posted Wednesday, September 18, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 16, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts Race Report from
the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 5th
Finished: Semifinal Round
Points: 4th
WARREN BACK ON TRACK WITH SEMIFINAL SHOWING
READING, Pa. - Warren Johnson turned in his best performance since last
July when he advanced to the semifinal round of the rain-delayed Lucas Oil
NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. A brief respite in the NHRA POWERade
Drag Racing Series schedule had allowed the Professor to devote time to R&D
- and the results of that effort were apparent in Reading.
"In the last couple of weeks we've had time to work on some projects that
are starting to show some promise," said Johnson. "We've got the cars
running consistently, and that's absolutely crucial."
Johnson qualified his GM Performance Parts Pontiac in the No. 5 spot
at 6.838/201.28 mph. He defeated Robert Patrick in the first round (6.880
to 6.985) and took out Allen Johnson in the second round (6.882 to 6.897).
In a semifinal contest with championship implications, Johnson lost to
Jim Yates in a close decision, 6.871 to 6.877. Yates went on to defeat
Mike Edwards in the final round and take the lead in the championship
standings. Johnson is fourth in the rankings, 213 points behind Yates, with
five races remaining on the NHRA schedule.
"We ran a new engine combination at this race and we're zeroing in on
the optimum tune-up for it," W.J. reported. "It looks like it's starting to
come around with a 6.87 in the semifinal round. We're going in the right
direction, we just got to go a little farther."
Johnson will take the next step this weekend at the O'Reilly
Mid-South Nationals at Memphis Motorsports Park, where W.J. has won four
times since 1991.
WARREN JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 5 at 6.838/201.28 mph
First Round: Johnson (6.880/199.43) defeated Robert Patrick (6.985/199.58
- foul)
Second Round: Johnson (6.882/200.23) defeated Allen Johnson (6.897/200.05)
Semifinal: Jim Yates (6.871/199.46) defeated Johnson (6.877/201.16)
Final Round: Jim Yates (6.870/199.67) defeated Mike Edwards (6.911/199.43
- foul)
Low ET: Jim Yates, 6.825 seconds
Top Speed: Ron Krisher, 201.91 mph
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 18 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jim Yates 1 1206
2. Greg Anderson 2 1147
3. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 4 1132
4. Warren Johnson 1 993
5. Ron Krisher 1 918
6. Mike Edwards 2 788
7. Kurt Johnson 0 783
8. Allen Johnson 1 765
9. Darrell Alderman 1 764
10. Mark Whisnant 0 746
NEXT RACE
O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals, Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 20-22
The Kurt Chronicles
Posted Wednesday, September 18, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 16, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco Race Report from the Lucas Oil
NHRA Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 2nd
Finished: Semifinal Round
Points: 7th
KURT CLIMBS IN CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS WITH SEMIFINAL FINISH
READING, Pa. -- Kurt Johnson continued his resurgence in the NHRA
POWERade Drag Racing Series by qualifying in the No. 2 spot and advancing
to the semifinal round in the rain-delayed Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at
Maple Grove Raceway. Johnson duplicated his best qualifying performance of
the season and moved to seventh in the championship standings.
"The car is absolutely flawless in first and second gear," said Johnson
after putting his ACDelco Cavalier in the second spot in qualifying. "We
made some adjustments to the chassis and the car is smooth, it's tunable
and I'm comfortable driving it. Everything's going great!"
Johnson's confidence was justified when racing began on Monday morning.
He defeated Mark Pawuk in the first round of eliminations with a
6.877-second e.t. He knocked off Troy Coughlin in the second stanza with an
even quicker 6.860, the second quickest run in eliminations.
K.J. faced Mike Edwards in the semifinal round. Edwards' 6.874-second e.t.
at 199.14 mph just edged K.J.'s 6.873-second pass at 200.62 mph.
"It came down to thousandths of a second," Johnson noted. "I had a good
car and I drove well with reaction times between .427 and .441 on the last
five runs. It's all coming together.
"The margin against Mike was .013 seconds at the finish line," Kurt
continued. "Naturally I'm upset that I got beat, but I had fun today."
Johnson's Cavalier carried a stylized American flag in place of his
primary sponsor logo at this event to honor America on the anniversary of
last September's terrorist attacks.
"I just wish I could have put the Stars and Stripes in the winner's
circle," said Johnson.
With the late start of eliminations in Reading, Kurt and his ACDelco team
will be racing to prepare for the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals in Memphis
this weekend, the second in a string of three consecutive events.
KURT JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 2 at 6.826/201.85 mph
First Round: Johnson (6.877/200.26) defeated Mark Pawuk (6.896/198.58)
Second Round: Johnson (6.860/200.74) defeated Troy Coughlin (6.887/199.02)
Semifinal: Mike Edwards (6.874/199.14) defeated Johnson (6.873/200.62)
Final Round: Jim Yates (6.870/199.67) defeated Mike Edwards (6.911/199.43
- foul)
Low ET: Jim Yates, 6.825 seconds
Top Speed: Ron Krisher, 201.91 mph
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 18 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jim Yates 1 1206
2. Greg Anderson 2 1147
3. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 4 1132
4. Warren Johnson 1 993
5. Ron Krisher 1 918
6. Mike Edwards 2 788
7. Kurt Johnson 0 783
8. Allen Johnson 1 765
9. Darrell Alderman 1 764
10. Mark Whisnant 0 746
NEXT RACE
O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals, Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 20-22
Kalitta, T. Pedregon, Yates, and Savoie Win NHRA POWERade Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals
Posted Tuesday, September 17, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Star Racing's Angelle Savoie does it again! Angelle defeated Karen Stoffer in the sport's first all female Pro Stock Bike final round. Pro Stock ( car ) driver Mark Whisnant ( #10 in points ) goes out in the first round while WJ and KJ make it to the semi-finals.
NHRA Results
Rain Forces Postponement of NHRA POWERade Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals
Posted Sunday, September 15, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
MOHNTON, Pa.
