Georgia Drag Racing News

Huston Platt passes

2011-11-30T22:42:00.001-05:00

Drag racing pioneer Huston Platt passes today.
R.I.P. Huston Platt
http://www.flaniganfuneralhome.com/obituary.aspx?ObitID=130

2010 Old Drag Racers Reunion DVDs

2010-11-06T19:03:00.002-04:00

Frank Moye has let us know that he has DVDs available from the 10th Anniversary Old Drag Racers Reunion held in Panama City, FL for $15. Should be a good DVD as the event was always great the times I attended.

For more information:

Frank Moye - phone 706-663-8314
PO Box 542
Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Dennis Bailey "Blow Over" at SGMP

2010-10-25T21:34:00.005-04:00

Dennis Bailey's down track wheelie at SGMP this past weekend. Dennis was OK! Photos by Marvin T. Smith.

WILSON GANG GOES 1, 2, 3 DURING FIRST SUMMIT ET RACE AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

2010-03-27T20:00:00.000-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – March 20) Inclement weather stamped out the first scheduled points race of Atlanta Dragway’s 2010 season, but racers were met with perfect conditions this time around. The spring breeze cooled off the black top and kept racers comfortable throughout the rounds. From the time trials onward, the runs looked good and the reaction times were top notch, guaranteeing a competitive new season. Today was especially memorable for the Wilson brothers, who finished first, second and third in their respective classes.

The Super Pro finals came down to a door car vs. dragster scenario, Ricky Page (Monroe, GA) in a ’90 Mustang against Michael Morris (Woodstock, GA) in his ’01 Undercover dragster. Page launched first with a .025 reaction time; perhaps inspired by the sticker on his back window that reads “DRAGSTER SLAYER,” Morris came after with a .011 green light. Morris’s dragster couldn’t catch the track in the cool night air, and crossed the finish line in 5.17 seconds on his 5.09 dial-in time, at 128.79 mph. Page claimed the win with a 7.44 ET on his 7.43 dial-in, at 91.01 mph. Page had some technical difficulties in the first round, but kept to his personal mission to overtake the dragster-dominated field. Page thanked Mike “Peanut” Smith for helping him stage the car, and thanked his wife Angela: “She lets me come out to race.” Page plans on jumping into the 7.50 Index of the Saturday Insanity series, in hopes of leading two classes. John Hobbs of Conyers, GA was the semi-finalist in his fiery ’71 Vega.

Bruce Wilson (Tallapoosa,GA) had some good mojo in his ’71 Nova, after his brothers finished second and third in the Motorcycle class, leaving Greg Allen (Greenwood, SC) with some tough luck in his ’80 Camaro. Allen left the handicap tree with .086 reaction on a 6.81 dial-in; Wilson jumped after with a perfect .000 green, a great head start for his 6.70 dial-in. Allen ran a bit too quick, breaking out in 6.74 seconds at 102.08 mph. Wilson was the victor with a 6.72 run at 100.48 mph. Wilson thanked his wife Cassie, who stayed at home, pregnant with another member of the Wilson gang, and also thanked his mom and dad, for always supporting the family. “The car was perfect, and I couldn’t ask for better,” Wilson commented, “I might come to more points races now that I’ve got a lead.” Jeff Voyles (Hoschton, GA) finished third in a ’69 Camaro.

Matthew Bates (Loganville, GA) had a bye run into the finals in his black ’99 Firebird, and then lined up against Sportsman veteran Mel Abney (Cumming, GA) in a ’67 Camaro. Bates gained the advantage on the tree with a .049 green light, Abney trailing with a .066 light. Both men broke out, but Abney overshot the most with a 13.01 run on a 13.12 dial-in at 106.36 mph; Bates got the win light with a 13.58 run on a 13.62 prediction, at 100.82 mph. Bates thanked “mom and pop” Samantha and John Bates: “It’s her car, and he lets me race it.” Having raced all the other classes of bracket racing (including bicycles, junior dragsters, high school, Sportsman, Pro, and Super Pro), Bates has plans to complete the list and bring an ’05 Suzuki C50 to the next points race. However, with the 2010 points lead he’s bringing along the Firebird to keep his edge in the competition. D.A. Streber (Greenville, SC) was the semi-finalist in an ’02 Hyundai.

New racer Trent Pippin (Conyers, GA), son of the renowned NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Junior Pippin, went on to the finals on his high-performance ’02 Buell Blast, against Michael Wilson (Tallapoosa, GA) on an ’01 Suzuki. Pippin left the line first with a .039 reaction on a 15.80 dial; Wilson cut an off-pace .415 green light, and couldn’t catch Pippin at the top end. Pippin set off the win light, crossing first in 16.02 seconds at 81.72 mph, as Wilson followed with a 13.29 ET at 93.91 mph (11.60 dial). Motorcycle racing is certainly in the blood for Pippin: “I was mechanic for my dad’s [pro stock] bike, and wanted to see what I could do.” The class has Pippin hooked, winning his first race of the two he’s competed in. “I definitely think I’ll come more frequently.” Pippin thanked his dad and Rick Maney, as well as his loving wife Sonya. Brian Wilson (Tallapoosa, GA) finished on his ’82 Suzuki in the semis.

Madison Lee (12-Campobello, SC) enjoyed her second Atlanta Dragway win, this time at the expense of Alex Krause (12 – Peachtree City, GA). Krause had the lucky bye run into the finals against Lee, and dialed an 8.96 against Lee’s 8.90 dial-in. He then cut a good .040 light, which was quickly matched with Lee’s better .039 reaction time. At the big end of the track, however, Krause ran a bit too quickly with an 8.90 elapsed time at 72.36 mph, while Lee broke out a bit less in 8.88 seconds at 72.45 mph, triumphant with a .03 margin of victory. “I wanted to win this one for Chelsey Mitchell, a dear friend,” said a happy Madison Lee. Her dad, Scott Lee added, “I never saw such a string of good lights. Can’t put nothing on dad, she did it all herself.” Wesley Syme (10 – Atlanta, GA) finished in the semi-finals.

It was a not-so-sweet sixteen final between Banks County High tenth grader Blake Griffith (16 – Homer, GA) and Kelsey Lynn (16 – Marietta, GA), both dialed at 7.90. Griffith gained the final round advantage in his JR powered Motivational Tubing car with a .038 reaction against Lynn’s .096 light, and crossed the finish line first in 7.95 seconds at 79.40 mph. Lynn finished close behind at 7.96 seconds and 83.97 mph. Griffith secured the win with a .06 margin of victory. “Give God all the praise and honor. This is a great way to start they year,” said his dad Scott Griffith. Jackie Lastinger (16 – Lilburn, GA) and Jennifer Jarrett (17 – Cartersville, GA) ended the day in the semi-finals.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2010 events, including the NITTO TIRE NMRA PEACH STATE NATIONALS on March 26-28, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Ricky Page ’90 Mustang Monroe, GA 7.44 91.01 (7.43)

R/U: Michael Morris ’01 Undercover Woodstock, GA 5.17 128.79 (5.09)

Semi: John Hobbs ’71 Vega Conyers, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Bruce Wilson ’71 Nova Tallapoosa, GA 6.72 100.48 (6.70)

R/U: Greg Allen ’80 Camaro Greenwood, SC 6.74 102.08 (6.81)

Semi: Jeff Voyles ’69 Camaro Hoschton, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Matthew Bates ’99 Firebird Loganville, GA 13.58 100.82 (13.62)

R/U: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 13.01 106.36 (13.12)

Semi: D.A. Streber ’02 Hyundai Greenville, SC

———————————————————————————————————————————————

MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Trent Pippin ’02 Buell Blast Conyers, GA 16.02 81.72 (15.80)

R/U: Michael Wilson ’01 Suzuki Tallapoosa, GA 13.29 93.91 (11.60)

Semi: Brian Wilson ’82 Suzuki Tallapoosa, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Madison Lee 12 Campobello, SC 8.88 72.45 (8.90)

R/U: Alex Krause 12 Peachtree City, GA 8.90 72.36 (8.96)

Semi: Wesley Syme 10 Atlanta, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Blake Griffith 16 Homer, GA 7.95 79.40 (7.90)

R/U: Kelsey Lynn 16 Marietta, GA 7.96 83.97 (7.90)

Semi: Jackie Lastinger 16 Lilburn, GA

Semi: Jennifer Jarrett 17 Cartersville, GA

Georgia On My Mind - Notes from 1970s Funny Car Racer Jeff Foulk (The Finagler Cougar)

2010-03-16T23:13:00.003-04:00

Georgia On My Mind

To the best of my recollection, I can remember running 3 race dates,in Georgia. It is about as far South as we ever got,racing,and a long haul from our home base,in Pennsylvania.
The first trip was to Savannah,in spring of 1970. We didn’t run good,but it was memorable for other reasons. The drive into town,in those days,would get your attention.The bridge,across the river,was about 300 feet in the air,steel girdered,and narrow,especially when towing a trailer.Being such a long trip,I wanted to save money,so I picked a $7.00 motel.Back then,you could stay at the Ramada,or Holiday Inn for $15.It must have been furnished from Navy surplus,because every thing in the room was battleship gray.My crewman,Charlie,was skeptical,but he wasn’t paying the bills.Since there was no TV in the room[that was extra and,probably,battleship gray,rather than color] we decided to go over to a fellow racers room,after dinner.Wallace Knotts was a good ol’boy,from Alabama,was staying at Howard Johnson’s and invited us over.At 7:00,The Porter Wagoner Show came on.Country music was still country,back in those days,and we northerners had never seen this before.Porter Wagoner came on,wearing a white buckskin fringe jacket,with a huge eagle embroidered on the back.Wallace was mesmerized.”Gaw* da**,look at that jacket”,he exclaimed.”I’ll bet that sombi***cost him a thousand dollas”.Charlie and I were comically bemused.
Before retiring to our own humble abode,there were several tornado warnings posted on the TV,for the overnight hours.Charlie remarked about it,and I said that I had heard that a tornado sounds like a locomotive coming.Several times during the night,I thought I heard trains,but rolled over,and went back to sleep.In the morning,we could see what darkness had hidden the night before:the motel backed up to a railroad yard.

