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PN’s Allen Gets On Right Track At Speedtech U.S. Drags IV

Pro Nitrous driver Stan Allen

He didn’t end up with a victory, but Stan Allen had just the type of weekend he was looking for at Virignia Motorsports Park.

The talented Pro Nitrous driver was also able to breathe a sigh of relief as his new Bankston Boyz Camaro made its best pass – and a number of consistent passes, too – in its short history.

Allen went as quick as 3.859 at more than 193 miles per hour, advancing to the quarterfinals at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV.

After not qualifying in the first event with the new David Janes-built car in July – and also scraping the wall – Allen had much better results a few weeks later at VMP.
He moved to eighth in points as a results and show the potential that car will have in a very short amount of time.

Allen

“We figured that’s where it would go,” Allen said. “Now, we have to tune it from there. I think we’ll be fast.
“I think we’ll be really good when we get some more clutch out it. I figured it would go a 3.89 and now we just have to tune it from there.”

It went 3.898 at 193.35 right off the bat and Allen ended up qualifying in the No. 6 position.

The Bankston Boyz team got a big boost of confidence in the first round of eliminations, as Allen went 3.938 and defeated standout Khalid Al-Balooshi on a holeshot.

Allen went 3.859 a round later, but fell to eventual winner Mike Castellana in a great drag race.
Still, the team is just scratching the surface of what they can do in the new car and Allen was certainly pleased with the progress they made in Virginia.

“All we were getting in Michigan (at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII in July) was 330-foot times, and we were just getting 60-foot times in testing, so it’s good to be getting some top side times now, too,” Allen said.
“That’s going to help a lot. This is what we wanted and we’re going to be fast.”

Allen was also a guest on last Thursday’s “ADRL Drag Racing Live” and touched on several more of these subjects.

To listen, just click below.

Listen to internet radio with ADRL DragRacing Live on Blog Talk Radio


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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PX Star Jason Scruggs, Mike Janis To Appear On “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

 

Mike Janis

Pro Extreme star Jason Scruggs and Pro Mod/Pro Extreme driver Mike Janis will be the featured guests on the ADRL’s weekly online show, “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” presented by Summit Racing Equipment.

 

The entertaining 90-minute broadcast airs live every Thursday at 9 p.m. EST on the ADRL website, www.ADRL.us and also on www.blogtalkradio.com/adrldragracinglive. Every archived show is available on-demand on the ADRL website as well.

“ADRL Drag Racing Live” is hosted by ADRL Television personality Bret Kepner and ADRL Director of Media and Communications Josh Hachat. They break down the latest news and happenings in the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league, and it is the only weekly show that is 100 percent devoted to the ADRL.

The show will look back at the hugely-successful and record-breaking Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, which took place last weekend at Virginia Motorsports Park. With a huge crowd and a huge car count, Kepner and Hachat will discuss the event, which also featured world record runs from Burton Auxier in Pro Nitrous (3.746) and Ashley Owens in Pro Extreme Motorcycle (3.977).

 

Jason Scruggs

Another amazing highlight from the weekend was the performance of Jason Scruggs, who will be the first guest on the show.
After a year filled with frustration, Scruggs had a breakout and career performance at VMP, running a career-best 3.63 in the finals en route to the event win. Scruggs called it one of the best moments of his Pro Extreme career and to hear why, make sure you tune into the broadcast.

 

Janis also had a memorable weekend, winning the ADRL’s first Pro Modified exhibtion while also pulling double-duty in the Pro Extreme class. There, he upset No. 1 qualifier Frankie Taylor in the first round, and then got a chance to celebrate later that evening by defeating Khalid Al-Balooshi in the Pro Mod final.
This will be a must-listen interview as well.

Thursday’s broadcast will also look ahead to the next event on the 2011 ADRL Tour, which is ADRL Dragstock VIII. That event takes place Sept. 9-10 at Rockingham Dragway in Rockingham, N.C.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Holeshots Aplenty At Speedtech U.S. Drags IV

 

Grant McCrary

During the early part of eliminations for the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV at Virginia Motorsports Park, the running joke in the media room was the event was suddenly become the “Holeshot Drags.”

 

Reaction times took center stage in a number of races and a closer look at the numbers do reveal that there was a bit of the “Holeshot Drags” mixed in with the Speedtech U.S. Drags.

There was 14 overall holeshots during eliminations in Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5, Pro Extreme Motorcycle, Extreme Pro Stock and Pro Modified, with four coming in XPS alone. PN and PX both had three each, while there were two in PXM and one apiece in XPS and PM.

A total of nine holeshots took place during the first round, with eight of those nine coming in XPS, PN and PX.

 

Rob Hunnicutt

Of the eight first-round races in both PN and PX, there were three holeshots in each class. Robert Mathis, John Hall and Stan Allen each recorded them, while Michael Recchia, who had an impressive .026 reaction time, Joshua Hernandez and Mike Janis all pulled them off in Pro Extreme.

 

Scott Hintz had a great .008 reaction time in a first-round win in XPS, while John Pluchino beat XPS points leader off the line in a quarterfinal race. In PXM, Casey Stemper needed a great reaction time to beat Carlos Wilkerson, while his .007 reaction time in the finals nearly was enough to pull off a major upset against Ashley Owens. Rob Hunnicutt also recorded first-round holeshot win against Eric McKinney.

The only one of the weekend in XTF came in the second round when Grant McCrary squeaked past Billy Glidden.

The biggest holeshots came in two finals, as Dean Goforth used one to beat John Montecalvo in Extreme Pro Stock, and Janis used his second of the weekend to beat Khalid Al-Balooshi in the Pro Modified finals.

But what was the holeshot of the weekend? Well, that one is easy.
That honor goes to Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman driver Sandy Wilkins, who pulled off an amazing .000 during a must-see semifinal race against No. 1 qualifier Ronnie Davis.

It carried Wilkins to the finals and he eventually finished as the runner-up.

As a whole, the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV certainly showed that driving ability and reaction time is as important as ever in the ADRL.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Janis Gets Back To Winning Ways In ADRL Pro Modified Debut

Mike Janis

Even before last weekend, Virginia Motorsports Park had always been a special place for Mike Janis.

After the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, the facility now holds an even more revered place in the heart of the doorslammer standout.
Racing in two classes, Janis put together a weekend he will always remember. He knocked out No. 1 qualifier Frankie Taylor in a huge Pro Extreme first-round upset, but that ultimately took a backseat to his other driving duties at VMP.

Janis was one of the participants in the ADRL Pro Modified class, which ran an eight-car exhibition for the first time in its history.
Janis did more than participate, too, becoming the first Pro Mod winner by going 3.914 and winning on a holeshot against Khalid Al-Balooshi in the final.

“This track has always been good to us and just to win, period, is special,” Janis said. “We’ve always ran well here and this was just a thrill to be able to do this. We saw a lot of encouraging things and it was just a great weekend.”

Janis had been searching and waiting far too long for his next victory, and maybe it was fitting it came at a track where he earned his first national-event win 10 years ago.
Searching for consistency all year, Janis found it in a major way at VMP. He qualified in the No. 2 position, going 3.915 at 189.87 miles per hour, and then ran 3.93, 3.91 and 3.91 during eliminations to knock off Thomas Jones, Leah Pruett-LeDuc and Al-Balooshi.

Al-Balooshi went 3.896 in the final, but Janis had a fantastic .038 reaction time to earn the victory.

“We made a lot of consistent runs, which was good to see,” Janis said. “To run 3.91 almost every run, I was really happy with that. There was a lot to be encouraged about.”

Running two cars in two different classes made for an exhausting weekend, but it was well worth it for Janis and his New York-based team. The ADRL debuted a new legal Pro Mod class at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV and it immediately had Janis’ interest.

“It was a no-brainer to bring a second car,” Janis said. “Our hauler is set up for it and we were coming here with the AJPE equipped Duster anyway. My initial reaction was that it would be a good way to test the Mustang before Indy but once the weekend got going it was about winning.”

Janis was certainly dialed in and the focus all weekend was his performance in the 1/8-mile as he had his Eaton Aeroquip-backed Pro Mod Mustang still set up with its 1/4-mile combination.
It worked out perfectly on that front and the added bonus was his performance in Pro Extreme.

Janis had not got his combination down in his PX Duster in 2011, but the weekend at VMP was by far the best of the season. With an ultra-fast field, Janis qualified in the No. 16 position, running 3.836 in what ended up as the third-quickest qualifying field in PX history.
Janis got defending world champion Frankie Taylor in the first round, who qualified No. 1 with an impressive 3.62.
But Janis won this matchup on a holeshot, as his .045 reaction time and a 3.797 run carried him to a win. Janis went 3.76 a round later – his best run of the weekend – but fell to Todd Tutterow.
Janis, though, quickly moved back to his Mustang and finished his weekend in dramatic style.

“This has been a fantastic weekend. I’d like to thank Tim McAmis and the entire ADRL staff for this opportunity,” Janis said. “I think it was a great thing, and I just like the 1/8-mile setup, period. It’s so much easier on parts and there was a lot of great racing out there. I think it’s going to be a great thing.
“I’d also like to thank all of the people and sponsors who help make this possible: Rasnick, Scott, Eric and all of the people from Eaton Aeroquip, Safety-Kleen, LAT Oil, Probell, Goodyear and everyone who believes in us.
“It has been a long time (away from the Winner’s Circle) but we’re here and we couldn’t do it without the support of the crew, our families and our sponsors.”

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

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Montecalvo Creeping Up In XPS After Finals Appearance

John Montecalvo

For Extreme Pro Stock driver John Montecalvo, it was mission accomplished.

At last weekend’s Speedtech U.S. Drags IV at Virginia Motorsports Park, Montecalvo and his team set out to gain ground on points leaders Cary Goforth and Pete Berner, and they did exactly that. With Berner falling in round one and Goforth exiting a round later, the door was wide open for Montecalvo to step through.

The XPS defending world champion took advantage by advancing all the way to the finals. Montecalvo was surely showing his championship prowess in Virginia, and was quickest for the round in five of the eight total Pro Stock sessions this weekend. One of those times, a 4.079 at 175.89 miles per hour, earned him the top qualified spot and was the quickest pass of the entire weekend.

From the No. 1 spot, Montecalvo paired off with No. 16 qualifier, Cale Aronson, in round one. Aronson gave it a good effort with a 4.143, but Montecalvo ran a 4.109. In round two, Montecalvo ran a 4.083 against Scott Hintz, while another 4.08 knocked off Bert Jackson in the semifinals.
In the finals, Montecalvo again went quickest for the round with another 4.08. However, he had an uncharacteristically late reaction and gave Dean Goforth the room he needed to get in with a 4.09. Despite the disappointing final, Montecalvo and team walked away from Virginia with some much-needed points.

“We accomplished what we set out to do this weekend,” Montecalvo said. “We were waiting on an opportunity just like this where the points leaders would go out early. I’m proud of my team being able to capitalize on that and gain some much needed ground. We’re certainly not out of this chase. I was disappointed in myself for the final round, but I’ll work on it and try to keep that from happening again. Sonny gives us the power to run at the front and my team knows how to get that power to the ground. We’ve got all we need

Montecalvo's team celebrate qualifying in the No. 1 position

to continue our championship run.

Montecalvo and his team, led by crew chief Bill Cavallo, also won the Kaase Tuning Challenge, which provides a $500 bonus for the team that had the lowest combined elapsed time for all four qualifying sessions.

“I want to further congratulate my team on their hard work in winning the Kaase Tuning Challenge,” Montecalvo said. “That’s a great recognition for those teams that consistently go fast in qualifying, and we appreciate Kaase putting on that program. Everybody on the team- Lois Anne, William, Bobby, Matt, Pat and Doug- all work extremely hard and it’s nice to have that recognized.
“We’re not going to let up now that we’ve gained a little ground. We’re going to keep the pressure on going into Rockingham (for Dragstock VII on Sept. 9-10 at Rockingham Dragway).”

 

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)










NMRA-NMCA Releases Atlanta Dragway Video

July 2nd, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


The NMRA and NMCA visited Atlanta Dragway for the 3rd annual Nitto Tire All Star Nationals in April, and the combined series just released a very cool video to highlight some of the Atlanta action.

 




GSA Ending NHRA Pro Mod Series Sponsorship in 2014

July 1st, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


ProCare Rx and Get Screened America, led by Roger Burgess, will be scaling back their involvement after their contract expires in 2014 as primary sponsor for the NHRA Pro Mod racing series. (Photo by Ian Tocher; Click image for larger version)

Get Screened America has informed NHRA that it will no longer fund the television broadcast of the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series beginning with the 2012 season. However, Get Screened America confirmed its commitment to remain as series sponsor until the end of 2014, fulfilling the terms of the initial deal which began in 2010.

The formation of the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series was made possible by the financial commitment and support of ProCare Rx and Get Screened America, led by Roger Burgess. NHRA hopes to find a new series sponsor to replace Get Screened America and continue the series beyond 2014. However, if a sponsor is not found before December 2012, the Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series will be discontinued after the 2014 race season.

Beginning in 2012, Get Screened America opted out of funding television coverage of the series, which currently airs on ESPN2 and ESPN2HD. Get Screened America provided 100 percent of the financial support necessary for these programs.

“We are glad that we were able to create the series, however, for it to continue, another entity will need to get involved,” said Roger Burgess. “The series can offer a lot to a new sponsor and I will work hand-in-hand with NHRA to search for a new one.”

After the first seven races of the 2011 NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Khalid Balooshi leads the championship standings, 23 points ahead of Danny Rowe. Rounding out the top five are Ed Hoover, Ken Lang, and Mike Castellana. In Englishtown, N.J. last month, Melanie Troxel set both ends of the NHRA national record with a pass of 5.772 seconds at 258.71 mph in her turbocharged ProCare Rx ’53 Corvette. The next race that will include the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series is the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil, Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 – Sept. 5 in Indianapolis.

“We can’t thank Roger and his team enough for everything they have done and NHRA will continue to work with him through the 2014 season,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA. “Roger’s financial support made the series and television broadcast possible and for that we are grateful.”

The NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series was formed in 2010 with the financial commitment of ProCare Rx and Get Screened America, who agreed to a multi-year commitment to fund the series. As announced when the series was formed, continuation of the series depends on dedicated sponsorship. The 2012 NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series schedule will be announced later this year.


Tutterow’s First Pass In New Mustang A Success

The news that Todd Tutterow received a stunning new ’67 Mustang GT 500 sent some pretty big shockwaves through the ADRL Pro Extreme world.
In addition to being a beautiful car, the new Jeffers Pro Cars-built Mustang was considerably lighter than Tutterow’s former Camaro and had Tutterow thinking big.
The potential is already evident, even after just the first pass.
At a recent testing session this past weekend, Tutterow, currently fourth in PX points, made his first pass in the car, going 3.73 at nearly 209 miles per hour.
That left your agent wondering what the car will be capable of this weekend at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV at Virginia Motorsports Park.
It could be incredible.

To see Tutterow’s first pass in the new car, see below.

 

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Davis Excited To Race Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman At VMP


Ronnie Davis is on the verge of becoming the first driver ever to compete in a third American Drag Racing League (ADRL) class. The Suwanee, Georgia-based golf cart dealer has previously raced in the ADRL’s Pro Nitrous and Extreme 10.5 categories, but as a Top Sportsman pioneer with both the IHRA and NHRA series, he’s excited about entering his specialty at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV Aug. 12-13, at Virginia Motorsports Park.

Ronnie Davis

 

After staging two exhibition experiments, ADRL made Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman its first official full-size, bracket-racing class at its most recent event last month in Martin, Michigan.

“I’m very, very happy to see ADRL add (Summit Racing Equipment) Top Sportsman to their show,” says Davis, who will be driving his Tommy Mauney-built ’63 Corvette equipped with a new, nitrous-boosted Roush Yates 822-cubic-inch engine. “I think it’s a good deal for the ADRL and it’s good for Top Sportsman racers to have another high-quality organization to race with on good, safe tracks.”

All ADRL races are held over eighth-mile distances and in Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman, drivers are required to predict their elapsed times and then run as close as possible to their predictions without going under. With five IHRA Top Sportsman world championships, two NHRA divisional titles (including last year’s NHRA Div. 2 crown), and nearly 100 individual event wins in the class, Davis is no stranger to the format.

“In NHRA you run only the quarter-mile, but I’ve done a lot of eighth-mile at IHRA division races in the past. The biggest difference in the eighth-mile is you have a lot less time to overcome any mistakes; it’s over pretty darn quick,” he explains. “But I feel with the Roush Yates Corvette running such consistent times that we won’t have any problems.”

Davis expects to be making laps “in the 4.20s all day long” at Richmond.

“I’ve raced at Virginia Motorsports Park several times before and it’s a good race track, a nice facility, and I’m looking forward to going back there,” Davis says. “I’m looking forward to the ADRL experience there and hopefully we’ll be able to leave with a win.”

Beyond the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, Davis plans to attend the ADRL’s next two events in September at Rockingham (Dragstock VII), and Norwalk, Ohio (Summit Racing Equipment Ohio Drags V), and depending on his results, may even make the long tow west to Dallas, Texas, for the season-ending LenMar Motorsports World Finals VII in October.

Ronnie Davis Racing greatly appreciates the sponsorship and support of Roush Yates Performance Engine Group, Rock Batteries, J.H. Global Star Golf Carts, Hickory Enclosed Trailers & Race Performance Motor Coach, TracStar Satellite Systems, Goodyear, CSR, VP Racing Fuels, TCI, Moroso, Magnaflow, Hedman Hedders, Auto Meter, Torque Converter Services, Braswell Carburetors, MSD, Penske Shocks, Chapman Auto Body, and Tommy Mauney Race Cars.

(Photos submitted)

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Another Stott Coming To ADRL

 

Dylan Stott

Yes, that is correct and, according to Competition Plus, it will be in the Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman class.

 

In a great story, Bobby Bennett detailed the news that Dylan Stott, the cousin of current PX standout Quain and also Mitch, will make his ADRL debut at this weekend’s Speedtech U.S. Drags IV at Virginia Motorsports Park in Petersburg, Va.

Just 18 years old, Dylan is obviously excited to make his ADRL debut in the Summit Racing Equipment Top Sportsman class.

“I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am,” Stott said in the article. “I eventually have my sights set on moving up in Pro Modified but for now, I am content putting in laps and getting a full education on learning how to race and win. You always dream to be at the top of the racing food chain, but I believe when you get there you ought to be able to compete because of experience.”

Here’s another great quote that stuck out to your agent in the story.

“I just want to do my part to uphold the family tradition of winning,” said Stott.

To read the entire article, click here.

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ADRL Speedtech U.S. Drags IV Fact Sheet

Virginia Motorsports Park

The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) returns to Virginia Motorsports Park (VMP) in Petersburg, Va. on Aug. 12-13 for the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV.

With increased purse payouts for each race, a new World Championship format with major championship payouts and expanded live online broadcasts during eliminations, there is considerable excitement and anticipation surrounding the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league as it returns to Virginia Motorsports Park.

For the first time in ADRL history, there will also be a 12-car Pro Modified exhibition.

The gates open at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, with the first round of qualifying on Friday set to begin at 12 p.m. On Saturday, the racing will begin at 12 p.m. with the final qualifying session. The first round of eliminations starts at 3 p.m., with a special jet-car and monster truck pass concluding the evening on Friday and Saturday.

WHAT: ADRL Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, the sixth of nine national events this calendar year for the American Drag Racing League (ADRL), but the seventh points-paying event toward the 2011 World Championship.

Series includes six all-professional, eighth-mile drag racing classes: Top Sportsman (TS), Extreme Pro Stock (XPS), Pro Extreme Motorcycle (PXM), Extreme 10.5 (XTF), Pro Nitrous (PN) and Pro Extreme (PX), the quickest and fastest full-bodied, doorslammer class in the world.

There will be a 12-car Pro Modified exhibition for the first time as well.

Pro Junior Dragsters also compete at each ADRL event, along with exhibition runs by a Police Interceptor jet car and the legendary Summit Motorsports “Bigfoot” monster truck.

WHEN: Friday and Saturday, August 12-13 2011

WHERE: Virginia Motorsports Park, 8018 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA 23803

CONTACT: For directions, contact Virginia Motorsports Park at (804) 862-3174 (804) 862-3174 or visit www.vmpdrag.com/drag. For media requests, please contact Josh Hachat with ADRL Communications at (740) 627-1423 (740) 627-1423 or josh@adrl.us

SCHEDULE (Subject to change; all times local)

FRIDAY: Qualifying Round 1 at 12 p.m. (Run order: TS, PM, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX, PJD) Qualifying Round 2 at 3 p.m. (Run order: TS, PM, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX, PJD) Event Ceremony at 6 p.m. Qualifying Round 3 at 6:30 p.m. (Run order: TS, PM, PJD, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX) Jet Car and Monster Truck run 9:30 p.m. Secure Track 10 p.m.

SATURDAY: Qualifying Round 4 at 12 p.m. (Run order: TS, PM, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX, PJD); Pre-Race Ceremonies 3 p.m. Eliminations Round 1 at 3:30 p.m. (Run order: TS, PM, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX, PJD) Jet Car at 9 p.m. Final Eliminations at 9:30 p.m. (Run order: PJD, TS, PM, XPS, PXM, XTF, PN, PX) Monster Truck run at 10 p.m. ADRL Winner’s Circle Celebration 10:15 p.m. Secure Track 11:30 p.m.

TICKETS: Complimentary in-advance general admission tickets distributed locally and available online at www.ADRL.us. Tickets on sale both days at track. Friday Adult $15; Kids 6-12 $5; Saturday Adult $25; Kids 6-12 $5; Full Event Pass Adult $50; Kids 6-12 $10; All Kids Under 6 Free; General Parking $20; RV Parking Weekend $150. All tickets include ADRL VIP pit pass.


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)




The Latest On The PX Team Of Stanley And Weiss Racing

 

Pro Extreme driver John Stanley

Your agent knew ahead of time, but it still made him sad not to see John and Camp Stanley, and the rest of their Pro Extreme team at the recent Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park.

 

Your agent knows the 2011 ADRL season has been a struggle – to say the least – from the talented team.
With the fields continuing to get tougher in Pro Extreme and the team still trying to get a better hold on its new converter, Stanley hasn’t performed like he had hoped or expected.

But, there appears to be good news coming. In a blog post on the Stanley and Weiss Racing website, Camp revealed the team’s next move in Pro Extreme.

In his words:

“Our plan as it stands now is to be back out with a vengeance at Dragstock VIII in Rockingham, North Carolina ready to “get it on!” If things go according to plan and testing is successful you will see and hear about a new and reinvigorated Stanley & Weiss Racing team! The Appalachia on Steroids Camaro will be back to its old self, as will the entire team.”

That’s great news and your agent can’t wait to see them competing in Rockingham. If your agent knows anything about this team, he knows they will return in a major, motivated way.

Your agent can’t wait to hear more from Camp, but he highly suggests reading the entire blog post, which touches on a number interesting topics.

To check it out, click here.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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K&K Racing Team Enjoys Top Sportsman Debut In ADRL

The folks at DragRace Canada did a great job featuring a Top Sportsman team that made its ADRL debut earlier this month at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

The K & K Racing Team, with driver Kevin Wicke – who owns the team with – raced in TS at the event in Martin, making history as part of the first official field since TS was added a class.

Needless to say, the team had a blast racing in the ADRL.
The following is a quote from Wicke, which also appeared in the well-done article.

“It is a new class for the ADRL which they are trying to get going,” confirmed team driver Kevin Wicke. “This was by invitation only and some 120 teams did apply; but only 21 were picked. We feel honored to be one of them because this field was just great representation of all the quality cars around here. Everyone at ADRL treated us really well.”

Wicke touched on a variety of other subjects as well, including why he hopes to race in Top Sportsman again in the ADRL.

Make sure you check out the entire article. To do so, click here.


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Sponsor Spotlight: Jerry Haas Race Cars Home Of XPS Standouts

XPS' Cary Goforth

At each of the past two races in Extreme Pro Stock, Jerry Haas could be seen with a beaming smile on his face.

It was as if the chassis builder had won the race himself and, in a way, he had.

Haas and Jerry Haas Race Cars (JHRC) was the builder of the last two XPS winners in the American Drag Racing League (ADRL), as drivers Scott Hintz and Cary Goforth each won the two most recent races in the loaded class.

Goforth debuted his new JHRC-built GXP – identical to the one his father, Dean, debuted from Haas to start 2011 – at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII earlier this month at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, immediately putting it in the winner’s circle.

Goforth went 4.119 on his very first pass in the new car and stayed on top throughout, praising Haas afterwards.

“That was just incredible,” Haas said. “It was great to see him turn it loose, along with his father.”

 

XPS driver Scott Hintz

A month earlier, Hintz celebrated his first ADRL win at the Kansas National Guard Independence Drags IV at Heartland Park Topeka and Haas was right there for the celebration as well.

 

In fact, a significant number of Hintz’s standout crew are JHRC employees, which made that moment even sweeter for Haas.

“They do an excellent job helping Scott, and his family is just great people,” Haas said. “What a great win it was for him and his dad.”

After all these years building standout doorslammers, the winning never gets old for Haas, who started out in a modest one-car garage.

That has long been replaced with a standout facility in the St. Louis area and Haas’ reputation has grown with each passing year.

Now, he’s acknowledged as one of the best chassis builders in the sport and is a 12-time Car Craft Magazine All-Star chassis builder.

In the ADRL, Haas has built cars for Pro Nitrous, Pro Extreme and Extreme 10.5 drivers – including the current XTF Mustang for class standout Billy Glidden – but he is most known for the tremendous number of Extreme Pro Stock drivers choosing his product.

Haas, though, gives plenty of credit to his standout staff.

“I’m so grateful to be in my shop and to have a great crew like we have because without them I couldn’t do anything,” Haas said.

XPS driver Trevor Eman


Haas’ client list is impressive and includes the likes of both Goforths, Glidden, Hintz, Trevor Eman – who debuted a new Mustang this year – Cale Aronson, Tony Gillig, Brian Gahm, Richie Stevens Jr. and more.

 

Stevens and the CarSafe XPS team has grown especially close with Haas, using a JHRC trailer in their pits the past two races.

“It’s been an awesome deal. I’ve known Richie for years since junior dragsters. What a great guy (CarSafe owner) Mark Eckman is, too,” Haas said. “We’re hauling the car in my trailer and I’m just glad to hang around with guys like that.
“It means a lot to me to be involved with somebody who’s out there trying new things and doing a great job. Richie is one of the good drivers out there.”

Haas is a regular on the starting line and it’s still something he enjoys to this day.

He’ll be there next month for the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV at Virginia Motorsports Park and an outstanding XPS field will certainly join him.

A record-breaking 25 cars showed up in Martin two weeks ago as the class continues to expand and develop at a rapid rate in the XPS.

As you could imagine, Haas and JHRC is thrilled with the remarkable growth.

“I think it’s a great show that the ADRL is putting on with Extreme Pro Stock and everyone I’ve talked to in the class is so motivated with what the ADRL is doing, letting them have a place to race,” Haas said.
“I think Extreme Pro Stock is going to grow even more and these. These cars provide a great thrill and the fans just love these cars, too.”

 

XPS' Richie Stevens Jr.


(Photos by ADRL/Richards/McCole)

 

 

 

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With Second Win, Hamstra Stays The Course As PX Points Leader

Pro Extreme points leader Jason Hamstra

Jason Hamstra went from the underdog to the driver everyone is chasing in Pro Extreme.

The former American Drag Racing League (ADRL) rookie of the year wouldn’t have it any other way, but if you think it will change his even-keel approach, well, you must not know enough about the Demotte, Ind. driver.

From his attitude to his approach to even his patriotic-themed car, everything revolves around consistency.

Now that he’s the clear favorite for the World Championship in Pro Extreme with four races remaining, don’t expect that to change.

“We don’t approach the races any different. It’s cool to be out in front and have the best shot at it, but it doesn’t change how we do things,” Hamstra said.

It certainly didn’t at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park earlier this month, when Hamstra used his proven approach to strengthen his points lead.