Eliminations were cancelled and rescheduled for Monday September 16th. Georgia Pro Stock racers Kurt Johnson (#2), Mark Whisnant (#3), and Warren Johnson (#5) qualified for the program. Mopar racer Gene Wilson just missed with an 18th best 6.858 201.13. Final Pro Stock Qualifying Results
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Sunday, September 15, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 14, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-798-7212 704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Number 3 in Keystone State
READING, Pa. – Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Chevrolet Cavalier, will enter eliminations at the 18th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals hold the third position on the Pro Stock eliminations ladder.
It was in the second session, of qualifying that Whisnant drove his Cavalier to a 6.830 / 201.49 mph to secure his Number 3 birth. In round 1 of eliminations, Whisnant will be paired against Number 14 qualifier Greg Anderson.
“I feel very good about the race tomorrow,” said Whisnant. “The car is just were we want it. My crew has worked very hard to make everything right on this car, and it shows. They gave me a great racecar. I think if I had not been out of shape in the night session, we probably could have qualified higher, but Number 3 is a good place to start.
“It is true. If you can qualify for one of these things, you can win the race. Qualifying is half the battle. Now that we are in, we need to concentrate on getting past the first round. We used the last session today to prepare for the race, because Anderson is going to be hard to get past.
“I feel pretty good about the race tomorrow. If we can get past Anderson, we will have a good chance of going to another final. We have found our way to the final round twice before. We know how to get there. Now we are going to give it everything we have to close the deal.”
Eliminations at the 18th Annual Lucas Oils NHRA Nationals begins at 11:00 AM EST on Sunday Sept. 15.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 9th in NHRA Pro Stock Points
4th in King Demon Points
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka & Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Number 1 Qualifier at Seattle 2002
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best mph 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
GDR Website Updated
Posted Saturday, September 14, 2002 by johndilbeck
Marvin T. Smith submitted an article on Advertising in Georgia Drag Racing that discusses advertising trends for drag racing events in the 1960s. He included nearly a dozen sample ads in the article.
Other articles and stories are available in the Articles section.
THE WARREN REPORT: Reading Edition
Posted Thursday, September 12, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 12, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts News & Notes for
the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, Reading, Pa., Sept. 13-15
JOHNSON HOPES TO HARVEST CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS IN AUTUMN RACES
Shorter days and cooler weather signal the end of summer and the beginning
of championship season in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Fall's
imminent arrival bodes well for Pro Stock racer Warren Johnson as he begins
a three-week road trip at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove
Raceway in Reading, Pa. While autumn brings dazzling colors, W.J. is more
concerned with blinding speed as he continues his quest for a seventh NHRA
title.
The aptly named Maple Grove Raceway has all the elements that suit
W.J.'s style of racing. The trees that surround the facility produce plenty
of oxygen for Johnson's powerful GM engines, and the refurbished track
surface offers optimum traction. Warren relishes the prospect of racing in
Reading.
"Last year's race at Maple Grove produced exceptional performances, and if
the weather cooperates we expect to see good numbers again this year,"
said Johnson. "The Friday night qualifying session will probably produce
the best conditions of the weekend and determine the field. We've run well
under similar conditions before, but it's crucial that we set up the car
correctly."
Johnson has a winning formula for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals. He
has competed 17 times in NHRA national event competition at Maple Grove
Raceway, posting three victories in eight final-round appearances. In a
remarkable six-year stretch from 1991 to 1996, he appeared in every final.
W.J. won in 1991 and 1995 over Mark Pawuk, and he defeated Jerry Eckman in
1992. Twice he lost to his son, Kurt, in the final round at Reading (1993
and 2000). Johnson has been the No. 1 qualifier seven times at the Lucas
Oil NHRA Nationals, most recently in 1999. He has qualified in the top four
spots 16 times in 17 races.
"We've been homing in on the correct setup," Johnson reported. "At the
U.S. Nationals, we ran the second quickest time in the first round, but the
car's performance was negated by a driver error. Kurt and I have finally
reached the point that we have predictable, consistent race cars."
Although Johnson is still focused on the 2002 title, he also is laying
the foundation for next year's campaign. The pace of research and
development is accelerating at W.J.'s top-secret shop in Sugar Hill, Ga.
"We're doing development work on cylinder heads and manifolds," he
revealed, "and we're working on a camshaft design that we believe will
significantly raise the engine's rpm range.
"We haven't had an opportunity to do serious R&D for several years, so
I'm excited to be back working on engines," Johnson added. "With the time
we devoted to developing the Grand Am and Cavalier bodies and working on
our chassis program, our engine projects have been on the back burner. We
don't have an army of people to do that work for us, but because Kurt and I
have our hands on every part, we can see trends and tendencies that
ultimately help us to develop better engines."
Following the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, the NHRA tour will head to
Memphis, Tenn., and Chicago. With three races in three weeks, there will be
little time for either R&R or R&D.
"This schedule certainly builds up frequent flyer miles," said the
pragmatic Professor.
WARREN JOHNSON'S MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY PARK RECORD
Year Qual. Result
1985 2 Runner-up (to Allen)
1986 2 First Round
1987 4 First Round
1988 3 Semifinal
1989 1 First Round
1990 2 Semifinal
1991 1 Winner (over Pawuk)
1992 2 Winner (over Eckman)
1993 1 Runner-up (to Kurt Johnson)
1994 2 Runner-up (to Alderman)
1995 1 Winner (over Pawuk)
1996 1 Runner-up (to Yates)
1997 2 Semifinal
1998 1 Semifinal
1999 1 Semifinal
2000 3 Runner-up (to Kurt Johnson)
2001 8 First Round
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Reading Edition
Posted Thursday, September 12, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 12, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE KURT CHRONICLES: Kurt Johnson ACDelco News & Notes for the Lucas
Oil Nationals, Reading, Pa., Sept. 13-15
KURT FOCUSES ON HUMAN ELEMENT
Drag racing is a sport that requires a seamless blend of driver and
machine. While the emphasis in Pro Stock is often on the hardware that
produces horsepower, Pro Stock racer Kurt Johnson is concentrating on the
softer side of the sport. A holeshot loss in the first round of
eliminations at the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals has turned K.J.'s gaze inward.