Our next foray,into Georgia,was the race at Dallas,Ga.,in September of ’70.We were filling the field for a qualifier show,against most of the circuits top cars.The Dallas track was a 1/5th mile,and very slick,especially the right lane.This would work to my advantage,although we were having traction problems,too. After my second of two qualifying runs,we sat on the bump spot,with about 3 good cars still to make their runs.When all of them failed to negotiate the track,we were in.I drew Jim Wigglesworth,in the “Virginia Twister” Charger,in the first round.We flipped for lane choice,and I lost,and got the right lane.As usual,I was out first,off the tree,but got crossed up,in low gear,and was looking right down the guardrail when I had to lift.The Charger streaked on by,and my day was done.Jim got that lane,the next round,and had the same thing happen.Who knows:if I had won that coin toss,I could have won the race.Lane choice was everything,that day.I don’t know why that days sticks out in my mind;we weren’t all that successful.But I used it for the basis of a short story I wrote,about minor league professional drag racing.
Our third,and most memorable trip,was to Warner Robbins,in the summer of 1971.We arrived at about 3p.m.,for a Saturday night race.We were so early,we almost beat the track owner.Since we had plenty of time to kill,I engaged the owner in conversation,while Charlie wandered up to the starting line,to look at the track.I never spent much time studying tracks.We didn’t have traction gauges, thermometers or weather stations.We just showed up,and ran..I used to tune for the way the air felt on any given day,and learned how to factor in altitude.It was all seat of the pants.Drag racers have always been of the philosophy that you couldn’t possibly make too much power!
I remarked to the owner,that I did not recall hearing of his track.When he started telling me some of the history,I said”Oh,now I know,this used to be called Houston County Dragway”,as in the city,or Sam Houston.”Yes”he said”but around here we call it House-ton county”.Charlie came wandering back,and we set about unloading the car,and setting up our pit area.This just involved parking the trailer,and backing the pick-up truck to the front of the race car.Not the deal it is today,which rivals the circus coming to town.Charlie said to me”I’ve been studying these tracks lately.This place has a lot of that grainy shit in the asphalt.I don’t think it is going to have much bite.I think we ought to raise up the wheelie bars”.”OK” I said”whatever you think”.I had no reason to question his judgement,yet!We continued our work.Come 8 in the evening and time for the first round.It was an 8 car show,with no qualifying.Our first round opponents were the Carlton brothers Camaro,with a big block Chevy on board.John,the driver was a stout man,and his brother even bigger around.Some said they made more power than anybody,to pull the extra weight.Others said they must have been the fastest,because they always took the long way,to get there.The car rarely ran straight,but they were formidable racers.At 127 pounds,two of me would not have made one of John!The Carlton’s were having a problem,with a slow leak in one of their slicks,so they let us know they would need a few seconds,after the burnout,to pump some air in the tire.Sure,no problem!I could sit and idle all day and my little motor would not overheat.To watch John’s brother back up the car was quite a sight,but now ,there he was,frantically flailing away on a hand tire pump!
We staged,and I cut an excellent light,and was well out on the Camaro.There was only one problem:all I could see out the windshield was stars!I had stood that bi***as straight up as it would go.Charlie said he could see the drivshaft turning from his spot on the guardrail,as I went by.What did I do?Well,hell,I knew I was ahead and I sensed the car was straight,so the thought of lifting never entered my mind.I figured if it went straight,it would come down,sometime.We were using a Hurst dual gate shifter in the car,which was a piece of junk.We had a lot of trouble with it,because if you didn’t hold it over hard to the right,it would shift past second into high gear.That is what happened this time.After all,I was kind of busy!Shifting into high,it settled down,as light as a feather.However,the resulting loss of torque slowed the run,and allowed the Camaro to come around,and get there first.It was undoubtedly fortunate,because I had not factored in the air getting under the car,at higher speed.The only way it would have come down,was a backward pirouette.I would have one-upped Garlits,by years,but never would have gotten the publicity.It probably would have destroyed the car,and ended my racing career,so luck comes in all forms.Charlie said the crowd went absolutely bananas.When we towed back to the pits,the promoter came running up hollering”Can you do that again?”.We did come back,after lowering the wheelie bars,and made another run.It still carried the wheels,about 4 feet,on the second pass.This timeI did hit second gear,but it pushed a head gasket before the lights,and I went skating through the traps,in my own water.After that adventure,I preferred to make my own decisions about the track.I don’t think Charlie would have had the nerve to make that suggestion again,except in jest.I wasn’t mad.It was a neat,memorable experience and one of many.
We headed home,planning on stopping for the night along the way.But everywhere we stopped,along I-85,the motels were full.By the time it got light,we just kept going,and drove straight through.By the the time we got home,on Sunday afternoon,we had been going for more than 36 hours.Using a slogan of the day,our Gillette 24 hour protection was long gone.Those were the best times of our lives.We were living lots of peoples dreams,at the best possible time.As the cars got more technical,and the tour more professional,the whole thing spiraled out of control.The cost killed the match racing,and the sport is poorer for it.You reached a whole lot more fans when,on any given summer weekend,in the northeast,there would be one or more 8 car funny car shows.I would not trade my time for any of these modern deals.Those were the best of times,and a lot of it happened in Georgia.
Jeff Foulk

Georgia Drag Racing News (blog) to stay online when GeorgiaDragRacing.com shuts down

2010-03-16T22:56:00.002-04:00

I'll be posting news to www.gdrn.blogspot.com after we shut the site down. More details later.

Wiggins Just Misses His First “Wally”

2010-03-16T22:50:00.000-04:00

Wiggins Just Misses His First “Wally” in Super Comp Category at NHRA 41st annual Gatornationals

(March 15, 2010) – Third-year Super Comp racer Trevor Wiggins, Canton, Ga., made his first final-round eliminations appearance during an NHRA national event at the 41st annual Gatornationals, held Sunday, March 14, 2010 in Gainesville, Fla.

From a field representing 90 of the nation’s best Super Comp competitors, Wiggins drove his Undercover dragster to wins over Tisha Wilson, Marc Caruso, Mark Daniels and Ray Llanusa, which earned Wiggins the “bye” into the finals. Wiggins lost in the final round eliminations to Steve Furr, who had a better reaction time. Furr, right lane, (0.025) 8.947 defeated Wiggins, (0.122) 8.916 0.016, after winning the coin toss for lane choice.

“After our early season struggles, it’s awesome to have such an amazing run. The car was so consistent. Unfortunately, I wasn’t consistent on the tree when it counted in the final round,” Wiggins recalled. “With all of the rain delays, we weren’t sure we’d even be able to race. So to even be in the finals – and at the Gators – was just great.”

Wiggins now ranks seventh nationally among NHRA’s 1,500 Super Comp drivers after his strong showing at the Gatornationals – the third race of the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Racing Series.

Wiggins thanked sponsors Steve Schmidt Racing Engines, Willy’s Garage and DART Machinery, for their support, along with all the NHRA contingency sponsors that support sportsman racing.

Trevor Wiggins is well known throughout the automotive and racing industries, having been involved with both since a young age. He has raced shifter carts, Formula Ford, Formula Mazda and Toyota Atlantic, and participated in NTPA truck and tractor pulling before getting involved with NHRA Super Comp drag racing. In his second year drag racing, Wiggins finished the 2009 season ranked seventh in his home division and 40th nationally.

# # #

Contact: Jami Wiggins

GATORNATIONALS – The Georgia Perspective

2010-03-16T21:46:00.007-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith
More Gatornationals photos by Marvin T. Smith

This year’s Tire Kingdom Gatornationals was an amazing speed fest. Track records fell in an amazing display of power. Unfortunately, Georgia boasted no winners this year.

In Top Fuel, we had no entries. Tony Schumacher defeated Antron Brown in the final, blasting to a track-record 3.797 beating the old record by nearly a tenth! He also set a track record (and NHRA national record speed) earlier with an amazing 324.98 in 1000 ft. This bested the old track record by nearly ten miles per hour!!

There were no entries in Funny Car from Georgia. Matt Hagan ran an amazing 316.15 mph to set the track record and run the fastest funny car speed ever recorded for 1000 ft. Unfortunately Matt lost round 2. In an all Shelby Mustang final, Tim Wilkerson defeated last year’s winner Bob Tasca with a good 4.09 at 303mph.

Georgia’s favorite sons Warren and Kurt Johnson both failed to qualify in Pro Stock at the Gatornationals. It looked like Mike Edwards was on his way, overpowering the track record with an elapsed time of 6.520 at 212.23 mph, but in the end, Jason Line defeated Edwards with a holeshot.

Georgia’s Pro Stock Motorcycle hope Junior Pippin led qualifying on Friday with a nice pass of 6.95. Unfortunately, his time wouldn’t hold up through the remainder of qualifying. Karen Stoffer looked like she had the field covered, setting the track and National Record at 6.847, but lost in Round 2 to eventual runner-up Shawn Gann. Eddie Krawiec was the winner, running as quick as 6.85 at 195.68 during eliminations.

Georgia’s Roger Burgess led Pro Mod qualifying, but lost to his teammate Michael Gullqvist in Round 2. In the final round, Kenny Lang defeated Michael Gullqvist with a 5.908 at 243 when Michael fouled. Melanie Troxel, in another Burgess team car, lost in round two to eventual winner Lang.

Georgia’s hope in Top Alcohol Funny Car, Steve Harker, lost in Round 3 to Mickey Ferro. Ferro was then defeated by Frank Manzo in the final. Manzo ran a great 5.475 at an amazing 265.33 to beat Ferro’s close 5.498 at 262.44.

Georgia had no entries in Top Alcohol Dragster, but Division 2 Racer Duane Shields took the win over Darren Nicholson.

In Competition Eliminator, Georgia’s Grant Lewis lost round 3. In the final, Arnie Martel defeated Florida’s Glen Treadwell.

In Super Stock, Sal Biondo defeated Chuck Gallaher, while Joe Santangelo bead Wes Neely for the Stock title.

In Super Comp, Canton, Georgia’s Trevor Wiggins made it to the finals, only to lose to Steve Furr on a holeshot.

Georgia had three racers in Super Gas: Arnold Reed of Loganville, Jimmy Fuller of Savannah, and Ricky Purcell of Jesup. All were gone by Round 3. In the finals, Jerry Heffelfinger defeated Mike Ruff.