In fact, what happened in Martin, Mich. at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII could well be the case study Hamstra uses to prove his method works.

Hamstra was his usual consistent self at the starting line, going .022, .018 and .011 in three of his eliminations wins. The Duster – now sporting a new lightweight body – was its usual consistent self, too, boasting tons of impressive power and staying between 3.71 and 3.77 during four round wins.

If not for a huge gathering of friends and family, it would have been a celebration consistent with his others, too.

“You can’t ask for a whole lot more than what we’ve been able to do this year. All in all, it’s been a good year so far,” Hamstra said after his second win and fourth finals appearance of 2011.

Good would be an understatement, but it fits perfectly with Hamstra’s low-key demeanor.

He’s boasted plenty of remarkable runs, with many of them coming in the last two months amidst some major heat.

That’s led to big mile per hour numbers, but you won’t find Hamstra in the 3.50s – at least not yet (his career-best is a still-impressive 3.65).

His Duster might be capable of it, but that’s simply not the Hamstra way.

“It’s real forgiving and it has a big window in it. It wants to go down the track, even if you miss it a little bit,” Hamstra said. “It came around really quick.
“We had to make quite a few adjustments in Martin, but it went down every lap there, so we were pretty happy with that. We have a local machine shop, Diamond Engine and Machine, and they do all our machine work for us.
“We kind of came up with a motor combination between us that seems to work pretty well. We just want to be consistent and have good reaction times. Maybe we don’t swing for the fences as much, but it’s got plenty in it, that’s for sure.”

Hamstra has been up for the challenge in 2011 after a disastrous 2010 season.

A crash in Topeka kept him out of action for nearly three months, but it’s all turned into a positive for Hamstra.

Motivated and driven to turn around those fortunes, Hamstra has been on point for all of the 2011 ADRL Tour.

He won the opening race of the season and hasn’t left the No. 1 spot in Pro Extreme since.

“Well, it was something we knew we were capable of if we put anything together and had a little luck on our side,” Hamstra said. “I wouldn’t say we knew we would be here, but I knew we were capable.”

Time after time, Hamstra and his team have displayed that capability.

In Martin, while others struggled to get down the track, Hamstra made smooth run after smooth run.

He knocked off Von Smith and Mick Snyder to move into the finals where he met up with Todd Tutterow in a rematch of the first race of the year.

This one ended just the same – even with a conservative set-up by Hamstra’s team – in part because of Hamstra’s .018 reaction time.

He went 3.715 at 207.05 mph, wrapping up an ideal weekend in front of a massive group of friends and family.

“It was a neat deal. It adds a little more pressure, but we just try to do the same thing like we always do. It was a lot of fun to have all the people around to celebrate with, too,” Hamstra said.
“If you’re going to pick one race to win, this would be it.”

(Photos by ADRL/Richards/McCole)

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PX’s Leggett Hopes To Build On Career-Best Pass From Martin

Pro Extreme driver Terry Leggett

The weekend started with so much promise and Terry Leggett plans to build on that.

As for the finish, the Pro Extreme driver is still working on changing that.

It’s been an up and down season for Leggett, who continues to take two steps forward followed by one step back.

The latest came at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, where Leggett went a career-best 3.73 less than two weeks ago.

That came during the third round of qualifying, putting Leggett at the No. 6 spot and leaving him plenty satisfied in the process.

“That was out of sight. It was pretty good,” Leggett said.

 

Pro Extreme driver Terry Leggett

The Mustang put together the quickest time for an Alan Pittman-built car and things seemed promising for the weekend.

 

But, things quickly fell apart.

In the first round of eliminations against Jason Scruggs, the blower belt broke on the burnout, abruptly ending Leggett’s day.

It was the latest blow to a weekend that seemed to have so much potential.

Similar things happened this year for Leggett, though he felt like he had turned the corner in Topeka by running a 3.78.

“It’s been a long year. We really felt like the last race at Topeka we got things turned around,” Leggett said.

Leggett didn’t test after Topeka, instead choosing to freshen up the car.

The result seemed good after the 3.73, but Leggett knows he has work to do during eliminations.

“The way we build on the 3.73 is to go rounds,” said Leggett, who is currently ninth in the Pro Extreme points standings.

One good thing going for Leggett, who plans to also debut an Extreme 10.5 car at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV next month, is a strong team.

With Pittman and Darrell Makins leading the way, Leggett has enjoyed the camaraderie of the group and knows that strong results are right around the corner.

“We do work really well as a team,” Makins said. “We all take responsibility and go with whatever decision we come to.
“We all have different kinds of experience and that’s good to have that diversity.”

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Snyder’s PX Semifinal Run Moves To Five In Martin


Mick Snyder is now a perfect 5-for-5 this year.
At the fifth event of the year, Snyder and the Snyder Motorsports Pro Extreme Race Team headed to Martin, Michigan, and earned their 5th semi-final finish in as many races at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park.

It continues an impressive string and keeps Sndyer, sponsored by Powersource Transportation, in championship contention. Snyder remains third in the PX points standings and is less than three rounds out of second heading into the remaining four races of the 2011 season.

“The car continues to run really well and we can’t really be upset with another semifinal. The crew is doing a great job and the Coan converter and car continue to respond to our changes,” Snyder said. “During the heat of the day, we ran quicker than anyone else out here, so we think we are getting a handle on her. Now we just have to apply everything we are learning and try to go rounds down the stretch of the season.”

Mick Snyder

The 30 year-old second generation driver qualified No. 3 in the 16-car field with an impressive 3.69 at 208 miles per hour in the heat of the day.
After pedaling to a first-round win, Snyder, the 2010 ADRL Rookie of the Year, faced teammate Jason Scruggs in the second round. He was able to pick up the win running 3.75 earning choice in the next round. During the semi’s, Snyder left just a bit too quick, turning on the red light by just .002.

“We are having so much fun out here at the ADRL races. Skip and Barb from Powersource have been coming to a lot of the races and being so close to home this week a lot of our friends and family got to come out and watch us,” Snyder said. “We are really looking forward to going to Virginia next and trying to get this car in the winner’s circle for all of the great people behind us.”

The Snyder Motorsports Race Team would also like to thank their associate sponsors Lencodrive Racing Transmissions, R & R Racing Products, Flatout Gaskets, NGK, Lucas Oil, Snyder Auto, VP Racing Fuels, JE Pistons, PSI Springs, Long Printing, Goodson, Jeg’s and The Winning Team for their continued support this year.

 

(Photo by ADRL/Richards/McCole)

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Another Race, Another Win, Another Historic Moment For Owens

PXM's Ashley Owens

The field continues to get closer in Pro Extreme Motorcycle, as it proved less than two weeks ago in Martin, Mich.

So, what was Ashley Owens’ response?

Only the quickest run in the history of the class.

With competition bearing down on him, Owens and his amazing Fast by Gast bike delivered another classic moment, this one coming in the finals of the ADRL’s most recent event, the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park.

Owens went an incredible 4.009 at 178.39 miles per hour, giving him his third win this season and negating runner-up Eric McKinney’s .001 reaction time.

“He made absolutely the most perfect run imaginable,” Fast by Gast owner Paul Gast said. “The 4.00 was like, ‘You’ve got to be kidding me.’ McKinney was just doing an incredible job on the light and he had our attention for sure.”

Running a new motor for the race in Martin, Gast said they turned it up for the finals, but nobody was expecting a run like that, especially in some thick Martin heat.

Pro Extreme Motorcycle rider Ashley Owens

But that’s what makes Owens the most dominant driver the class has ever seen.

When the moment calls for it, the soft-spoken Owens always comes through with something amazing.

The pressure never gets to him, while all of his talking is done with the bike.

So, when the likes of Eric McKinney, Terry Schweigert and Kim Morrell are all going 4.13 or better at U.S. 131, Owens simply stepped up with a run that is closer to the elusive 3-second mark than any pass in PXM history.

“That was unbelievable, no doubt,” Gast said. “He’s so calm and cool in those regards, hitting those solid lights and driving straight down the track. We’re just blessed that it’s happening, but it’s not automatic. He’s just excelling on this bike.”

Owens added another piece of history with the impressive win at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII. It gave him 12 for his career – and 11 coming since last April – which ties him with Billy Glidden for the most in ADRL history.

But while Gast is quick to credit Owens, the Decatur, Ala. native was equally quick to credit a team that worked overtime in Martin.

“Everybody just did a great job and worked so hard to get this done,” Owens said. “We swapped around a lot of stuff and made a lot of changes, but it worked out great. Just going over everything like we did really paid off.”

The team worked hard on the new motor, debuting it with a soft 4.20 on the first qualifying pass.

Owens made only one more qualifying run – going 4.11 to go to the top spot – before eliminations.

The risky move paid off, as Owens went 4.08 in the quarterfinals and semifinals leading up to the memorable finals pass against McKinney.

“I definitely thought it would go faster. We changed some things and it was probably

Fast by Gast's Paul Gast

more like the regular combination,” Owens said. “It responded even better than we thought.

“We were trying to step it up all weekend. It just took a few more passes.”

Owens, though, needed to be close to perfect against McKinney, who has been riding well for the last several months.

He had reaction times of .002 and .008 to get to the finals and was on his game again at the starting line against Owens.

“I was getting a little nervous because Eric is so good on the tree. But I always have fun running against him,” Owens said.

As a whole, the class seemed to take another stride in Martin, helped by a great field with plenty of strong times.

Up next is the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, which takes place Aug. 12-13 in Virginia Motorsports Park and has always been an ideal setting for bikes.

Owens is predicting another standout race and his bike may be providing more classic moments in the process.

“Virginia is going to be great. That’s always a fast track and a great race,” Owens said. “But this motorcycle is just unbelievable. It’s so reliable and so good out there, it just gets you excited to race.”


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Did You Miss The Latest “ADRL Drag Racing Live?”

 

Top Sportsman driver Glenn Butcher


If so, you missed out on a great episode that featured three entertaining guests in Jason Hamstra, Paul Gast and Glenn Butcher.

 

Your agent certainly had a great time listening to Thursday’s episode of “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” which also had a ton of great commentary and information.
If you missed it, you can still listen in a number of ways.
To listen, just click on the July 21 show on the ADRL homepage – it’s that simple. You can also download episodes to your computer, so you can listen on your iTunes as well.

Kicking things off was Jason Hamstra, who extended his points lead in Pro Extreme last weekend with his second win of the season.

Jason Hamstra


Hamstra talked about that victory at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, which came in front of a large group of family and friends, and also touched on a variety of other subjects, including the new wrap he debuted for his Duster.

 

Next up was Paul Gast, owner of ADRL sponsor Fast by Gast, and he talked about Ashley Owens’ 12th ADRL win in Pro Extreme Motorcycle. Riding a FBG bike, Owens went a remarkable 4.00 in the finals, the quickest run in PXM history.

Finishing up the great show was Glenn Butcher, who became the historic first winner in Top Sportsman now that it is an official class.
This was an awesome segment as Butcher talked about what that moment meant to him.

This is a must-listen show, no doubt about it.

Your agent also wants to remind everyone that you can listen to any previous edition of “ADRL Drag Racing Live” free of charge. The archive dates back to October and features all the biggest names and competitors in the ADRL. Hosts Kepner and Hachat have talked to every major name associated with the ADRL, and it’s all available to you whenever you want.

To listen, simply go to this page: www.adrl.us/media/blog-talk-radio/

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Berner Unable To Find Rhythm At Home ADRL Track


Pete Berner and his Extreme Pro Stock Summit Racing Equipment team never could quite get comfortable at their home track last weekend. Although Berner advanced to the semifinals at last weekend’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich., it wasn’t the weekend they were hoping for.

“We probably have more runs on this track (U.S. 131) than any of our competitors,” Berner said. “We should have had an advantage, but the car just wasn’t responding to anything we did. We certainly dodged a bullet this weekend.”

Despite the team’s issues, they qualified fourth with a 4.127 and then knocked off Bert Jackson and Elijah Mortin in eliminations.

In the semifinals, Berner left early on eventual winner Cary Goforth, who also moved back into the points lead as Berner fell to No. 2.

“We were certainly fortunate to run as well as we did. Bert drove well in round one and Elijah had a great run in round two. He certainly had the better car. We only made one good run in qualifying so we were really playing catch-up in eliminations, so we feel fortunate to have made it to the semis,” Berner said.
“We had one of the best fields we’ve seen in a long time [25 cars], and every one of them was capable of winning. Cary, Dean and Monte had the cars to beat this weekend.”

Even following the event, Berner was stumped as to what went wrong

“We really have no explanation for what happened this weekend,” Berner said. “We had a great setup for Martin and just lost our way. I’ve been in several finals, but never won at my home track, so maybe next year! We’ll do some extensive testing and figure out what’s going on before the next race. There’s still plenty of time before the end of the year and we’re certainly not out of this hunt.”

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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ADRL Releases Official Rulebook For Pro Modified Exhibition

The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) released its official rulebook for the Pro Modified class on Thursday.

The full set of rules and regulations for the Pro Modified class can be downloaded at www.adrl.us/competition/rules or by clicking on the “Rules” dropdown under the “Competition” tab on the ADRL homepage, www.ADRL.us.

The ADRL announced earlier this month that it will add a 12-car exhibition, with an 8-car qualifying field to its fast-paced racing program, starting with next month’s Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, which takes place Aug. 12-13 at Virginia Motorsports Park in Petersburg, Va.

“The Pro Modified rules have been instituted for a number of years and we made certain that we adopted these rules and policies for our program,” ADRL Director of Technical Services Chris Bell said.

“We are excited to bring this aspect of racing into the ADRL and looking out for these team’s safety is our primary concern.”

Pro Modified racing in the ADRL will include a minimum weight requirement and maximum cubic-inch engine displacements, as the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league will adhere to current Pro Modified rules.

The minimum weight requirement will be 2,425 pounds for Nitrous cars and 2,650 pounds for Turbocharged and Supercharged entries.
Supercharged entries are limited to 526 CIwith 14.55 percent blower overdrive and Turbocharged cars will be limited to 540 CI with a single 120mm or twin 88mm turbos.

Additionally, all competitors must have a SFI 38.1 head and neck restraint device.

“There’s no doubt these cars are going to put on an incredible show for our fans and we can’t wait to see them perform in Virginia,” ADRL Director of Competition Tom Grooms said. “The input and reaction we have received regarding this exhibition has already been impressive.”

The widely-popular Pro Modified class, which boasts a rich doorslammer racing history, will mix supercharged, nitrous and turbo cars into one incredibly competitive division, adding even more excitement to the ADRL’s thrilling race weekend.

The 12-car exhibition and eight-car qualifying field’s inclusion into the action-packed program at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV also sets up the strong possibility of adding another new ADRL class in the future.

For those interested in being part of the field at the Speedtech U.S. Drags IV, they must pre-register by contacting ADRL Director of Technical Services Chris Bell at chris@adrl.us.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)


Hamstra Leads Winners List At Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII

Pro Extreme winner Jason Hamstra

Jason Hamstra had a win, three finals appearances and the points lead in Pro Extreme during an already brilliant 2011 American Drag Racing League (ADRL) season.

Now, he can add a victory at his home track in front of a mass of family and friends to an already extensive accomplishment list.

Showing tremendous consistency throughout at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, Hamstra wrapped up his magical day by going 3.715 at 207.05 miles per hour to beat Todd Tutterow in the finals of the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII.

“All of our friends and family drove here, and it feels good to get this win in front of them,” Hamstra said. “If you’re going to pick one race to win, this would be it. You can’t ask for a whole lot more.”

Hamstra added a second victory to his 2011 season, extending his points lead in front of a packed crowd at U.S. 131.

Joining the Demotte, Ind. native in the MAVTV Winner’s Circle at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII was Mahana Al-Naemi (Pro Nitrous), Frankie Taylor (Extreme 10.5), Ashley Owens (Pro Extreme Motorcycle), Cary Goforth (Extreme Pro Stock) and Glenn Butcher (Top Sportsman).

Hamstra led an animated family-heavy celebration after qualifying second and running in the 3.70s all day.

Displaying a new patriotic-themed wrap, his efficient Duster beat Von Smith, Mick Snyder, who made his fifth straight semifinal appearance, and Tutterow (3.73 in the finals) in an excellent side-by-side finals matchup.

“We didn’t go too crazy with the car. We just tried to pick at it and it turned out for the best,” Hamstra said. “This is a good car. It does what we tell it to do.”

Pro Nitrous winner Mahana Al-Naemi

Al-Naemi sported a beaming smile after picking up his first ADRL win in the loaded Pro Nitrous class.

After becoming the No. 1 qualifier for the fourth straight race, the Al-Anabi Racing driver capped it off by going 3.882 at 194.54 mph in the finals against class standout Burton Auxier.

“I’m very, very happy. I tried many, many times to do this and to get a win is just great,” Al-Naemi said. “I think I’m getting better with each run, but when I saw the win light, I couldn’t believe it.”

Al-Naemi persevered through scorching track temperatures on Saturday, and his RJ Race Cars Camaro was solid all day. He beat teammate Mike Castellana in the semifinals – extracting revenge after Castellana beat Al-Naemi in the finals last month in Topeka – with a 3.88 before posting a nearly identical run a round later.

“(The crew) did a very good job today,” Al-Naemi said. “They wanted to make sure nothing went wrong.”

Paul Taylor (left) and Extreme 10.5 winner Frankie Taylor

Frankie Taylor may be used to the ADRL winner’s circle, but he graced it for the first time in Extreme 10.5 after beating Billy Glidden with an impressive 3.914 at 199.33 mph.

“To get that first win in this class, it feels really good,” said Taylor, who also credited Mickey Thompson Tires. “My brother made great calls on the car all weekend and every pass we made was good. He had the car in bracket-racing mode.”

Taylor qualified in the No. 1 spot with a track record 3.88 and was a step ahead of the class all weekend at U.S. 131 in his Jeffers Pro Cars Corvette.

He used a 3.924 to beat Chuck Ulsch in the semifinals and Taylor considered his victory against Glidden, who has 12 career wins, in the finals to be significant.

“Billy is so good and we needed that horsepower against him,” Taylor said. “If you beat him, you’ve earned it and it’s a big deal.”

Pro Extreme Motorcycle winner Ashley Owens

The win at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII for Owens against Eric McKinney was historic, as it gave him 12 for his career to tie Glidden for the most in ADRL history.

He also did it in fashion, running a 4.009 at 178.39 mph to make it the quickest PXM pass in ADRL history.

“I was getting a little nervous because Eric is so good on the tree. But everybody just did a great job and worked so hard to get this done,” Owens said. “We swapped around a lot of stuff and made a lot of changes, but it worked out great.”

Owens, the No. 1 qualifier, got plenty of stiff competition, as McKinney went as quick as 4.10, Terry Schweigert ran a 4.11 and Kim Morrell had a 4.13. But his Fast by Gast bike steadily improved, capped off with a pair of 4.08s before the big finish.

“I definitely thought it would go faster. We changed some things and it was probably more like the regular combination,” Owens said. “It responded even better than we thought.”

Extreme Pro Stock final

Cary Goforth, the No. 1 qualifier in XPS, couldn’t have expected such a great start for his new Jerry Haas-built GXP, but it delivered all weekend, including a remarkable 4.116 – the quickest pass of the event – in the finals against John Montecalvo.

“This went exactly the way you would want it to. I don’t know how it could have gone any better,” Goforth said. “We knew John was going to step up, but we’re just so happy with this. I don’t even know what to say.”

In the semifinals, Goforth, with help from Sonny’s Racing Engines, beat points leader Pete Berner with a 4.12, retaking the points lead and extending it with his strong run a round later.

“If we’re running with Pete, we’re where we need to be,” Goforth said. “There’s so many guys working hard in this class, but we’re working hard enough that good things should happen.”

In the Top Sportsman final, Glenn Butcher went 4.25 at 168.48 mph, knocking off Charley Whittenburg.

It was a monumental win for Butcher, as he became the first winner in Top Sportsman since it was named an official class in the ADRL.

Butcher reflected on the thrilling moment in the winner’s circle.

“To be the first Top Sportsman winner in the ADRL, this is just incredible,” Butcher said. “To have the ADRL bring us in, it’s absolutely amazing. I had great help all day and the car was just on a string, and it worked out perfectly.”

Shainna Wilson was the winner in Pro Junior Dragster, going 7.941 at 82.55 mph. Wilson upended Trevor Wilson in the finals.

The next and sixth stop on the 2011 ADRL Tour – the U.S. Speedtech Drags IV – takes place on Aug. 12-13 at Virginia Motorsports Park in Petersburg, Va.

Top Sportsman winner Glenn Butcher


Saturday’s final results from the ADRL Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. The race is the Fifth of 9 in the American Drag Racing League:


Pro Extreme – Jason Hamstra, Plymouth Duster, 3.715, 207.05 def. Todd Tutterow, Chevy Camaro, 3.717, 204.76.
Pro Nitrous – Mahana Al-Naemi, Chevy Camaro, 3.882, 194.54 def. Burton Auxier, Camaro, 3.948, 182.47.
Extreme 10.5 – Frankie Taylor, Chevy Corvette, 3.914, 199.33 def. Billy Glidden, Ford Mustang, 3.995, 182.72.
Pro Extreme Motorcycle – Ashley Owens, Suzuki, 4.009, 178.39 def. Eric McKinney, Suzuki, 4.120, 171.46.
Extreme Pro Stock – Cary Goforth, Pontiac GXP, 4.116, 175.44 def. John Montecalvo, Chevy Cobalt, 4.120, 176.30.
Top Sportsman – Glenn Butcher, Chevy Camaro, 4.250, 168.48 def. Charlie Whittenburg, Camaro, 4.185, 171.72.
Pro Junior Dragster – Shainna Nelson, Home, 7.941, 82.55 def. Trevor Wilson, Hardens, 7.968, 83.32.

Pro Junior Dragster winner Shainna Nelson


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII|Leave a comment

Special Award Winners, Huge Crowds At U.S. 131!

The Pro Extreme team of Dan Meyers

Your agent wanted to congratulate the special awards winners from this weekend’s ADRL race at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

 

Here are the winners:

FORD DRIVE ONE SUMMER DRAGS VII SPECIAL AWARDS

Jeffers Pro Cars Pro Extreme No. 1 Qualifier Program ($1,000 to the No. 1 qualifier in Pro Extreme) – Joey Martin, Pro Extreme ’55 Chevrolet Nomad, 3.664 seconds, 205.17 mph.

RJ Race Cars Pro Nitrous No. 1 Qualifier Program ($1,000 to the No. 1 qualifier in Pro Nitrous) – Mahana Al-Naemi, Al-Anabi Racing RJ Race Cars ’69 Camaro, 3.832 seconds, 197.11 mph.

Mickey Thompson Extreme 10.5 No. 1 Qualifier Program ($500 to the No. 1 qualifier in Extreme 10.5) – Frankie Taylor, Jeffers Pro Cars ’05 Corvette, 3.889 seconds, 199.41 mph (both are track records).

Jon Kaase Racing Engines Extreme Pro Stock Kaase Tuning Challenge Program ($500 to the crew chief and team who has the lowest combined E.T. of all four qualifying sessions in Extreme Pro Stock) – Elijah Morton, ’07 Ford.

Tim McAmis Performance Parts Top Sportsman No. 1 Qualifier Program ($500 to the No. 1 qualifier in Top Sportsman) – Mark Malcuit, ’69 Camaro, 4.173 seconds, 171.72 mph.

Tim McAmis Performance Parts Best Engineered Car Award – Kenny Doak ’70 Chevy Extreme 10.5 entry, Pipersville, Pa.

Steve Dekkenga SD Enterprises Best Appearing Car Award – Dan Meyers, ’68 Camaro Pro Extreme entry, Ramona, Ca.

 

The Extreme 10.5 team of Kenny Doak

Your agent was also blown away with the crowd at U.S. 131 on Saturday.
It steadily grew all day and there was a huge, packed granstands for all of eliminations.
The ADRL will certainly be back in Martin in 2012 and, if 2011 is any indication, it’s going to be another great event.


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Finals Are Set At U.S. 131 For Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII

 

Extreme 10.5 driver Frankie Taylor

Another finals and another appearance for Jason Hamstra.

 

That makes four this year for the ADRL Pro Extreme Points leader after he went 3.71 during the semifinals of Saturday’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

Hamstra beat his fellow Demotte, Ind. native Mick Snyder in the semifinals and will strengthen his PX points lead after Todd Tutterow knocked off Joey Martin in the other semifinal.

Tutterow stayed consistent, going 3.73 to move to his second final of the year.

In fact, this will be a rematch of the finals from the season-opening race at Royal Purple Raceway.

PRO NITROUS

Normally a master at the tree, Mike Castellana got a lesson from the student during the semifinals at U.S. 131. Mahana Al-Naemi was dynamite on the light against his teammate, as he went .002 to pull off a holeshot win against Castellana. Al-Naemi went 3.88, which was enough to hold off Castellana’s 3.87 thanks to his brilliance at the line.

Al-Naemi moves to his second straight ADRL final and will be seeking his first win, though Burton Auxier stands in his way. Auxier went 3.84 for the second straight round, though it didn’t matter since Ed Burnley went red.

Auxier is seeking his first win of 2011, too.

EXTREME 10.5

Billy Glidden will end up as the points leader in Extreme 10.5, but he would also like to end Saturday with his second event win of the year.

He’s almost there after displaying another consistent round and 4.00 in beating Dan Millen. Glidden had a great reaction time (.027) and Millen could never quite get his car on track.

In the other semifinal, Frankie Taylor advanced to his first ADRL 10.5 semifinal, going 3.92 to beat Chuck Ulsch. Taylor went 199.37 mph and has been a step ahead of everyone in the class this weekend.

 

PXM's Ashley Owens

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE

 

In a matchup of last year’s final at U.S. 131, Ashley Owens again got the best of Terry Schweigert, this time in a great drag race.

Schweigert had an awesome run, going 4.113, but Owens had just enough power to hold him off, going 4.08 to move to the finals. Owens is searching for his fourth win in four tries this season.

Eric McKinney had luck go his way in the other semifinal, as Kim Morrell went red by .009.

It wasn’t a great pass for McKinney, as he had engine trouble late in the pass, going 4.57, which is far off his best pass of the day, a 4.10. McKinney will advance to the finals for the second time this season and will likely need a career-best to top Owens.

EXTREME PRO STOCK

John Montecalvo is another step closer to his second straight win at U.S. 131, using a prime performance in his semifinal matchup against Brad Waddle.

Seeking his first finals appearance, Waddle was slow off the line and never had a chance.

Montecalvo had a .007 reaction time and went 4.151 in his best pass of the weekend.

Cary Goforth will be seeking his second win in 2011 after Pete Berner had a red light in their anticipated semifinal matchup.

It might not have mattered, as Goforth had the best run of Saturday, using a .006 reaction time and ended up with a 4.129.

He’ll grab the points lead back from Berner in Extreme Pro Stock, but he certainly has his mind on a win right now.

 

XPS' John Montecalvo


In Top Sportsman, Glenn Butcher had a great .010 reaction time and ended up with a 4.276 at 167.25 mph to advance to the first Top Sportsman finals in ADRL history.

 

Joining him will be Charley Wittenburg, who went 4.229 in his own semfinal victory.

Butcher and Wittenburg will meet up in what will be a historic finals matchup.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII|Leave a comment

Thrilling Quarterfinal Racing At Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII

 

Pro Extreme driver Todd Tutterow

We’ll find out who is the king of Demotte, Ind. on Saturday at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII – at least when it comes to ADRL Pro Extreme racing.

 

The two residents – Mick Snyder and Jason Hamstra – both won their quarterfinal matchups at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park and the neighbors (relatively speaking) will meet up in the semifinals with plenty on the line.

Hamstra, the PX points leader, knocked off Von Smith with a 3.753, and will look to advance to his fourth final in 2011.

Snyder, meanwhile, advanced to his fifth semifinal in five races and will have lane choice over Hamstra after going 3.750 against Jason Scruggs.

Joey Martin had trouble starting his car, but got the car working just in time to send Joshua Hernandez home for the first time ever at U.S. 131.
Martin went 3.71 to set up a meeting with Todd Tutterow, who continues to have a starting-line hex on Frankie Taylor.