"The driver simply has to do his job," said Johnson as he prepared both
his machine and his mind for this weekend's Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in
Reading, Pa. "I have to sharpen my focus at the starting line.
"I'm going to quit thinking about the motor, quit thinking about the
car," K.J. continued. "I need to get rid of the distractions, and when the
light turns yellow, let out the clutch."
Good reaction times are more than a source of pride for a driver.
They're absolutely essential to winning in today's ferocious Pro Stock
competition.
"Reaction times are winning races," Kurt noted. "A driver knows when he's
on and he knows when he's off. I need to be on my game because everyone
else is."
Johnson will have an opportunity to put theory into practice this weekend
at Maple Grove Raceway. Kurt has competed nine times in the Lucas Oil
NHRA Nationals, scoring three victories. He defeated his father in the
final round in 1993 and 2000, and he defeated Mike Edwards in the 1998
final.
"I've won in Reading three times, and I can't wait to go back," said
Johnson. "I hope my history there will bring us some luck."
KURT JOHNSON'S MAPLE GROVE RACEWAY RECORD
Year Qual. Result
1993 2 Winner (over Warren Johnson)
1994 6 Second Round
1995 3 First Round
1996 DNQ
1997 6 Second Round
1998 2 Winner (over Edwards)
1999 2 Second Round
2000 9 Winner (over Warren Johnson)
2001 3 First Round
Chris Vandergriff completes Top Fuel license runs at Atlanta Dragway
Posted Thursday, September 12, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Report
Drag Racing Reunions
Posted Thursday, September 12, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For anyone that wants to meet some of the drivers from the golden years of drag racing, these two events are your chance! I am looking forward to attending both of these events and I hope you will join us there, too! Make plans to attend - before you miss out. David
OLD DRAG RACER'S REUNION- Sol and Anne Stewart's 2nd Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion in Panama City Beach, FL September 27-29, 2002. Anybody that attended ( or saw the video ) last years reunion knows what a great time everyone had. This one is going to be a lot bigger and better! Contact:
Sol or Anne Stewart
P.O. Box 144
Jackson, Alabama 36545
Phone 251-246-5588 ( Call after 7:00 P.M. CST )
E-Mail: t_pet@bellsouth.net
MORE INFO
EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION- Nancy Wilson is putting together this event again this year and she is going all out! Be there for the SHOW, SHINE, SWINE, & DINE October 5th, 2002 and the EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION October 6th, 2002 in Henderson, North Carolina. For more info contact Nancy Wilson at: 252-438-2222 or vctourism@gloryroad.net or
MORE INFO
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Wednesday, September 11, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER
REID WHISNANT – OWNER
September 9, 2002
CONTACT: Patti Miles
336-798-7212
704-957-3940 (Mobile)
pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Has An Eye On The Record Book
READING, Pa. – This weekend the POWERade Drag Racing series makes its next stop of the 2002 season at Maple Grove Raceway for the 18th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals. Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Chevrolet Cavalier, is anxiously looking forward to making his first Pro Stock start at a racetrack with a reputation for breaking records.
Over the years, Reading has earned notoriety for being the racetrack where Pro Stock national ET and speed records are broken and rebroken. These naturally aspirated; big block race machines love the cool, fall New England temperatures, and low barometric pressure. Combine that with a superbly prepared racing surface like that found at Maple Grove Raceway, and the result is a situation that has the competitors of the Pro Stock class just itching to get on the racetrack.
"I can’t wait to get to Reading," said Whisnant from his home in Stockbridge, Ga. "This weekend the conditions are going to prefect for Pro Stock racing. Records fall in Maple Grove. If the weather cooperates, I think that Reading will be the place where someone will step up and run better than 6.750, and I would like that someone to be me.
"In Seattle James (Crew Chief James Reichard) and the guys gave me a great racecar and we ran a 6.777 and almost broke the record there. If he can make this Cavalier hook up this weekend like it did in Seattle, we will have a pretty good chance of breaking the record. Breaking the record would be great, but our first priority is to get the car qualified.
"No doubt about it, it is going to be tough this weekend. In this class, you can win a race one-week and go to the next event and DNQ. There are good racers going home on Saturday night every weekend, so we would be foolish to think that we are locked into a starting spot at this or any other race.
"This team approaches every race the same way. What we are doing is not brain surgery. Our strategy is that we make the best run we can right out of the box, and then work hard to try to improve with every pass. That is exactly what we will do in Reading, and if everything goes right, we will be racing on Sunday morning. Because records are nice, but winning races is what it is all about."
Qualifying at the 18th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals will begin on Friday Sept. 13 and continue on Saturday Sept. 14. Eliminations begin at 11:00 AM EST on Sunday Sept. 15.
# # #
Whisnant Quick Facts
Currently 9th in NHRA Pro Stock Points (710points)
4th in King Demon Points (1295 points)
2 Final Round Appearance in 2002 (Topeka, Seattle)
3 Semi-Final Round Appearances in 2002 (Gainesville, Columbus, and St. Louis)
Career Best ET 6.777 (Seattle 2002)
Career Best MPH 202.73 (Englishtown 2002)
18th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals
TV Schedule
Qualifying Highlights
Saturday Sept. 14 4:00 – 5:30 PM EST (ESPN2)
Eliminations Coverage
Monday Sept. 15 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM EST (ESPN2)
Repeat Eliminations
Saturday Sept. 20 3:30 – 6:00 AM EST (EPSN2)
Jimmy Rector Press Release
Posted Wednesday, September 11, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Tue, 10 Sep 2002, 12:23 PM
Lucky Number 7 for Rector and Crew
Courtesy of Bill Severino- Nitro Web Designs
EPPING, N.H. -- In what can only be described as a dream season, current IHRA Funny Car Points leader, Jimmy Rector, from Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia, grabbed his seventh victory of the season at the 7th annual Amalie Oil North American Nationals in Epping, New Hampshire and extended his points lead to 86 points over Dale Brand of Sully, Iowa.