RAINS FORCE CANCELLATION OF MARCH 13 SUMMIT ET SERIES EVENT AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

2010-03-16T21:38:00.001-04:00

RAINS FORCE CANCELLATION OF MARCH 13 SUMMIT ET SERIES EVENT AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

by Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – March 13) Inclement weather prevented Atlanta Dragway personnel from hosting the Fast Friday and Summit ET Series events scheduled for the weekend. Track manager Ray Wilkings posted a notice to that effect on the site Friday afternoon, stating, “The Year One Fast Friday event on March 12th and the Summit Racing Series event on March 13th have been cancelled due to weather. With the continuous rainfall and the low track temperatures, management cancelled the Summit Racing Series for tomorrow.”

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2010 events, including the NHRA Summit Southern Nationals on May 14-May16, 2010, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

Drag Strip Land Targeted by Holt from WaltonTribune.com

2010-03-11T17:45:00.001-05:00

Drag strip land targeted by Holt

By Stephen Milligan
The Walton Tribune

Published March 10, 2010

SOCIAL CIRCLE — A new wrinkle has appeared in the battle over the proposed motorsports complex along Interstate 20 in Social Circle, as a local state representative is taking the fight to the capitol.

Rep. Doug Holt, R-Social Circle, is looking to propose legislation to the state assembly to amend the city charter to de-annex the land owned by Donnie Clack, who has been pushing for months to get his property re-zoned and his application approved to begin construction on a motorsports complex, including an 1/8-mile drag strip.

“It’s mainly to put an option on the table to resolve this drag strip issue,” Holt said. “We could put a permanent end to this discussion.”

Holt’s District 112 covers primarily Newton and Morgan counties, but he said the portion of Social Circle within Newton — including Clack’s property — is of great concern to him right now.

“(The drag strip) is dramatically out of character with that region,” Holt said. “It would dramatically undermine the tech park at Stanton Springs.”

Social Circle City Manager Doug White said de-annexation was a drastic step that would negatively impact the city.

“We think we have a vested interest in that area,” White said. “We hope to see it develop as a gateway to our community. We would hope it can be resolved without resorting to legislation.”

Holt, however, sees little alternative to stop the motor sports complex from winning approval with the planning and zoning board.

“The city almost can’t say no to it,” Holt said. “We could cure the problem through de-annexation.”

Clack said his first reaction to the possible legislation was “shock,” and said legislative action was premature and misguided.

“I’d like to see what studies he’s done or seen to convince him this was the best action,” Clack said. “Does he have all the public in mind or just the elite few?”

Holt has not formally presented any legislation to the house and said no action would be taken until he has full approval from the entire local delegation, including Rep. Jeff May, R-Monroe, and Sen. John Douglas, R-Social Circle.

“We need to try everything to resolve this,” Holt said.

Social Circle Drag Strip Plan Revised from WaltonTribune.com

2010-03-11T17:42:00.002-05:00

Social Circle drag strip plan revised

SOCIAL CIRCLE - The proposed motorsports complex in Social Circle will see some changes in its plans after the applicant temporarily withdrew the application. The change comes following scrutiny from residents who say the site will be noisy among other concerns. In order to implement some changes, owner Donnie Clack said he would withdraw his application - "without prejudice," which would allow him to resubmit at a later date - and re-apply within the next 30 to 45 days. Clack's lawyer, Michéle Battle, said the move was necessary to implement some changes designed to compromise with local complaints from opponents of the proposed drag strip. "We've gone back and re-examiend the plan," Battle said. "We've re-designed it to move that noise further away." The new plan moves the drag strip to the far western edge of the property, at a lower elevation and behind a larger tree buffer, to reduce noise levels. The finish line would now be nearly half a mile from the nearest residence. Battle said they planned to re-apply after the plans were revised and hoped concessions could be made by both sides. "We are willing to address the issues and compromise," Battle said. "My question to the opposition is what are you willing to do?" See more in Sunday's edition of The Walton Tribune.

See http://www.waltontribune.com/ for updates.

1974 NHRA Funny Car Champion Shirl Greer Passes

2010-03-10T17:45:00.004-05:00

R.I.P. Shirl Greer

Check CompetitionPlus.com for details
His family is in our prayers.

Fred Simmons Photo (top).

GeorgiaDragRacing.com to shut down soon

2010-03-09T19:11:00.005-05:00

Due to family health concerns, GeorgiaDragRacing.com will probably be closing down before long. We'd like to thank all of our readers, contributors and sponsors for the years of support. If things change, we'll let you know.

THANK YOU!

ESTN at SGMP

2010-03-09T19:02:00.004-05:00

ESTN 2010 photos by Marvin T. Smith

AMA Drag Bike Photos at SGMP by Marvin T. Smith

2010-03-07T22:07:00.004-05:00

AMA Drag bike photos by Marvin T. Smith taken at SGMP this weekend.

Drag Radial Event at South Georgia Motorsports Park

2010-02-28T22:32:00.004-05:00

Click here for more of Marv's photos.

Drag Radial Event at South Georgia Motorsports Park
Cecil, GA February 26-28

Racers from 24 states, including California, journeyed to South Georgia Motorsports Park in Cecil, Georgia for the Outlaw Radial Tire Championship series event. This was THE race to determine who had the best car racing on radial tires. The headliner class, Radial vs. the World, pitted cars with radial tires against cars using racing slicks. Eighty-two cars attempted to qualify for the 32 car field to prove who was the best. After five rounds of tough racing, David Wolfe from Fort Worth, Texas, defeated Scotty Guadagno from New York. On his way to victory, Wolfe ran the quickest elapsed time ever recorded on radial tires when he scorched the SGMP track with an amazing 4.447 second run in the eighth mile.

In the Ultimate Street class, Mike Freeman of Lehigh, Florida, outlasted 56 other competitors for the victory when he defeated Bob Kurgan in the final. Brian Goss of Lehigh, Florida, had the best times ever recorded for the class when he ran 5.019 seconds at 141.43 mph.

Troy Pirez of Dover, Florida, won the XTreme 275 class over Joe Morgan of Sharpsburg, Georgia after the two waded through 36 competitors. Dave Bowman from Fremont, California had the best times, 4.912 seconds at 156.81 miles per hour, but lost to Morgan in the semifinals.

Valerie Clements from Central, South Carolina, won the 330 Outlaw class for ultimate Jr. Dragsters.
Marvin T. Smith

A Workmanlike WJ Looks for a Vintage Performance in Pomona

2010-02-10T15:54:00.001-05:00

Contact: Jon Knapp
J2Racing

Sugar Hill, Ga., February 8, 2010 – This weekend, the National Hot Rod Association will celebrate the 50th running of one of its most prestigious races, the Kragen O’Reilly Winternationals in Pomona, CA. There have been numerous changes and advancements since that inaugural event in 1961, from the sport ascending to national prominence to the establishment of four professional classes. However for almost 30 years, there has been one constant at the traditional NHRA season-opener, namely the participation of Pro Stock stalwart Warren Johnson.

Since qualifying third and defeating Lee Edwards in 1976, “The Professor” has steadily earned his place in Winternationals history, participating in every race since 1984, with his five Pro Stock wins second only to fellow Hall of Famer Bob Glidden, and the most among active competitors in the sport’s most competitive category. Despite these many accomplishments and the prestige of this weekend’s silver anniversary event, for WJ and his K&N Filters Pontiac crew it will simply be business as usual, as they look for a return trip to the winner’s circle.

“Although I have raced in 30 Winternationals and won my share of them, I can’t say that any one race stands out,” said Johnson. “I think a lot of that has to do with the timing of the event. It’s our first race of the season, and when you get to the track, you’re still pretty much in turmoil, because you’re still trying to wrap up everything you wanted to accomplish during the off-season.

“For that reason, we’ve always come into Pomona looking to get the race in so we can see how we fare against the competition before heading into the rest of the season. But even though the research and development work might not be complete, you still prepare for the race the same way as you do any other event, which explains our success in the past, and why this K&N Filters crew is looking forward to getting the year started.”

Throughout his career, Johnson has been known for his off-season work ethic, and the past few months were no exception, with the research and development efforts starting within days after the end of the 2009 season. Although acknowledging that the true measure of success will come on the racetrack, the six-time champion nevertheless heads to the Golden State with a renewed sense of optimism.

“I feel I’ve had a more productive off-season this year than I’ve had in a long time in so far as projects as I have been able to finish,” said Johnson. “Therefore, we feel pretty good heading into Pomona, although I would have preferred to do a little testing beforehand. Unfortunately, timing and Mother Nature were against us. Although the lack of testing certainly won’t help our K&N Filters GXP, our notes should help us keep things under control. Whether we’re ready or not, it’s time to find out if we did enough work during the so-called off-season. I think we’ll be in good shape.”

The Professor’s Winternationals By The Numbers -

5 - a) WJ Winternationals wins, which is the most among all active Pro Stock competitors.
b) WJ Winternationals No. 1 qualifying performances.

11 – WJ Winternationals final round appearances, most recently in 2005.

19 – Top Four Starting Positions by The Professor in 28 Prior Winternationals starts.

20 – WJ Winternationals Finishes of the Semifinals or better.

42 – Different drivers WJ has faced in eliminations at the Winternationals, beginning with Lee Edwards in 1978.

2003 - Year of WJ’s most recent Winternationals win, when he qualified 2nd and defeated Troy Coughlin, Kurt Johnson, Darrell Alderman and Allen Johnson en route to his 89th national event win.

Event Schedule:
Thursday & Friday, February 11 - 12: A single qualifying session at 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 13: Two qualifying sessions at 12:00 noon & 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 14: Final eliminations starting at 11:00 a.m.

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
Qualifying: Saturday, February 13 – 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Eliminations: Sunday, February 14 – 8:00 - 11:00 p.m.
RaceDay: Sunday, February 14 – 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
(All times Eastern)

With the Help of a Long-Time Friend, a Hungry KJ Targets Second Winternationals Win

2010-02-10T15:43:00.004-05:00

Contact:
Jon Knapp
J2Racing

Sugar Hill, Ga., February 10, 2010 – On the outside, things will seem very different for Pro Stock stalwart Kurt Johnson at this weekend’s O’Reilly Kragen NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, CA. The familiar blue, red and white livery he has carried for over 20 years has been replaced by a mostly white design. His two-man crew is completely new, having joined the Sugar Hill-based organization during the winter.