For the third time during the 2011 season, Tutterow beat Taylor on a holeshot, offsetting Taylor’s round-best 3.69. Tutterow cut a .008 light – Taylor was .100 – which made his 3.74 standup.

The semifinals also feature the top four in points in the standings.

 

Pro Nitrous driver Ed Burnley


PRO NITROUS

 

Burton Auxier is getting better by the round in Pro Nitrous and seems to be a serious threat to win the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII in Martin. In a quarterfinal matchup with Jeff Naiser, Auxier went a round-best 3.84 to set up a meeting with Ed Burnley.

In a rematch of last month’s final in Topeka, Mahana Al-Naemi and Mike Castellana will meet after both looked strong in quarterfinal victories.

Al-Naemi had a straight and fast pass, going 3.887 to outlast Jim Halsey, while Castellana’s 3.932 was enough to end the day for points leader Khalid Al-Balooshi. Of course, Castellana is No. 2 in points and a third straight win would push him to the top spot.

It was an unfortunate end for Bob Rahaim and Burnley was glad to take advantage, using a holeshot to slip into the semifinals. Burnley went 3.96 and had a huge edge on the tree to offset’s Rahaim’s 3.91.


EXTREME 10.5

Frankie Taylor stayed atop Extreme 10.5, going 3.96 in his quarterfinal win against Brian Carpenter, which puts an end to his upset hopes.

Chuck Ulsch went 4.00 in a solo pass after Lamar Swindoll couldn’t get fixed in time after his brush with the wall in the first round. He’ll meet Taylor as the semifinals certainly feature heavy-hitters in the class.

Billy Glidden went 3.99 in his round win against Kenny Doak, but Dan Millen will get lane choice after going 3.98 on his solo pass, which was one of his best runs of the day.

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE

The Pro Extreme Motorcycle class has never been quicker as a whole than it was during the quarterfinal session at U.S. 131.

In order by quickest run, Ashley Owens (4.08), Eric McKinney (4.10), Terry Schweigert (4.11) and Kim Morrell (4.13) all picked up wins with outstanding runs, though Owens remains a step ahead of each of them.

He’ll meet Schweigert, who is going for his second straight win. It is also a rematch of the final in 2010 at U.S. 131.

The other semifinal pits Eric McKinney, who has been impressive when he has raced this year, against Morrell, who has recovered nicely since her crash in the final round of qualifying.

 

PXM's Kim Morrell

EXTREME PRO STOCK

 

It doesn’t get much better than the semifinal matchup in Extreme Pro Stock looming between Cary Goforth and Pete Berner.

The top two in the points standings meet up in a must-win situation for both drivers after each impressed in the quarterfinals.

Cary Goforth went a round-best 4.134 in beating Scott Hintz, while Pete Berner took advantage of an ill-timed red light from Elijah Morton.

Out of the No. 14 qualifying position, Brad Waddle continues to have a strong showing, moving into the semifinals with a major upset of John Pluchino. Waddle ended up with a 4.17 on a straight pass.

He’ll get John Montecalvo in the quarterfinals, after he went 4.15 in a great race against Dean Goforth. It was the second-quickest pass of the round as Montecalvo goes for his second straight win in Martin.

Top Sportsman winners from the quarterfinals included Tom Harger, Glenn Butcher, Marco Abruzzi and Charley Whittenburg.

 

XPS' Brad Waddle


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

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Hernandez Still Alive After Round 1 Eliminations At U.S. 131

Joshua Hernandez’s streak at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park lives to see another round.

Undefeated for the past three years at the track in Martin, Mich., the Pro Extreme standout kept that streak alive with a first-round victory during Saturday’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII.

With his new Murf McKinney-built Corvette running better with each round, Hernandez went 3.86 against Quain Stott.

Things will get really difficult in the quarterfinals, as he faces No. 1 qualifier Joey Martin, who has won the last two races.

Von Smith appears to have found his mojo, going 3.80 to beat Mike Recchia. He’ll need to step it up against Jason Hamstra, who had one of the top passes of the round with a 3.77 against Mike Janis.

Jason Scruggs got a solo pass after Terry Leggett broke at the starting line, which means he’ll get Mick Snyder in a must-see quarterfinal matchup.

Frankie Taylor had a remarkable run out of the right lane, going 3.73 to set up a matchup with Todd Tutterow, which has become a theme for 2011. The duo has met at nearly every race and have provided a number of great side-by-side races.

Tutterow went 3.80 in his opening-round victory.

PRO NITROUS

Burton Auxier might have surrendered his No. 1 qualifier status to Mahana Al-Naemi, but he turned in the top time of first-round eliminations in Pro Nitrous, going an impressive 3.940 during the hottest part of the day.

That sends him to the second round against Jeff Naiser, who went 3.97 in a win.

Al-Naemi, the No. 1 qualifier for the fourth straight race, went 3.98 in his first-round win and gets Jim Halsey (pictured).

Khalid Al-Balooshi was nearly as sharp as Auxier, going 3.942 in his new jet-black car. He’ll meet Mike Castellana, who produced a 3.99 in his win, in the marquee matchup of the quarterfinal round.

Al-Balooshi holds a small points lead over Castellana, who is shooting for his third straight win.

In the big upset of the round, Ed Burnley knocked off Rickie Jones, going 4.074 to meet Bob Rahaim, who went 4.01 in front of a huge gathering of family and friends.

 

EXTREME 10.5

Frankie Taylor seems to have his Extreme 10.5 car dialed in, as he was the only driver to reach the 3-second mark, going 3.95 in his bye run.

He’ll meet Brian Carpenter, who has become the Cinderella story of the class this weekend.

The biggest scare of the round came from Lamar Swindoll, who crashed into the right wall at the finish line. It bounced off and then went back into it a second time, but Swindoll’s great driving saved it from crashing hard into the wall and causing major damage.

Swindoll escaped harm and it appeared he would be able to make the call for quarterfinals, where he would meet Chuck Ulsch after he went 4.11 in a win.

Billy Glidden and Eric Stubbs will meet in the quarterfinals, while Dan Millen has a bye after going 4.01 in his opening round win.

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE

The low time of the first round in Pro Extreme Motorcycle went to Terry Schweigert (pictured), who is hunting for back-to-back wins.

He went a 4.12 in a win against Dave Vantine and will meet Travis Davis, who went 4.173 in a holeshot victory against hard-luck loser Carlos Wilkerson.

The second-quickest time belonged to Eric McKinney and the 4.13 he delivered in a win, setting up a matchup with Monte Campbell.

Kim Morrell returned from her mishap in the fourth qualifying round, going 4.145 to beat Rob Hunnicutt and meet Dave Norris.

With the fourth-best pass of the day, Ashley Owens moved onto the quarterfinals, as his 4.145 sets up a meeting with up-and-comer Casey Stemper.

EXTREME PRO STOCK

Red lights filled up the first round of eliminations in Extreme Pro Stock, as a total of five red lights allowed Cary Goforth, Scott Hintz, Elijah Morton, Dean Goforth and John Montecalvo to advance.

Richard Penland, who was the No. 3 qualifier, broke before his run, handing another victory to Brad Waddle, who gets John Pluchino after he knocked off Richie Stevens due to a .012 holeshot.

Pete Berner topped Bert Jackson with a 4.19 to meet Morton, while drivers of two of the quicker first round passes – 4.171 for Cary Goforth and 4.177 for Hintz – meet in an exciting second-round matchup.

Dean Goforth faces off against John Montecalvo in another must-see quarterfinal race.

Top Sportsman winners in the first round included Michael Standley, Tom Harger, Glenn Butcher, Rob Harviscnah, Don Klooster, Marco Abruzzi, Charley Whittenburg and Scott Wasko.

 

Extreme Pro Stock driver Elijah Morton


(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

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Eliminations Set For Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII

 

Pro Extreme driver Chris Russo

There weren’t major moves during the final round of qualifying on Saturday morning for the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

 

But a couple of drivers, namely Bob Bertsch and Chris Russo, had some much-needed performances during their final pass of qualifying.
On the final qualifying run of the event, Russo squeaked into the loaded Pro Extreme field, running an impressive 3.871 to jump to the No. 13 spot. He gets the task of facing defending world champion Frankie Taylor in the first round.

Bertsch, meanwhile, needed his last pass in Extreme Pro Stock to move into the No. 16 spot, going 4.17 to move into the final spot.

It all sets up what will be an amazing day of eliminations at U.S. 131.

In Pro Extreme, Joey Martin, Jason Hamstra and Mick Snyder all stayed in the top three spots. Hamstra gets an intriguing matchup in the first round, as the PX points leader meets the dangerous Mike Janis. Other incredible first-round action includes No. 8 Joshua Hernandez and No. 9 Quain Stott, No. 7 Mike Recchia meeting No. 10 Von Smith and a 6-11 matchup between Terry Leggett (No. 6) and Jason Scruggs.

Mahana Al-Naemi stayed atop Pro Nitrous, with Bob Rahaim and Burtin Auxier close behind as well. Khalid Al-Balooshi made the straightest pass in the afternoon heat during the final qualifying session on Saturday, and the No. 5 qualifier meets Robert Mathis in the first round. Mike Castellana, looking for his third straight win, meets No. 13 Steve Vick in a first-round race, while the 8-9 matchup features Jim Halsey and Jim Laurita.

Frankie Taylor gets a first-round bye in Extreme 10.5, as his 3.88 more than held up through the final qualifying session.
He’ll meet the Jim Widener-Brian Carpenter winner in the quarterfinals after Carpenter jumped five spots in his final qualifying run, going to the No. 8 spot.
Another great first-round matchup features No. 4 Chuck Ulsch and No. 11 Grant McCrary.

Ashley Owens sat out the qualifying session and his 4.11 held up – but just barely. Eric McKinney jumped to the No. 2 position in Pro Extreme Motorcycle, going 4.12 in an excellent pass under the sun.
In an unfortunate turn of events, Kim Morrell ran over part of the header after it fell off during her last qualifying run. It led to a scrape with the wall and then the bike and Morrell took a tumble.
She was taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons and it was unsure if she would be able to continue racing this weekend.

Bertsch squeaked into the field in Extreme Pro Stock, but he’ll have a tough task right off the bat as he gets No. 1 qualifier Cary Goforth.
John Montecalvo meets Brian Gahm in another excellent first-round matchup while No. 5 qualifier Elijah Morton takes on Trevor Eman.
The 25-car record-breaking field delivered amazing racing during qualifying. The 16 competitors who advanced to eliminations were separated by just .051.

Top Sportsman’s No. 1 qualifier, Mark Malcuit, broke during his only run of the day, meaning alternate Michael Standley gets into the field.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII|Leave a comment

New Car Doesn’t Yield Desired Results Yet For PN’s Allen

 

Stan Allen and his new Pro Nitrous car

It was a grand unveiling on Thursday night at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, but Stan Allen and the Bankston Boyz team didn’t get quite the results they wanted with their brand new ’69 Camaro.

 

Although it definitely caught the eye and it certainly showed potential, Allen didn’t qualify for eliminations, finishing in the No. 22 position.
The car scraped the wall on the second qualifying pass and, with zero runs on the car before this weekend’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII, Allen could never get the right rhythm with the car.

In the third qualifying pass on Friday, Allen rolled the beams and ran 4.37. That summed up the weekend as the pass would have been more than good enough to make the field.

“That should have been in the 3.90s easy, but we rolled through the beams. Everything was beautiful all the way down,” Allen said. “I really like how the car handles, but it’s a brand new car and we have to learn how to handle it.”

That will take time, but the lightweight car should improve with each of the remaining ADRL races in 2011.
It also might get a new paint job before the next ADRL race in Virginia. With a conservative tune-up, the car still boasted strong power and nicked the wall on his second qualifying pass.
The damage wasn’t major, but there were a number of scrapes on the sharp-looking new car.

“We backed everything down and left soft and when it came on and everything came alive, the car took a hard right turn,” Allen said. “It shook real hard and we went hard right.”

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Hamstra’s New Wrap Features Amazing Patriotic Theme

 

Pro Extreme driver Jason Hamstra

Not only did Pro Extreme points leader Jason Hamstra put together an impressive run during the third qualifying session during Friday’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, he debuted an incredible new patriotic-themed wrap during the race.

 

It caught the attention of everyone in the pits and at the track and deservedly so.
His Duster was most impressive and the new wrap makes it as stunning as any car in the ADRL as well.

The early results were outstanding, too. In the third round of qualifying, Hamstra went a strong 3.68, moving into the No. 2 qualifying position. In addition to the special wrap, this race has another special meaning for Hamstra.
It’s the closest ADRL race on the 2011 schedule for the Demotte, Ind. native, meaning this is his home race.
Hamstra, who has one win and has advanced to three finals this year, is geared up to race at U.S. 131.

A win would be incredibly special for him and also extend his points lead as well.

As for the wrap, in an interview, Stan McCoy, the designer of the wrap for Hamstra’s car, talked about the inspiration for the design.

“I feel as if God has challenged me and I intend to respond,” McCoy said. “This is my response.”

To read about the wrap, its meaning and much, much more, click here to read an excellent story on Competition Plus.

To read more about Hamstra, click here to read an excellent feature that appeared earlier this week in the Kalamazoo Gazette.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Martin, Lowmad Head Qualifying List At Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII

Pro Extreme driver Joey Martin

Joey Martin had never raced at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park before Friday.

But, like everywhere else he’s been in 2011, the Pro Extreme standout made an immediate impression, the latest coming at the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII.

Martin and his popular Lowmad scorched the Martin track under the lights, going 3.664 at 205 miles per hour in the third qualifying session, putting him in the No. 1 spot and just missing out on yet another track record in the latest chapter of his remarkable 2011 season.

“Just like all of the other tracks we roll up to, we just want to go from point A to B,” Martin said. “I’m the one in control of that, but we just have to race the track.”

Martin has done that nearly flawlessly all year, but he had company on Friday on an entertaining and historic day of qualifying at U.S. 131.

Mahana Al-Naemi’s 3.83 took the top spot – and the track record – in Pro Nitrous, while Frankie Taylor’s Extreme 10.5 car went 3.88, setting a track record in the process in that class as well.

With a record-breaking 25-car field in Extreme Pro Stock, Cary Goforth’s 4.119 was good enough for the top spot in that loaded class. Ashley Owens went an identical 4.119 to sit atop Pro Extreme Motorcycle, and Top Sportsman’s first race as an official class in the ADRL was a rousing success with Marc Malcuit’s 4.17 putting him in the No. 1 position.

The fourth and final round of qualifying for the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII takes place at 12 p.m. on Saturday with eliminations to follow at 3 p.m.

Martin, though, once again stole all the attention late with his incredible 3.66, which just edged out points leader Jason Hamstra’s 3.68 and Mick Snyder’s 3.69.

It came after Martin struggled during his first two runs, but he figured out the track at the opportune time as he looks for his third straight ADRL win in Pro Extreme.

“We had to calm (the car) down a little bit,” Martin said. “On that last pass, the car had never been tuned down that much this year. The track was not going to take the power like we’ve had it this year.”

Pro Nitrous driver Mahana Al-Naemi

Al-Naemi moved closer to an impressive streak in Pro Nitrous, and if his 3.832 at 197 mph holds up, he will be the No. 1 qualifier for the fourth straight race in the ultra-competitive class.

“I was happy with that. When I feel the car goes on two wheels, I know it’s going to be a good number,” Al-Naemi said. “I’m getting more and more comfortable with each race.”

That has been evident as Al-Naemi advanced his Al-Anabi Racing Camaro to the finals last month for the first time and appears close to his first ADRL win.

Right behind Al-Naemi in qualifying is Bob Rahaim, who went 3.858 at his home track, and Burton Auxier, who also went 3.858.

“(Saturday) is going to be different, but I will rely on (crew chief) Shannon (Jenkins) to make the right call,” Al-Naemi said.

Extreme 10.5 driver Frankie Taylor

Frankie Taylor had the perfect call on his Extreme 10.5 car from the outset on Friday as it went 3.88 right out of the trailer.

That was exactly what the team had hoped for after changing the car back to a more consistent combination before this race.

“The car has its normal set-up back in it and everything worked in it today,” Taylor said. “We’re still learning these 10.5 cars a little, but this was pretty good. We’ve been trying a lot of stuff, but we’re trying to win a championship now.”

Others are, too, and Dan Millen’s 3.967 and Billy Glidden’s 3.978 have them second and third, respectively, through three qualifying rounds.

It was a remarkable debut for Cary Goforth’s new Jerry Haas-built GXP, which went a class-best 4.119 right out of the gates on Friday in XPS.

Goforth’s father, Dean, caught up to Cary, running a near-identical 4.119, landing in the No. 2 spot based on Cary’s quicker speed (176.92 mph to 176.75 mph).

Cary saw it all as a win-win for the family after one day of racing.

“I’m pleased because dad’s No. 2 and that could have gone either way. I’m just happy because he’s got his confidence back,” Goforth said. “I’m happy for him and I’m just as happy to be No. 1. Basically we’re both No. 1.”

Extreme Pro Stock driver Cary Goforth

Richard Penland shot to the third spot in a huge XPS field, going 4.126 with Pete Berner right behind with a 4.127.

Goforth hopes to finish the job on Saturday, but it will be difficult in a field that features 25 cars, an ADRL record for XPS, with the top 16 separated by just .058, which is another class record.

“We’ve got some good power in this new car and we’re just scratching the surface with it,” Goforth said. “What we need to do is get after it a little more (on Saturday). I believe it will take a 4.09. We had some missed opportunities the last couple races and we’ve got to go more rounds.”

Ashley Owens returned in fine and familiar fashion, delivering a strong performance in the third qualifying session.

After easing in a new motor to start the day – running a pedestrian (for him) 4.20 – Owens and his Fast by Gast bike stepped up considerably, running a 4.119 at 174.69 mph to jump a number of riders.

“(The first pass) was just an easy pass. It was the first pass with a new engine and we just wanted to break it in and go from there,” Owens said. “I thought that second pass was maybe even a little faster.

“But we’ll go through everything and decide what we need to do. I’m not really happy with a (4.11), so we’ll try to improve on that (on Saturday).”

Owens has close company after Kim Morrell went 4.132 in her third qualifying pass while Terry Schweigert’s 4.135 on his final pass puts him in third.

Pro Extreme Motorcycle rider Ashley Owens

In Top Sportsman, Malcuit’s first run was more than enough to stand up as Top Sportsman made its official class debut.

A total of 21 cars made passes on Friday, but none were better than Malcuit’s run of 4.173 at 171.72 mph. Local native Don Klooster is second with a 4.212 and Charley Whittenburg sits right behind with a 4.214.

In Pro Junior Dragster, Trevor Wilson took the top spot with a .001 reaction time.

Top Sportsman driver Mark Malcuit

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII|1 Comment

Hamstra, Taylor Lead Eventful Second Qualifying Session At U.S. 131

Pro Extreme driver Jason Hamstra


Mick Snyder suddenly has some Pro Extreme competition at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

 

After Snyder went 3.690 during the first qualifying session, several others came close to that during the second qualifying pass on Friday.

Frankie Taylor is now right behind after a great second pass that saw the Madman go 3.691 at 204.24 miles per hour.

Taylor wasn’t the only driver to have a good second run. Jason Hamstra went 3.75 to move into the No. 3 position.

Todd Tutterow jumped to No. 4 with a 3.803 and Joey Martin rounds out the top five with a 3.806.

For most, however, just getting down the track was an adventure, which was a repeat of the first qualifying session.

Todd Martin continues to lurk as a possible contender, going 3.907, while Jason Scruggs had workmanlike 3.955.

 

Pro Nitrous driver Burton Auxier


PRO NITROUS

 

Burton Auxier’s 3.85 held onto the top spot after the second qualifying session as U.S. 131 again proved to be a difficult puzzle to solve for Pro Nitrous drivers on Friday.

A number started to struggle at about the halfway mark and Auxier kept his lead with Jeff Naiser also maintaining his No. 2 position (3.90).

Khalid Al-Balooshi and his new car made the most noise during the second qualifying session, going 3.927 at 195 mph. Even on that run, though, Al-Balooshi struggled at the very end of the track, which could have cost him the top spot.

Bob Rahaim’s 3.97 was the other notable run in the class, as he jumped to the No. 7 spot with his strong pass at his home track.

 

Extreme 10.5 driver Eric Stubbs

EXTREME 10.5

Billy Glidden couldn’t have asked for a better response to a frustrating first run.

The lugnuts on the rear left wheel were not tightened during his first qualifying session, causing major trouble. The wheel fell off and the run abruptly ended.

Things were much different during the second run and Glidden went straight down the track, going 3.99 at 182.54 mph to move to the No. 2 position.

It was a welcome sight for Glidden, who is now set up nicely for the rest of the weekend.

A number of drivers sat out the round, including Frankie Taylor, whose 3.88 from the first session was more than enough to stay at No. 1.

Chuck Ulsch moved to No. 3 with a 4.00 at 194.22 mph during his solid second pass.

But Dan Millen continues to struggle. After problems at the starting line on his first run, Millen lost control of his Mustang late in his second run, nearly crossing the starting line and settling with a 4.49, which puts him at No. 9.

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE

Things continue to round into form for Terry Schweigert, who remains quick and consistent in Martin, Mich.

Already the No. 1 qualifier, the Canadian dairy farmer upped the ante during the second qualifying session, making a small improvement from his early 4.151. This time, he went a 4.150, staying in the top spot though the competition got a little tighter.

Kim Morrell made a strong jump, moving up to No. 2 with an impressive 4.155 in the afternoon heat.

Eric McKinney dropped a spot, as his 4.1666 from the first session still held up strong.

Ashley Owens sat out the second round, staying in the fifth position.

 

Extreme Pro Stock driver Cary Goforth

EXTREME PRO STOCK

 

The scorching afternoon heat at U.S. 131 kept Extreme Pro Stock drivers from making any major moves and the top still looks the same.

Cary Goforth’s 4.11 is still good for No. 1, and Dean Goforth’s 4.12 is still in second.

Pete Berner stays third, maintaining his slim points lead over the younger Goforth (Cary).

One of the stronger runs of the session came from Team Aruba’s Trevor Eman, who went 4.15 to move up to the No. 4 spot.

TOP SPORTSMAN

Mark Malcuit remained on top through two of three qualifying sessions, as his 4.17 was more than enough to stay in first.

Don Klooster and his 4.244 keeps him in second, but there were moves behind them. Charley Whittenburg jumped up to third with a 4.245 and Glenn Butcher’s 4.298 is a spot behind in a closely-packed top half of the field.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII|Leave a comment




XPS Drivers Give Great Preview Of ADRL Event In Martin

 

Cary Goforth's new Extreme Pro Stock GXP

A trio of ADRL standouts had an impact at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park this past weekend, serving as a great preview for what is about to come next week in Martin, Mich and the ADRL’s Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII.

 

Cary Goforth, Pete Berner and Bob Bertsch all raced in the Pro Stock division at the Thunder Nationals, which took place Saturday at U.S. 131.

Of course, they all provided awesome action, with Goforth debuting a new car to impressive results to boot.
In quarter-mile racing, Goforth went 6.34 at more than 222 miles per hour in the new GXP that will make its ADRL debut next week.
Goforth was thrilled about the run and it sets the stage for plenty of more exciting storylines in Martin.

“We kind of took a chance (with the new car), but it worked out for us,” Goforth said in the Grand-Rapids Press. “We are excited to come out with a new car, and to outrun Pete by two miles per hour — that’s a pretty big deal. We are going to be racing this track in two weeks, so it makes perfect sense to come out here.

XPS' Pete Berner

“We had an opportunity to do so, and we cashed in on it. Hopefully, Pete won’t beat us too bad in a couple of weeks. He is a pretty tough customer.”

 

Berner and Goforth are locked in a tight battle for first in XPS right now, as Berner leads by just 7 points over Goforth with plenty of talented competitors right behind.
Berner went a strong 6.35 at 220 mph to beat Bertsch on Saturday.

“(Goforth) went 6.34 with a nine and I went 6.35 with a zero, so we were actually only one-thousandth of a second apart and that’s pretty amazing,” Berner said in the Holland-Sentinel. “He and I are running for the championship (of the ADRL), so we’re at each other’s throats pretty good.
“We actually left a little bit on the table and should have gone quicker than what we did.”

To read more about the weekend, your agent encourages you to check out the two great articles.

For the Holland Sentinel Story, click here.

To check out the Grand Rapids Press story, click here.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards – Your agent thanks Denise Ramsey for the picture of Goforth’s new car)

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With More Tweaks, Swindoll Expects To Become Bigger Force In XTF

 

Extreme 10.5 driver Lamar Swindoll Jr.

After running 202 miles per hour en route to a victory in his very first ADRL race, Extreme 10.5 driver Lamar Swindoll Jr. showed everyone the power his 2004 Cavalier had.

 

A few months later, Swindoll is finding even more power.
The next step is finding some quickness at the starting line.
During qualifying at the Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka last month, Swindoll shattered the track speed record for the class, topping out at 204.26 mph during the final qualifying session.
The speed paid off, as Swindoll finished as the runner-up, losing in the finals to Dan Millen.

It was the second time Swindoll, who finished as the No. 2 qualifier with a 4.004, hit the 204 mph mark over the weekend as Swindoll continues to show improvement in his first ADRL season. To do it during the afternoon heat at Topeka was even more impressive

“We’re just making little changes and it’s paying off,” Swindoll said. “I was really impressed with the speed because of the air.
“That’s about what the car can handle right now.”

When he pushes it, fans saw what happens – at least right now. In the finals against Millen, Swindoll tried to push it and the car darted into Millen’s lane at the end of the track, missing Millen’s car by about 10 feet.
The car wasn’t damaged, but it remains a conundrum anytime Swindoll tries to push it into the low 3.90s.
Swindoll’s Cavalier can reach that mark – he thinks it has 3.70s and 3.80s in it eventually – but the 60-foot times in the car continue to be a bit of a struggle.

The torque converter has been what Swindoll called “temperamental” and the team is still trying to figure it out. The car has shown incredible power in the back half of the track, but it hasn’t been great off the line.

“The converter and the car has been awesome down the track, but we just have to approach it a little different. We’ll probably have to work on the chassis,” said Swindoll, who is currently third in XTF points.
“I think we can go quicker. I think we can run in the 3.80s.”

Swindoll’s next chance to do that comes next week (July 15-16) at the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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XPS’ Montecalvo Featured Guest At 100-Foot Drags

Your agent is the first to know John Montecalvo can’t get enough drag racing, whether it is excelling in his Extreme Pro Stock car in the ADRL, watching it or even racing snowmobiles in the off-season.

Montecalvo can now add 100-foot drag racing to the list.
The defending XPS champion was the featured guest at new Riverhead Raceway, which is a new track not far from Montecalvo’s home.

A 100-foot course was set up with a timing system and a starting-line tree, and it Montecalvo certainly sounded like he enjoyed his time.

“What they are trying to do is twofold,” Montecalvo said in the story. “They’re trying to make a little more income for the circle track owner because he’s got all that property and taxes to take care of and if he can run this on Sunday and make a few bucks once a month, well, good for him. But the other thing is they’re trying to spur some interest locally to build a drag race track out here on Long Island.”

Montecalvo got a big reaction when he started his XPS car and it really sounded like area fans were plenty excited to see the ADRL XPS champ.

To read the full article, click here.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Happy Fourth Of July!

Your agent, on behalf of everyone at the American Drag Racing League, want to wish everyone a Happy Independence Day on this Fourth of July!

We live in a great country with great fans and, because of that, we’re able to put on this amazing show in the ADRL. It’s something we’re very grateful for and this is our chance to pay respects to those who helped make it happen.

So, from everyone at the ADRL, we hope you enjoy this day and are able to celebrate with friends and family.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Storybook 2011 Season Has PN’s Castellana Enjoying The Ride

 

The Pro Nitrous team of Mike Castellana

Make mention of Mike Castellana’s record in 2011 and he will claim innocence (it’s 22-4 by the way).

 

Ask him to expound on his remarkable success over the past two months and he’ll quickly deflect the credit or shrug it off entirely.