Rector qualified his Holbrook Performance Parts, Inc. Camaro in the number two position and met up with Dan Roman in the first round. Roman got out of the gate first with a .492 reaction time versus Rector’s .506 reaction time but Roman could not keep up with the horsepower of the Holbrook Performance Parts sponsored Camaro and Rector cruised on to victory with a 5.844 second blast setting up a match up Terry McMillen in round two.
Round two proved to be one of the closest races of the day for Rector. McMillen cut an amazing .422 light out of the gate but but both cars shook on the launch and it was a dead-even race to 1,000 feet, Rector trailed all the way, but had the power to edge ahead for the win in the final 300 feet (MOV: 0.0052 seconds which is approximately 22 inches). Rector’s victory in the second round set up a showdown with the Girl Power Motorsports own Laurie Cannister.
Rector in the semi-finals sawed the tree down with a .462 reaction time versus Cannister’s .532 light and never looked back, cruising onto victory with a 5.862 second blast setting up another meeting with Dale Brand in the finals.
In the finals Rector and Brand put on an amazing race for the fans. Both drivers had near equal reaction times and were side by side all the way down the track but Rector was able to pull out a .027 second advantage off the starting line securing his seventh victory on the season and his 17th of his career.
After the race Rector commented, “I broke an accelerator bracket Saturday night, but thank God, it was during qualifying.”
Rector also added “This championship is going to go down to the end between Dale and I.”
Rector and the Holbrook Performance Parts Camaro will continue their quest for the 2002 IHRA Funny Car Championship, at the at the 11th annual Carquest Auto Parts Mid-Atlantic Nationals in Budds Creek, Maryland, September 27th thru September 29th.
Visit the official website of Jimmy Rector at http://www.jimmyrector.com/
Visit Holbrook Performance Parts at http://www.holbrook-performance.com/
GDR Website Updated
Posted Monday, September 9, 2002 by johndilbeck
David pointed out to me that I had Jerry Towns' email address wrong on his page at Jerry Towns Photography. I've corrected it.
If you've attempted to contact Jerry, please accept my apologies for the mistake. It should work correctly, now.
My fingers are much more used to typing "jd" rather than "jt".
Sorry 'bout that, Jerry.
GDR Photo Album Updated
Posted Monday, September 9, 2002 by johndilbeck
David uploaded some photos he made at the Hayes Mopar Meet 2002.
GDR Website Updated
Posted Monday, September 9, 2002 by johndilbeck
New photos have been added today: (GDR-00286 through GDR-00287).
In the Photo Gallery, the following person pages (in no particular order) were updated: Bill Dismuke.
Thanks to the following photographers for sharing some of their photos with us: Bill Dismuke.
Atlanta Dragway Results by Tim Glover- Hayes Mopar Meet
Posted Sunday, September 8, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RACE DATE: September 7, 2002
FROM: Tim Glover
EVENT: Mopar show featuring Mopar vs. the world at Atlanta Dragway
THOUSANDS OF SPECTATORS, THREE REPEAT WINNERS AT HAYES MOPAR SHOW
by Tim Glover
The annual Hayes Chrysler Plymouth Mopar show, backed by Ingles
Supermarkets, Budweiser and Coke and helped by Lake City Cruisers and the
North Georgia Mopar Club, was back in town this weekend, featuring more
Mopars than ever. Mopar machines were featured in all the final rounds
(except Jr. Dragsters) this year. As always, the event featured thousands
of spectators, a huge car show, swap meet, manufacturers midway and hundreds
of Mopar machines.
The Dodge Boys, Pro Stock racers Darrell Alderman and Gene Wilson, along
with Funny Car racer Dean Skuza came to Atlanta Dragway to sign autographs
and showcase the Hemi Powered Neons. Allen Johnson, who also races a Mopar
in Pro Stock, made the weekend even better for the Mopar fans with his
appearance. The fastest mph recorded by the Pro Stock Neons last year was
197, but Darrell Alderman improved greatly on that today with a 6.89 second,
200 mph blast this year. Skuza impressed the fans with a low five second
pass in his nitromethane powered Top Fuel Funny Car.
Announcer Jeremy Hayes said he figured there were enough parts in the swap
meet and manufacturer's midway to build a Mopar machine. Those who chose to
look through the midway were treated to all kinds of Mopar parts, from
Shelby dual overhead cam engines to early Hemi iron, six pack intakes and
more.
The car show is what the early Mopar shows were all about, and is still a
huge portion of the event, with gorgeous Mopar machines from the thirties
all the way to the present display their owner's attention to detail on cars
that look even better than the day the rolled out of the factory.
Superbirds, Darts, PT Cruisers, Pickups, Racecars and more were on display
all day Saturday for spectator's viewing pleasure. All show car entrants
were allowed to do a parade lap in front of all the fans, showing off
pristine examples of Mopar machinery.
The first runs by race cars this weekend were done Friday evening, where
Mopars and other cars mixed it up in time trial action. The gates opened at
8:00 am Saturday, and the car show, car corral, manufacturer's midway, swap
meet and bracket race went smoothly all day, with few interruptions.
All the regular bracket races today were contested in a "Mopar vs. the
World format", where Mopar racers squared off against "X brand" machinery
driven by fellow racers. Mopar racers were in every final, winning four out
of five car classes.
After time runs and before the Saturday bracket race, a Run for the Money
competition was held, where the racers guess how quick their car will go by
putting an estimated elapsed time (dial-in) on their window. The racer in
each of three classes who ran the closest to their dial-in time won a
portion of the pot, as well as a first round bye run. Chris Phillips won
the Electronics portion of the program with his '76 Vega Wagon, Steve St.
Laurent won the No Electronics purse with his '01 Dakota, and Johnny Turner
won in Jr. Dragster. Another attraction was the Tires Plus Super Mopar
Burnout Competition. Kevin Robinson from McDonough, GA was the crowd
favorite with his Cummins powered '98 Dakota, ending the three year
domination of this event by the Minette family.
Three winners from the 2001 Mopar Show made it back to the 2002 bracket
race winner's circle, Russ Glover (Super Pro), Pete Mansolillo (Viper
Shootout) and Michael Krause (8-12 Jr. Dragster).