However, a closer inspection will show that many of this perennial championship contender’s key components remain in place, including a proven race car powered by the legendary Johnson horsepower. Most importantly, Ontario, CA-based Mark Christopher Auto Center, who has been with the team virtually since its inception has stepped forward to sponsor the team for the first few races of the 2010 Full Throttle season.

“We’ve certainly gone through some changes this off-season, but when Q1 rolls around on Thursday, we will be ready thanks to Chris, Mark and Shirley Leggio as well as everyone at the Mark Christopher Auto Center,” said Johnson. “This past off-season wasn’t all that different from a year ago when our sponsorship for last year wasn’t finalized until the very last minute. We’ve had some changes in personnel, and our Cobalt’s going to have a different look to it, but everything is good right now.

“Mark Christopher has been with us since my rookie year in 1993, when I had their name on my door at the Finals and I was the runner-up to Dad (six-time champion Warren Johnson). Through all the years, they have treated us like kings, rolling out the red carpet. I look forward to racing in their backyard this weekend and carrying their colors. I think we may surprise a few people this weekend in Pomona.”

Despite the challenging times, Johnson is optimistic about his prospects for the upcoming season, as he looks to return to the winning ways for which he is so well known. With so much on the line, motivation will certainly not be a problem.

“I’m ready to let the clutch out,” said Johnson. “For a variety of reasons, including some very uncooperative weather, we haven’t been able to test, so we’ll have a couple questions heading into the weekend, but it’s nothing we can’t handle. In fact, it will force us to pay a little extra attention, which isn’t a bad thing. Pomona has been a pretty good track for us, so we should be fine.

“The bottom line is that this is a big race and we’re hungry. We want to win now more than ever, simply because it’s been a while. We have a new crew that’s all pumped up and a sponsor to whom we’d like to show our appreciation. We’ll see where we stand starting on Thursday, and hopefully we’ll end the weekend with our Mark Christopher Cobalt in the winner’s circle. If we do, it’s going to be one heck of a party.”

Kurt Johnson and the Mark Christopher Chevy Cobalt Racing team
By the Numbers – Kragen O’Reilly Winternationals edition:

1- KJ Winternationals wins, which came in 2001, when he qualified fifth and defeated Mark Osborne, Mike Edwards, Bruce Allen and Darrell Alderman.

2 – KJ Winternationals final round appearances in 1997 & 2001

6.546 – KJ’s career best elapsed time (in seconds) recorded last October in Richmond, VA.

6.12 – KJ’s average starting position at the Winternationals

9 – Number of finishes of the semifinals or better by Kurt in his previous Winternationals starts.

13 – Top half starts by Kurt at the Winternationals

17 – Previous KJ Winternationals starts, dating back to his rookie debut in 1993.

24 – KJ Winternationals round wins, versus 16 losses for a .600 win percentage

39 – Kurt career national event wins, most recently at the 2008 Checker Schuck’s Kragen Nationals in Phoenix, AZ

210.64 - KJ’s career best top speed (in mph) recorded last October in Richmond, VA

Event Schedule:
Thursday & Friday, February 11 - 12: A single qualifying session at 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 13: Two qualifying sessions at 12:00 noon & 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 14: Final eliminations starting at 11:00 a.m.

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
Qualifying: Saturday, February 13 – 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Eliminations: Sunday, February 14 – 8:00 - 11:00 p.m.
RaceDay: Sunday, February 14 – 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
(All times Eastern)

Congratulations to Marvin T. Smith - 2009 National Dragster NHRA Division 2 Contributor of the Year!

2010-02-01T21:11:00.006-05:00

Congratulations go out to Marvin T. Smith for being named 2009 National Dragster Southeast Division Contributor of the Year! Marv has also been contributing articles and photos to GeorgiaDragRacing.com since its inception. Way to go, Marv!

Photo of Marvin T. Smith by Phil Hubbard.

Photo of award by Julie B. Smith

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-25T18:49:00.002-05:00

AMA Dragbike XXX Racing Fuel National Finals at South Georgia Motorsports Park

2009-11-18T14:24:00.002-05:00

South Georgia Motorsports Park hosted the final 2009 AMA Dragbike series event on November 13-15.

Series champions were crowned, and records were smashed.

Headlining the event were the top fuel motorcycles. Korry Hogan qualified number 1 on Friday night with a tremendous blast of 5.889. On this run, Korry scraped the wall on the top end, and on Saturday he announced his withdrawal from the event and his immediate retirement from Top Fuel racing. Korry will be missed, and everyone wishes him a great future. Qualifying Number 2 was Larry “Spiderman” McBride, perennial champion and crowd favorite. The Spiderman ran a 5.956 at 222.02 on his first attempt on Saturday. On his second run, McBride suffered a massive blower explosion, but was back in action on Sunday. Completing the field was Geoff Pollard at 5.963 and Chris Hand at 6.19 at the fastest qualifying speed of 236.22. In round one, Chris Hand received the bye when Hogan withdrew. Hand ran a fine 6.14 at 244.12 (top speed of the meet). Geoff Pollard defeated Larry McBride when McBride’s ride developed a fuel leak and was shut off on the line. Pollard would have been hard to beat with his 5.932 at 241mph. In the final, Chris Hand defeated Geoff Pollard with a 6.76 at 170 when Pollard slowed to an 8.75.

In Funny Bike qualifying, Joey Sternotti made big noise when he rode the Ray Price Harley to an amazing 6.144 at 234.37 mph late on Saturday afternoon. This run was two tenths below the current national et record and faster than the current miles per hour record, and led second place qualifier Travis Davis by .336 seconds! Sternotti then won rounds one and two with relatively slow times, but stepped it up in Round 3 to run a winning 6.49 at 199 to defeat Perry Hollie. In the other semifinal, Travis Davis defeated Ashley Owens with a 6.502 to the losing 6.553. In the final, Sternotti was not to be denied. He ran a very fast 6.287 at 233.76 to defeat Davis’ troubled 7.774 at 117.

Eric McKinney led Pro Mod qualifying with a sub-record 6.61 at 199.17. He ran 6.628 in the first round and 6.69 in the second to advance to the semifinals. Paul Gast was the only other rider in the 6.60s. In the semifinals, McKinney dipped into the 6.50s with a great 6.577 at 202.48 mph to defeat Paul Gast’s slowing 7.16 at 153. In the other semifinal, TT Jones defeated Terry Wynn with a 6.751 at 196 mph to Wynn’s losing 6.860 190.51. In the finals, McKinney reset the record with a great 6.553 (201.58mph) to defeat Jones’ 6.732 at 193.60.

Rob Budgell led Pro Street qualifying with a sub-record 7.159, and Mike Kovacevich ran a near-record 206.51 in his fifth place qualifying effort. Budgell was ousted in the second round by Keith Brooks. In the Semis, Kovacevich defeated Brooks, 7.345 to 7.351, and Victor Gotay defeated a broken Barry Henson. In the finals, Victor Gotay ran a 7.28 to defeat Kovacevich’s 7.37, but Kovacevich ran a record 207.50 mph in his losing effort.

In SuperSport, Rickie Gadson led the way at 8.938 closely followed by Jeremy Teasley at 8.945. These two best qualifiers met in the finals, with Gadson winning on a holeshot with an 8.964 to Teasley’s 8.958.

In the Super Street class, Stacy Smith led qualifying with a fine (and sub-record) 7.822 at 195.99. In the finals, John Fernandez ran 7.843 at 186.33 to defeat Stacy Smith’s 7.948 at 168.41.

Jeremy Teasley led Real Street qualifying with a 7.980 at 187.91. In the finals, Teasley defeated Coby Adams, 7.93 to 8.09.

In other action, Mike Konopacki won Top Gas, Andy Baumbach won Super Comp and Sunday’s Street ET race, Dave Page won Street Fighter, Dennis Steward won Pro Street on Sunday, and Dustin Burchett won Street ET on Saturday. Jeff Kerridge made an amazing exhibition run in his Sled/Snowmobile at 7.598 176.26 mph.

Photos and text by Marvin T. Smith.

East Coast Drag Times 2007 Hubert Platt Clip

2009-10-17T14:35:00.001-04:00

Limited seats available for ‘09 Inductee Banquet

2009-10-01T18:55:00.001-04:00

Dawsonville, Ga. – The clock is quickly running out until the 2009 class of inductees will be honored as the newest members of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame.

The 2009 ceremony will be held at the Dawsonville City Hall, which houses the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, on Oct. 23 at 6 p.m.

A limited number of seats are available for the banquet. The cost is $50 per person before Oct. 16, and $55 per person after Oct. 16. Reservations are required to attend.

For more information on purchasing a ticket or on the banquet, call Dawsonville City Hall at (706) 265-3256, or go online to www.georgiaracinghof.com .

The 2009 inductees will be Bob Burcham of Rossville, Luther Carter of Acworth, Tommie Irvin of Baldwin, Ronnie Sanders of Fayetteville, Leon Sells of Villa Rica, Buck Simmons of Baldwin, Herb “Tootle” Estes of Knoxville, Tn. and Katron Sosebee of Lilburn.

For more information on the Hall of Fame and it’s past inductees, go to www.georgiaracinghof.com .

1968 Southeastern Dragway (Dallas, GA) Video

2009-09-23T01:58:00.000-04:00

This video was taken by Hugh Greeson at Southeastern Dragway, Dallas, Georgia in 1968. There are a lot of the "big" names in Southern drag racing at this race. Thanks to Wayne Holland for posting this video!

Diesel Drags at South Georgia Motorsports Park, September 19, 2009

2009-09-23T01:16:00.002-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

When the engine smoke is black, and the tire smoke is white, you know its time for the diesel drags. The National Hot Rod Diesel Association presented its Division 4 Championships at South Georgia Motorsports Park on Saturday, September 19. Four classes were contested. All vehicles had to meet NHRA safety rules.