More than ever, Castellana is simply worried about enjoying himself.

Since returning to racing in 2011 after overcoming colon cancer, Castellana has been less worried about results and more about fulfillment.

Being at the track brings him joy and being around friends and family there only enhances that.

Of course, the winning hasn’t hurt either.

It’s been a true storybook season for Castellana, as he’s churned out a script that not even Hollywood might believe.

The latest chapter came at Heartland Park Topeka where Castellana picked up his second straight American Drag Racing League (ADRL) victory in Pro Nitrous, winning the Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V to move to second in the points standings.

Still, Castellana continues to have mind on other matters.

“I really don’t think about it that much, to be honest. Me personally, I’m just going to come out and have some fun,” Castellana said. “You want to win for your team, but for me personally, I’m just looking to come out and enjoy myself. The winning’s been a bonus.”

It’s been a big bonus, no doubt, but it doesn’t compare to the news he received last Christmas.

After being diagnosed with cancer last summer, Castellana had surgery and then went through a rigorous chemotherapy process, which caused him to miss the final two races of the 2010 ADRL season.

Castellana went through 12 chemotherapy sessions before doctors told him he was cancer-free right before Christmas.

A 5-year process remains – Castellana must undergo bloodwork every three months and a cat scan every six months – but the New York native accepts that.

“There’s no signs in my body right now, so that’s a good thing,” Castellana said. “Right now everything looks good and we’ll keep moving forward.”

There was considerable excitement when Castellana returned, but not many could have predicted how successful this 2011 season would be.

In addition to his two ADRL wins, Castellana also has a pair of wins on the NHRA Pro Modified Circuit, becoming the first nitrous car in history to go in the 5.70s.

For a season that started with numerous questions – like how many races was Castellana even willing to run, for instance – his Al-Anabi Racing team has delivered incredible results.

The latest came in Topeka, where Castellana credited his team more than ever.

Admitting he was off his game on the tree, the car boasted plenty of power, thanks in large part to crew chief and longtime friend Shannon Jenkins.

Castellana went a track record 3.814 in the semifinals, beating Rickie Jones by a mere .002, and thanked Jenkins for saving him.

“I wasn’t really on my game (Saturday), but Shannon gave me a lot of power,” Castellana said. “That just goes to show you the hard work this team has put in and how much it’s paid off.”

With Jenkins supplying the power and Castellana the incredible reaction times, the pair have formed a dominant team for the past 12 years.

Like Jenkins has often said, there are no secrets to their success, just plenty of dialogue and plenty of hard work.

“A lot of credit goes to Shannon. I’ve got the easy part. I just let the clutch out and hang on. Shannon and my team are really the ones that deserve the credit for this,” Castellana said. “You surround yourself with good people and you let them perform.
“Shannon and I talk almost every day and a lot of it is about the car, the performance and what he’s trying to figure out, and what we’re going to try the next race.
“He’s also picking and trying things and it really helps the performance.”

Jenkins’ expertise again came to the forefront in Topeka, as his two drivers – Castellana and Mahana Al-Naemi – met in the finals.

Castellana won with a 3.89, inching closer to points leader Khalid Al-Balooshi.

Castellana might not be worried about wins, but an ADRL Pro Nitrous World Championship does have a certain appeal to it.

“This is where we’re trying to put our best foot forward,” Castellana said.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

 

 

 

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Eager McCrary Has Big Plans In Extreme 10.5 For 2011

 

Extreme 10.5 driver Grant McCrary

After being away from racing the past two years, it didn’t take much to get Grant McCrary excited.

 

Just four qualifying passes and one elimination round, actually.

McCrary and his Fast Forward Innovations team – which also includes partner Rick Thornton – debuted a new Dodge Stratus in Extreme 10.5 at last month’s Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka.

McCrary fell in the first round of eliminations, but the animated Texan talked glowingly about that return.

“It’s a big deal to be in a car you feel really comfortable with and I’m just real excited,” McCrary said. “I’ve been racing for 17 years and spent the last two years doing a lot of tuning. I haven’t been behind the wheel, so to be able to do it again, I can’t say enough about it. I’m ready to go today.”

To call McCrary energized and eager to race in XTF for the rest of the 2011 American Drag Racing League (ADRL) season would be a wild understatement.

One of the pioneers of 10.5 racing, McCrary has carved out an impressive legacy in the class for more than a decade.

But it is his latest foray into the Extreme 10.5 class that has him as thrilled as he has been in years.

He formed FFI with Rick Thornton and the innovative ideas immediately started to flow.

Thornton purchased a pair of Stratus cars from NHRA Pro Stock standout Larry Morgan in late 2009, starting a unique combination and has seemingly limitless potential.

RJ Race Cars built McCrary’s Stratus and he worked with Hans Fuesel to create some inventive combinations for the turbocharged car.

It took considerable time – all of 2010, in fact – to find what they were looking for, but McCrary thinks they only touched the tip of things in Topeka.

“That was our first runs on the car in Topeka and I don’t know how much power they make. I know it’s going to be incredible,” McCrary said. “We spent a lot of time and put in a lot of effort. Both of these engines are really something that’s never been put together before.
“Hans spent a lot of time and jump through a lot of hoops to get these things put together. It was just a very intense build.”

McCrary got a first glimpse of the potential went Thornton’s car went 3.99 in March in a testing session despite an early shut-off.

Thornton’s car met the wall during a testing crash right before the ADRL’s season-opening race in Baytown, Texas, but McCrary said that car should debut next month in Virginia.

“We’re working a lot of hours to get him back in that car and we’re excited about that,” McCrary said. “I couldn’t ask to be for a better partner. He’s an awesome guy. I get to do what I’m truly passionate about doing and that’s drag race at this level.”

McCrary and his team won the “Best Engineered Car” award at Heartland Park and McCrary qualified No. 7 with a 4.18.

He improved to a 4.07 in the first round of eliminations, but he couldn’t track down eventual runner-up Lamar Swindoll Jr.

“I go to every race with the intent of winning, so I left there with kind of mixed feelings. I just missed a tuning change in eliminations,” McCrary said. “It should have gone 3.94 or 3.95 on that run. I just flat-out made a mistake.
“On the flip side, there’s something to be happy about because these cars are going to run good.”

McCrary said he’s simply excited to be running in a class that includes the likes of Todd Moyer, Chuck Ulsch, Dan Millen, Swindoll, Frankie Taylor and Billy Glidden.

But he also plans to have an immediate impact, starting with the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII this month at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich.

He wouldn’t predict what the car would run in Martin, but McCrary was willing to reveal what his Stratus would go before the 2011 season ends.

“These cars, in the right conditions and the incredible track prep the ADRL provides, I think these cars are going to run in the mid-to-low 3.70s,” McCrary said.
“These cars have the power to run the mid-3.70s and that’s my goal. They will do it later in the season; it’s going to happen and they have the ability to do that. Is it going to happen in Martin? Maybe not, but it will happen. These cars will run that fast.”

That, of course, has McCrary plenty excited.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Miss The Latest All-Star Episode Of “ADRL Drag Racing Live?”

If so, don’t sweat too much because there are still plenty of ways to listen to what was another awesome episode of “ADRL Drag Racing Live.

Your agent had a great time listening to Thursday’s episode of “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” which featured an incredible lineup and tons of great information.
To listen, just click on the June 30 show on the ADRL homepage – it’s that simple. You can also download episodes to your computer, so you can listen on your iTunes as well.

Kicking things off was Pro Nitrous superstar Mike Castellana, who won the most recent event, the Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka. Of course, that’s just the latest accomplishment in what has been a banner 2011 season for Castellana. He’s a soft-spoken standout, but Castellana had some interesting nuggets throughout the segment.
All in all, it was a great interview from Castellana.

Next up was Jerry Haas of Jerry Haas Race Cars, and the show finished with another driver interview, this one coming from Extreme 10.5 driver Grant McCrary.
He debuted a striking new car in Topeka last month and he also revealed some pretty big news about what he plans to run later this year.
It looks like we may have another contender in the class.

Your agent also wants to remind everyone that you can listen to any previous edition of “ADRL Drag Racing Live” free of charge. The archive dates back to October and features all the biggest names and competitors in the ADRL. Hosts Kepner and Hachat have talked to every major name associated with the ADRL, and it’s all available to you whenever you want.

To listen, simply go to this page: www.adrl.us/media/blog-talk-radio/

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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CarSafe Raises $7,000 Working With Red Cross In Topeka

Your agent is happy to report some amazing news.

According to a report on KTKA 49 in Topeka, CarSafe, a major sponsor with the ADRL, raised $7,000 working with the Red Cross at last month’s Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka.

The money raised will be donated to the families affected by the recent disasters in Joplin and Reading and your agent wants to congratulate everyone who played a part in helping raise this amount.

It was truly amazing seeing everyone come together at Heartland Park Topeka to raise money for those in need.

Here’s what CarSafe had to say in the article:

“The Red Cross is an organization that CarSafe believes in whole-heartedly. The Red Cross is always available for people in times of disaster when people really need them,” says Sam Neal of CarSafe Motorsports.

To read the entire story and to see the video that went along with it, click here.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Upcoming ADRL Testing Sessions In Norwalk, Martin

Your agent came across some great opportunities testing-wise for ADRL drivers in July.

There will be an open test session for for July 13-14 – just before the ADRL race in Martin, Mich. – at beautiful Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
This track is second to none and will be a perfect track to do testing before the ADRL’s race that weekend at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park.
Of course, the track is also the site of the ADRL’s fall event, the Summit Racing Equipment Ohio Drags V.

The first pass is at 9 a.m. and it runs to 5 p.m. on both days.
Here’s an important note: The track has imposed a number limit to only 12 teams so this is a RSVP-only test session.

Because of this limitation, teams must RSVP with a non-refundable check for full payment for the days you plan on attending.
Weather would be the only exception for a refund.
The cost is $400 per team and payment must be made no later than July 6.

Additionally, on Sunday, July 17 – the day after the For Drive One Summer Drags VII are completed – the track, U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, will be having an open test session after the ADRL event.
For any questions or more info on this, please contact Mark with Dingman Racing at (817) 401-3076 (817) 401-3076.

These are certainly some great opportunities.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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ADRL Debuts New Custom-Built Golf Cart For Mickey Thompson Extreme Fan Experience

The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Extreme Fan Experience, presented by Mickey Thompson, already offers fans an incredible opportunity to see a drag race like never before.

With its latest addition, the experience will now be that much more memorable.

Mickey Thompson and Labeled X Golf Carts worked together on a special golf cart, creating an eye-catching, custom-made golf cart that is now used for the ADRL Extreme Fan Experience, transporting fans around the track and in the pits in style.

In addition to 15-inch M/T SR Radial Tires – and the popular M/T Pro 5 Drag Wheels –the cart features a variety of custom upgrades, including a remarkable new front end and suspension.

“With the Mickey Thompson Tires on there, it looks really good. When I build golf carts, this is exactly how I like to do them. I always like to make a wow factor with them,” Labeled X Golf Cart Owner Don Clesson said.
“The fans get to ride in style and it will definitely make them remember the event.”

The cart debuted at the Kansas National Guard Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka (HPT) earlier this month, earning rave reviews from all of the Extreme Fan Experience winners.

Fans were able to take tours of spacious HPT in the cart, adding another enjoyable element to the Extreme Fan Experience.

“It looks very cool and it is really fun to ride in. It features some of our most popular wheels and tires that we make and it’s pretty incredible to do all of that with a golf cart,” M/T Motorsports Manager Carl Robinson said.
“Everyone wants to ride on it and it definitely gets a lot of attention.”

Created exclusively for the 2011 ADRL Tour, the ADRL Extreme Fan Experience, presented by Mickey Thompson, picks a select group of fans who earn a chance for an up-close racing experience and a behind-the-scenes look at the ADRL in action.

Along with a Mickey Thompson t-shirt, as well as a guided tour of the starting line, finish line and pits, the winners also get to tour a VIP suite and the media room.

“I’ve gotten so many messages from people who have enjoyed. People are just honored and ecstatic do get to do this,” Robinson said. “

A former crew member for the likes of Pro Extreme World Champion Frankie Taylor, Clesson saw the need for golf carts at a drag race, creating Labeled X Golf Cart to design unique and custom carts for racing teams.

His creative carts now give fans a one-of-a-kind experience at every ADRL race as well.

“Don really stepped up and delivered an incredible golf cart. It’s a perfect cart for the Extreme Fan Experience and our fans really enjoyed it in Topeka,” ADRL Executive President of Sales and Marketing Brian Evans said.

For more information on Labeled X Golf Carts, visit www.labeledx-carts.com.

For more information on Mickey Thompson, visit www.mickeythompsontires.com.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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NMRA-NMCA Releases Atlanta Dragway Video

July 2nd, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


The NMRA and NMCA visited Atlanta Dragway for the 3rd annual Nitto Tire All Star Nationals in April, and the combined series just released a very cool video to highlight some of the Atlanta action.

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Smith Wins 2011 WCOPMA Season Opener at Firebird Raceway

June 29th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


Lee Smith (Photos by Steven Bunker; Click image for larger version)

Lee Smith from Salem, Oregon, won the first event of the 2011 West Coast Outlaw Pro Mod Association season June 25, during the 34th annual Great American Fox Hunt presented by Little Caesars Pizza at Firebird Raceway outside Boise, Idaho.

Eight WCOPMA cars put on a great show for the Firebird Raceway fans in Boise, Idaho. After two rounds of qualifying, Rod Burbage was in the top spot with a 6.12 followed by long time Pro Mod racer John Scialpi with a 6.16. Marc Meadors was in the third spot with a 6.18 and Lee Smith rounded out the top half of the field with a 6.31-seconds pass. Last year’s WCOPMA Champion Bret Williamson was in the number-five spot with a 6.33 then Dan Nickelson, Dan Myers and Jay Diedrich rounded out the bottom half of the field. Continue Reading »

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Rowe Runner-Up at Norwalk in 3rd Straight Final

June 28th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


(Photos by Ian Tocher; Click images for larger versions)

A win light in the final round of Get Screened America NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series action at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio this past weekend would have made it a little sweeter, but Danny Rowe and the Sterling Bridge team aren’t complaining. Matter of fact, they’re reveling in their back-to-back-to-back final-round appearances and the tremendous amount of ground they’ve made up in the championship point standings.

En route to their fourth final of the 2011 GSA season, Rowe and the Sterling Bridge ’68 Camaro qualified No. 1 atop the 16-car field with a 5.863-second, 246.93mph, which put him in line for a first-round meeting with Mike Janis. Continue Reading »

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Neff, Worsham, Nobile and Krawiec Score Norwalk Wins

June 26th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


Mike Neff (Photos courtesy NHRA/National Dragster; Click images for larger versions)

Mike Neff raced to his third win of the season Sunday as racing came to an end at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. Del Worsham, Vincent Nobile, and Eddie Krawiec also won in their respective categories at the 10th of 22 events in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.

Neff drove his Castrol GTX Ford Mustang to a 4.211-second run at 289.94 mph past Ron Capps in the final round to collect his third win of the season and fourth career win. It was also Neff’s fifth final-round appearance in the past six races. Continue Reading »

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Worsham, Hight, Enders and Arana Jr. Qualify Number One in Norwalk

June 25th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


Del Worsham (Photos courtesy NHRA/National Dragster; Click images for larger versions)

Del Worsham, Robert Hight, Erica Enders, and Hector Arana Jr. raced to the No. 1 qualifying spots in their respective categories at the at the 5th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio, the 10th of 22 events in the 2011 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.

Worsham drove to a 3.798-second run at 318.54 mph to take his third Top Fuel No. 1 qualifier of the season and eighth of his career.

“It was a great run,” said Worsham. “I only qualified No. 1 five times before this season, and we’ve done it three times (in 2011) alone. It’s pretty exciting driving for Al-Anabi, Sheikh Khalid (Al Thani), Alan Johnson, and Brian (Husen).” Continue Reading »

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Rowe Qualifies On Top at Norwalk, Wins Round One of Eliminations

June 25th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


(Photo by Ian Tocher; Click image for larger version)

Rain kept the racers of the Get Screened America Pro Mod Series off the track on Friday but it was worth the wait for Danny Rowe who powered to the top of the field for the No. 1 qualifying position.

Rowe, who is second in season points, posted a run of 5.863 seconds at 246.93mph to take the No. 1 qualifying position in his Sterling Bridge ’68 Camaro. This comes after his recent win at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in New Jersey and his runner-up finish at the last NHRA national event in Bristol, Tennessee. Continue Reading »

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ADRL Adds Top Sportsman as Official Class

June 24th, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


Sugar Creek, Missouri's Billy Banks Jr. and his flamed '57 Chevy won the Top Sportsman exhibition race during the recent ADRL event at Heartland Park-Topeka. (Photos by Ian Tocher; Click images for larger versions)

Top Sportsman is now an official class in the American Drag Racing League (ADRL).

Due to the overwhelming response from racers and fans following two exhibition races in the ADRL, the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league announced on Thursday that it will add a full, 16-car qualifying field to its thrilling and fast-paced racing program. There will be open participation for those interested and the 16-car qualifying field will begin at the ADRL’s next event, the Ford Drive One Summer Drags VII, which takes place July 15-16 at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich. Continue Reading »

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‘Nitro Rewind’ Recaps Bristol, Previews Norwalk

June 23rd, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


This week’s episode of Nitro Rewind looks back at the NHRA Ford Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol and previews this weekend’s 5th annual NHRA Summit Equipment Nationals, June 24-26.

The show, an Internet-based broadcast, is hosted by Bill Stephens and features interviews from Top Fuel and Funny Car NHRA competitors, is available on the NHRA’s YouTube channel after every race. Continue Reading »

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K&N HORSEPOWER CHALLENGE OFFERS BIG BUCKS TO PRO STOCK DRIVERS

June 21st, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


Current NHRA Pro Stock World Champion Greg Anderson (far lane) and Rodger Brogdon will both be among the competitors June 25, in the K&N Horsepower Challenge at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. (Photos by Ian Tocher; Click images for larger versions)

Jason Line will lead the K&N Horsepower Challenge field as the No. 1 seed for the first time as the lucrative special event takes center stage June 25 during the fifth annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.

A purse of $76,000 is available for the eight drivers competing in the K&N Horsepower Challenge. The winner of the 27th annual K&N Horsepower Challenge will earn $50,000. The runner-up will earn $10,000, the two semifinalists $3,000 each, and the four first-round finishers $2,500 apiece. A $25,000 NHRA sweep bonus is available to any driver who can win the K&N Horsepower Challenge on Saturday and take the Pro Stock eliminations title during the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals on Sunday. Continue Reading »

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WCOPMA to Start 2011 Season at Firebird Raceway

June 21st, 2011 by Drag Illustrated


John Scialpi (Photos courtesy WCOPMA; Click images for larger versions)

The West Coast Outlaw Pro Mod Association (WCOPMA) will begin its 4th season this upcoming weekend (June 24-25), at Firebird Raceway in Boise, Idaho, as part of the track’s famous “Fox Hunt” event.

After an unusually long offseason WCOPMA racers are looking forward to hitting the track with the best of the best on the West Coast. It is shaping up to be a great event with weather temps expected to be in the mid-70s to low-80s and about a dozen cars confirmed to vie for a spot in the eight-car field. Continue Reading »

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Hoover races to first NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Series victory


Hoover moves into second in the Get Screened America Pro Mod Series point standings

(5-15-2011) COMMERCE, GA – Ed Hoover raced to his first career NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series victory Sunday during eliminations at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway.

Hoover, from Gilbert, S.C., defeated New York’s Mike Castellana in the final round of eliminations to claim the victory. Hoover powered his Trussell Racing ’68 Camaro to a winning run of 5.958 seconds at 240.51 mph, but he ultimately wouldn’t need the strong performance as Castellana fouled at the start in his Al-Anabi Racing ’68 Camaro.

Hoover’s car was consistent throughout eliminations as he posted victories over Raymond Commisso, top qualifier Khalid Balooshi and Rickie Smith in earlier rounds.

In his quarterfinal match with Balooshi, Hoover posted his best time of the weekend with a 5.948 second effort.

Hoover’s history in Pro Mod racing runs deep as he defeated noted chassis builder Tim McAmis to win the first Pro Mod race in 1990 in Darlington, S.C. Hoover, who has earned 17 Pro Mod victories in other drag racing sanctioning organizations over the years, also won an NHRA Pro Mod exhibition race at Atlanta Dragway in 2001.

With the win, Hoover moves into second in the Get Screened America Pro Mod Series point standings, 88 behind series leader Balooshi.

The NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series continues June 2-5 with the 42nd annual NHRA SuperNationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park, Englishtown, N.J.


Final round-by-round results for the fourth of 10 events in the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series from the 31st annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway:

ROUND ONE - Ed Hoover, Chevy Camaro, 6.042, 237.59 def. Raymond Commisso, Camaro, 8.377, 105.52; Scott Ray, Chevy Corvette, 8.296, 103.44 def. Roger Burgess, Corvette, foul; Troy Coughlin, Pontiac GTO, 5.965, 248.11 def. Donald Martin, Camaro, 8.263, 111.14; Kenny Lang, Camaro, 6.276, 186.77 def. Raymond J Matos, Pylmouth Barracuda, foul; Rickie Smith, Camaro, 5.991, 239.14 def. Jay Payne, Camaro, 6.002, 242.50; Mike Castellana, Camaro, 5.982, 238.51 def. Dennis Radford, Plymouth Duster, broke; Melanie Troxel, Camaro, 6.014, 243.24 def. Mike Janis, Ford Mustang, 6.095, 239.36; Khalid Balooshi, Camaro, 5.926, 240.89 def. Chuck Cheeseman, Corvette, 6.803, 153.04;

QUARTERFINALS - Smith, 5.937, 240.25 def. Ray, 6.050, 235.35; Castellana, 5.952, 239.19 def. Lang, 5.933, 243.50; Coughlin, 6.008, 248.61 def. Troxel, 5.963, 245.94; Hoover, 5.948, 240.34 def. Balooshi, 7.590, 124.84;

SEMIFINALS - Castellana, 6.239, 187.29 def. Coughlin, broke; Hoover, 6.015, 238.98 def. Smith, 9.368, 86.79;

FINAL - Hoover, 5.958, 240.51 def. Castellana, foul.


Point standings (top 10) for the NHRA Get Screened America Pro Mod Drag Racing Series following the 31st annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway:

1. Khalid Balooshi, 342
2. Ed Hoover, 254
3. Danny Rowe, 227
4. Rickie Smith, 226
5. Kenny Lang, 223
6. Roger Burgess, 222
7. Raymond Commisso, 194
8. Scott Ray, 183
9. Mike Castellana, 180
10. Troy Coughlin, 174


Photo by Roger Richards - www.CompetitionPlus.com

Parise Racing Heads to Mountain Motor Nationals at MIR



(5-13-2011) Oakdale, NY - April showers bring May flowers. That is the saying, right? Well, as we all know, in this industry of racing, the only thing that smells better than a fresh cut flower is burning rubber!

The Parise team has gotten a late start this season. None the less the team is ready to compete. Having finally tested, and prepared both Dina and Andrew Parise are feeling confident. The most unfortunate drawback for the team this season is the lack of sponsorship backing. “We appreciate and are proud to represent our current sponsors, but we are in need of additional assistance to keep our team afloat.” Stated Dina Parise. “We hope that we can keep running the team as we currently do, but we may be facing the possibility of some changes. Through it all, we will continue to support our Vettes for Vets program as well as working with MS. We are fortunate to even do what we are doing, and never forget that. Ultimately, it’s what keeps you grounded.”

For now, we are ready to go! First stop is Maryland International Raceway for the Mountain Motor Nationals and Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association Race on May 13th and 14th ! This Annual Event is always full of tons of Horsepower and heart stopping action! Dina will be running her ’63 Pro Mod Corvette and Andrew will be running his ’53 Pro Mod Corvette. This will be the first event showcasing Andrew’s NEW paint scheme!

Don’t forget you can catch Parise Racing the LIVE FEED from the Pits at the Mountain Motor Nationals! See the team Live on UStream; www.ustream.tv/channel/parise-racing beginning Saturday morning.

Along with racing, the Parise team will have some special guests cheering them on. As part of the Vettes for Vets program, the team has personnel from the USMC Quantico, and Veterans that are Wounded Warrior Project alumni. With the assistance of MIR, Royce Miller, Bryan Starner and Rustic River Bar and Grill the guests will be provided with a fun, free day of racing in the comfort of a tower suite as well as some great food! It is the Parise Racing team’s way of saying ‘Thank You’ for your service and sacrifice.

We hope that by now you have had the chance to view Parise Racing new and improved website! www.pariseracing.com. We have added many new features, and lots of great information!

Parise Racing is proud to represent the companies that support them .Please be sure to visit our sponsor tab, to learn a bit about the sponsors of the team; www.pariseracing.com/sponsors. The team would like to thank the following their sponsors for the support; NGK, USA Auto Supply, LAT Racing Oils, JE Pistons and Custom Wire Sets.

Parise Racing encourages anyone interested in sponsoring the team to contact them by visiting here; www.pariseracing.com/contact. Let Parise Racing work for you!

See you at the races!

Special Thank You to:

Maryland International Raceway - www.mirdrag.com
Rustic River Bar and Grill - www.rusticriver.net


Story Courtesy of Parise Racing







Watch Decerbo Make Pro Nitrous Converter History

There were plenty of impressive records set at the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway.

Of course, Frankie Taylor went 3.581 in Pro Extreme to re-set his ADRL mark, and Khalid Al-Balooshi went 3.78 at 200.53 miles per hour to set both ends of the Pro Nitrous record.

And who can forget Mahana Al-Naemi’s 3.776, which is the quickest Pro Nitrous run in history?

But, there was one other record, too, which came from PN’s John Decerbo. His converter-powered Pro Nitrous car became the quickest PN converter car at Maple Grove, as he went a blistering 3.83 at more than 190 mph. Those are huge career-bests and another step in the right direction for that team.

To see the run in all its glory, just watch below.

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Mark Williams Enterprises Returns As ADRL Performance Partner

Pro Nitrous driver Jim Halsey uses Mark Williams Enterprises products

Noted chassis and driveline components manufacturer Mark Williams Enterprises has continued its support of ADRL, signing on as a 2011 participant in the Performance Partners Program. The Louisville, Colorado-based firm, which has been in business since 1964, is best known for its line of forged steel axles, driveshafts and disc brakes.

In announcing his continued support of the ADRL, M-W Enterprises president Mark Williams said, “Our core customers are racers with high horsepower doorslammer cars, and the ADRL gives them an excellent venue to showcase their skills. Our 11” modular aluminum floater rear ends are a perfect fit for Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5 and Extreme Pro Stock classes, as are many of our other products.”

Williams added: “I am very much impressed by the efforts the ADRL has made to expand the sport of drag racing, and I’m sure that many other performance parts manufacturers share this point of view.”

The M-W 11” Full Floater used by a number of leading ADRL competitors is based on a proprietary modular aluminum housing and employs special 11” diameter ring gears made exclusively for Mark Williams Enterprises by Richmond Gear. In

Pro Extreme driver Von Smith uses Mark Williams Enterprises products

addition to the obvious safety benefits of the “full floater” design, this unit has proven to be exceptionally reliable and virtually eliminates the need to replace ring & pinion gears.

 

The gear life is warranted for a year, and there are case histories of racers exceeding 500 runs on a single gear set. Another benefit, thanks to the design of the unit and its hypoid position, is an increase in efficiency —allowing more power to get to the ground. And because of component integration, racers who have an M-W 9” Ford modular aluminum rear end can upgrade to an 11” setup.

Mark Williams Enterprises has also become an industry leader in the manufacturer of custom driveshafts, and has been a primary force in the SFI 43.1 specs program for driveshaft safety. M-W has built an impressive in-house testing device that can exert in excess of 20,000 foot lbs. torque, as well as conduct cycle tests.

The company uses this device to verify the durability of each shaft manufactured using M-W’s patented bonding system (used to make carbon fiber and aluminum driveshafts). Chromoly and economical mild steel shafts are also available.