When Dennis "The Menace" Calvert, who hails from Spartanburg, SC, was
talking with his pit neighbor, Russ Glover during the day, he had no idea he
would be meeting him in the final round. Calvert made it to the Super Pro
final in his '65 Dodge Dart with near perfect .50 second reaction times all
evening. However, his slightly too quick .497 second red light in the final
gave the Hedman Husler Hedders backed '81 Speedcraft dragster piloted by
Cumming, GA racer Russ Glover the automatic final round win light. Before
the final, Glover's worst competition reaction time was .518. Glover's
machine went 5.79 seconds at 117.81mph (5.77 dial), while Calvert's '65 Dart
was a bit closer with a 6.82, 99.56 (6.81 dial). Glover thanked the good
Lord first, then said thanks to Chris Vandergriff of Hedman Hedders for the
wheels on his dragster and letting him practice on their new full size
Port-A-Tree practice tree (for reaction time training). He also thanked his
Papa Russell for helping out, Bill Gillen III for helping fix a stumble in
the carburetor, David Simmons for selling him a badly needed set of rear
tires, mom and dad, and Yank Torque Converters for all their help. This was
Dennis and Vicki Calvert's first Mopar Show, but Dennis added he has wanted
to come for a long time. Today was also the Calvert's 11th wedding
anniversary, which was made better by his final round appearance. Calvert
also won on Vicki's birthday (July 28) a few weeks ago at Greer Dragway.
"Bad Brad" Howard ('02 Miller dragster - Gainesville, GA) was the lone
semi-finalist.
Two Mopars graced the Sportsman final. Monroe, GA racer Brent Wheeler
wheeled his '74 Charger to the Sportsman win, running an 11.21, 119.69 on
his 11.25 target. Wheeler's opponent, Jay Johnson from Deatsville, AL was
set to run against Wheeler with his '68 Dart, but he then noticed his oil
pressure had dropped below 20 psi. Johnson elected not to hurt his engine
further and let Wheeler take the single victory. Local racer Joe Haddon
('67 Chevy II - Oxford, GA) and Mike Behrendsen ('70 GTX - Toccoa, GA) were
the semifinal pair.
The Diesel Performance Motorsports Diesel Shootout gave new meaning to the
term Dodge... Different. More smoke emanated from the exhaust pipes on
these vehicles than the tires. Some entries were bone stock, while others
were wild, including a dual turbocharged race-only truck with the exhaust
pipe coming out of the hood in front of the windshield. In a class
dominated by diesel powered Dodge Trucks from many different states,
McDonough, GA racer Kevin Robinson drove his souped up Cummins powered '98
Dakota to the winner's circle. Robinson won on a holeshot (better react)
turning in a 12.31, 101.81 (12.25 dial), crossing the finish line .011
seconds ahead of Wesley Purvis' Leesburg, GA based '01 Ram pickup. Robert
Patton ('98 RAM - Alpharetta, GA) was the semi-final finisher.
Although the Viper Shootout changed this year from heads up to a dial-in
format, Peter Mansolillo from Suwannee, GA adapted quickly and won for the
second year in a row. Mansolillo met Eyal "Al" Yarden's '97 Viper in the
final, and although Yarden had the reaction time advantage, his car fell way
off the pace, running 13.10, 111.67 (12.60 dial). Mansolillo's '97 Viper
ended up running 12.54, 97.83 (12.30 dial). Eric Jordan ('98 Viper - Sugar
Hill, GA) finished in the semi-finals.
Kevin Poole from Dewy Rose, GA won Trophy Street with his '68 Charger
against Grayson, GA racer Brian White's '69 Roadrunner. Poole's reaction
time advantage was the key to his win, when he ran 16.53, 82.42 (16.45
target). White broke out with a 12.97, 99.78 (13.00 dial). Anthony "Tony"
Cellana brought his '00 Dakota all the way up from St. Pete, FL, and was
rewarded with a semi-final finish. Roger Ozbolt, Jr. ('95 Corvette -
Loganville, GA) was the other semi-finalist.
For the second year in a row, 12 year old Micheal Krause from Peachtree
City, GA won the Mopar Show in the 8-12 Jr. Dragster class with his Clements
Electric entry. Krause met first year racer Lauren Turner (11 -
Lawrenceville, GA), who has already been to six finals this year, and used a
better react to collect the winner's trophy. Krause's react allowed him to
run a 9.27, 68.70 (9.21 target), crossing the finish line .031 seconds ahead
of Turner, who was closer to the dial with a 9.24, 70.42 (9.21). Scott
Digby (10 - Walhalla, SC) earned the semi-finalist trophy. Krause thanked
his pit crew for all their help.
The "Doll from Demorest", Jessica Moore (16) won tonight's 13-17 year old
class, her first win this year. The former division champ met Alton
Clements III (14 - Central, SC) in the final, and although she had a good
9.46, 68.08 (9.36 dial), the race was over as soon as Clements left the line
with the cherry colored foul bulb glowing. Clements elected to run his car
out anyway, and went 8.12, 80.36 on his 8.10 target. Heath Snelgrove (14 -
Dahlonega, GA) finished in the semi-final round.