The NHRDA Sportsman ET class was a dial-your-own bracket race. Roger Bishop, from Davie Florida, took his 2008 Fort to the win over Kurt Lincoln’s 1998 Dodge. Lincoln took the reaction time advantage, but failed to run his number. Bishop’s winning time was 13.130 at 91.63 mph.

In the heads-up NHRDA Super Street class for DOT tire trucks with two wheel drive (5000 lbs minimum weight) or four wheel drive (6000 lbs minimum weight),Will Jones took his 1995 Dodge to the win. After qualifying number one with a 12.205 at 109.02, Jones went on to score low elapsed time (12.171) and top speed (109.40) and beat Robert Shaw in the finals. Jones’ 12.17 was too much for Shaw’s 12.98.

NHRDA Pro Street, a heads-up class with a 4500 lbs. minimum weight and no tire limitation, boiled down to Micky Davis and Philip Palmer. Davis cruised to a 17.169 win in his 1977 Dodge when Palmer broke.

The showcase class for the event was Pro Stock for tubular chassis trucks. This class is based somewhat on NHRA Pro Stock, but with diesel power. The current records are 7.77 at 180.00 mph. Only one truck showed up to race, but Darren Morrison put on quite a show with his Chevy truck. In the last run on Saturday, Morrison lit up the scoreboards with a 7.607 at 168.32 mph, well under the current elapsed time record. Unfortunately, the 60 foot clocks showed that the time was not accurate. Apparently Morrison’s turbo pop-off valve dumps sooty black smoke right behind the front wheel giving the truck a longer run-out before the clocks start. Nonetheless, this is one quick truck!

Richard Tapia to Give Talk at Georgia Tech Monday. "Math at Top Speed" - Exploring and Breaking Myths in the Drag Racing Folklore

2009-09-10T14:38:00.007-04:00

Thanks to Bill Cook for forwarding information to us about this talk at Georgia Tech by Rice University's Richard Tapia! Professor Tapia is the twin brother of Bobby Tapia who long-time fans will know from his races in the late 50's and the 60's.

"Math at Top Speed" to be given at Georgia Tech on Monday, September 14, 3:00 to 4:00 P.M. Richard's talk will cover the mathematics of drag racing. It is open to the public and it will be a fun event for any dragster fans.

More Information

FRIDAY NIGHT DRAGS & SHOW-N-SHINE CHAMPIONSHIP EVENT FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

2009-09-10T14:33:00.002-04:00

ALL RACERS!!!! ALL SHOW VEHICLES!!!!

YOU’RE INVITED TO COMPETE THIS FRIDAY NIGHT!!!

This Friday’s championship event will feature a full night of eliminations for ALL drag racers and a special night for all the show vehicles in the show-n-shine! Come out for the final night of fun at the speedway for this season!

Pit Gates open at 6pm.

Tech opens at 6pm.

Show-N-Shine Garage opens at 6pm.

Drag practice runs begin at 6:15pm.

Elimination runs begin at 8:30pm.

Show-N-Shine Speedway Cruise and Awards at 9:30pm.

Championship Drag Race at 10:15pm.

The top drag racers from Friday night’s eliminations and the season point standings will run head to head in the Championship Drag Race! If you have raced all season, one race or have competed on a regular basis this season, you are eligible to race this weekend! Everyone is welcome to come and race! You may become the champion!
- - - - -

MOTORSPORT NATIONALS

SEPTEMBER 19 AND 20

ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY

MOTORSPORT NATIONALS 2009

www.motorsportnationals.com

770-692-2732 or info@motorsportnationals.com

Event Dates: September 15, 16 and 17 (set-up days); September 18 (show car entry); September 19 and 20 (open to public)

Spectator Event Hours: Saturday, September 19 from 9am – 7pm; Sunday, September 20 from 9am – 5pm

Ticket Prices: Adult Two-Day (13+) $40; Adult One-Day $30; Child Two-Day (7-12) $10; 6 and under Free; Family Pak (2 Adults, 2 Child) $90

Tickets available at the Gate, AMS ticket office or on line at their website.

Event Entrance Gates: Car Show Entry at the Main Tunnel (registration at Gate 12 ticket booth); Spectators at Gate 15 (use pedestrian tunnel to infield)

FREE Parking in the Earnhardt Lot and Blue Lot

Show Schedule

Friday, September 18

9am to 5pm – Vendor Load-In

11am to 5pm – Registration at Gate 12

Saturday, September 19

7am – Infield Opens for Show Vehicles

7am – Registration at Gate 12

9am – Gates Open at Gate 15

Drifting & Stunt Shows = Roush Performance; The Drift Mechanics; Atlanta Freestyle

Seminars = Automotive Restoration; Auto/Motorcycle Paint Techniques; Diesel Performance; State Safety Driving Classes; Detailing Techniques;

Exhibitions = Burn-Out Contest; FMX Stunt Show; RC Drag Racing

Main Track = Track Cruises for Big Rigs, Motorcycles and Cars/Trucks

Main Music Stage = Down Stem (AC/DC tribute band); Eleven Standing Still; Highway Fever Tour; Motorsport Nationals Model Search

Cooper Stage = DJ ‘Dee’; R & B Groups (4)

Truckin Stage = Terry Wooley; Ali’An; DJ Jeff Bee

Hot Rod Alley Stage = Live DJ Music with the best of the 50’s and 60’s

7pm – Show Closes

Sunday, September 20

7am – Infield Opens for Show Vehicles

7am – Registration at Gate 12

9am – Gates Open at Gate 15

9am – Church Service with Christian Motorcycle Association

Drifting & Stunt Shows = Roush Performance; Atlanta Freestyle

Seminars = Automotive Restoration; Auto/Motorcycle Paint Techniques; Diesel Performance; State Safety Driving Classes; Detailing Techniques;

Exhibitions = Burn-Out Contest; FMX Stunt Show; RC Drag Racing

Main Music Stage = Down Stem (AC/DC tribute band); Eleven Standing Still; Highway Fever Tour; Motorsport Nationals Model Search

Cooper Stage = DJ ‘Dee’; R & B Groups (4)

Truckin Stage = Terry Wooley; Ali’An; DJ Jeff Bee

Hot Rod Alley Stage = Live DJ Music with the best of the 50’s and 60’s

4:30pm – Awards Ceremony

5pm – Show Closes

Ted Austad

Event Promotions Coordinator

Atlanta Motor Speedway

770-946-3954 office

'09 National Dragster Challenge and King of the Track at South Georgia Motorsports Park - New! Photos Added

2009-09-08T18:43:00.002-04:00

September 5-6, 2009

by Marvin T. Smith

More Photos

The action was hot for Labor Day weekend at South Georgia Motorsports Park, as racers battled for Wallys and bragging rights at the big two day event. On Saturday, Wallys were awarded to the winners of Super Street, Super Gas, Super Comp, Top Sportsman, and Top Dragster. The Top Sportsman winner and the Top Dragster winner then raced for the King of the Track title. There was also a gamblers’ race in Super Pro, Pro, and Junior Dragster. Sunday’s action featured the Wally race in Super Pro, Pro, and Pro Cycle, and junior dragster action in three classes.

Twenty-one cars battled for the Top Dragster win. In the finals, Greg Samuel defeated Mark Toung with an impressive package running a .003 rt initiated 4.904 on his 4.89 dial to defeat Toung’s good .025 and a 4.947 on his 4.94 dial. Mike Gurliaccio was the lone semifinal loser. In Top Sportsman, the six car field was dominated by Bobby Childs, who ran 4.992 on his 4.98 dial in round one, 4.996 in round two, and a fine 4.980 on his 4.97 final round dial. Bobby’s reaction times were .019, .017, and a great .008 in the finals in his win over Bob Barnes who broke out. In the King of the Track runoff, Childs had a psychic .003 rt and ran 4.998 on his 4.96 dial to defeat Greg Samuel’s 4.898 on his 4.89 dial (.064 rt.).

Sixteen Super Comp cars battled for the Saturday Wally. Danny Wood racing in his first ever Super Comp event defeated Chuck Trotter with a great .003 reaction time. Larry McLendon and John Biermann were the semifinalists.

The Super Gas Wally went to Jimmy Fuller over Lester Barnes. Fuller took the starting line advantage in his Camaro and ran a better 9.92 for the win. Gene Abbott and Mike Alligood were the semifinalists.

Driving a 70 Dodge Dart, Jim Berkoben defeated Edward Wiley for the Super Street Wally when both cars had problems. Allan Kremkau was the lone semifinalist in the 22 car field.

In the Gamblers races, Janice Newmans defeated Ed Conner for Super Pro, Brandon Wood took his wheelstanding 71 Chevy to defeat a fouling Gene Holton for the Pro win, and Cole Samuel defeated Will Weeks for the Junior Dragster title.

On Sunday the bracket racers turned out in large numbers to compete for Wallys and a $5,000 winner purse. Eighty-five cars answered the call for Super Pro. After eight rounds of racing, it was dragster against door car. Marcus Crews defeated Larry McDuffie when McDuffie fouled. Crews ran a strong 5.274 on his 5.27 dial in his dragster and would have been hard to beat. Scott Bishop was the lone semifinalist.

Fifty-five cars fought for the Pro Wally and cash. After seven rounds of racing, Roger Kelly took his Camaro to the winner’s circle. Kelly’s 6.458 (6.45 dial) initiated with a .012 reaction time defeated Bill Kapke’s breakout 6.505 on his 6.51 dial. Scott Young and Tom Booher were the semifinalists.

In Pro Cycle Robert Meeks defeated Michell Clary who broke out. Anthony Frison was the lone semifinalist.

The Junior Dragsters battled for beautiful Race Bricks trophies and cash. In Junior Novice, Colby Fuller defeated Zach Holland. Colby ran 13.278 on his 13.17 dial to beat Zach’s 13.354 on his 12.90 dial. Melissa Daughtry won the seven car Junior Intermediate class over Will Weeks. Melissa ran a 10.180 on hier 10.15 dial to defeat Weeks’ 8.986 on his 8.92 dial. Daniel Young was the lone semifinalist. In the ten car Junior Advanced class, Kayla McBee ran a 7.937 on her 7.91 dial to defeat a breaking-out Brandon Ranslow (8.031 on an 8.05 dial). Dalton Samuel was the lone semifinalist.