For additional information visit the firm’s comprehensive website (www.markwilliams.com) or call               800-525-1963         800-525-1963 for personalized assistance. To receive a copy of the latest M-W catalog and a handy plastic gear ratio calculator, send $5 to Mark Williams Enterprises, 765 S. Pierce Ave, Louisville, CO 80027.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Three Races, Three Semifinals Appearances For PX’s Snyder

Three races into the 2011 ADRL season, and it’s been a similar trend for Mick Snyder. The 2010 Rookie of the Year Mick is sitting in third place in the points standings after the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway was called due to curfew before the semi-final round could be contested.
It was a third straight race Snyder advanced to the semifinals, which shows just how rapidly he is improving in the loaded Pro Extreme class.

“In just our second year in this class, it is safe to say we are still learning a lot.  Being able to go rounds over the past few races has really helped us gather some data and try some new things with the car.  And we really think the Powersource Transportation Corvette has quite a bit left in her,” said Snyder.

The Snyder Motorsports Race Team qualified number No. 7 for the event with a 3.69 second pass at 207 mph.  In the first round, Snyder used his horsepower to drive around his opponent with a 3.74 second pass and earn lane choice in the second round.   The 29 year-old driver, ran a career-best 3.65 at 209 mph to earn the win light and his way into the semi-finals.

“We would have really liked to have finished this race, but unfortunately between mother nature and the curfew in Reading, it just wasn’t possible,” Snyder said.  “I think that we are in really good shape heading into the next race and look forward to the challenge of making it to the Winner’s circle against some of the best racers in the country.”

Snyder, who is sponsored by Lencodrive Racing Transmissions, R & R Racing Products, Flatout Gaskets, NGK, Lucas Oil, Snyder Auto, VP Racing Fuels, JE Pistons, PSI Springs, Long Printing, Goodson, Jeg’s, Safety-Kleen and The Winning Team, has proven to be a legitimate contender in the class and only seems to be getting better with each race.

Please visit the Snyder Motorsports official website at www.snydermotorsports.com.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Another Banner Edition Of “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

Your agent was once again thoroughly entertained by the latest episode of “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” which featured a stacked lineup on last night’s show.

Kicking things off was Todd Tutterow, who advanced to the semifinals of last week’s Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway. Included in his victories was a massive holeshot win against Frankie Taylor, and Tutterow talked extensively why he takes so much pride in his strong reaction time.
Tutterow also talked about his children racing. His daughter, Tia, is the current points leader in Pro Junior Dragster.

Next up was Jerry Bickel of Jerry Bickel Race Cars. As it was exclusively revealed on the ADRL website on Wednesday, Bickel talked about the new state-of-the-art car that Pro Nitrous standout and world record-holder Khalid Al-Balooshi is about to debut.
Bickel and his team went to great lengths to deliver an amazing car to Al-Balooshi and he revealed all that went into the building of the car that should debut next month.

Brian Olson was a great third guest as well, as he shared numerous stories and also talked about what fascinates him regarding the ADRL.

Your agent also wants to remind everyone that you can listen to any previous edition of “ADRL Drag Racing Live” free of charge. The archive dates back to October and features all the biggest names and competitors in the ADRL. Hosts Bret Kepner and Josh Hachat have talked to every major name associated with the ADRL, and it’s all available to you whenever you want.

To listen, simply go to this page: www.adrl.us/media/blog-talk-radio/

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ADRL Adds Simpson Performance Products As Contingency Sponsor

The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is excited to announced that Simpson Performance Products (Simpson) has signed on as a contingency sponsor for the 2011 season.

Regarded as one of the top brands in racing safety for more than 50 years, Simpson is also thrilled about the 2011 partnership.

“We couldn’t be more excited about working with the ADRL,” Simpson Performance Products Vice President of Marketing Debbie Bishop said. “We are always looking for opportunities to give back to the racers through contingency programs. We hope these talented ADRL racers will participate in the contingency program by using Simpson and Safety Solutions safety gear whenever possible.”

Simpson’s umbrella of racing safety includes popular and proven products like helmets, restraints, head restraints, racing suits, parachutes, gloves and shoes.
Simpson’s trackside service and support team will also be on hand at ADRL events during the 2011 season, providing service to ADRL competitors and also gaining insight and product feedback from the drivers.

“(ADRL Executive Vice President) Jeff Fortune, (ADRL Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing) Brian Evans and the entire team at the ADRL have a unique and exciting way of presenting world-class drag racing to the public.” Bishop said.
“We are thrilled that our products are used throughout the ADRL pits and they protect some of the world’s top drivers and crew members.”

The fourth stop on the nine-race 2011 ADRL Tour takes place on June 17-18 at Heartland Park Topeka.

“Contingency postings are an important tool for our sponsors to show support to the ADRL competitors and we are excited that Simpson Performance Products have signed on as a contingency sponsor in 2011,” ADRL Director of Contingencies Karen Raffa said.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards/Saif)

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Taylor Gets The Video Treatment From Competition Plus

Your agent was very much impressed with this video feature on CompetitionPlus.TV on 2010 Pro Extreme World Champion Frankie Taylor.

There lots of great highlights, great racing and, of course, plenty of great sound bites from the “Madman.” Of course, Taylor lowered his PX record last weekend at Maple Grove Raceway, going an incredible 3.581.

Check out the video (with many thanks to NeWave Productions as well) below and enjoy.

 

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UPDATE: Tutterow, Bickel, Olson Among Guests On “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

(UPDATED AT 9:39 a.m.: Adds Jerry Bickel as guest)
Pro Extreme driver Todd Tutterow, Jerry Bickel of Jerry Bickel Race Cars and American Drag Racing League (ADRL) television personality Brian Olson will be the featured guests on the ADRL’s weekly online show, “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” presented by Summit Racing Equipment.

The entertaining 90-minute broadcast airs live every Thursday at 9 p.m. EST on the ADRL website, www.ADRL.us and also on www.blogtalkradio.com/adrldragracinglive. Every archived show is available on-demand on the ADRL website as well.

“ADRL Drag Racing Live” is hosted by ADRL Television personality Bret Kepner and ADRL Director of Media and Communications Josh Hachat. They break down the latest news and happenings in the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league, including last weekend’s Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway. It is also the only show 100 percent dedicated to the ADRL.

Tutterow, the 2009 Pro Extreme World Champion, was a semifinalist at last weekend’s debut at Maple Grove. Tutterow will also give his thoughts on the loaded PX class, as he currently sits fourth in the points standings.

Jerry Bickel and Jerry Bickel Race Cars have been a strong supporter of the ADRL, and they are one of the top choices for ADRL drivers, namely in the incredible Pro Nitrous class.

Olson has been a longtime voice in the ADRL, and can be heard as the play-by-play announcer at each track during the 2011 ADRL Tour along with the ADRL’s television show on MAVTV.

Thursday’s broadcast will also look ahead to the next event on the 2011 ADRL Tour, which is the ADRL Independence Drags V, which takes place June 17-18 at Heartland Park Topeka.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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New Car Coming For Al-Balooshi Courtesy Of Jerry Bickel Race Cars

The fastest and quickest Pro Nitrous driver in American Drag Racing League (ADRL) history will soon have a chance to break his own records in a new car.

Jerry Bickel Race Cars is putting the finishing touches on a new Camaro for Khalid Al-Balooshi, who set both ends of the Pro Nitrous world record last weekend at Maple Grove Raceway.

The new black Camaro will have silver stripes and Jerry Bickel, owner of JBRC, expects it to debut at next month’s Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka in Topeka, Kan.

Bickel said his team went all-out in creating a car sure to please the 2009 ADRL Pro Nitrous World Champion.

“We’re really thinking outside the box with this car,” Bickel said. “We’re pulling out all the stops on this one. It’s going to be the lightest car out there.”

The list of innovations reads long and Bickel certainly put in the time to create the car.

Perhaps the most impressive is the paint job, which features a special paint used on Stealth aircraft.

The paint emits a thermo barrier that creates less wind resistance and the early results are nothing short of incredible.

With the calculations Bickel and his team have done, if the car reaches 200 miles per hour – something Al-Balooshi did twice last weekend, becoming the first-ever PN driver to do it – the calculations show 25 counts of drag.

“That’s very significant. If we can find five counts, we’re flipping over backwards,” Bickel said.

The new state-of-the-art PN Camaro could help make Al-Balooshi even more impressive behind the wheel.

He debuted his current JBRC-built Speedtech Camaro late last summer, and it led to amazing results.

Al-Balooshi’s 2011 has already been one to remember just five months into the year.

It started with a string of record-breaking performances en route to a World Championship in the Arabian Drag Racing League and continued with an ADRL win at CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports.

Less than a week ago, Al-Balooshi went a remarkable 3.786 at 200.53 mph at the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway.

It set the new E.T. record in the loaded class and Al-Balooshi also put together consecutive 200 mph runs.

With a new, innovative-fueled Camaro coming, Al-Balooshi will certainly be shooting even higher.

(Photos courtesy of JBRC)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News | 8 Comments

Eman Gets Renewed Focus After Disappointing Turn At Maple Grove

Trevor Eman and Team Aruba were expecting bigger things at the ADRL Penske Inaugural Northeast Drags. The weekend got off to an unfortunate start before the team even made it to the track.
Two miles from Maple Grove Raceway, the tow rig broke a driveshaft. It was an all-day event to get it fixed and get to the track. Overcoming the difficulty, the team refocused their energies. They qualified a respectable 10th with a 4.098, less than .035 off the number one time, making it their quickest time in the new Jerry Haas Mustang.

“After our difficult trip to the track, it was nice to make it into the 4.0’s in qualifying,” Eman told. “This new car is working wonderfully for us and Kaase (Racing Engines) is providing great power. We hope that’s just the first of many 4.0 runs. We know the car still has more in it.”

In round one, Eman had to face off against the always-tough Brian Gahm.

“It was unfortunate that we had to pair up against Gahm, because that meant a Kaase-powered entry would go out in round one. We certainly weren’t going to give Gahm any slack,” Eman said. “However, complications in the water box caused for a bad burn out. It burnt through the clutch and the run became a victim to that.”

To Eman’s driving credit, he was first off the line with an .019 to Gahm’s .033, but Gahm overtook Eman with a 4.101 to Eman’s 4.173 for the win.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

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Hernandez Ready For Breakout After Performance At Maple Grove

For many, Josh Hernandez’ results at last weekend’s Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove might seem disappointing: the former world champion struggled to get into the field, squeaked into the field in 12th in his last qualifying attempt after failing to get down the track in his two previous attempts, and lost first round because of a dreaded false start.
But the entire B1 Racing team sees last weekend in a completely different and much more positive light.

The team made a late decision to change from their new Murf McKiney-built C5 Corvette back to their stalwart  ’57 Chevy Bel Air, which meant removing parts, replacing parts, and re-retrofitting parts to work on the ’57. In addition, they moved to an automatic transmission from the manual they had practically perfected.

Just getting the car down the track was a major feat for the team, and for Hernandez, driving it was completely different than anything he had ever attempted.

“I’m not used to driving like this. It’s a lot different. It’s a button and a break instead of a clutch and a hand brake, and I haven’t had a whole lot of luck with it – after this weekend I’ve only done it four times now, and I’m batting .500 with it, so it’s just the learning curve. It’s a new combination, but that seems to be running better than what we were running before in the ’57.  In the long run it was definitely the way to go,” Hernandez said.

The car didn’t hold when he was at the starting line in his first-round matchup against Jason Hamstra. He left the line .008-seconds early, giving Hamstra the win, but the loss hardly took any wind out of the B1 team’s sails.

“There was a lot of work that had to be done, and it all had to be fine tuned. We had to get the thing wired to where the car would do everything we wanted it to do,” Hernandez said.

“We made some laps, which is what was really important. We got better and better each time, and we got all the way down the track. That gave the guys a lot of confidence.

“Ultimately, yes, I am disappointed that I went red, but we’re so stoked about the car picking up every round, it far outweighs any short term setback. We’ve got a lot of positive momentum right now, and we’ve made great progress with the combination we’re running.

“We’re taking big steps, and every step is in the right direction. The better car won that round, but it won’t be long before we get paybacks. This season is far from over, and this B1 team will be right in the mix for the championship at the end of the season.”

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)



Five Impressions Following The Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags

It was a historic debut at a historic track and the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) first appearance at Maple Grove Raceway was certainly one to remember.

From broken records to incredible qualifying bumps to an impressive fan turnout, the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags delivered several incredible moments.

The wonderful facility at Maple Grove wowed every ADRL competitor and everyone associated with the event also did a remarkable job getting the track ready after Saturday’s rain delay to get in as much racing as possible.

With that, here are five impressions following the race as the ADRL finished out the spring portion of its 2011 Tour in fine fashion.

RECORDS FALL, BUT SNYDER STAYS CONSISTENT

As he is apt to do, Frankie Taylor stole much of the Pro Extreme spotlight over the weekend with his incredible 3.581 on Friday. He backed it up the next day to re-set his own ADRL record, but the Nitro Fish-sponsored standout was upset in the second round by the always-stout Todd Tutterow.

The biggest story might have been Mick Snyder (pictured, above), who now has three semifinal appearances in three races to stay well within range of the points lead in PX. He set a career-best (3.65) and continued to display remarkable consistency with a Powersource Transportation car that has gone straight down the track nearly all season.

The 2010 ADRL Rookie of the Year, Snyder has improved at a rapid rate and has to be considered a major threat in the class.

Speaking of consistency, the two-car team of J.R. Todd and Alex Hossler also displayed it, as their seasons seemed to get on track at the right time.

NITROUS PROVIDES THE ELECTRICITY

There’s something about these Friday qualifying sessions under the lights that have been simply magical in Pro Nitrous.

Each event has delivered some electrifying moments in the Friday night qualifying session and the class continues to top itself.

Driver after driver turned in something special at Maple Grove, whether it was another career-best from Bob Rahaim (3.81) or John Decerbo (pictured) recording the quickest time in PN history for an automatic (3.83)

In all, seven cars went 3.83 or quicker as the class continues to accelerate to new heights nobody saw coming – at least this fast.

Of course, leading that quick charge has been Khalid Al-Balooshi and Mahana Al-Naemi. First round struggles aside, Al-Naemi has turned in two remarkable single-pass performances, with the latest being the 3.776 on Friday that is the quickest Pro Nitrous pass in history.

Of course, Al-Balooshi has the records, backing up his 3.78 at more than 200 miles per hour at the event, making him the first to cross the 200 mph threshold.

CHILD’S PLAY FOR CHUCK

Chuck Ulsch (pictured) was worried about being rusty in his first Extreme 10.5 race of the year.

But there was no need for concern after Ulsch turned in a flurry of remarkable runs.

He was the No. 1 qualifier, advanced to the XTF finals and had the run to remember (3.89 at 204 mph) in the class for the weekend.

Not bad for his first race with a new motor and blower on his car to boot.

Other observations from this class: It was good to see Dan Millen racing after his Mustang’s big explosion just three weeks ago in Florida.

Most expected his car to be ready in time, but Millen advanced to the finals and all who had a part in getting the car to that point in such a short time deserves credit.

Additionally, it was good to see Andy Jensen racing XTF and let’s hope for several return visits.

ONE FINE FIELD

Ashley Owens did his thing, advancing to another Pro Extreme Motorcycle finals, but he had company and it was much closer company than he has been used to in the class.

Owens didn’t reach the 3-second mark many had expected, proving just how difficult it will be to make that brilliant of a run, but he was still impressive, going 4.02 in the semifinals.

But seven of the eight first-round winners went in the 4.10s or quicker, which included a massive career-best 4.11 from Paul Gast.

Eric McKinney (pictured) was also close behind and was the second most consistent rider in the class for the weekend. It was exciting to see the competition get stiffer in PXM and that should only continue the rest of the year.

ONE FINE FIELD, PART TWO

Running a 4.13 in Extreme Pro Stock is supposed to get you into field for eliminations.

Well, at least that’s how it used to be.

In the continually improving XPS, that wasn’t the case at Maple Grove, as 16 competitors needed to go a 4.129 or quicker just to reach eliminations.

Along with Pro Nitrous, this class has taken the greatest leap in 2011. With more and more cars coming to each event, this category has become even more incredible to watch.

That may have not seemed possible just a year ago, but talent continues to come into the class in droves. With that has come remarkable, upset-filled, dramatic side-by-side racing, exemplified by what fans were treated to on Saturday.

The final qualifying session in the morning sun was as good as it gets, while eliminations featured a little bit of everything.

Brian Gahm (pictured, above), who struggled during the first two events of the year, had a major turnaround, advancing to the finals thanks to a pair of holeshots.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Maple Grove Raceway | 6 Comments

Thiesse Has Big Goals For 2011 In Pro Junior Dragster

Your agent came across a great feature on ADRL Pro Junior Dragster competitor Kendall Thiesse in her hometown newspaper, the Lake News Online, which serves Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks area.

Thiesse talked about her time driving her PJD and also shared a big goal she has for the season.

“My goal on the track this year is to regain my No. 1 position,” Thiesse said in the story.

To read the entire story on Thiesse, make sure you click here.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Great Coverage Of Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags

Your agent was impressed with the media turnout at last weekend’s Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags at Maple Grove Raceway.
The spectator turnout was strong and there was also a big contingent of media covering the ADRL’s debut at the beautiful facility.

From Drag Racing Action to Drag Illustrated to the Reading-Eagle to Competition Plus, there was a lot of strong writing and photography from the event.

Here’s what stuck out most to your agent:

Competition Plus: Great thorough coverage, so definitely check it out here.

Drag Race Canada: A great photo gallery from the event can be viewed here.

Who says you can’t shoot awesome pictures with an iPhone? John Edwin Mason did just that, and your agent came away impressed.
Check out his awesome iPhone pictures here.

BangShift.com: More great photos and event coverage can be viewed by clicking here.

Drag Illustrated’s Power Rankings are also worth a mentioning. Your agent suspects they will be updated after this race, but check out the current ones here.

It’s all great stuff and should keep you busy for a little while before next month’s Independence Drags V from Heartland Park Topeka.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Pontieri Gets Strong XPS Turnaround At Maple Grove Raceway

It’s amazing how quickly things can change in drag racing.
At one moment at Maple Grove Raceway, Tony Pontieri was not qualified and destined for more disappointment.

At the next, however, the Extreme Pro Stock driver was feeling entirely different.
During the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags, Pontieri pulled the upset, sending defending World Champion John Montecalvo home after the first round for the second straight race.

Montecalvo had trouble early in the matchup, and Pontieri went 4.18 to advance. It was a big break for Pontieri, who needed a strong 4.12 on his final qualifying pass just to squeak into the field.

“Everybody got excited after that,” Pontieri said. “It changed the whole mood of the team. You know, anything can happen out here and it’s exciting for us right now.”

Pontieri felt the excitement of the upset almost immediately, too, recalling a moment during the matchup with Montecalvo.

“I looked over and saw him fall back, and I just got excited,” Pontieri said.

Pontieri lost in the quarterfinals to Tony Gillig, but qualifying and advancing a round assured him of racing at next month’s Independence Drags at Heartland Park Topeka.
It took some last-ditch efforts, too, as the team changed a number of things on the car before the fourth qualifying session.

Running a new Jon Kaase Racing Engines motor, Pontieri sees a lot of potential, but he knew he needed a moment like Saturday’s to get the team headed in the right direction in such a strong class.

“The car didn’t do anything on Friday, so we changed a lot of things and made a couple clean runs,” Pontieri said. “The whole team is pumped right now. This motor has a lot of potential and this is a lot of fun right now.”

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in Agent 660 Notes | 2 Comments

Trick Titanium Excited To Join ADRL As Sponsor For First Time In 2011

Trick Titanium specializes in producing lightweight titanium bellhousings.

With a dedicated reemphasis on safety measures for the 2011 season, the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) has a new partnership because of it.

Working with the top bellhousing producer in the world, the ADRL is excited to announce that Trick Titanium has signed on as a sponsor for the 2011 ADRL Tour.

“We are thrilled about this partnership,” Trick Titanium Chief Financial Officer (CFO) John Gulliver said. “We see the ADRL as a growing organization, we feel it will continue to be strong in the future and we want to be part of that growth.”

With a successful and world-renowned history that dates back more than 35 years, Trick Titanium specializes in producing lightweight titanium bellhousings and other lightweight engine products.
Their bellhousings are the choice of top chassis builders like Jerry Haas Race Cars, Tim McAmis Race Cars, Jerry Bickel Race Cars and McKinney Corp.
Trick Titanium’s latest products are new SFI Spec 6.1 & 6.3 Aluminum Bellhousing, which offers the latest safety measures and lightweight technology for a bellhousing product.
The ADRL’s stringent safety policies for the 2011 season are a major reason why Trick Titanium formed a partnership with the world’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league.

“They are taking safety seriously,” Gulliver said. “Our titanium bellhousings are the Gold Standard of bellhousings and are on a lot of cars. ADRL is taking an active role in safety and that’s paramount for us. There is an increased knowledge of safety in the ADRL and that’s what our company is all about.”
“These cars are producing incredible power and we want to continue to make it safe for the drivers and the people in the stands.”

Its other state-of-the-art lightweight products include innovative titanium engine valves and titanium spring retainers, which offer premium results without the drag from heavy car parts. Trick Titanium valves are being used by premier engine builders like Sonny’s Racing Engines and racing teams like Goforth Racing.

“We are excited to be teaming up with Trick Titanium for the first time. The quality and safety of their products speak for themselves,” ADRL Vice President of Sales and Marketing Brian Evans said.
“They have long been a top choice for our drivers and we see a lot of great things coming from this new partnership.”

The fourth stop on the nine-race 2011 ADRL Tour takes place on June 17-18 with the Independence Drags V at Heartland Park Topeka in Topeka, Kan.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News | Leave a comment

ADRL Gets Record Performances At Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags At Maple Grove

There were world records set in two American Drag Racing League (ADRL) classes in the league’s first trip to Maple Grove Raceway.

But due to a four-hour rain delay and the track curfew, the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags did not crown winners in its five professional classes (Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5, Pro Extreme Motorcycle and Extreme Pro Stock).

Per the policy in the official ADRL rulebook, the event is considered complete and competitors will be awarded purse and points up to the finished point in the race.

Extreme Pro Stock, Pro Extreme Motorcycle and Extreme 10.5 concluded its semifinal matchups, while Pro Extreme and Pro Nitrous completed their quarterfinal rounds before the event was called due to the track curfew.

Steady rains also delayed racing more than four hours during the afternoon.

When racing was able to resume, the ADRL and Maple Grove Raceway worked diligently to get as much of the event completed as possible.

“We were working at a record pace trying to get these last rounds in,” ADRL Director of Competition Tom Grooms said. “The competitors did a great job getting ready to race quickly and the track and prep team did a great job getting the track ready.

“We still had a lot of great times and had an incredible show. It was also very impressive the amount of fans that stuck it out.”

Even in its shortened state, the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags included numerous memorable moments as several competitors shined in the ADRL’s first visit to Maple Grove Raceway.

Frankie Taylor again had the final say in Pro Extreme, at least when it came to records.
During Saturday’s final qualifying session, Joey Martin backed up his 3.584 from Friday with a 3.596, giving him the ADRL PX record of 3.584.

Martin had the record for a mere six hours, as Taylor ended back on top, going 3.60 in the first round of eliminations, good enough to back up his incredible 3.581 from Friday. That makes Taylor the record-holder, something he is always shooting for.

“We had a good time,” said Taylor, who was sponsored by Nitro Fish for this weekend’s race. “It’s a great facility.”

Martin suffered more rough luck when his car wouldn’t start before the first round of eliminations.

Taylor fell in the quarterfinals to Todd Tutterow. Other Pro Extreme semifinalists included J.R. Todd, Alex Hossler and Mick Snyder (pictured), who has advanced to the semifinals in all three ADRL races in 2011.

In Pro Nitrous, Khalid Al-Balooshi is once again the class’ quickest and fastest driver in the ADRL.

Al-Balooshi kicked off the first round of eliminations in fine fashion, driving his Speedtech Camaro to a blistering 3.786 at 200.53 miles per hour on a solo run.

The incredible speed is backed up by Friday’s 200.38 mph – the first 200 mph PN run in history – and the 3.786 became the world E.T. record after Mahana Al-Naemi couldn’t back up his 3.776, giving him both ends of the record.

“He’s comfortable in the race car and confident in the team,” crew chief Brandon Switzer said.

Other Pro Nitrous semifinalists included Bob Rahaim, who made his first semifinal appearance in the ADRL, Fredy Scriba and Steve Vick.

In Extreme 10.5, Chuck Ulsch and Dan Millen were the two finalists. Ulsch was the No. 1 qualifier and had the quickest and fastest run of the event in the class, going 3.89 at 204.94 mph.

Millen advanced to the finals with a 3.90.

Ashley Owens and Eric McKinney both advanced to the finals in Pro Extreme Motorcycle. Owens was his usual dominant self, running an incredible 4.02 in the semifinals. McKinney had his best run of the day come in the semifinals when he went 4.12.

In Extreme Pro Stock, Cary Goforth and Brian Gahm were the final two drivers. Cary Goforth went a weekend-best 4.05 to beat his father, Dean, in the semifinals, while Gahm used to holeshots to move to the finals.

Pro Junior Dragster was the lone class to be completed. In the final, Eric Bardekoff beat Morgan Benfield, running an 8.00.

“Maple Grove was a great experience for us,” ADRL Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune said. “The crowd really enjoyed the show the ADRL drivers put on all weekend.”

The fourth stop on the 2011 ADRL Tour comes on June 17-18 at Heartland Park Topeka in Topeka, Ks. for the Independence Drags V.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Maple Grove Raceway | 2 Comments

Productive Weekend Has Even More Potential For PXM’s Hunnicutt

It hasn’t yet been a weekend filled with incredible times for Rob Hunnicutt at Maple Grove Raceway, but that hasn’t stopped it from being a productive one.

The Pro Extreme Motorcycle rider hasn’t had the times he’s wanted, but he pulled a first-round upset of Carlos Wilkerson, a runner-up last month, and had his Superman-themed bike win the “Best Appearing” award on Saturday at the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags.

It was a new Superman design that won the award for Hunnicutt, who is the first PXM rider to win the award not only once but twice.

“It came out real nice,” Hunnicutt said.

What would make the weekend even more memorable is to extend his racing time. He was the only winner not to run in the 4.10s, going 4.23 to beat Wilkerson. Hunnicutt qualified in the No. 12 position with a 4.22, but has been a step behind a strong number of bikes who have gone in the 4.13 to 4.16 range.

Hunnicutt faces Terry Schweigert in the quarterfinals, a rematch of their several battles in the Arabian Drag Racing League in Qatar last winter.

Hunnicutt hopes a change will make the difference and get him going much quicker.

“We’re making a call before this next round,” Hunnicutt said. “We’re either going to spin or it’s going to go. If it goes, it should be real good. If it works, we can go a 4.13.”

Schweigert went 4.19 in a first-round win, while the other matchups feature Ashley Owens (4.10) against Paul Gast (4.11), Eric McKinney (4.13) versus David Vantine (4.17) and Ronald Procopio (4.16) against Kim Morrell (4.16).

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

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Semifinals Set For Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags

Todd Tutterow knows how to cut a light and the latest example came at Maple Grove Raceway.

Racing in the quarterfinals of the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags against ADRL Pro Extreme world record-holder Frankie Taylor, Tutterow cut an impressive .034 light (to Taylor’s .101) to advance to the semifinals. Taylor went a strong 3.62, but Tutterow’s 3.673 was enough to win thanks to his impressive start.

Tutterow will meet Alex Hossler in a PX semifinal after Hossler went 3.67 to knock off points leader Jason Hamstra.

Mick Snyder advanced to his third straight semifinals, going 3.65 in a win. J.R. Todd did him a touch better, staying remarkably consistent with another 3.64. After two disappointing races, Todd has been as strong as ever in Maple Grove.

In Pro Nitrous, Bob Rahaim continues to get it done, though he nearly scraped the wall. Somehow he steered clear and ran another career-best, going 3.81 to advance to his first ADRL semifinal. He’ll meet Fredy Scriba, who won via red light against Stan Allen.