PRO / SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Russ Glover '81 Speedcraft dragster Cumming, GA 5.79 117.81 (5.77)
R/U: Dennis"The Menace" Calvert '65 Dodge Dart Spartanburg, SC
(foul) 6.82 99.56 (6.81)
Semi: "Bad Brad" Howard '02 Miller dragster Gainesville, GA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Brent Wheeler '74 Charger Monroe, GA 11.21 119.69 (11.25)
R/U: Jay Johnson '68 Dart Deatsville, AL (broke - no time)
Semi: Mike Behrendsen '70 GTX Toccoa, GA
Semi: Joe Haddon '67 Chevy II Oxford, GA
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIESEL SHOOTOUT CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Kevin Robinson '98 Dakota McDonough, GA 12.31 101.81 (12.25)
R/U: Wesley Purvis '01 RAM Leesburg, GA 17.27 77.85 (17.25)
Semi: Robert Patton '98 RAM Alpharetta, GA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIPER SHOOTOUT CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Pete Mansolillo '97 Viper Suwannee, GA 12.54 97.83 (12.30)
R/U: Eyal "Al" Yarden '97 Viper Lawrenceville, GA 13.10 111.67 (12.60)
Semi: Eric Jordan '98 Viper Sugar Hill, GA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TROPHY STREET CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Kevin Poole '68 Charger Dewy Rose, GA 16.53 82.42 (16.45)
R/U: Bryan White '69 Roadrunner Grayson, GA 12.91 99.78 (13.00)
Semi: Anthony "Tony" Cellana '00 Dakota St. Pete, FL
Semi: Roger Ozbolt, Jr. '95 Vette Loganville, GA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER, 8-12 years AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Michael Krause 12 Peachtree City, GA 9.27 68.70 (9.21)
R/U: Lauren Turner 11 Lawrenceville, GA 9.24 70.42 (9.21)
Semi: Scott Digby 10 Walhalla, SC
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JR. DRAGSTER, 13-17 years AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jessica Moore 16 Demorest, GA 9.46 68.08 (9.36)
R/U: Alton Clements III 14 Central, SC (foul) 8.12 80.36 (8.10)
Semi: Heath Snelgrove 14 Dahlonega, GA
GDR Website Updated
Posted Sunday, September 8, 2002 by johndilbeck
Thanks to information sent to David by Bob Fermier, Dennis Neal, and Joel Head, I've updated photos GDR-00077, GDR-00121 and GDR-00250.
I also added or updated the individual pages for: Harold Head, Butch Luther, Joe Hood, and Kenny Salter.
During my last update, I neglected to add Tommy McNeely to the Photos by Person index page, and that's been corrected.
Georgia Drag Racing shirts, mugs, hats and more...
Posted Saturday, September 7, 2002 by johndilbeck
I just finished creating and uploading the first set of designs for Georgia Drag Racing to John Dilbeck's Shirts, Mugs and Hats. To see the items, just click on the link and when you get to my store, click on "Georgia Drag Racing" in the menu on the left.
There are several Fall Special items that will only be available until September 30. After that, I don't know when they'll be available again, if at all.
David and I spent a lot of time talking about creating designs for shirts and other items and we have some ideas for future products. If you would like to suggest something for our store, just let David or me know.
Enclosed gooseneck trailer wanted
Posted Friday, September 6, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
I'm trying to help a racer locate a 36-40' enclosed tri-axle gooseneck trailer to purchase. It needs to have cabinets, interior lights, and aluminum floor. Other details can vary. If you have a similar trailer that you want to sell, contact me at david@GeorgiaDragRacing.com and I'll put you in touch with him.
Drag Racing Reunions
Posted Wednesday, September 4, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
ONLY A MONTH TO GO FOR THESE EVENTS!!!
OLD DRAG RACER'S REUNION- Sol and Anne Stewart's 2nd Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion in Panama City Beach, FL September 27-29, 2002. Anybody that attended ( or saw the video ) last years reunion knows what a great time everyone had. This one is going to be a lot bigger and better! Contact:
Sol or Anne Stewart
P.O. Box 144
Jackson, Alabama 36545
Phone 251-246-5588 ( Call after 7:00 P.M. CST )
E-Mail: t_pet@bellsouth.net
MORE INFO
EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION- Nancy Wilson is putting together this event again this year and she is going all out! Be there for the SHOW, SHINE, SWINE, & DINE October 5th, 2002 and the EAST COAST DRAG TIMES HALL OF FAME & 2002 REUNION October 6th, 2002 in Henderson, North Carolina. For more info contact Nancy Wilson at: 252-438-2222 or vctourism@gloryroad.net or
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Don't miss these great events! David
Upcoming Atlanta Dragway Events
Posted Wednesday, September 4, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
September 6 & 7, 2002-
HAYES SOUTHEASTERN MOPAR MEET 2002- Hayes Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep presents the 18th Annual Southeastern Mopar Meet Friday September 6th and Saturday September 7th at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce. Car show, drag racing, swap meet, and the Dodge Boys ( Saturday- Darrell Alderman, Gene Wilson, and Dean Skuza ).
Info: Mike Hayes 770-963-5251, 1-800-556-2279, FAX 770-237-8175
September 13-14-15, 2002
COMMERCE, Ga. -- The hot rods & show cars are coming to Atlanta Dragway - as the PRO-Edelbrock Drag Racing Series roars into Commerce, GA. Next weekend the biggest names in street legal drag racing will be clashing for a win in front of ESPN2 television cameras. Pat Musi. Milt Decker. Bill Glidden. Joel Greathouse. The wildest wheelstanding Outlaws including Xtreme Street, Pro Stock and Cheap Street!
This weekend, come see the champions and the challengers in over 7 heads-up, pro-tree racing classes racing for over $400,000 in posted purse and cash contingency.
Don't forget about the awesome PRO Auto Show & Shine, featuring over 30 classes for vehicles of every make and model! The Burnout Contest, Swap Meet, Procharger Top Dog Shootout, Vendor Row & more! This will be the place to be!
Atlanta Dragway - Commerce, GA
Atlanta Dragway Results by Tim Glover
Posted Wednesday, September 4, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
RACE DATE: August 30 - September 1, 2002
FROM: Denise Shubert and Tim Glover
EVENT: B&M Racers Appreciation Series event at Atlanta Dragway in 2002
KAY K.O.'S FOOTBRAKE FIELD, FUQUA AND SIMMONS SCORE IN SUPER PRO AT "US
NATIONALS OF BRACKET RACING"
Rain spoiled the day again on Friday, and threatened to end the show
Saturday (two Footbrake cars and three Super Pro cars had to finish
Saturday's race Sunday morning), but promoter George Howard made adjustments
and kept on going. Howard took Friday's purse and added it to Saturday's
and Sunday's purse. The net results for racers was the purse went from
$10,000 to $15,000 each day in Super Pro, and from $1000 to $1500 each day
in Footbrake. Doyle Kay essentially clinched first place in the B&M
Footbrake points for the year by winning Saturday's race and going to the
semis in Sunday's race.