HAROLD WILSON BREAKS SEVEN YEAR LOSING STREAK

2009-09-01T13:32:00.002-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – August 29) With one more Summit ET Series event to go, racers are turning out to show what they’ve got and defend their points standings. The day was surprisingly clear after a rainy week, and there was just enough breeze to make the dial-ins a challenge. Harold Wilson enjoyed his first victory in seven years with a Pro Class victory.

Phil Owens (Lithia Springs, GA) met points leader Jeremy Hancock (Commerce, GA) in the Super Pro finals, both driving ’05 M&M dragsters. Hancock left the line with a .016 green light, trumped by Owens’ .006 second reaction time. The two kept close to the finish line – Hancock finishing with a 4.95 ET on a 4.93 dial-in at 137.20 mph. Owens gained the win-light with a 4.83 second run on a 4.80 prediction at 134.47 mph, making for a .005 margin-of-victory and the closest final run of the night. Owens thanked his son Clint, “for helping me tonight.” Gainesville’s Joe Rampley was the semi-finalist in his ’05 Dragster.

Rickey Morris (Ellenwood, GA) appeared in his second consecutive Pro final, this time in an ’87 Corvette against Harold Wilson’s ’74 Nova (Winder, GA). Wilson’s chances were looking grim when he left the line with a .141 green light, followed by Morris’ .081 launch. However, Morris couldn’t catch Wilson at the top end, running a 6.48 on his 6.40 dial-in at 106.55 mph, while Wilson took the win with a .007 margin-of-victory, finishing with an 8.50 ET on an 8.49 dial-in at 79.72 mph. Wilson was grateful for the win: “I’ve finally broke my seven year losing streak!” Modestly, he credited his success to luck, but also thanked his wife Stormy for letting him race. John Norris of Royston, GA, took third place in his ’86 Camaro.

John Snapp (Conyers, GA) made it to the Sportsman final in his ’03 Durango, up against the last Summit ET race’s winner Mel Abney (Cumming, GA), in a ’67 Camaro. Snapp left the line first, with a handicap dial of 11.15 next to Abney’s quicker 8.45 dial-in. Snapp’s light was a favorable .008, Abney following with a .025 green light to catch up. Snapp closed in too quickly, breaking out by just .002 with an 11.14 ET at 61.52 mph, as Abney claimed victory running dead-on the dial at 83.74 mph. “This was a great day,” Abney said, “it’s the most fun I’ve had in a while.” Abney thanked his fellow racers, including his buddies J.D. Burford (Hot Rod winner of last week’s NMCA race at ZMAX) and Mike Puckett. Abney is now just 20 points behind points leader J.D. Burford (’07 Corvette – Greenville, SC), who ended his night in the semi-finals along with Allen Long (’85 Chevy Truck – Ballground, GA).

Michael Tlapa (Loganville, GA) and Jay “Bird” Rhyne (Athens, GA) were tonight’s Motorcycle finalists. Tlapa was set to leave first, with a 6.48 dial-in next to Rhyne’s 5.86 prediction, but launched his ’01 Hayabusa a bit too quickly, cutting a -.043 red light that automatically handed the win to Rhyne. Tlapa continued his run with a 6.40 ET at 114.10 mph, as Rhyne drove his ’82 Kawasaki’s victory run in 5.87 seconds at 115.07 mph. Rhyne was very proud of his Motorcycle success: “Can you say Jay Bird’s House of Speed?” The race was his first win on a new bike, for which he thanked Tim Sutton. Rhyne now leads the points by 130, sealing the deal for the ’09 Motorcycle championship. Jeff Shropshire (’08 Kawasaki – Dallas, GA) and Tommy Saxon (’81 Suzuki – Bogart, GA) were the semi-finalists.

Charlie Smith (10 – McDonough, GA) enjoyed his first win when he made it to the 8-12 Junior Dragster final against Alex Krause (11 – Peachtree City, GA). Smith had the handicap with a 13.07 prediction, and left the line first with a .090 green light. Krause, waiting with an 8.90 dial-in, left too quickly with a -.064 red light. Krause finished in 8.95 seconds at 70.91 mph, while Smith hit the top end in 13.11 seconds at 48.67 mph. Smith is now second in the points ranking, just 50 behind points leader Chris Bowden. Smith thanked his mom, dad and sister for their help during the race. He added the best part of the day was having both his track friends ( Austin and Alex) in the finals with him. Austin Carden (8 – McDonough, GA) was the semi-finalist.

It was an all-girls final in the 13-17 Junior Dragster class, with Kelsey Lynn (15 – Marietta, GA) against Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA). The girls were dialed closely together, Lynn with a slightly slower 7.96 next to Denton’s 7.91 prediction. Denton left the line with a .099 green, while Lynn left with a detrimental .222 reaction time. Lynn finished the run too quickly, breaking out with a 7.95 ET at 82.67 mph, while Denton flashed the win-light with a 7.93 run at 80.77 mph. Denton has secured the top position in points, 150 ahead of the next place. Jennifer Jarrett (16 – Cartersville, GA) and Chase Mullinax (17 – Buford, GA) ended the day in the semi-finals.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2004 events, including the 27th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals on April 26 – 29, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

———————————————————————————————————————————————-

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Phil Owens ’05 M&M Dragster Lithia Springs, GA 4.83 134.47 (4.80)

R/U: Jeremy Hancock ’05 M&M Dragster Commerce, GA 4.95 137.20 (4.93)

Semi: Joe Rampley ’05 Dragster Gainesville, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Harold Wilson ’74 Nova Winder, GA 8.50 79.72 (8.49)

R/U: Rickey Morris ’87 Corvette Ellenwood, GA 6.48 106.55 (6.40)

Semi: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 8.45 83.74 (8.45)

R/U: John Snapp ’03 Durango Conyers, GA 11.14 61.52 (11.15)

Semi: J.D. Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC

Semi: Allen Long ’85 Chevy Truck Ballground, GA

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MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’82 Kawasaki Athens, GA 5.87 115.07 (5.86)

R/U: Michael Tlapa ’01 Hayabusa Loganville, GA 6.40 114.10 (6.48) (foul)

Semi: Jeff Shropshire ‘08 Kawasaki Dallas, GA

Semi: Tommy Saxon ’81 Suzuki Bogart, GA

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8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Charlie Smith 10 McDonough, GA 13.11 48.67 (13.07)

R/U: Alex Krause 11 Peachtree City, GA 8.95 70.91 (8.90) (foul)

Semi: Austin Carden 8 McDonough, GA

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13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA 7.93 80.77 (7.91)

R/U: Kelsey Lynn 15 Marietta, GA 7.95 82.67 (7.96)

Semi: Chase Mullinax 17 Buford, GA

Semi: Jennifer Jarrett 16 Cartersville, GA

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Terry Earwood to Drive for Livingston at Indy

2009-08-29T21:42:00.002-04:00

It will be good to see Terry at Indy again!
CompPlus.com article

Padgett and King dominate Summit Bracket Series weekend at South Georgia Motorsports Park August 22-23, 2009

2009-08-25T22:20:00.007-04:00

More Marvin T. Smith photos

After a long, hot summer, it was a beautiful weekend for racing in South Georgia. Mark Padgett dominated the Super Pro race winning on both Saturday and Sunday. Not to be outdone, Kelly King also swept the Pro division on both days.

On Saturday, 70 cars lined up to compete in Super Pro. In the semifinals (Round 6), Brendan George took a great .002 rt and ran a 4.451 on his 4.95 dial to force Crow Locke to breakout with a 4.593 on his 4.60 dial. In the other semifinal, Mark Padgett took a starting line advantage and ran closer to his dial to defeat Wheeler Davis. In the finals, Padgett again took the startling line advantage, .030 to .096, and ran a 4.889 on his 4.87 dial to defeat Brendan George’s 4.971 on his 4.94 dial.

Fifty cars battled for the Pro crown on Saturday. In the semifinals, David Walker defeated Jon Siegel. Siegel took the startling line advantage, but Walker ran a 7.602 on his 7.59 dial to defeat Siegel’s 6.708 on his 6.67 dial. Kelly King took a single run in the other semifinal. In the finals, King took a startling line advantage and ran a 6.524 on his 6.50 dial to defeat Walker’s 7.600 on his 7.59 dial. The margin of victory was only .009 seconds!

Britt Estes defeated Ray Williams, Sr. for the Street ET crown on Saturday. Estes took a big starting line advantage, .006 to .129, and never looked back. Robert Reynolds fouled out in the semifinals.

Troy Crawford defeated Roger Cloer for the Pro Cycle win when Cloer fouled.

Abby Hostetter defeated Josh Cook in the Jr. Dragster Novice class. Abby took the startling line advantage and held on for the win even though Josh ran closer to his dial.

In Jr. Intermediate, Cole Samuel defeated Eric Bowman. Bowman took the startling line advantage, but Samuel powered by for the win for a .012 win margin. Jordan Arnold was the lone semifinalist as Samuel took the odd lot single.

In Saturday Jr. Advanced class, Cory Cox defeated Dalton Samuel by taking the reaction time advantage and running closer to his dial. Cody Harrison was the lone semifinal loser.

On Sunday, the racers returned to do it all over again. Sixty-two cars battled for the Super Pro money. In Round 6, Greg Samuel defeated a fouling Wheeler Davis and Mark Padgett defeated Wayne Bell when Bell broke out. In the finals, Padgett took a slim reaction time advantage, .012 to .016 and ran a better 4.864 on his 4.86 dial to defeat Samuel’s 4.92 on his 4.90 dial.

Sunday’s Pro action again saw Kelly King taking the win, this time over Scott Bishop. King took the reaction time advantage but Bishop ran closer to his dial to make it close. The margin of victory was .014 seconds.

In Street ET action, Lisa Mouat defeated Robert Reynolds in a double breakout thriller. Jamey Addison, Jr. was the semifinalist.

Junior Novice went to Chris Bowman over Josh Cook in another double breakout race. Abby Hostetter was the only identified semifinalist.

In Junior Intermediate, Matt Cook defeated Chris Bowman who fouled. Melissa Daughtry and Drew Hostetter were the semifinal round losers.