Khalid Al-Balooshi pulled off another 3.78, going to the semis against Steve Vick, who got a solo path to the final four.

Chuck Ulsch and Lamar Swindoll Jr. had a great side-by-side semifinal race in Extreme 10.5, with Ulsch advancing to the finals of the eight-car qualifying field.
Swindoll went an impressive 3.95, but Ulsch continues to be money, going 3.922 at 202.97 mph.
He’ll meet Dan Millen, who went his weekend-best 3.90 in a semifinal win against Frankie Taylor. That was a welcome sign for Millen, whose rebuilt Mustang seems to be coming into its own at the perfect time at Maple Grove.

It’s a “4G” lineup in Extreme Pro Stock, as Dean Goforth, Cary Goforth, Brian Gahm and Tony Gillig all advanced to the semifinals.

Gillig was perhaps the most impressive, going a career-best 4.06 in a win against Tony Pontieri. Gahm pulled off a huge holeshot, as his .024 reaction time and 4.09 upset Pete Berner’s 4.05.
It’s an all-Goforth semifinal, too, as Dean went 4.067 in a win against Steven Boone, and Cary Goforth went a round-best 4.05 in a victory against Elijah Morton.

Ashley Owens beat his boss in Pro Extreme Motorcycle, going 4.07 in a second-round win against Fast by Gast team owner Paul Gast.
Terry Schweigert made a big improvement, going 4.13 in a win against Rob Hunnicutt, while Eric McKinney shot to a 4.12. He’ll face Ronald Procopio, who beat Kim Morrell with a 4.14.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Maple Grove Raceway | Leave a comment

Al-Balooshi Back To Being Quickest And Fastest In Pro Nitrous Class

Khalid Al-Balooshi is once again the quickest and fastest driver in Pro Nitrous in the American Drag Racing League.

After rain ravaged Maple Grove Raceway, causing a delay of nearly four hours, Al-Balooshi kicked off the first round of Pro Nitrous eliminations in fine fashion. Driving his Speedtech Camaro, Al-Balooshi went 3.786 at 200.53 miles per hour on a solo run to advance to the quarterfinals of the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags.

The incredible speed is backed up by last night’s 200.38 mph – the first 200 mph PN run in history – and the 3.786 became the world E.T. record after Mahana Al-Naemi couldn’t back up his 3.776 from Friday – the quickest pass in PN history. In fact, Al-Naemi was upset for the second straight race out of the No. 1 qualifying postion, shaking the tires in a loss to No. 16 qualifier Steve Vick.

“We want to accomplish (a 200 mph run) and have a good E.T. to go with it now.”

Those were the words of Al-Balooshi’s crew chief, Brandon Switzer, on Friday. As it turned out, they solved it rather quickly, combining speed with an amazing run, giving him both ends of the record.

“He’s comfortable in the race car and confident in the team,” Switzer said.

Al-Balooshi will match up with Rickie Jones, who went 3.86 in a first-round win, in the quarterfinals. Stan Allen pulled off a big upset as well, winning via red light against No. 3 qualifier Mike Castellana.

Frankie Taylor re-took the Pro Extreme ADRL E.T. world record, going 3.60 in a first-round win. It backs up his remarkable 3.581 from Friday, meaning Joey Martin was the record-holder for just more than six hours.
Martin also took another blow, as his Lowmad couldn’t fire in his first-round matchup. That gave the win to Tommy Gray, who gets Mick Snyder in the quarterfinals. Other winners included Todd Tutterow (3.69), Alex Hossler (3.64), Jason Hamstra (3.69), J.R. Todd (3.70) and Mike Recchia (3.74).

Frankie Taylor also set up an awesome matchup in Extreme 10.5, going 3.95 in a win against Billy Glidden in the eight-car qualifying field.
He’ll get Dan Millen, who went 3.94 at 200 mph. The biggest run of the round came from Chuck Ulsch, who continues to dial it in. He flew to a 3.89 at 204.94 mph and will meet Lamar Swindoll Jr.

In Extreme Pro Stock, Tony Pontieri pulled the upset, sending defending World Champion John Montecalvo home after a round for the second straight race.

He had trouble early in the race, and Pontieri went 4.18 to advance. It was a big break for Pontieri, who needed a strong 4.12 on his final qualifying pass just to squeak into the field.

“Everybody got excited after that,” Pontieri said. “It changed the whole mood of the team. You know, anything can happen out here and it’s exciting for us right now.”

The rest of the round was blistering, as five of the winners (Cary and Dean Goforth, Steven Boone, Elijah Morton and Pete Berner) all went 4.09 or quicker.

For Pro Extreme Motorcycle results from the first round, check out the Agent 660 notes.

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

Posted in 2011 Season, ADRL News, Maple Grove Raceway | Leave a comment

UPDATE: Taylor Takes ADRL Pro Extreme Record From Martin At Maple Grove

UPDATED AT 9:15 P.M.: Joey Martin and his Pro Extreme Lowmad continues to top himself, but Frankie Taylor again had the final say.
During Saturday’s final qualifying session at Maple Grove Raceway for the Penske Truck Leasing Inaugural Northeast Drags, Martin backed up his 3.584 from Friday with a 3.596, giving him the ADRL PX record of 3.584.

Martin had the record for nearly six hours, but Frankie Taylor ended back on top, going 3.60 in the first round of eliminations, good enough to back up his 3.581 from Friday. That makes Taylor the record-holder, something he is always shooting for.

“We’re having a good time,” said Taylor, who is sponsored by Nitro Fish for this weekend’s race. “It’s a great facility.”

For a moment, Martin was able to be thrilled with the record.

“It feels good, man. We’ve got this baby running fast,” Martin said.

Frankie Taylor posted the quickest PX run in ADRL history on Friday with his incredible 3.581, which came just moments after Martin’s 3.584.
But Martin was the first to back up his astonishing run, giving him the PX record for the moment.
Taylor shook the tires on his final qualifying pass at Maple Grove on Saturday before returning in the first round of eliminations with a run good enough to get the record. It’s turned into a banner weekend for Taylor, who is in the PX quarterfinals, set the E.T. record, was the No. 1 qualifier in PX and is in the Extreme 10.5 semifinals.

For Martin, it was the latest impressive run in a string of them this 2011 season. He’s set PX track records at Royal Purple Raceway, Palm Beach International Raceway and now Maple Grove, doing this one in ADRL record fashion.

Martin picked up his first ADRL win last month in April and the No. 2 driver in points continues to improve and set new benchmarks.

“We just want to be consistent. Instead of faster, we just want consistency and then we get runs like that,” Martin said of Friday and Saturday’s run in the 3.50s. “It’s a lot of fun. We used to show up and just hope to qualify.”

That’s no longer the case with this Lowmad and Martin didn’t want to be done with wowing the crowd at Maple Grove this weekend.

He had hoped to run a 3.56 or 3.57 during eliminations, but some bad luck ended his night after his car wouldn’t start before the first round of eliminations.




Halsey Already On Track For Better 2011 In PN

In a matter of 3.79 seconds, Jim Halsey effectively erased all of his disappointment from the 2010 season.
Looking for something positive as he headed into the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) 2011 season-opener at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas on March 25-26, the Pro Nitrous standout got that and a whole lot more.
Testing in Bradenton, Fl. In preparation for CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports, Halsey went a blistering 3.798 at 199.82 miles per hour, surely catching the attention of everyone in the loaded PN class.
“We got everything together,” Halsey said. “We struggled last year and regrouped over the winter. We got our old team back together and I think that helped more than anything. The chemistry is back and we made a real good run.
“We’re looking forward to going to Houston.”
It wasn’t an official run, but it still is the first time a PN car has gone in the 3.70s in the United States. Halsey, who currently holds the ADRL speed record (198.99 mph), also nearly came close to being the first car in the world to reach the 200 mph mark.
Halsey was surely excited about the run, which was backed up by several other runs in the low 3.80s, but his trademark laid-back attitude didn’t indicate any celebrations yet.
With an impressive .954 60-foot time, Halsey felt there was even a little more room for improvement.
More importantly, he hopes the noteworthy test session isn’t fools gold.
Halsey had a strong testing session leading up to the 2010 season, but Halsey was admittedly ticked off for most of the year and “a lot over the winter, too.”
Now, Halsey’s 2010 wasn’t a total loss, as he set the speed world record, advanced to the finals of the Hardee’s Independence Drags IV and finished third in the points standings.
But Halsey will quickly admit it wasn’t the year he hoped for and he’s ready to make up for it on the 2011 ADRL Tour.
With the 3.70s that Khalid Al-Balooshi and Shannon Jenkins put up in Qatar during the Arabian Drag Racing League, Halsey knows he’ll have to be on his game immediately.
“Well, you have to follow up a bad year with something more successful,” Halsey said. “You see those guys in Qatar run those numbers and that motivates you to get your act together and get back at it. The competition is what keeps me going.”
Halsey’s ‘68 Camaro got a new engine from Gene Fulton last year, but chose not to get anything new for 2011.
He’s confident his team figured out last year’s problems, as evidenced by what they ran last week in Bradenton.
“It got to a point where every spring we were spending 2-3 races figuring out a new car and combination,” Halsey said. “This year, we stuck with the same car and new engine, and the second run out there, we hit it right on the nose.”
As for motivation, Halsey points to last year along with a growing PN class that was wildly competitive in 2010.
With more new names joining the mix, coupled with the fact that there were seven different event winners on the 2010 Tour, things could be better than ever in the Pro Nitrous class.
Halsey likes the direction the class and the ADRL as a whole is headed, but he’s also locked in with his own goals staring in less than two weeks.
“I think this year has the potential to be the best field of Nitrous cars you’ve seen in a long time,” Halsey said. “It’s going to be a tough year for everyone. The wins are going to be more meaningful and everybody likes to be top dog.
“That’s what we’re shooting for between my car and (Pat) Stoken’s car. We want to finish 1-2 this year. I’m looking for big numbers and I want to run them consistently. I want to qualify well, go rounds and win some races.”

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)



Racensur.com Cruise for the Qualifiers Drawing Takes Place At ADRL Gala

Your agent wants to send out a reminder to all ADRL teams and competitors that the Racensur.com Cruise for the Qualifiers drawing will take place during the ADRL Driver Appreciation and Awards Gala on Thursday, March 24. The gala takes place at the Tower Club at Royal Purple Raceway and will be a memorable time for everyone. Awards will be handed out, as well as this amazing cruise package from Mel Eaves from Gulway Insurers.

The Racensur.com  Cruise for the Qualifiers was open to every qualifier during all 10 events of the 2010 ADRL Tour. If competitors qualified for all 10 events, their name will be put in the hat 10 times, giving them a greater chance to win the cruise for two.

Your agent is also hearing some other big announcements regarding the Cruise for the Qualifiers will be revealed at the gala. He’s been made privy to some added special announcements - and it is awesome news - but has agreed to keep his mouth - and computer - quiet until the banquet.  

 

March 16, 2011

Martin’s New Lowmad Goes 3.66 In Testing

Your agent could sense the excitement from Joey Martin as his Lowmad ran an impressive time last October at Texas Motorplex.
Several months later, your agent suspects Martin is downright giddy heading into the ADRL season-opener next week.
Not only is he debuting an all-new Lowmad ’55 Chevrolet Nomad Pro Extreme car in Baytown, Texas, but the early results have been amazing.
For those who like visual evidence, check out these YouTube videos from Martin’s testing session over the weekend in Alabama.

 

Yes, that’s a 3.66 at 203.48 miles per hour that Martin posted in testing and your agent heard it was an impressive .902 60-foot time as well.
For a ride-along view, check out the next video, too.
Pretty awesome stuff and your agent can’t wait to see Martin at Royal Purple Raceway.











March 9, 2011

Halsey Puts Up A 3.79 During PN Testing!

It looks like there could be a number of drivers making into the 3.7s in Pro Nitrous this year.
Your agent got a report from one of his operatives that Jim Halsey, the world speed record holder in PN (198.99 miles per hour), posted an amazing 3.79 at 199.8 mph during a test session on Wednesday.
That’s flying, folks, and a heck of a way to start a testing session before the 2011 ADRL season even begins. It also puts Halsey right in line with what the likes of Khalid Al-Balooshi and Shannon Jenkins ran in Qatar.
Halsey certainly has the talent and the standout car to be a major player in PN in 2011, and this test session certainly puts him on the right track heading into the first event in two weeks.

To hear how Halsey felt about the testing session, be sure to tune into “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” which airs today at 9 p.m. EST on www.ADRL.us. Your agent, for one, can’t wait.


The Journeys Of Camp Stanley

It’s a rough job, but as Camp Stanley is known to say, “somebody’s gotta do it.”
Your agent heard from the adventurous one today as the Pro Extreme team owner is currently in Australia as part of the 40th annual Westernationals at Perth Motorplex. After your agent was unsuccessful in tagging along as Stanley’s carry-on luggage, he was pleased to report the following:

Wayne Keys got some tips from tuning legend Camp Stanley and it showed. Keys ran a 6.08, the quickest AA/AP pass ever.
It looks like Camp has the magic touch wherever he goes.
He also added this tongue-in-cheek line: “It’s really tough being me!”













Jenkins, Procopio Winners at Shakedown At Palm Beach

Your agent would like to send out congratulations to a pair of ADRL standouts for their victories at the Shakedown at Palm Beach.
The legendary Shannon Jenkins won in Pro Mod, while Ron Procopio took the title in Pro Drag Bike.
Of course, all of it took place at gorgeous Palm Beach International Raceway, which is the site of the ADRL Safety-Kleen Spring Drags II on April 15-16.
As for Sunday, the day belonged to both Jenkins and Procopio.
Jenkins went a class-best 3.83 in a win against Brad Personnet, eventually meeting up with ADRL Pro Nitrous newcomer Rickie Jones, who knocked off both Melanie Troxel and Rickie Smith to reach the final.
Jones was also the No. 1 qualifier in the class, as the young star quickly showed his driving prowess in his new car and class.
But Jenkins, the grizzled veteran, won out in the end in his sharp new Al-Anabi Racing Camaro, going 4.15 at 184.75 miles per hour in the championship round.
Fans got quite the drag race in Pro Drag Bike as Procopio matched up with 2010 ADRL Pro Extreme Motorcycle World Champion Kim Morrell.
Both went an impressive 4.121, but Procopio had the quicker .041 reaction time to take the victory.
That’s a big win for Procopio, who ended the 2010 season strong and looks to already be in prime form as the 2011 campaign is set to begin.
Your agent was again impressed with promoter Dave Hance, who put on a magnificent race with help from the great people at PBIR.

(Photos by Roger Richards)

 

March 5, 2011

Watch The Shakedown At Palm Beach Online

Your agent found some early season racing fun online and it features some of the great drivers of the ADRL.
Of course, the Shakedown at Palm Beach is going on this weekend at Palm Beach International Raceway and there’s plenty of amazing racing to be seen.
If you’re not there, make sure you watch online at http://odrtv.com/
It will include all the live coverage of the Shakedown event, which is something your agent isn’t going to miss.
Rickie Jones and Shannon Jenkins (pictured) have already impressed in the strong Pro Mod class, as each has gone 3.84. That’s particularly impressive for Jones, who is making his first official passes in a new Pro Nitrous car.
Kim Morrell is the early leader in Pro Drag Bike, going 4.14 to jump to the top.
Of course, PBIR is an incredible facility and your agent can’t wait to spend an ADRL weekend there in April. They are first-class people there and Shakedown promoter David Hance is first-class as well.
It’s a great race, so be sure you follow along at the link above.

(Photo by Roger Richards)

 |

Mickey Thompson Named Official Sponsor Of ADRL Fan Experience

The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Extreme Fan Experience presented by Mickey Thompson is a brand new fan appreciation program developed in cooperation with the ADRL for the 2011 racing series.
Through this special program, candidates will enter at the Mickey Thompson trailer located in the midway and winners will be drawn and announced during the event. In total, there will be six groups of three winning fans: two groups will be selected each Friday, and four groups will be selected each Saturday. Winners will earn a chance for that up-close racing experience in a behind-the-scenes look at ADRL in action. They’ll also receive a Mickey Thompson t-shirt, as well as a guided tour of the starting line, finish line, pits, VIP suite and media room. All winners will also be featured in the live Internet broadcast, and on the ADRL website. 
“Personal interaction with fans is important to us,” said Carl Robinson, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. “We attend each ADRL event to provide service to racers by supplying tires, mounting and balancing but we are also there to talk to fans about our street related products. This gives us a great tool to make that interaction more possible.”
In addition to being an ongoing ADRL contingency sponsor, it was also announced that Mickey Thompson has been selected as the Official Tire of the 2011 ADRL Drag Racing Series, making this the second consecutive year for this prestigious role. The growing partnership with ADRL will allow Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels to increase their support to the drag racing teams once again in 2011. 
“It is a great pleasure for us to support the ADRL,” Robinson said. “The ADRL staff understands that we are passionate about working with and meeting the needs of the racers, and that really means a lot to us.”
A great deal of momentum has been generated following the collaboration between Mickey Thompson and ADRL, resulting in the successful fulfillment of the ADRL Extreme 10.5 Three-Second Club. This program, awarding a number of prizes to the first five race teams achieving less than four-second runs in the Extreme 10.5 Class, was completed in the 2010 season.
This year, in another big move, Mickey Thompson will be rewarding Extreme 10.5 racers a low qualifier bonus for their efforts at each of the 10 national events.

 


 



Windham Racing PX In ADRL In 2011?



One of your agents trusted semi-agent associates recently sent him an excellent photo of Bill Windham participating in a testing session at Las Vegas.
But that’s not the big news. From what your agent gathered, Windham will be running his car in the highly-competitive Pro Extreme class in the ADRL during the 2011 ADRL Tour.
That’s more exciting news for a class that continues to add more incredible talent seemingly by the day.

February 23, 2011

ADRL Featured Again on “Lucas Oil On The Edge”

Your agent is excited to see the ADRL will have another featured appearance on the popular racing show “Lucas Oil On The Edge,”  which airs on SPEED.
The   segment will run on Saturday, March 5 at 10:30 p.m. on SPEED, with one repeat airing to follow as well (March 6, 4:30 a.m.).  All times are EST. 
The   feature will take a closer look at the race to the World Championship   in the ADRL’s exciting Pro Nitrous class, focusing on the Speedtech   “Battle For The Belts” that took place in October at Texas Motorplex in   Ennis, Texas.
It was a thrilling weekend in Pro Nitrous and this feature, produced by the talented team from   NeWave Video Productions, will capture all of the exciting and memorable   action from the biggest race of the ADRL season.
With eight of the   top drivers in the world battling it out for the World Championship, it   was Burton Auxier who won the title, beating friend Shannon Jenkins in the final.
All of that will be highlighted during the “On The Edge,” which is now in its seventh season on SPEED.
Along   with all of the racing action, the segment will include plenty of   behind-the-scenes action as well.

ADRL on “Lucas Oil On The Edge” Schedule:

Saturday, March 5, 10:30 p.m. EST
Sunday, March 6, 4:30 a.m. EST (Repeat Airing)

All airings take place on SPEED

February 22, 2011

Goforth’s New GXP Coming Along At JHRC

One of your agent’s secret operatives passed along some pretty interesting information and visual evidence.

As you can see, Extreme Pro Stock standout Cary Goforth was spotted at Jerry Haas Race Cars checking up on his father Dean’s new 2011 GXP that will be running this year in XPS.
From what your agent heard, Cary just brought up an engine to fit into the car and use to mock everything into place. It looks like the process is going well and your agent is one of many who can’t wait to see the finished product.

February 22, 2011

House Of Hot Rods Earns George Barris Award

Your agent would like to send out his congratulations to Mark Eddins,  the co-owner of LenMar Motorsports, for the recent award won by their sister company, House of Hotrods.
This past weekend, the company had a great deal of success at the acclaimed Dallas Autorama show.

Here’s a look at the awards they won:
1949 Mercury aka Pinky - Best of Class and 2011 George Barris Award!
1948 Pontiac aka Tiki - Best of Class
1951 Studebaker aka Mutley - Best of Class
1957 Cadillac - Outstanding in Class

Pictured above is Pinky, Mark and HOH General Manager Chad Mahone.

“We’re super excited and honored to have been chosen for this award,” Eddins said. “We have tried for many years to get this award and the hard work by all our guys has finally paid off.”
Those are some awesome and prestigious honors, and a testament to the work done in their shop.
Your agent knows one thing is for certain: If he or someone else is in the hot rod or street-rod market, they need to look no further than Mark and the House of Hotrods (www.TxHouseofHotrods.com). They obviously do wonderful work and they’re amazing people to boot.
Congrats again Mark and HOH on the amazing honor.

 

February 21, 2011

Competition Licensing Policy Tidbits

Your agent just got finished reading the Competition Licensing Policy on the ADRL website and came away impressed by the extent the ADRL continues to go to in order to provide as safe and entertaining of a race as possible.

Now, your agent knows that ADRL licenses aren’t mandatory this season - see the official release to know what is eligible - but he has it on very good authority that all competitors will be required to have a current ADRL competition license in 2012.

Your agent also wants to pass on that drivers need to make absolutely certain they have a current NHRA or IHRA license or a completed ADRL license application with a current physical for the season-opening race in Baytown, Texas on March 25-26.

 


ADRL Reminds Teams All SFI Certifications Must Be Current For 2011

O’FALLON, MO (February 23, 2011) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) announced on Wednesday that all SFI items on race cars and bikes must be current before the first race of the 2011 season.
The 2011 ADRL Tour begins on March 25-26 with CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
A full list of SFI specifications, rules and expirations dates for each class can be found on the ADRL rules page at www.adrl.us/index.php/main/rules.
The rules can also be downloaded and printed in a PDF file located at the top of the page.
In addition and effective immediately, the ADRL will not allow a Supercharger without a current SFI certification to run at any national event.
Other SFI items may be given single-race wavers at the discretion of the ADRL Technical Services Department.
Superchargers that don’t have up to date SFI certification will not be given the one-race grace period as a result of new ADRL safety measures.
Please contact the ADRL Technical Services Department in advance if your car or bike has items that are not currently SFI certified. Competitors are encouraged to contact the department at               (636) 255-4748         (636) 255-4748 or toll-free at               1-855-277-ADRL         1-855-277-ADRL (2375) in advance of the season-opening race in Baytown if they have items that are not current.
“We hope this serves as a reminder to all of our competitors to check the expiration dates on their safety equipment. Superchargers must be current - and there will be no exceptions to this - due to the potential of damage in a catastrophic failure,” ADRL Director of Technical Services Chris Bell said.
“Some areas of the cars and bikes may be waved for one race; this will be determined by the Technical Services Department on a case-by-case basis. Our goal is to make sure the ADRL is doing everything possible to ensure a safe racing environment for all spectators and competitors.”

February 22, 2011

ADRL Releases Info On Starting-Line Access, New VIP Viewing Area

O’FALLON, MO (February 22, 2011) - In a continuous effort to make each event as safe as possible and also to allow the best racing and viewing experience for everyone involved, the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) has announced details for its membership registration and restricted-area access on the starting line.
The ADRL will make a sustained effort to manage and improve race safety by introducing new starting-line safety measures for the 2011 season, which starts on March 25-26 with CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
Insurance regulations require the amount of people on the starting line be kept to a minimum and, with the ADRL’s addition of new safety equipment and personnel, it also ensures the company’s commitment to safety.
In addition, the ADRL is also excited to announce a new and unique viewing area next to the starting line in order to give crew and sponsors an incredible live viewing experience.

Starting in March, the following safety measures will go into effect:

    • A restricted-area armband will be required to enter the starting-line area.
    • Restricted-area armbands will only be available for drivers and crew members.
    • To receive an armband, the driver and each crew member must sign a waiver, which will be available at the ADRL Membership Services area. Each person must also be an ADRL member   to obtain an armband.
    • Drivers will receive an armband free of charge. The cost of each restricted-area armband for crew members is $40.
    • To enter the starting-line area, crew members must wear their restricted-area armband, along with a matching collared crew shirt for easy identification by track and security personnel.
    • Crew members will only be allowed on the starting line when their team is racing.

The ADRL will also be providing a special VIP/Sponsor viewing area for the first time in 2011.
This exciting viewing area will be located directly by the starting line, giving racers, crew members, teams and sponsors a wonderful opportunity to view all the racing action from behind the guardwall.
“The restricted access area is just that - it is restricted for the safety of fans and participants, and for the efficient operation of an ADRL events. We do not want to limit anyone’s ability to do their job or enjoy an event, but we have to keep that area clear,” ADRL Vice President Jeff Fortune said.
“We are also introducing our new safety tech equipment and additional personnel for 2011, and these policies are added measure that will promote a safer race.”

 





E-Tickets Now Available Online For ADRL’s CarSafe Dragpalooza VII Presented By LenMar Motorsports

O’FALLON, MO (February 21, 2011) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) announced on Monday that e-tickets are now available for the first race of the 2011 season, CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports, which takes place on March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
The convenient e-ticketing process allows fans to print their own complimentary tickets off the ADRL website - www.ADRL.us - thanks to the generous support from the numerous ADRL sponsors.
Dragpalooza is the annual kick-off to the ADRL season and is one of the most anticipated events on the ADRL Tour, which starts its seventh campaign in March.
        To obtain and print off e-tickets for Dragpalooza, simply click on the ticket on the ADRL home page, or on the “Schedule” tab on the ADRL home page and additionally on the Baytown event.
That will take fans to the Dragpalooza event page where they will be able to click on the “Free E-Tickets” banner.

Interested participants will then be taken to a new screen where they will enter their full name and e-mail address. Once that is entered, the ticket will be e-mailed in a PDF format to that address, offering those interested a simple and practical way to print off tickets to Dragpalooza.
After printing, the e-ticket will then be good for admission to the first race of what will be a memorable 2011 season, giving fans a thrilling opportunity to attend the season-opening race and watch their favorite ADRL drivers.
Dragpalooza has become a must-see event in drag racing and 2011 will be no different as the ADRL continues to offer the most exciting and explosive 1/8-mile doorslammer action in the world.
With its innovative e-ticketing process, which debuted in 2010, fans will be able to secure their tickets even quicker to instantly be set up for an incredible racing experience.
By entering their name and e-mail address on the online ticket form, it also instantly entitles them to all of the great benefits of the ADRL experience. Each person will be entered to win numerous fantastic ADRL prizes, including a cash giveaway.

 

 

February 21, 2011

The ADRL Releases Its 2011 Competition Licensing Policy

O’FALLON, MO (February 21, 2010) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) has announced its 2011 Competition Licensing Policy, which goes into effect for the first race of the 2011 ADRL Tour.
The season starts on March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas with CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports.

The ADRL has released the following procedures for its Competition Licensing Policy, including guidelines for the 2011 ADRL License Application, which can be downloaded on the ADRL website (www.ADRL.us) after clicking on the “Rules” tab:

    • Currently, ADRL competitors are eligible to race with a current NHRA and/or IHRA license under the following guidelines:
        o Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5 and Extreme Pro Stock require a current NHRA “Class 1C”, “Class 2C” or “Class 3B” and/or an IHRA “Class A” or “Class B” license.
        o Pro Extreme Motorcycle requires a current NHRA “Class 1D” or “Class 2D” and/or IHRA “Class A” or “Class M” license.
        o Pro Junior Dragster requires a current age-appropriate NHRA and/or IHRA license.
    • A current NHRA/IHRA license or one that has been expired for less than one (1) year can be transferred to an ADRL license with a current physical.
    • An ADRL License will be considered valid for a period of two (2) years from the date of the physical.
    • If a competitor is applying for a new license or a previous license has been expired for more than a one (1) year, four (4) required licensing passes must be completed.
    • Official licensing runs must be singles and the time slips from the runs, which are to be signed by two (2) licensed drivers and the Track Manager must be included with the completed application.
    • Time slips must include the printed name, license number, expiration date and signature of the two (2) licensed drivers, and the Track Manager’s name and phone number that witnessed the runs.
    • ADRL competitors are encouraged to have their licensing runs completed off-site before entering an ADRL national event.
    • Newly-licensed ADRL drivers may be required to make their first qualifying pass as a single.