SATURDAY
Light rain ended the evening just a bit early, causing the final three
Super Pro cars to wait until Sunday morning after the church service to
finish. Defending B&M Super Pro champ Mike Fuqua, who hails from
Hendersonville, TN, put his Worthy dragster in the winner's circle again by
running right on his number in the Saturday final, a 5.028, 138.47 (5.02
target). His semi-final bye run was 5.022. Fuqua's reaction time (.502...
naturally) made the difference against Todd "Bones" Ewing's .534 react.
Bones' Cullman, AL based '02 Cameron dragster broke out by .001 seconds
trying to catch Fuqua, with a 4.809, 139.76 (4.81 dial). Bones, who has won
two NHRA Division Two events and the Gatornationals in Super Comp, added,
"My luck ran out." Kenny Underwood ('01 Miller dragster - Tampa, FL) was
the lone semi-finalist.
Footbrake winner and defending B&M champ Doyle Kay from Asheville, AL is
virtually unstoppable. Kay met local racer Jacob "Lucky" Rutledge in the
delayed final, and although he didn't have the reaction time advantage (.534
vs. .510 for Rutledge), Kay's '67 Chevy II pulled him through, running .002
seconds over his dial with a 6.752, 96.98 to take the win. Rutledge's '79
Capri was off the pace just a bit with a 7.59, 87.46 (7.55). Rutledge
earned his way to the final with a stellar .518 react in the quarter-finals
and a .509 in the semis. Mike Farmer ('69 Nova - Pickens, SC) took home the
semi-final purse.
SUNDAY
By the time the Sunday semi-finals rolled around, all three remaining
contestants had taken a bye run, so eventual winner Doug Simmons from
Cowarts, AL earned the ultimate bye run in the semis courtesy of his .507
quarter-final react. This was Doug Simmon's first win with his '67 Camaro
in 2002. Simmons took a slight starting line advantage (.529 to Ken
Sullivan's .531) and turned it into a win light by running 5.63, 128.29 on
his 5.62 target. Sullivan's W. Carrollton, OH based '88 Woody dragster was
pacing right with Simmons, but crossed the finish line .010 seconds behind,
carding a 5.39, 128.21 (5.37 dial-in). Timmy Smith, Sunday's semi-finalist,
won a race in July at Atlanta. He was a factor in the semi-finals, but
apparently he was in too big of a hurry in the semis and red-lighted against
Sullivan with a .494 react in his '71 Vega Wagon.
Robbie Shaw's day started out badly, but ended with the Sunday Footbrake
victory. Shaw met Donalds, SC racer Gary Burell's '72 Nova in the final and
decided to go with a 7.83 dial on his Douglasville, GA based '83 Malibu
wagon. Burell chose to put an 8.23 on his machine. Although Shaw's final
round react wasn't what he wanted it to be (.601 against Burell's .558), his
car pulled him out by breaking out less than Burell. Shaw broke out with a
7.806, 85.71 (.024 seconds under) while Burell went just a tad more under
with a 8.203, 83.33 (.027 under). "This is the best competition I ever
faced," stated Shaw. Sunday's Footbrake semi-finalist Doyle Kay was hot all
weekend, but, like Timmy Smith, it seemed he couldn't wait in the semis
against Burell and went .497 red.
SATURDAY SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Mike Fuqua '02 Worthy dragster Hendersonville, TN 5.02 138.47 (5.02)
R/U: Todd "Bones" Ewing '02 Cameron dragster Cullman, AL 4.80 139.76 (4.81)
Semi: Kenny Underwood '01 Miller dragster Tampa, FL
Semi:
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SATURDAY FOOTBRAKE CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Doyle Kay '67 Chevy II Asheville, AL 6.75 96.98 (6.75)
R/U: Jacob Rutledge '79 Capri Braselton, GA 7.59 89.46 (7.55)
Semi: Mike Farmer '69 Nova Pickens, SC
Semi:
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SUNDAY SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Doug Simmons '67 Camaro Cowarts, AL 5.63 128.29 (5.62)
R/U: Ken Sullivan '88 Woody dragster W. Carrolton, OH 5.39 128.21 (5.37)
Semi: Timmy Smith '71 Vega wagon Roanoke, AL
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SUNDAY FOOTBRAKE CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Robbie Shaw '83 Malibu wagon Douglasville, GA 7.80 85.71 (7.83)
R/U: Gary Burrell '72 Nova Donalds, SC 8.20 83.33 (8.23)
Semi: Doyle Kay '67 Chevy II Asheville, AL
Semi:
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Jimmy Rector Press Release
Posted Wednesday, September 4, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Wed, 4 Sep 2002, 11:53 AM
Rector Eyes Back-to-Back North American Nationals Titles
Courtesy of William Severino, Nitro Web Designs
EPPING, N.H. -- For the second time this season, momentum is growing for the defending 2001 North American Nationals Funny Car champion, Jimmy Rector.
Coming off an impressive victory at the 25th annual Sunoco World Nationals presented by Ethanol Performs! in Norwalk, Ohio, the veteran alcohol Funny Car pilot from Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia, is shooting for back-to-back titles at this weekend’s 7th annual Amalie Oil North American Nationals in Epping, New Hampshire. His primary goal, however, is to extend his current Hooters IHRA points lead over second place competitor, Dale “the Rail” Brand.
Teamwork and dedication to winning have helped propel the Holbrook Performance Parts, Inc. team a long ways towards a second Funny Car championship already this season. Since the beginning of the 2002 IHRA schedule, Rector and crew have captured 6 out of the 9 events to date and hold a 52-point lead going into New England Dragway.
Rector, who crashed his Dodge Avenger Funny Car at this event in 2000, commented, “Even though we wrecked a car here two seasons ago, Epping is one of my favorite places to race on the Hooters IHRA tour. We hope to come out of there with a win and a larger points lead over Dale Brand.”
Rector and the Holbrook Performance Parts sponsored Camaro will continue their quest for the 2002 IHRA Funny Car Championship this weekend at the at the 7th annual Amalie Oil North American Nationals in Epping, New Hampshire.