In Junior Advanced, there was a big change since Saturday. It was Jordan Arnold’s birthday, and she moved up from Junior Intermediate to Junior Advanced. After winning three rounds, Jordan faced her older sister Jessica in the semifinals. In a classic case of sibling rivalry, Jessica had no mercy and took a startling line advantage and sent Jordan back to the pits for birthday cake and ice cream. Colton Sapp singled in the other semifinal race. In the finals, Jessica Arnold defeated Colton Sapp when he fouled. Jessica actually broke out, so the race could have easily gone the other way.

Marvin T. Smith

Several Georgia Drag Racers in this You Tube slideshow

2009-08-24T12:30:00.000-04:00

LET’S ADD TO THE EXCITEMENT!!! ATTENTION DRAG RACERS!!!

2009-08-20T19:23:00.002-04:00

Special two week points race for all drag racing divisions including Domestic, Truck, Sport Compact and regular point divisions!

Racing the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28) has an added bonus offered to the top drivers in ALL DRAG RACING DIVISIONS!

The top drivers in accumulated points the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28) will receive two FREE tickets to the NASCAR Nationwide Series Degree V12 race ‘under the lights’ on Saturday, September 5th ($100 value). It does not matter if you have raced all season at Friday Night Drags, a few times this season or if this would be your first time racing, the driver with the most points over the next two race nights will win the tickets!

All drivers competing the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28) will also be eligible to win a pair of FREE tickets, FREE pit passes and FREE pre-race concert tickets for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pep Boys Auto 500 race ‘under the lights’ on Sunday, September 6th (package of $500 value). This will be a random drawing conducted at the driver’s meeting on Friday, August 28. You must be present to win.

Drivers in the season point races will receive points towards the overall season point totals as well as towards this special two week series. The current top ten in points are listed below. Remember the top seven drivers present will lock into the Championship Ladder scheduled for the final night of the season. The final spot will be filled by the winning driver on September 11th. All divisions will run Championship Ladders on September 11th.

****Special note to the competitors in the Tuner class: The Legends Cars will now run in the Pro Four division****

ATTENTION SHOW-N-SHINE PARTICIPANTS!!!

All event winners this summer are invited to participate in the Pep Boys Auto 500 pre-race car show on the front stretch!

One of the most popular attractions at the 2008 Pep Boys Auto 500 was the pre-race car show. NASCAR drivers, crew members and team owners enjoyed the display of our Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine winners located on the front stretch prior to the race. Atlanta Motor Speedway is excited to announce the return of this prestigious event.

Once again, all the winners from the past weeks at the Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine along with the winners the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28) will be eligible to participate with this special showcase. Those choosing to participate will be allowed to display their vehicle on the front stretch during the pre-race ceremonies of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pep Boys Auto 500. This historical event will mark the first time in Atlanta Motor Speedway history a NASCAR race has run ‘under the lights’ and on Labor Day weekend.

You can still win your way into this FUN and EXCITING car show! All you have to do is take home the top prize during the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28).

More information about the pre-race car show will be available at the Show-N-Shine the next two weekends. See Trey Sanders and his staff when visiting the show on Friday night.
- - - - - - -

NASCAR TICKET SPECIALS AVAILABLE FOR FRIDAY NIGHT DRAG FANS & PARTICIPANTS

Grab your tickets to the biggest NASCAR show in speedway history as we ‘turn on the lights’ Labor Day weekend!

The fans, drivers, crew members and participants of the Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine have to opportunity to snare their tickets to the upcoming Labor Day weekend NASCAR events the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28). Atlanta Motor Speedway invites everyone to join in on the historical weekend of racing with some great ticket specials. All of these tickets will be available for purchase the next two Friday nights (August 21 and August 28) at the Gate 15/Will Call box office where our fans buy passes for the Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine.

BRING KIDS TO THE RACES!!!

Saturday, September 5th – NASCAR Nationwide Series Degree V12 300

Buy one ticket for $30 and bring all the kids (12 & under) you want for FREE!!!

Make plans to bring the whole family and experience stock car racing ‘under the lights’ at Atlanta Motor Speedway!

Plus, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice and qualifying! Fan Experience Display Lot! Speed TV Stage! Live Music! And more!

BE A PART OF HISTORY!!!

Sunday, September 6th – NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pep Boys Auto 500

Tickets as low as $39. Student tickets for only $19.

Earnhardt Grandstand (Go Junior!!!) is available for only $88 (limited quantity remains).

Pre-Race Concert tickets (Diamond Rio & Jason Michael Carrol) along with driver introduction stage access for $39.

First race ‘under the lights’ in Atlanta Motor Speedway history!

Super Pro

1. Frank Taylor…21

2. Billy Clevenger…18

3. Bobby Daniel…14

4. Gary Thomas…7

4. Arnie Cobb…7

6. Mike Miller…5

7. Gary Barnes…2

8. three tied with 1 point

Pro

1. Tony Morse…17

2. Eddie Chapman…13

2. David Sisk…13

4. David Harbin…10

4. Matt Mayber…10

6. Kerry Carden…7

6. John Bonner…7

8. Mark White…6

9. Al Baker…4

10. Mark Kingerski…4

Street Outlaw

1. Chris Stripling…24

2. Rick Gaddis…18

3. Jerritt Scott…13

4. Jeff Coker…11

5. Keith Johnson…4

6. Richard Stovall…3

7. Donald Wiles…2

7. Russell Raines…2

9. six tied with 1 point

Sportsman

1. Russell Johnson…21

2. Bill Hatfield…15

3. Mark Harris…12

3. David Stover…12

5. Rudy Roddy…11

6. Greg Adamek…10

7. Charles Street…9

8. Richard Riggi…8

8. Scott Bates…8

8. Jeremy Rhodes…8

Truck Advanced

1. Chuck Poole…21

2. Bill Patrick…20

3. Terry Queen…13

4. Dwayne Bethune…12

5. William Hudgins…11

6. James Hames…10

6. James Barnes…10

8. Cliff McBurnett…7

9. Meeks…6

9. Darlie Oryl…6

Domestic Advanced

1. Heath Maddock…18

1. Curtis Teal…18

1. Howard Wolf…18

4. Stephen Defayette…15

5. Brian Rice…11

5. Tommy McArthur…11

7. John Vise…9

8. four drivers tied with 6 points

Pro Four

1. Nicolas Feliciano…23

2. Mike Chambers…12

2. Luis Roman…12

4. Billy Russell…4

5. Darrin Ray…3

6. Jeff Ianitello…3

7. five drivers with 2 points

Tuner

1. Jose Samniego…17

2. Miami Capellan…9

2. Cristain Santos…9

2. Billy Stevenson…9

5. Patrick Stansell…8

6. Michael Martin…5

6. Juan Bonilla-Vincent…5

6. Brian Reel…5

9. Tony Taylor…4

9. Kirk Duncan…4

Super Bike

1. Michelle Ewing…26

2. Robin Malcom…14

3. Kevin Connolly…13

4. Demon Lewis…11

5. Keith Johnson…9

5. Shannon Shelton…9

5. Gary Myers…9

5. Mason Mecure…9

9. Justin Barlow…7

9. Calon Bailey…7

ATV

1. Brad Brand…25

2. Rodney Tolbert…17

3. Gregger Boyd…12

4. Charles Armstrong…11

5. Lynsey Insinnia…10

6. Bryan Cronan…9

6. Jesse Parker…9

8. David Brand…7

8. Jeffery Dorsey…7

10. Jason Hydrick…10

Super Pro

1. Frank Taylor…21

2. Billy Clevenger…18

3. Bobby Daniel…14

4. Gary Thomas…7

4. Arnie Cobb…7

6. Mike Miller…5

7. Gary Barnes…2

Cruiser & Dirt Bike

1. Jacob Wallace…21

2. Roger Wallace…14

3. Chuck Thomas…10

4. Jordan Collins…7

4. Micah Patrick…7

6. Buddy Patrick…6

6. Nick Ingram…6

8. Mark Templeton…4

9. five tied with 3 points

The full point standings for all divisions will be posted this Friday, August 21 at the Goodyear Concession Stand in the infield.

SEE YOU THIS FRIDAY NIGHT FOR SOME GREAT FAMILY FUN AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!!!

Ted Austad

Event Promotions Coordinator

Atlanta Motor Speedway

http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/

FATHER SON FINAL, NORRIS NICKS WIN

2009-08-20T19:20:00.001-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – August 1) Tonight’s Saturday Insanity brought out more numbers than ever to Atlanta Dragway. Despite spots of rain throughout the week, the track had perfect weather conditions for the race.

Last Saturday Insanity’s 6.50 Index semi-finalist, Matt Ward (Fair Play, SC), made it to the final this time in his ’69 Camaro, to race against the most recent 6.50 Index winner, Matt Bates (Loganville, GA), in a ’70 Datsun. Both Matts staged for the run, but Ward left a little too soon, with a -.002 red light, automatically signing the win over to Bates, who cut a more agreeable .021 green light. Ward ran it out in 6.51 seconds at 107.14 mph, while Bates finished with flair, running dead-on the 6.50 index, at 89 mph. Bates felt exhilarated by the run: “[Matt Ward]’s a good guy – I’m lucky, I tell you.” Bates recounted a terrifying first round, his steering wheel falling off during the run, but like a trooper, Bates bought back in to the competition. He thanked his dad and his “good luck charm” “Grasshopper” Lee, and credited his comic poses (for the winner photos) to his girlfriend Karen. Mardy Kennedy (Auburn, GA) was the 6.50 Index semi-finalist, in a ’67 Camaro.

John Norris (Royston, GA) and Woody Bryant (Bowman, GA) had a Camaro duel in the 7.50 Index final, Norris reacting first with a .010 light in his ’86 model against Bryant’s .044 light in the ’82 edition. The two were neck-and-neck until the very end, Norris crossing first (thanks to his deadly reaction time) with a 7.54 ET at 87.20 mph, Bryant following closely with a 7.51 ET at 90.84 mph, giving a .008 margin-of-victory for Norris, as well as the only foul-free final of the evening. Norris was happy to have such a good run with Woody: “We come up together, and have wanted to run each other in a final for a while.” Norris thanked Woody, Wade Bryant Automotives, Mason Racing, and Atlanta Dragway. Gerry Williams (’73 Dodge – Snellville, GA) finished in the semi-final round.