For further information or if there are questions, competitors are encouraged to call the ADRL offices at               (636) 255-4748         (636) 255-4748 or toll-free at               1-855-277-ADRL         1-855-277-ADRL (2375).  To download an ADRL License Application, please visit www.ADRL.us and click on the “Rules” tab.

February 18, 2011

Al-Balooshi, Von Smith, Millen, Al-Saber Win “Battle For The Belts” In Qatar

DOHA, QATAR (February 18, 2011) - A remarkable 2010-2011 season in the Arabian Drag Racing League ended in fitting fashion for Pro Nitrous driver Khalid Al-Balooshi.
The talented and colorful driver who dominated all winter at QRC capped off his year with one last incredible performance, going 3.786 at 199.70 miles per hour in the Round Eight finals against Shannon Jenkins on Friday to win the league’s “Battle For The Belts.”
Al-Balooshi’s record-breaking year ended with one more brilliant salvo, too, as the victory earned him $100,000 for the championship. Add the $50,000 he earned for winning the points title and the $20,000 he earned for ending the year with both the E.T. (3.781) and speed (199.88 mph) records, and Al-Balooshi picked up $170,000 in one weekend, making it the most lucrative win in doorslammer history.
“I want to thank everyone on my team and to Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani for giving me the opportunity to do what I love,” Al-Balooshi said.
Al-Balooshi wasn’t the only competitor smiling on Friday.
After struggling the majority of the season, Pro Extreme driver Von Smith and his Barwa Racing team put it all together at the perfect time, going 3.65 at 209.92 mph in the finals to beat Todd Tutterow.
Smith’s consistency on Friday won out over record performances - Matt Smith went a PX-best 212.83 mph in a first-round victory against Alex Hossler - and hole shots, giving him $100,000 in the process for the win.
In Extreme 10.5, Dan Millen’s magic is now going on six months, as he followed up his World Champion in the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) with a world title in the ADRL’s sister league.
This one came in dramatic fashion, as Millen, who has had his Mustang dialed in since September, went 3.80 at 204.29 mph to beat Frankie Taylor’s 3.879 in the quickest side-by-side XTF race in history.
The win netted Millen $50,000 for the championship, plus an additional $25,000 for the points title and $5,000 for setting both records, giving him an impressive $80,000 over the weekend.
Terry Schweigert posted the better time (4.137) and speed (173.61 mph) in the Pro Extreme Motorcycle finals, but Meshal Al-Saber had the better reaction time and ended with the PXM championship and a $50,000 purse for the victory.
Al-Balooshi had a bye to the semifinals because of his points title, following that with a strong 3.783 at 199 mph against Mahanna Al-Naimi in the semifinals.
That set up the marquee matchup most expected, as Al-Balooshi met the legendary “Iceman” in the finals.
Jenkins went 3.80 in the semifinals after a first-round win against Isaias Rojas, but was too quick off the line against Al-Balooshi.
It might not have mattered against Al-Balooshi and his team, which has raised the bar in Pro Nitrous all season.
“I don’t know what to say. I just can’t believe it,” tuner Brandon Switzer said. “I just want to thank everyone on our team and especially (Al-Balooshi). I have had the pleasure to work with a lot of the top drivers in Pro Nitrous and Al-Balooshi is one of them!
“I also want to thank Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani and the Country of Qatar for giving us this opportunity, along with everyone on this team for working so hard.”
Considering the record-breaking runs from Matt Smith and the strong racing all season from the likes of J.R. Todd and Alex Hossler, Von Smith and Tutterow were hardly the favorites on Friday.
But Tutterow was stout on the starting line, earning holeshot victories against Taylor in the first round and Matt Smith in the semifinals, running a 3.67 against Smith.
Von Smith, though, had his three runs come within a hundredth of a second of each other, going 3.656 in a first-round win against Joshua Hernandez and 3.646 at 210 mph in a holeshot win against Todd in the semifinals.
That set up a marquee matchup in the finals, but Smith’s consistency won out.
Speaking of consistency, Millen never strayed far from 3.80, going 3.811 in the semifinals against David Hance to set up what was an epic race with Taylor.
Schweigert, the No. 1 qualifier in PXM, seemed destined for his first World Championship after he went 4.117 in his semifinal victory against Matt Smith. But Al-Saber, who beat T.T. Jones and Rob Hunnicutt to advance to the finals, was too quick off the line, giving the Kuwaiti a chance to celebrate.

 

Friday’s final results from Round Eight and The Battle For The Belts at Qatar Racing Club. The race is the last of Eight in the Arabian Drag Racing League:
Pro Extreme Battle For The Belt— Von Smith, Camaro, 3.650, 209.92 def. Todd Tutterow, Camaro, 3.715, 208.30.
Pro Nitrous Battle For The Belt— Khalid Al-Balooshi, Camaro, 3.786, 199.70 def. Shannon Jenkins, Camaro, foul.
Pro Extreme Motorcycle Battle For The Belt— Meshal Al-Saber, Suzuki, 4.149, 168.64 def. Terry Schweigert, Suzuki, 4.137, 173.61.
Extreme 10.5 Battle For The Belt— Dan Millen, Ford Mustang, 3.800, 204.29 def. Frankie Taylor, Chevy Corvette, 3.879, 190.46.
 

February 17, 2011

Matt Smith, Jenkins Among Shootout Winners In Qatar

DOHA, QATAR (February 17, 2011) - A record-setting day for Matt Smith and his Pro Extreme team on Thursday ended with a win.
Now he’s hoping for an even bigger - and much more lucrative - victory on Friday at Qatar Racing Club (QRC).
With the Arabian Drag Racing League’s “Battle For The Belts” taking place on Friday, the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) sister league held a Chicago-style shootout on Thursday, offering $5,000 to the winners in Pro Extreme and Pro Nitrous, and $2,500 to winners in Extreme 10.5 and Pro Extreme Motorcycle.
It also served as a prelude for Friday’s championship race, which will award an unprecedented $100,000 to winners in PX and PN, and $50,000 to the champs in XTF and PXM.
Thursday was memorable, too, as Smith again grabbed everyone’s attention, going a record 3.558 at 212 miles per hour during his third run, topping Alex Hossler in the PX shootout finals.
“It was an unbelievable run. We’ve been working hard all year. We have a great team and Matt’s doing a great job driving,” Smith’s crew chief Frank Manzo said. “It’s very important to have a team that works together and we’re starting to make some consistent runs.
“We’ve started to learn the car more and more, and it’s starting to pay off. Right now we’ve got a good car.”
Competitors made two timed runs on Thursday, with the top two performances meeting in the shootout finals after that.
In Pro Nitrous, the two top performers all year - Khalid Al-Balooshi and Shannon Jenkins - met, with Jenkins taking the victory and the $5,000 after a red-light from the PN points leader.
David Hance beat Donald Thompson in the Extreme 10.5 finals after the two top performers - Frankie Taylor and Dan Millen - opted not to run in the shootout finals.
Mohd Borashid knocked off Billy Vose in the PXM finals with a 4.188.
Matt Smith’s 3.55 wrapped up an incredible day which started with an astonishing 3.57 at 211 mph.
Hossler nearly matched it, going a career-best 3.60 at 211 mph during his second timed run, but Smith followed with the quickest run in doorslammer history, obliterating a mark he set just a week ago.
Now, Manzo is hoping the team can replicate the effort on Friday. Smith will face Hossler in the first round of eliminations for the “Battle For The Belts,” and plenty will obviously be on the line.
“Friday is going to be a great race. We have eight great cars,” Manzo said. “There’s not going to be a dominant car. It’s going to be some great racing.
“It’s unreal and it’s going to be a special thing.”
Al-Balooshi went 3.79 against Jenkins, but the red-light start took away his opportunity for a clean sweep this weekend.
Jenkins went an impressive 3.80 at 198 mph and appears ready for Friday’s monumental opportunity.
“We will definitely give it all we have to win the championship,” Jenkins said
Al-Balooshi also promises he won’t make the same red-light error during the championship eliminations.
“It was my mistake, but I think it won’t be a problem. I hope to do the best (Friday) that I can do,” Al-Balooshi said. “I think Friday will be a good day for everybody and we hope to be in a good position (Friday).
Al-Balooshi’s tuner, Brandon Switzer, said the key for Friday will be not making too much of the moment or what is at stake.
“You run your program in your lane in eliminations. You don’t think about the 200 mph (mark) and you don’t think about the money,” Switzer said. “You have to act like that doesn’t even exist and you just try to win.”
Racing is set to begin at 5:30 a.m. EST on Friday at Qatar Racing Club with the race between the No. 7 and No. 8 qualifiers. The winner of that will earn a spot in the field, which will get a timed run to start the day before eliminations begin.

February 16, 2011

Round Eight At QRC Offers Biggest Payouts In Doorslammer History

DOHA, QATAR (February 16, 2011) - It’s not a stretch to call Friday’s Arabian Drag Racing League’s “Battle For The Belts” the most lucrative doorslammer race in drag racing history.
With the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL) sister league awarding $100,000 to the winner in both Pro Extreme and Pro Nitrous, and $50,000 to winners in Extreme 10.5 and Pro Extreme Motorcycle, there will be a great deal on the line during Friday’s Round Eight eliminations at Qatar Racing Club (QRC).
“It is going to be big,” said Pro Extreme driver Frankie Taylor, who won the 2010 ADRL World Championship. “I hope we can do well.”
Like the ADRL, the Arabian series uses the same innovative eight-spot elimination tournament to determine a world champion in each class. The points leader earns a bye into the semifinals, while the No. 7 and No. 8 finishers in points will race on Friday to earn a spot into the field.
The points winner after seven races also earns $50,000 in PX and PN, and $25,000 in XTF and PXM, in addition to earning an automatic spot in the semis.
That ensures J.R. Todd (Pro Extreme) and Khalid Al-Balooshi (Pro Nitrous) of at least $75,000 this weekend, as $25,000 is guaranteed to semifinal losers. Dan Millen (Extreme 10.5) and Terry Schweigert (Pro Extreme Motorcycle) are guaranteed $37,500, as $12,500 is paid out to semifinal losers in those classes.
In addition, there will also be a Shootout on Thursday in each class, which offers incentive for the three scheduled timed runs.
The top two quickest runs from the first two timed runs will square off in run three.
The winner of that race gets $5,000 in PX and PN, and the purse is $2,500 in PXM and XTF.
Each of the points winners has high hopes and Todd and Al-Balooshi could make as much as $175,000 this weekend should they win the Shootout, the World Championship and set - or keep - both the E.T. and speed records. Schweigert and Millen could earn up to $82,500.
Competitors who leave with record performances earn $10,000 for each record set in PX and PN, while $2,500 goes to competitors in XTF and PXM.
“The competitiveness in me is coming out and it’s time to finish the deal,” Todd said. “Hopefully we can come out on top.”
Currently, Al-Balooshi (3.781 and 199.76 miles per hour) and Millen (3.796, 204.20 mph) hold both ends of the record in their respective classes, while Schweigert (4.105) holds the E.T. record in PXM. Matt Smith currently has the records in PX (3.593, 211.76 mph).
The financial incentive, as well as the opportunity to win his first world title has motivated Schweigert all season.
“I’m really, really looking forward to this,” Schweigert said. “I think what I have to do is relax, stay focused, and concentrate. I have to be confident with what I’m doing and let it all happen.”
Millen and Taylor each have the opportunity to win titles in both ADRL series. Millen won his in XTF in October, and could meet Taylor on Friday in the finals of the class at QRC.
“I think it’s anybody’s race. It’s two competitive cars and Frankie knows what he’s doing,” Millen said. “I’m looking forward to it.”
Taylor and Matt Smith both could earn the most of anyone in Qatar, as they are racing in two classes. In addition to possibly winning two World Championships - they would come in PX and XTF for Taylor; Smiths’ win would come in PX and PXM - one could earn as much as $182,500 should they win in both classes, take the Shootout and set both records.
Smith has come on strong in the two divisions and is relishing the chance to win twice.
“The bike’s good, so all in all, we’re ready,” Smith said. “We’re going to try as hard as we can to double up.”
Pro Nitrous will provide plenty of exciting action as well, as Al-Balooshi, who has four event win this year, and Shannon Jenkins traded records last week during Round Seven.
Both are ready for an intense two-day stretch in Qatar.
“We will definitely give it all we have to win the championship next week,” Jenkins said. “You can bet we’re going after the record, but that’s not all. We’re going after that championship.  It’s going to be a good fight, that’s for sure.”
Al-Balooshi’s tuner, Brandon Switzer said: “The competition is getting tight and everybody is running good numbers, so it’s going to make for some really good racing.”
Thursday’s timed runs for the Shootout begin at 2 p.m. local time at QRC, while action on Friday starts at the same time with the No. 7/No. 8 matchups in each class.

 

February 16, 2011

First-Round Matchups, Notes For Round 8 In Qatar

The following is a list of the top eight qualifiers in each class and how the first-round matchups will stack up.


PRO EXTREME

No. 7 Qualifier Todd Tutterow will race No. 8 qualifier Mike Stawicki to earn a spot in the field.

No. 1 - J.R. Todd finished atop the points standings and will receive a first-round bye
No. 2 - Frankie Taylor will face the winner of Tutterow and Stawicki
No. 3 - Alex Hossler will face No. 6 Qualifier Matt Smith
No. 4 - Von Smith will face No. 5 Qualifier Joshua Hernandez

No. 1 Todd will race the Von Smith/Hernandez winner in the semifinals.
The Hossler/Matt Smith winner will race the Taylor/Tutterow/Stawicki winner in the semifinals.

Notes: Todd, Taylor and Hossler each have two event wins. Hernandez won the season-opening race.

 

PRO NITROUS
No. 7 Qualifier Isaias Rojas will race No. 8 qualifier Edward Wilson to earn a spot in the field.

No. 1 - Khalid Al-Balooshi finished atop the points standings and will receive a first-round bye
No. 2 - Shannon Jenkins will face the winner of Rojas and Wilson
No. 3 - Khaled Mohamed will face No. 6 Qualifier Ali Alkaabi
No. 4 - Burton Auxier will face No. 5 Qualifier Mahanna Al-Naimi

No. 1 Al-Balooshi will race the Auxier/Al-Naimi winner in the semifinals.
The Mohamed/Alkaabi winner will race the Jenkins/Rojas/Wilson winner in the semifinals.

Notes: Al-Balooshi has won four races this season, while Shannon Jenkins has two. Mohamed won the first even of the year.

EXTREME 10.5
No. 7 Qualifier Donald Thompson will race No. 8 Qualifier Seed Aljasim to earn a spot in the field.

No. 1 - Dan Millen finished atop the points standings and will receive a first-round bye
No. 2 - Frankie Taylor will face the winner of Thompson and Aljasim
No. 3 - Brian Britt will face No. 6 Qualifier Scott Christoffll
No. 4 - David Hance will face No. 5 Qualifier Tyler Miller

No. 1 Millen will race the Hance/Miller winner in the semifinals.
The Britt/Christoffl winner will race the Taylor/Thompson/Aljasim winner in the semifinals.

Notes: Millen has won the last two events while Taylor won the first in the shortened XTF season.

 

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE
No. 7 Qualifier Billy Vose will race No. 8 Qualifier Mohammed Al-Darwish to earn a spot in the field.

No. 1 - Terry Schweigert finished atop the points standings and will receive a first-round bye
No. 2 - Rob Hunnicutt will face the winner of Vose and Al-Darwish
No. 3 - Meshal Al-Saber will face No. 6 Qualifier T.T. Jones
No. 4 - Matt Smith will face No. 5 Qualifier Mohammad Bo-Rashid

Schweigert will race the Smith/Bo-Rashid winner in the semifinals.
The Al-Saber/Jones winner will face the Hunnicutt/Vose/Al-Darwish winner in the semifinals.

Notes: Hunnicutt and Bo-Rashid both have two wins this year, while Smith, Schweigert and Al-Saber have one apiece.

 

February 15, 2011

 

PSI Superchargers On Board With The ADRL For 2011 Season

 

O’FALLON, MO (February 9, 2010) - PSI Superchargers President and Co-Owner Roger Olander has been continually impressed by the growth of the American Drag Racing League (ADRL).
Now, the popular and growing supercharger manufacturing company will be working closer than ever with the nation’s premier 1/8-mile drag racing league.
The ADRL announced on Wednesday that PSI Superchargers have signed on as a sponsor for the 2011 season, which begins on March 25-26 with CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
In addition, the company, which boasts a number of consumers in the Extreme 10.5 and Pro Extreme classes, will also be a contingency sponsor for Pro Extreme and Extreme 10.5, the two fastest classes in the ADRL.
“The ADRL is absolutely a great series and it’s been amazing to watch it develop and mature,” Olander said. “What the ADRL has done with its participation and crowd, it is just so cool.
“They’re really about racing and watching good cars, and taking care of people who come through the door. It’s what racing should be like.”
PSI’s top of the line products are currently used by 2010 ADRL World Champions Frankie Taylor (Pro Extreme) and Dan Millen (Extreme 10.5), along with the likes of two-time Pro Extreme World Champion Jason Scruggs, Pro Extreme standout Joshua Hernandez and Extreme 10.5 driver Chuck Ulsch, who holds the world speed record in the class, in addition to many other top drivers.
“These guys run the best products we’ve ever designed,” Olander said. “They’ve embraced our product and that’s huge.
“We have the baddest blower out there and that’s why they run it.”
Olander said he thoroughly enjoys the innovative Extreme 10.5 class and working with the ADRL has allowed his company to grow alongside the racing league that is now entering its seventh season.
The growth of the ADRL has helped allow PSI to make tremendous strides as well, including the introduction of a new website (www.psisuperchargers.com) that will allow anyone to purchase its products.
It’s an avenue the company has never explored, but Olander is looking forward to seeing what happens because of it.
“Before, our products were only for top-end racers, but now we’ve also moved into a market where the average person can afford it,” Olander said. “People can jump on our website and see what we have, and it allows us to broaden our wheelbase.
“Working with the ADRL has helped to open up an avenue we’ve never had before.”
The growing and genial relationship has both parties excited about the possibilities for the 2011 ADRL Tour.
“We are thrilled to be working even more closely with Roger and everyone at PSI,” ADRL Vice President of Sales and Marketing Brian Evans said.
“They are a proven winner in the industry and a popular brand for many of the talented drivers in the ADRL.”
Olander is just as eager for the 2011 campaign to begin.
“The ADRL is going in a great direction and I’m excited for it,” Olander said. “It’s a great connection for us.”








Tommy D’Aprile’s New PX Corvette!

The new car pics keep coming and your agent loves every single one of them.
The latest comes from popular Pro Extreme driver Tommy D’Aprile and Mel Bush Motorsports, which also had the following note attached:

Tommy D’Aprile and Mel Bush Motorsports experienced some bad luck in 2010, but the outlook for the team is looking up.
Mel Bush Motorsports will be debuting a new PX car after a trailer fire on the way to the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals VI at Texas Motorplex. Here is the first peek at the design for the C5 Corvette being built by Larry Jeffers Pro Cars.
“I feel like this is a new beginning and we have the right equipment, the right tuner with Quain Stott returning, and the right crew and driver. The sky is the limit for this team,” D’Aprile said.

Your agent is certainly impressed with the new Corvette and he can’t wait to see the finished product.

January 27, 2011

MIke Janis, Jeff Fortune Guests On Tonight’s “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

Your agent thinks a lot is going to be accomplished tonight.

He is excited to report that ADRL Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune and Pro Extreme standout Mike Janis will be the featured guests on “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” which is presented by Summit Racing Equipment every Thursday at 9 p.m. EST on www.ADRL.us and www.blogtalkradio.com/adrldragracinglive.   

Fortune will be on to address some of the new policies that were recently instituted by the ADRL for the 2011 season, as well as all the exciting news on the horizon as the ADRL preps for its season-opener in March.
Your agent is also looking forward to hearing Janis as he returns to the ADRL’s PX division. Hosts Bret Kepner and Josh Hachat will also talk to Janis about his new partnerships with Andy McCoy Race Cars and Alan Johnson Performance Engineering.

Kepner and Hachat will keep you posted on the latest happenings in the ADRL and in Qatar, giving you one more   reason to tune in. Hachat also leads a lively chat during the show, so don’t miss out on the show that gets bigger every week!

January 27, 2011

XPS’ Boone Recovering After Successful Surgery

Your agent was grateful of the following news that was just sent to him moments ago:

ADRL Extreme Pro Stock (XPS) driver Steven Boone has had successful surgery to remove a tumor from his kidney.  The tumor was found while having his routine physical in preparation for the upcoming 2011 ADRL Tour.  The surgery was performed on January 26 at a local hospital in western North Carolina.  A full recovery is expected and Steven and the team will be ready for the first ADRL event in March.

That’s great news to hear and certainly everyone at the ADRL wishes Boone a speedy recovery. The talented XPS driver won his first ADRL event in 2010 and he is without a doubt an up and coming driver in the competitive XPS ranks.
It’s wonderful to hear that the surgery went well and also that Boone hopes to be ready for the season-opener on March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.

January 26, 2011

Sponsorship Nearly Set For Dragpalooza

Your agent is hearing that the title and presenting sponsors for the upcoming Dragpalooza VII at Royal Purple Raceway are nearly set, and from what he has been told, there is some exciting news that is about to be revealed.

Of course, the 2011 ADRL Tour starts March 25-26 with Dragpalooza VII at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas, and the official title of the event will likely be released in the coming days, perhaps as early as the weekend.
Stay tuned to www.ADRL.us for the official announcement, but your agent can confirm that there will be a title and presenting sponsor for the season-opening race for 2011.

(Photo by ADRL/Richards)

January 24, 2011

Watch New Event This Week With ADRL’s Video Series

A new week means a new video as the ADRL’s “Video of the Day” continues to get bigger. We’re sticking with July as we re-trace the record-breaking 2010 season.
Monday’s video features Extreme Pro Stock from the awesome double-event in Baytown, Texas. This week, we will go through the conclusion of UTI Dragpalooza presented by Safety-Kleen, which started in March and concluded in July after rain postponed the finish.

Like all the events from the 2010 season, this is an event you won’t want to miss reliving this week. John Montecalvo gets center stage on Monday as the weekend in Baytown eventually led to two wins.

Of course, each day on www.ADRL.us, the ADRL will release a video from one of its five classes that took place at one of the ADRL’s thrilling events in 2010.
Tuesday will feature Pro Extreme Motorcycle and Travis Davis’ win, while Billy Glidden’s Extreme 10.5 win will be highlighted on Wednesday. On Thursday, you can watch Rickie Smith win in Pro Nitrous, while Frankie Taylor’s hometown victory in Pro Extreme will get the spotlight.

These videos are something else and a great addition to your day. They include the best runs from every round of eliminations from every class for each event, as well as behind the scenes features that include instant replays, interviews in the pits, winner’s circle reactions and all the fun-filled, can’t-miss action that has made the ADRL the top eighth-mile series in the world.

 

January 22, 2011

Carpenter Inducted Into N.C. Hall Of Fame

Your agent is happy to pass on some incredible photos from Saturday, where the legendary Pro Nitrous driver Charles Carpenter was inducted into the North Carolina Drag Racing Hall Of Fame.
This is an amazing honor and your agent was excited to receive some photos from the wonderful Roger Richards.

 

January 21, 2011

Video, Photo From RJ Race Cars Of Shannon Jenkins’ New PN Car!

The “Iceman” won’t debut it until the ADRL gets to Houston for the start of its 2011 Tour (March 25-26), but the ADRL’s good friends over at RJ Race Cars have released a very cool video and photo that gives you a glimpse of Shannon Jenkins’ new Pro Nitrous Camaro.

In a word, wow, because that looks amazing. That paint job is something else and your agent likes how Rick Jones and everyone else at RJ Race Cars incorporated a little more black into the Al-Anabi Racing theme.
Check out the video, too and your agent can’t wait to see this one in person in a couple months.




January 27, 2011

RJ Race Cars, Quarter-Max Named Major Sponsor For 2011 ADRL Tour

O’FALLON, MO (January 27, 2011) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is pleased to announce RJ Race Cars and Quarter-Max Chassis & Racing Components as a new major sponsor for the 2011 season.
With nearly 25 years in the drag racing business, RJ Race Cars is widely-regarded as one of the top complete chassis fabrication shops and parts manufacturers in the business.
Owner and President Rick Jones is thrilled with the new partnership, which will also include a number of exciting future announcements.
“The ADRL has a great family atmosphere that I really like and there are so many people at each event,” Jones said. “It’s a great place for a lot of these racers and I think the future is going to be great. There is such a great atmosphere at these races.
“This will be good for us because it will generate more business for us, but it’s a win for our customers and also gives the ADRL another business partner. It’s good all the way around.”
RJ Race Cars, which recently debuted a new PN car for Al-Anabi racing driver and class legend Shannon Jenkins, will have a strong and noticeable presence at each ADRL race, starting with the season-opening race on March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas
They will be in attendance for every event with a support trailer, offering parts and assistance to the teams and racers at all of the 2011 ADRL Tour stops. RJ Race Cars will also provide contingency for its customers.
“We are thrilled to have RJ Race Cars as a major sponsor in the ADRL. Rick and his team are dedicated to making unbelievable race cars and working with the ADRL will be the perfect scenario for everyone,” ADRL VP of Sales and Marketing Brian Evans said.
“They are a great business partner and they will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the ADRL racers in 2011.”
After spending considerable time as a sponsor in the NHRA while his son, Rickie, raced in the Pro Stock division, Rick Jones was left impressed with the ADRL after attending a number of races in 2010.
Coming from a Pro Stock background, Jones was also thoroughly impressed with the remarkable doorslammer racing in the nation’s premier eighth-mile drag racing league.
“There is nothing cooler than fast doorslammers going down the track,” Jones said. “With all of these different car styles, it’s a really, really exciting place to be.”
RJ Race Cars has also quickly moved into building more Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5 and Pro Extreme cars.
“It’s something new for us and it’s definitely a new chapter for our company,” Jones said. “It’s going to be very cool and we really wanted to move into the this market. We thought coming on board with the ADRL would be a natural fit and we’re very excited.”
In addition to being a sponsor, Jones’ son, Rickie, will also be racing in the class for the first time.
He participated in two Extreme Pro Stock (XPS) races in 2010 and the challenge of performing in a new and highly-competitive PN class is another aspect that has Rick Jones eager for the 2011 season.
“We’ve never raced nitrous before, but it’s going to be something we’re going to have a lot of fun with,” Jones said. “I think Rickie will adapt well.”


 

January 27, 2011

ADRL Exec. VP Jeff Fortune, PX’s Mike Janis To Appear On “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

O’FALLON, MO (Jan. 27, 2011) - American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune and Pro Extreme standout Mike Janis will the be featured guests on the ADRL’s weekly online show, “ADRL Drag Racing Live,” presented by Summit Racing Equipment.
The entertaining 60-minute show airs live every Thursday at 9 p.m. EST on the ADRL website, www.ADRL.us and also on www.blogtalkradio.com/adrldragracinglive. Every archived show is available on-demand on the ADRL website as well.
“ADRL Drag Racing Live” is hosted by ADRL Television personality Bret Kepner and ADRL Director of Media and Communications Josh Hachat. They break down the latest news and happenings in the ADRL and the Arabian Drag Racing League, and it is the only weekly show that is 100 percent devoted to the ADRL and Arabian Series.
Fortune, the longtime Executive VP of the ADRL, will talk about some of the new policy changes in the ADRL, along with all the exciting news regarding the organization as it prepares to start the 2011 ADRL Tour at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
Janis, a doorslammer standout who has two career ADRL wins, will comment on his return to the remarkable ADRL Pro Extreme division, as well as his new partnerships with ADRL sponsor Andy McCoy Race Cars (AMRC) and Alan Johnson Performance Engineering (AJPE), plus much, much more.
Thursday’s broadcast will look ahead to February’s three races at Qatar Racing Club (QRC) in Qatar as well. Round Six of the Arabian Series starts Feb. 3-4.