Visit the official website of Jimmy Rector at http://www.jimmyrector.com/
Visit Holbrook Performance Parts at http://www.holbrook-performance.com/
GDR Website Updated
Posted Wednesday, September 4, 2002 by johndilbeck
New photos have been added today: (GDR-00279 through GDR-00285).
In the Photo Gallery, the following person pages (in no particular order) were updated: Warren Johnson and Ron Smith.
Thanks to the following photographers for sharing some of their photos with us: Jerry Towns.
Thanks to Tim Glover for his Atlanta Dragway Results.
GDR Website Updated
Posted Tuesday, September 3, 2002 by johndilbeck
New photos have been added today: (GDR-00263 through GDR-00278).
In the Photo Gallery, the following person pages (in no particular order) were updated or added: Benny Hawkins, Tommy Grove, Ronnie Stewart, Richard Whitworth, Bobby Wood, Arnie Beswick, Huston Platt, Dennis Kolodziej, Bob Thomas, Howard Neal, Tom Whitfield, Herbert Moon, Tom Manner, Gary Ellis, Kim Richards, Dick LaHaie, and Tommy McNeely.
Thanks to the following photographers for sharing some of their photos with us: David Dilbeck, Rick Jordan, Fred Simmons, and Tom Whitfield.
Thanks to the following for sharing photos from their collections with us: Benny Hawkins, Ronnie Stewart, Dennis Kolodziej, Tommy McNeely, and Ansley Houston.
Thanks to Tim Glover for his Atlanta Dragway Results.
I've also added a link to David's photo galleries at Imagestation.com to various pages in the site. One link is at the top of the News page, just above the search box. I've also added a link to the menu on the main index page, and on many of the new pages in the Photo Gallery.
Whisnant and Wilson Go Two Rounds in Pro Stock at US Nationals; KJ and WJ Lose to Holeshots in Round One
Posted Monday, September 2, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
US Nationals Pro Stock Results
Schumacher, Force, Coughlin, Savoie, Jenkins, Haley, Manzo, Pritchett, Beachy, Hall, and Connolly Win at the US Nationals
Posted Monday, September 2, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
NHRA US Nationals Results
Star Racing/Angelle Savoie Debut New Sponsor and Win INDY Pro Stock Bike
Posted Monday, September 2, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Just as in Atlanta when Star Racing brought a new sponsor to drag racing, Angelle Savoie wins the US Nationals with a new sponsor. With the new sponsorship of Mohegan Sun, George Bryce and Angelle took the top spot in Monday's eliminations.
Pro Stock Bike Results
Robert Burgin Goes 5 Rounds in Super Stock at Indy
Posted Monday, September 2, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
Cuthbert, GA's Robert Burgin takes his GT/CA Firebird to Round 5 of Super Stock only to lose by a .009 breakout. Round 5 Super Stock Results
Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts Race Report from the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals
Posted Monday, September 2, 2002 by DavidDilbeck
For Release: Sept. 2, 2002
Contact: Rick Voegelin
TMG Sports Marketing
rickvoegelin@compuserve.com
831-761-2201
THE WARREN REPORT: Warren Johnson GM Performance Parts Race Report from
the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals
QUICK RESULTS
Qualified: 5th
Finished: 1st Round
Points: 4th
SEVENTH TITLE ELUDES W.J. AT U.S. NATIONALS
INDIANAPOLIS -- The long Labor Day weekend came to an abrupt end for
Warren Johnson in the first round of eliminations at the Mac Tools U.S.
Nationals. Although Johnson has won drag racing's biggest race six times in
his storied career, he was upset today in the opening stanza by Kenny
Koretsky.
Johnson started the five-day event on a high note when he was named the
"Pro Stock Driver of the Year" on the Car Craft All-Star Drag Racing Team
at the magazine's annual award banquet. W.J. has now been voted the
sport's outstanding Pro Stock driver seven times.
Warren's GM Performance Parts Pontiac also was flying high in the
early qualifying sessions. He topped the qualifying lists on Friday with
a 6.843-second elapsed time and a 6.886-second time on Saturday morning.
Tire shake during the weekend's most favorable conditions on Saturday
evening relegated him to fifth on the final qualifying sheet. Ninety-degree
heat and high humidity made Sunday's final two sessions a fruitless
exercise for Pro Stock teams.
"This racetrack has changed after it was resurfaced a couple of years ago
-- it's really not the same Indy we've been accustomed to for all these
years," Warren explained. "It's extremely smooth, and any one of the 16
cars has enough power to move up to No. 1 if they make a good clean run."
Johnson began his quest for a seventh U.S. Nationals crown with a
first-round contest with Koretsky. Koretsky was first off the starting line
with a .039-second advantage, and he held off W.J.'s quicker 6.909-second
e.t. with a 6.941-second run. The difference at the finish line stripe was
a scant .0077 seconds.
"I just flat got beat," said Johnson. "The car was running well, but I
was late. There are a lot of fast cars out there.
"We discovered some improvements when we tested here last week," he
continued. "If you look at our progress over the last few races, we've been
moving toward the front of the pack on the incremental times. Today we had
the quickest car of the round in the first 60-feet and ran the second
quickest e.t. We've got the car working decently, so now it's a matter of
going back to the shop and building more power."
The U.S. Nationals traditionally marks the end of the summer season of
racing. With autumn's cooler weather on the horizon, W.J.'s vaunted
horsepower promises to be a formidable force in the final six events on the
POWERade Drag Racing Series schedule.
WARREN JOHNSON RACE RESULTS
Qualified: No. 5 at 6.843/201.04 mph
First Round: Kenny Koretsky (6.941/198.55) defeated Warren
Johnson (6.909/199.64)
Final Round: Jeg Coughlin Jr. (6.953/199.08) defeated Jim Yates
(6.934/200.08)
Low ET: Ron Krisher, 6.819 seconds (track record)
Top Speed: Ron Krisher, 201.31 mph (track record)
PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
(After 17 of 23 events)
Driver Wins Points
1. Jeg Coughlin Jr. 4 1097
2. Greg Anderson 2 1096
3. Jim Yates 0 1088
4. Warren Johnson 1 919
5. Ron Krisher 1 865
6. Darrell Alderman 1 754
7. George |