January 26, 2011

ADRL Adds Ford Safety Truck, Technician Staff For 2011 Season

O’FALLON, MO (January 26, 2011) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is excited to announce the development of a new track safety program that includes a fully-customized, state-of-the-art safety truck, a full contingent of emergency equipment and the addition of two new safety technicians for the 2011 season.
Working closely with Ford, The Official Vehicle of the ADRL, the world’s top eighth-mile drag racing league will innovatively utilize a new Ford F-150 two-wheel drive extended cab with a short bed (6-foot), all powered by the new award-wining EcoBoost engine, for use during the 2011 ADRL Tour, which begins March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.
The high-tech Ford truck will be equipped with a full array of track safety gear, ensuring that the ADRL will have the top and latest safety equipment available in order to provide the utmost security to the ADRL’s drivers and teams.
It is also a continued sign of the growing and close partnership between the ADRL and Ford Racing, which is once again a top sponsor for the 2011 ADRL Tour.
“Safety is our top priority in the ADRL.  This new safety program is another sign of our commitment to the drivers and our desire to provide them with the best environment to race,” ADRL Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune said. 
“With the assistance and support of Ford Racing and Tim McAmis Race Cars (TMRC), the ADRL is putting the finest equipment and most experienced personnel in position to make a significant difference in any emergency situation.”
Two experienced and well-trained technicians, Denny Bahm and Doug Barnes, who both bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to the position, will also be officially named the two lead safety technicians for the ADRL Ford Safety Truck.
The duo is currently working at the Qatar Racing Club in Doha, Qatar as part of the Arabian Drag Racing League. Combined, the safety veterans have more than 35 years of experience as emergency medical technicians, firefighters, as well as a successful tenure in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA).
“Their knowledge and experience has already paid off in Qatar and we are thrilled to have them heading our safety team in the ADRL,” Fortune said. “Their presence, along with the new state-of-the-art safety equipment will give our racers and teams even greater piece of mind during our thrilling national events.”
The Ford F-150 boasts a new 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, offering best in it class towing capability and torque, along with outstanding fuel economy.
In addition to the safety truck, a Hurst ML 50 extraction cutter and power unit for cutting the chassis during extraction has also been obtained for the 2011 season.
Among the featured equipment on the Ford safety truck will be six CO2 fire extinguishers. The fire system and reel will hold nearly 100 gallons of cold fire and water, and Tim McAmis Race Cars (TMRC) is building it with the help of the ADRL track prep and maintenance staff, Larry, Cale and Cody Crispe.
“We care deeply about the racers and want everyone to be confident that we are providing the safest possible environment for them to compete and enjoy our events,” Fortune said.

January 25, 2011

ADRL Releases New Rainout Policy To Go Into Effect For 2011 Tour

O’FALLON, MO (January 25, 2011) - The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) has announced that it will implement a new rainout policy, which will go in effect with the first race of the 2011 season. 
Adverse weather conditions are an unfortunate hardship on all involved in the sport and the ADRL appreciates the continued cooperation and support of all participants, tracks, sponsors and fans during the implementation of this new policy

In the event of rain or other adverse conditions that delay or cause an event cancellation, the following new policies will now go into effect:

• If two or more rounds of qualifying have been completed but eliminations are unable to begin, then 100 points plus qualifying points will be awarded to the top 16 qualifiers in each class, and the event will be considered complete.

• If two qualifying sessions are unable to be completed and no elimination rounds are completed, the event will be considered canceled. All racers with an event tech card will receive 25 points for participation.

• If any elimination rounds are completed prior to an event being declared a rainout, points and payouts will be awarded to that point in the contest under the normal system and the event will be declared complete.

All qualifying points and payouts from the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals VI, which took place at Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas on October 22-23, 2010, will be awarded under this new system and the race is considered to be officially completed.

Payouts from the World Finals in Ennis will be available at the first race of the 2011 season, which takes place March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.  All 16 qualifiers in each class will receive qualifying payout plus 100 points and qualifying points. Additionally, all participants with a tech card will receive 25 participation points. For this event only - the ADRL will pay qualifying money even though no elimination rounds had been completed as stated in the new policy.

The ADRL will continue its policy of not racing on Sundays and in no case will an event be carried over or completed at a later date. 

 

January 25, 2011

Coffman Tank Trucks Named Associate Sponsor For Rickie Smith Racing

Rickie Smith Racing (RSR) is pleased to announce that Coffman Tank Trucks will join forces with legendary driver Rickie Smith for the 2011 race season.
Smith, a longtime American Drag Racing League (ADRL) standout in Pro Nitrous, is looking forward to the 2011 ADRL Tour with Coffman Tank Trucks now on board as an associate sponsor.
“I am so excited to have J.D. and Terrisa Coffman as part of my racing team,” Smith said. “They are great people and I intend for our relationship to last a long time.”
The good news didn’t stop there for Smith, who entered last year’s Speedtech “Battle For The Belts” as the points leader in the highly-competitive Pro Nitrous class.
Larry Tutterow has also extended his associate sponsorship with Rickie Smith Racing for the 2011 season as well, extending a partnership with Smith that Tutterow and Carolina Drilling have thoroughly enjoyed for the past 22 years.
“I would also like to say thank you to Larry Tutterow and Carolina Drilling for the amount of support they have showed me the last 22 years,” Smith said. “I could not have done it without Larry and Carolina Drilling.”
Smith is coming off of a strong 2010 ADRL season that saw him win three races.
All of them came in consecutive races as Smith won a double-race weekend in Baytown, Texas, following that up with a win at the Hardee’s Independence Drags, which were completed at Gateway International Raceway.
In all, Smith went to four finals in 2010, advancing to the semifinals of the “Battle For The Belts.”
The 2011 ADRL Tour begins on March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, and, thanks in part to the new sponsorship from Coffman Tank Trucks and the renewed sponsorship from Carolina Drilling, Smith has his sights set on a World Championship in a Pro Nitrous class that will be as deep as ever.

January 24, 2011

Two-Car Team of Hossler, Todd Looking Forward To 2011 ADRL Season

O’FALLON, MO (January 24, 2011) - While he did not race a year ago, J.R. Todd spent plenty of time at American Drag Racing League (ADRL) events in 2010.
One of his usual stops was the pit of Pro Extreme driver Alex Hossler, where the duo talked, hung out and quickly became good friends.
That friendship turned into a partnership as they now form a two-car Pro Extreme team headed by Rob Flynn, Mike Guger and Al-Anabi Racing.
As teammates, the relationship has been just as fruitful and each has made quite an impact in the Arabian Drag Racing League, winning a combined three races. Todd, a former Top Fuel standout in the NHRA, has proven to be quick-learner in his stunning ‘57 Chevy, winning two races, while Hossler won the latest race at Qatar Racing Club (QRC).
Todd is currently in the points lead for the 2010-2011 with three races remaining, and the strong winter already has the team thinking big for the 2011 ADRL Tour.
“Hopefully we can pick up where we left off in Qatar here in the U.S.,” Todd said. “We’re going to run both cars and do whatever it takes to get them both in the ‘Battle For The Belts.’ Just to qualify in the ADRL is going to be a tough chore, but I’m looking forward to racing with (Hossler) here in the states. We both work together well and that’s what it takes.”
Todd struck up a friendship with Al-Anabi owner KH Al-Thani, which led to Todd attending a number of ADRL races during the 2010 season.
That eventually led to an offer to drive a PX car and his fast friendship with Hossler helped it become a two-car team.
Hossler has also enjoyed how the two cars have operated, as team has been behind every decision.
“We’re definitely doing it the right way,” Hossler said. “We trade information and we’re swapping parts back and forth, seeing how they react differently with engine combinations.
“It’s been awesome. I know if I can’t win, I want to see my teammate do well.”
Todd shares a similar notion and that teamwork is a key reason why the ultra-talented driver has gotten off to such a hot start in his Pro Extreme career.
Consistently putting up times in the low-to-mid 3.6s, Todd won Round Two at QRC, adding a second victory two races later.
He compared his Garrett Livingston-built ‘57 Chevy, which he admitted is a real “head-turner,” to a Cadillac in terms of how well it has performed, and Todd has already exceeded his own expectations in Qatar.
“I’ve definitely been blown away with the results we’ve had so far,” Todd said. “These cars have always been appealing to me and when I got offered to drive one, I couldn’t turn it down.
”(The team) kind of thinks outside the box and things seem to work for us. It’s been a dream to drive and we haven’t missed a beat yet. It’s been a win-win all the way around.”
Hossler finally overcame a flurry of minor frustrations to win Round Five in Qatar, putting up a career-best 3.62 at more than 210 miles per hour in the process.
He has been impressed with the job Flynn and Guger have done, as they’ve pushed the envelope while still enabling his car to go down the track. Todd’s laid-back and easygoing attitude has also meshed well with Hossler’s intense personality.
“He’s super cool and he’s proven winner for sure,” Hossler said. “He’s already proven that in a door car. It’s always going to help (me) succeed being around people like that.”
Reaching the 3.5s is the next goal for both and, like Todd, Hossler is excited to see what the 2011 ADRL Tour will hold for the two-car team.
“There’s a lot of good cars out there,” Hossler said. “It’s going to be real tough, but it’s going to be fun.”

 

January 22, 2011

Mike Janis’ New PX Car For 2011 Tour Coming From AMRC

MOORESVILLE, NC (January 22, 2010) - Mike Janis, who competed on the ADRL Tour in 2009 and earned two wins, will return to ADRL Competition in 2011 behind the wheel of an Andy McCoy Race Cars 1970 Plymouth Duster. The AMRC Duster will be propelled by the newly designed Alan Johnson Performance Engineering 5300 Hemi.
“Our association with AJPE has afforded us the opportunity to partner with several new people and companies,” crew chief Mike Janis Jr. said. “One such example is Andy McCoy of Andy McCoy Race Cars. Andy’s progressive ideas about chassis design will help us with this new venture. We will campaign the AMRC ‘70 Duster for the 2011 ADRL season, utilizing many of Andy’s latest technologies.”
McCoy, who has also signed on as an ADRL sponsor for 2011, is thrilled about the partnership with the ADRL and with a talented team like Janis Racing.
“We are very excited to work with such a talented group of guys. Mike Jr., with his tuning talents, and Big Mike’s resume as a driver make them a force to be reckoned with,” McCoy said. “This is a real honor for me to team up with Mike and his team. This opportunity will help others to see what we at AMRC can do. Myself and my guys are committed to help make this association a success.”
Mike Janis, who is the team owner and driver, has big plans for his ADRL return as well. The association with Alan Johnson and Andy McCoy Race Cars was unexpected, but Janis jumped at what he thought was a golden opportunity.
“Opportunities like this don’t come around often.  To be able to work with someone like Alan Johnson is an honor for myself and my team,” Janis said. “To add to that, the opportunity to become involved with Andy McCoy and his forward thinking is a dream come true for any racer.”
Janis will soon take delivery of his new ride and the team has plans for testing in early March.
The 2011 ADRL Tour will begin March 25-26 at Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown, Texas.

For more information on the new AJPE 5300 Hemi check out: http://www.alanjohnsonperformance.com/

For more information on Andy McCoy Race Cars and his radical Plymouth Duster go to: http://www.andymccoyracecars.com/

 

January 21, 2011

Taylor’s Double-Duty Could Continue During 2011 ADRL Tour

DOHA, QATAR (January 20, 2011) - Frankie Taylor’s competitive nature doesn’t usually lead to grins after a loss in Pro Extreme.
But, when you’re racing in two classes like Taylor is in Qatar for the Arabian Drag Racing League, a second opportunity at a happy ending is seemingly always right around the corner.
The difficult task of preparing two cars to race in two different divisions paid off in Round Five, as Taylor, the 2010 American Drag Racing League (ADRL) PX World Champion, won in his debut in Extreme 10.5.
“We were debating all week if we should run the yellow Corvette with smaller tires on it or not”, Taylor said.  “With having so much 10.5 experience on our crew with Billy (Stocklin) and Kenny (Hubbard), we thought it would be fun to give it a shot.
“I’m glad we did.” 
After qualifying in the No. 2 spot with a pass of 4.01 - impressive enough considering this was Taylor’s first weekend racing on the smaller tires - Taylor went 3.96 in two elimination round victories, advancing to the finals against 2010 American Drag Racing League (ADRL) XTF World Champion Dan Millen.
Millen had a great time but had a red light, giving the win to Taylor, who went an impressive 3.93.
“Don’t get me wrong, our main focus is on the black Corvette and winning the Pro Extreme class,” Taylor said. “But we will be pushing the yellow car in the XTF class as well and hopefully we’ll be running in the 3.80s at the next race.”
In a great drag race, Taylor’s 3.65 lost to Matt Smith’s 3.63 in the first round of PX eliminations in Round Five. That kept him second in the points standings, where he is currently 302 points behind J.R. Todd with the three-race February swing remaining. 
Taylor was disappointed with the loss to Smith, but he remains confident good things are coming.
“Maybe it all will work out good with both cars in the end. Little stuff keeps biting us with the black car, but we’re racing against the baddest people on the planet,” Taylor said. “Maybe it’s not our turn to win right now with the black car. Hopefully we will get it all figured out and win the next race or two.”
Meanwhile, the Extreme 10.5 championship points standing has Taylor only one point behind Dan Millen.  With only a few races left on the schedule, February will be full of excitement for the Taylor team. 
The double-duty may also continue stateside as well, which would be quite the story if it happens during the 2011 ADRL Tour, which starts at Taylor’s hometown track, Royal Purple Raceway, on March 25-26 in Baytown, Texas.
“We are not ruling out running two classes in the American Drag Racing League next year”, Frankie said while grinning.  “It all depends on whether a sponsor will step up. We would like to wrap both cars in time for Baytown if someone is interested.”






January 3, 2011

New ADRL Video Of The Day!

The holiday season might be officially over, but the ADRL is staying festive with its ongoing video of the day.
Monday’s video, like it will every Monday until the start of the 2011 season,  features Extreme Pro Stock. After showing the Hardee’s Georgia Drags last week, this week’s featured video is the Speedtech U.S. Drags III, which were completed in May in Virginia.

The LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals were featured first in the ADRL’s ongoing video series, while the incredible event from Virginia will be featured all this week. The XPS action from Richmond details Brian Gahm’s run to the title, so your agent suggests checking that one out.

Of course, each day on www.ADRL.us, the ADRL will release a video from one of its five classes that took place at one of the ADRL’s thrilling events in 2010.
Next week, Jan. 10 through 14, will feature the Summer Drags from Michigan.
Mondays are reserved for Extreme Pro Stock, while Pro Extreme Motorcycle runs on Tuesday and Extreme 10.5 goes every Wednesday.
Thursday always spotlights Pro Nitrous while every Friday is reserved for Pro Extreme.
These videos are something else and a great addition to your day. They include the best runs from every round of eliminations from every class for each event, as well as behind the scenes features that include instant replays, interviews in the pits, winner’s circle reactions and all the fun-filled, can’t-miss action that has made the ADRL the top eighth-mile series in the world.

December 31, 2010

“2010 Doorslammies” Part II

Your agent likes celebrations, he likes awards and, considering it is the giving season, he thought he would hand out a few himself.
After a great start, here’s part II of the “2010 Doorslammies.” Enjoy!

Best Personality: Frankie Taylor, Pro Extreme. Taylor can drive but he can also spin a good yarn. Simply wind him up and Taylor can go for hours, rattling off one entertaining story after another.
Honorable Mention: Alex Hossler, Kim Morrell, John Montecalvo.

Biggest Wow: Rockingham records. Nearly everything was obliterated on this weekend. Taylor went 3.59 in Pro Extreme, Shannon Jenkins broke the record in Pro Nitrous, Dan Millen did it in Extreme 10.5 with an otherworldly performance and Ashley Owens wowed everyone with a 4.02 in Pro Extreme Motorcycle.

Best First-Time Win: KH Al-Thani, Pro Extreme. A lot of hype and a lot of fanfare came with Al-Thani’s arrival to the American Pro Extreme ranks and he responded in just his second race, beating Joshua Hernandez in the finals in Richmond.
Honorable Mention - Jim Laurita, Mick Snyder, Lee Adkins.

Best Rally: Dan Millen, Extreme 10.5. Millen was an afterthought even as late as August, but how those final two months came together. To be certain, Millen was untouchable in September and October en route to a World Championship.
Honorable Mention: Doug Riesterer, Pro Nitrous.

Best Home Track Performance: Tie between Alex Hossler, Taylor and Hernandez. Taylor and Hernandez both won in Houston, while Hossler celebrated his PX win in front of a huge group of friends and family in St. Louis.

Biggest Helping Hand: The Barklage family to Pro Extreme driver Tommy D’Aprile. After D’Aprile’s trailer caught fire en route to Texas Motorplex, his weekend looked to be a wash. But the Barklage family drove through the night and worked through the night while lending D’Aprile their PX car. It was an awesome act of kindness.

Best Father-Son Moment: Ty and Todd Tutterow. Ty won Pro Junior Dragster at Dragstock while Todd celebrated near the starting line. Moments later Todd celebrated a Pro Extreme win, giving the entire family something special to cheer about on one memorable night.

Biggest Underdog Moment: Pro Nitrous, Ohio Drags. Jim Laurita ended a wild day with his first career win, but it was preceded by numerous class standouts - Shannon Jenkins, Rickie Smith, Burton Auxier to name a few - not even qualifying in the field.

Best Birthday Performance: Jenkins, Pro Nitrous. A day after celebrating his birthday in Virginia, Jenkins wrapped up a memorable weekend by claiming the title as well.

Best Rehabilitation: Dean Goforth, Extreme Pro Stock. Goforth could have won twice. First, he came back from a leg injury in meteoric fashion to race six weeks later. Then, in October, Goforth miraculously returned from a horrific top-end crash in Tulsa to race at Texas Motorplex.

Best Rush Job: Todd Moyer, Extreme 10.5 Moyer had his own trouble in Tulsa, as his car went up in flames and nearly everything had to be rebuilt in less than a week. Somehow Moyer got it done in time to race at the World Championships.

Best Innovation: Live Online Broadcasts. Thanks to LenMar Motorsports, every pass from every race was broadcast live on the ADRL website. This incredible development led to huge numbers watching ADRL events live online.
Honorable Mention: New Track Prep Equipment.

Questions for 2011: How many Pro Extreme drivers will reach the 3.5s? Will there be any 3-second runs in Extreme Pro Stock and/or Pro Extreme Motorcycle? What ADRL newcomer will have the biggest impact? Will anyone be able to repeat their celebration in Ennis?

Your agent can’t wait to find out the answers. Bring on 2011!

December 30, 2010

“2010 Doorslammies” Part I

Your agent likes celebrations, he likes awards and, considering it is the giving season, he thought he would hand out a few himself.
On that to-the-point note, your agent is proud to present to you the “Doorslammies,” which is your agent’s unique way of looking at some of the best moments of the 2010 ADRL season. There are some offbeat categories, as well as the usual suspects, so your agent hopes you enjoy.
Part I is today and features 12 awards, while Part II greets us on New Year’s Eve with 12 more awards. It’s really the perfect way to bring in 2011, so without further ado, your agent gives you the “2010 Doorslammies.”

Best Drag Race: Joshua Hernandez and Frankie Taylor made history with the quickest side-by-side race in ADRL history, with both going 3.65 or better. Hernandez won by a mere three feet.
Honorable mention: John Montecalvo and Pete Berner both going 4.071 in the “Battle For The Belts” finals.

Biggest Heartwarming Moment: Pro Extreme driver Jason Scruggs dedicating his win at the Hardee’s Georgia Drags to the family of Mike Walker after Mike’s tragic passing after an accident in the pits.
Honorable mention: Pro Nitrous’ Rickie Smith dedicating a win to his father, who passed away before the Gateway Drags in August.

Biggest Upset: Kim Morrell doing the seemingly unthinkable and that was upsetting Ashley Owens in the finals of the “Battle For The Belts.” Owens accomplished nearly everything in 2010, but Morrell’s miracle gave her the championship belt.

Best Record Performance: Chuck Ulsch at Gateway. Ulsch thrilled the sold-out night crowd, going an incredible, record-breaking 206.35 miles per hour in the finals of his Extreme 10.5 win.

Best Track Atmosphere: It’s sad to say since it is now shut down, but Gateway had an incredible vibe all weekend in 2010. The crowd was massive, the racing was great and it ended up being an awesome two days.
Honorable mention: Rockingham Dragway is always festive, while fans in Martin braved the rain. Richmond also had a noticeable energy.

Best rivalry: It took its first step in 2010 as Joshua Hernandez and KH Al-Thani put together some great duels. Now that Hernandez is with Bahrain Racing, expect an even bigger rivalry between Bahrain and Al-Anabi Racing as both companies boast some of the top names in the ADRL.

Best Early-Season Performance: Gary White, Extreme 10.5. White advanced to one finals and then won two straight races in May and June, putting him way out in front of the pack in a field that came on strong to end the year. 

Best Summer Performance: John Montecalvo, Extreme Pro Stock. So much for not enjoying the summer heat. That was Montecalvo’s feeling before 2010, but it likely changed after Montecalvo won four straight races in a stretch that spanned from June through August.

Most Dominant Performance: Ashley Owens, Pro Extreme Motorcycle. Owens was better than anyone has ever been in the ADRL, winning an unprecedented eight races in a magical year.

Best Voice: Tie (Bret Kepner, Al Tucci and Brian Olson) Each was awesome in 2010 and all were a key part of making an ADRL enjoyable - in their own way, of course.

Best New Car: John Decerbo, Pro Nitrous. Not only did this car look stunning, Decerbo took every measure possible to make the car as light as can be. A true masterpiece.

Best comeback: Billy Glidden, Extreme 10.5. After an awful wreck in Topeka, Glidden wasn’t sure if he could return in 2010. Less than a month later, he was back and ended up winning two events on a double-race weekend. Talk about your flair for the dramatic.

Stay tuned for Part II of the “2010 Doorslammies” tomorrow!

(Photos by ADRL/Richards)

 

December 30, 2010

Burton Auxier, Cary Goforth Guests Tonight For “ADRL Drag Racing Live”

Your agent knows where he will be at 9 p.m. EST tonight and he hopes that you will be joining him to listen to “ADRL Drag Racing Live” right here on www.ADRL.us.

Tonight’s featured guests are 2010 Pro Nitrous World Champion Burton Auxier and Extreme Pro Stock standout Cary Goforth, and that has your agent excited. Hosts Bret Kepner and Josh Hachat have talked to all of the 2010 ADRL World Champions except for Auxier, so your agent is very much interested to see what Auxier has to say on tonight’s program. Auxier knocked off friend and teammate Shannon Jenkins in the finals to win his first ADRL World Championship and he’s currently getting ready to leave for Qatar to continue racing in the Arabian Drag Racing League. Goforth finished first in the points standings in XPS, won three events in 2010 and also set both the E.T. and speed records in the class in what was a memorable year.

Simply listen to the show on the ADRL website or at www.blogtalkradion.com. Also, Hachat leads a chat session during the show, so head over to blogtalkradio and join in the festive chat.

Your agent is also certain both Bret and Josh will talk about the year that was in the ADRL, as tonight’s show marks the final “ADRL Drag Racing Live” for 2010. The enjoyable show streams live every Thursday at 9 p.m. EST on the ADRL website, www.ADRL.us, and every archived show is available on-demand on the ADRL website immediately after each episode finishes. Bret and Josh will also break down the latest news and happenings with the ADRL, as well as preview the next two rounds of the Arabian Drag Racing League.
“ADRL Drag Racing Live” is the only weekly show 100 percent devoted to ADRL racing, so make sure you check it out.

December 29, 2010

Schweigert Gets Some Ink

Terry Schweigert is still living the dream after a successful 2010 Pro Extreme Motorcycle season in both the American Drag Racing League and the Arabian Drag Racing League.

He’s also getting some deserved attention for what he has accomplished during a memorable year. Schweigert, a successful milkman in Canada, was featured in the Abbotsford Times and your agent thoroughly enjoyed reading the article on Schweigert.

It talked about his foray into drag racing and his incredible 2010 season that saw him recently win a race in the Arabian Series, setting a track record of 4.14 in the process. Schweigert also finished as a runner-up in four different races in the American Series, finishing second in the points.

Schweigert also talked about the significant amount of work it takes to get the bike ready to run well.

“People have no idea how much work goes into making that bike go fast, and it’s not that I do much work on it, but the tuner, and the hours that are spent to make that bike go, is unbelievable,” Schweigert said.
It really is a great read and your agent certainly recommends checking it out. Schweigert is one of the great guys in the sport and it’s seldom you don’t see the man smiling.

To read the full story, click here.

December 28, 2010

ADRL Rulebook Updated For 2011

 

Your agent got a peek at the official 2011 ADRL Rules.

As expected, there was not an abundance of changes, but there were some tweaks to ensure that 2011 will bring the best racing we’ve ever seen in the ADRL.
In addition, there is a link at the top of the page to download and print your own rulebook in PDF form. That’s a pretty handy addition in your agent’s eyes.

To see for yourself, click here.

December 28, 2010

Chicago-Area XTF Team Excited About Trip To Qatar

The good news arrived in an e-mail, but your agent could sense the excitement just in the words that were typed.
To be certain, there is one excited Extreme 10.5 race team that is about to head to Qatar.
Scott Christoffel is absolutely thrilled to be driving a ‘68 Camaro owned by Father Jerry Leake, a Catholic priest from just outside of Chicago, for the XTF season of the Arabian Drag Racing League.
The five-race season for XTF - Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous and Pro Extreme Motorcycle have an eight-race season that started in December - begins with Round Four on January 6 at Qatar Racing Club.
The rest of the team includes Jon Quirin and Scott’s son, Joey, and everyone is amazed at what is about to happen.
“We are getting the opportunity of our lives to get to go to Qatar to race,” Quirin said. “We have never run the 10.5 tire but we are looking forward to giving it a try to see how it works.”
Leake has been involved in drag racing for more than 35 years and taught both Scott and Quirin how to drag race.
The Camaro features a Jeff Fowler-built 526 Hemi and a Janis/Fowler-prepped roots blower, along with a 3-speed Lenco and RAM clutch. Currently, the team is sponsored by Chicago Teamsters 705, Kramer Smoothies Inc., Custom Engine Services, Maui Wowi Smoothies, and Ticket 360.
More than anything, though, the team has tried to spread a positive message through drag racing.
“We have taken the race car to multiple high schools to talk to them about having goals, not street racing, and about life in general,” Quirin said. “When possible, we try to bring kids to the track with us to help educate them.”
Now, Quirin and the rest of the team will get to experience the thrill of a lifetime and your agent wishes them nothing but the best in Qatar.

December 27, 2010

ADRL’s Video Of The Day Continues With XPS!

Your agent is ready for more holiday gifts and he’ll keep getting them with the ADRL’s video of the day.
Monday’s video, like it will every Monday until the start of the 2011 season, features Extreme Pro Stock. The next event on the list is the Hardee’s Georgia Drags, which was the next completed race during the 2010 season.

The LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals were featured last week and the March event from 2010 - Dragpalooza - was not completed until July, meaning it will show up later in the ADRL’s ongoing video series.
The XPS action from Georgia features Steven Boone’s run to the title, so your agent suggests checking that one out.

Of course, each day on www.ADRL.us, the ADRL will release a video from one of its five classes that took place at one of the ADRL’s thrilling events in 2010.
Next week, Jan. 3 through Jan. 7, will feature the U.S. Drags from Virginia.
Mondays are reserved for Extreme Pro Stock, while Pro Extreme Motorcycle runs on Tuesday and Extreme 10.5 goes every Wednesday.
Thursday always spotlights Pro Nitrous while every Friday is reserved for Pro Extreme.
These videos are something else and a great addition to your day. They include the best runs from every round of eliminations from every class for each event, as well as behind the scenes features that include instant replays, interviews in the pits, winner’s circle reactions and all the fun-filled, can’t-miss action that has made the ADRL the top eighth-mile series in the world.



December 31, 2010

2010 Year In Review: Pro Extreme & Pro Junior Dragster