Charlie McCulloch (’98 Cobra – Kennesaw, GA), Open Comp winner of the last two Saturday Insanity events, was taken out in the semi-finals by Travis Bryant (’68 Camaro – Bowman, GA). Bryant was set to race his father Wade Bryant (’73 Camaro – Bowman, GA), who had the bye run into the finals. Unfortunately, Bryant Sr.’s transmission failed during the bye run, making for a solo performance in the Open Comp final. A disappointed but still triumphant Bryant Jr. reacted with a .016 light, and ran a 6.35 ET on a 6.34 dial-in, at 108.13 mph. “I’ve been racing for six years, and we’ve been hoping for a final. I hate that we didn’t get to run each other,” Bryant lamented, “but he was running better than me earlier today.” Bryant Jr. also noted they had run each other in the second time trial, both cutting perfect .000 lights – the day was clearly theirs. Bryant thanked his dad for all his work on the car, and Mark Milford, who “helped get the car straightened out.”

Cumming resident Blaine Aldridge made it to the final round in the Old School category, racing his ’87 Regal against Dewayne Stiles (Winder, GA) in a ’91 Mustang. Stiles got a bit trigger happy at the Christmas tree, launching before its activation. The foul gave Aldridge an instant win light; Aldridge made a .100 reaction, finishing in 5.70 seconds at 124.04 mph. Originally present for the test and tune part of Saturday Insanity, Aldridge was told about the Old School class: “It was right up my alley. I came out to have fun, in a real car.” Aldridge has also won a few races as a 6.0 Outlaw in ORSCA, adding to his record his first Old School win. He thanked Rob’s Racing for all his chassis work and tune-ups, and gave special thanks to Bud. Tracy Simmons (’88 Mustang – Danielsville, GA) and Wesley Anglin (’51 Ford Truck – Carlton, GA) ended their evening in the semi-final round.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the MIDNIGHT MADNESS TUNERFEST SHOOTOUT EVENT on August 8, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

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6.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX

Win: Matt Bates ’70 Datsun Loganville, GA 6.50 89.00 (6.50)

R/U: Matt Ward ’69 Camaro Fair Play, SC 6.51 107.14 (6.50) (foul)

Semi: Mardy Kennedy ’67 Camaro Auburn, GA

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7.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX

Win: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA 7.54 87.20 (7.50)

R/U: Woody Bryant ’82 Camaro Bowman, GA 7.51 90.84 (7.50)

Semi: Gerry Williams ’73 Dodge Snellville, GA

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OPEN COMP CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Travis Bryant ’68 Camaro Bowman, GA 6.35 108.13 (6.34)

R/U: Wade Bryant ’73 Camaro Bowman, GA (broke)

Semi: Charlie McCulloch ’98 Cobra Kennesaw, GA

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OLD SCHOOL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH

Win: Blaine Aldridge ’87 Regal Cumming, GA 5.70 124.04

R/U: Dewayne Stiles ’91 Mustang Winder, GA (foul)

Semi: Tracy Simmons ’88 Mustang Danielsville, GA

Semi: Wesley Anglin ’51 Ford Truck Carlton, GA

WILSON TAKES OUT MORRIS IN DOUBLE DEAD-ON PRO FINAL

2009-07-27T20:03:00.000-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – July 25) Hardcore racers came out despite the pavement-melting temperatures today, to defend their points rankings and enjoy the clear weather. The finals were mostly foul-free, with some close runs to determine victory. The father and son team of Rickey and Mickey Morris had a pretty good evening, with both making it to the final round in their respective classes.

The Super Pro finals featured Don Brown, Jr. (Buford, GA), his ’03 Spitzer dragster up against Jon Thomas (Covington, GA) in a ’72 Nova. Thomas had the handicap, cutting a .033 light on a 6.42 dial; Brown left the line with an impressive .004 reaction time, chasing Thomas to meet his 4.79 prediction. Thomas’ Nova lost the groove mid-track, causing him to lift for a 6.48 ET at 106.66 mph, while Brown triggered the win light in 4.82 seconds at 133.18 mph. Brown felt he had finally gotten past “the fourth round blues,” overdue for a win with his hard-working team. Brown thanked ‘the crew,’ his girlfriend Tiffany, Tim and Zack Corbin, and his dad Don Brown, Sr., for all their help – Senior had lent him a fuel pump. Brown dedicated the win to the late Eric “Buford Heavy” Duncan and his wife Beverly. Ricky Page (Monroe, GA) was the Super Pro semi-finalist, in a ’90 Mustang.

The Pro final was between Sue Wilson (’85 S-10 Pick-up – Tallapoosa, GA) and Rickey Morris (’80 Malibu – Ellenwood, GA), and proved to be the night’s most exciting round. Wilson left the line first, with a .031 reaction on a 7.28 dial-in, Morris following closely with a .050 green light on a 6.94 dial-in. The pair sped down the track, neck-and-neck, until Wilson crossed the win-stripe first, dead-on at 87.47 mph. Morris also ran dead-on, at 100.37 mph, giving Wilson a .018 second margin-of-victory. Wilson said she had “several close runs” to make it to the finals, and thanked her husband “for getting me into this,” as well as her crew, and her kids. Stephen Daniel (’82 S-10 Pick-up – Covington, GA) placed third in the Pro category.

Cumming’s Mel Abney competed in the Sportsman final in his ’67 Camaro, against Mickey Morris (Ellenwood, GA) in a ’98 Firebird. Both were dialed fairly close together – Morris with an 8.20 second prediction next to Abney’s 8.37 dial-in. Abney left the starting line with a .022 green, as Morris jumpstarted with a -.013 red-light, automatically handing the win to Abney. Morris finished out the run in 7.78 seconds, at 90.89, Abney finishing with an 8.43 ET at 85.15 mph. Abney commented on the quality of runs today: “The competition was real tough, each round was pretty much heads-up – it was a challenging day.” Abney thanked all his fellow racers pulling for him in the finals. “It’s motivating for me,” Abney said of his racing buddies. Allen Long (Ballground, GA) finished his night in the semi-finals, in a ’96 Silverado.

Athens’ motorcycle machine Jay “Bird” Rhyne defended his points lead in the semi-final round on an ’87 Kawasaki against Jeff Shropshire, of Dallas, GA, on an ’08 Kawasaki. Shropshire’s Kawasaki was dialed for a 6.02 ET, next to Rhyne’s slightly quicker prediction of 5.81 seconds. Shropshire treed Rhyne at the start, with a .018 green against Rhyne’s .028 reaction. The race was tight, but Shropshire took hold of the win with a 6.03 ET at 115.03 mph, and Rhyne finished with a 5.86 second run at 116.72 mph. Shropshire smiled proudly, saying, “You beat Jay, then you’ve done good.” He also thanked his family, “for letting me come.” Dennis Johnson (Comer, GA) went out in the semi-finals, on an ’00 Suzuki.

A re-run of last weekend’s 8-12 Junior Dragster final took place, with points leader Chris Bowden (13 – Homer, GA) alongside Hunter James (10 – Cartersville, GA), who came back for a little revenge. James had a slight handicap with his 9.50 dial-in, next to Bowden’s 8.98 dial-in, but left the Christmas tree with a .136 green, a slow start beside Bowden’s .014 launch. Bowden’s light determined the race, crossing the finish first in 9.03 seconds at 66.65 mph. James finished in 9.53 second at 66.79 mph, giving Bowden a .104 margin-of-victory. Bowden, who again took care of his own dial-in times, gained a 60 point lead in first place in the 8-12 Junior championship ranking, earning his success with consistent hard work. He thanked God first for his racing, and his mom and dad for letting him compete. Daulton Rogers (11 – Hiawassee, GA) was the sole semi-finalist.

The 13-17 Junior Dragster final was a close run, Blake Griffith (15 – Homer, GA) running against Valerie Clements (16 – Central, SC). Clements was dialed at 7.98 seconds, Griffith close with a 7.93 dial-in. Clements gave Griffith the advantage with a .113 reaction, Griffith leaving the line with a .042 reaction time. Clements crossed the finish a bit too quickly, breaking out with a 7.95 ET at 82.39 mph, while Griffith ran dead-on at 80.95 mph, earning a .03 margin-of-victory. Points leader Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA) and John Gordon (14 – Hiram, GA) finished their day in the semi-final round.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2004 events, including the SATURDAY INSANITY "No Box Pro Series" on Aug. 1, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

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SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Don Brown, Jr. ’03 Spitzer Buford, GA 4.82 133.18 (4.79)

R/U: Jon Thomas ’72 Nova Covington, GA 6.48 106.66 (6.42)

Semi: Ricky Page ’90 Mustang Monroe, GA

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PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Sue Wilson ’85 S-10 Pickup Tallapoosa, GA 7.28 87.47 (7.28)

R/U: Rickey Morris ’80 Malibu Ellenwood, GA 6.94 100.37 (6.94)

Semi: Stephen Daniel ’83 S-10 Pickup Covington, GA

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SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 8.43 85.15 (8.37)

R/U: Mickey Morris ’98 Firebird Ellenwood, GA 7.78 90.89 (8.20) (foul)

Semi: Allen Long ’96 Silverado Ballground, GA

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MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Jeff Shropshire ‘08 Kawasaki Dallas, GA 6.03 115.03 (6.02)

R/U: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’87 Kawasaki Athens, GA 5.86 116.72 (5.81)

Semi: Dennis Johnson ’00 Suzuki Comer, GA

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8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Chris Bowden 13 Homer, GA 9.03 66.65 (8.95)

R/U: Hunter James 10 Cartersville, GA 9.53 66.79 (9.50)

Semi: Daulton Rogers 11 Hiawassee, GA

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13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Blake Griffith 15 Homer, GA 8.02 63.24 (7.90)

R/U: Valerie Clements 16 Central, SC 7.88 78.86 (7.90)

Semi: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA

Semi: John Gordon 14 Hiram, GA

NATIONAL DRAGSTER CHALLENGE RACE INCLUDED MEMORIAL FOR “BUFORD HEAVY”

2009-07-27T19:59:00.000-04:00

By: Amy and Tim Glover

(Commerce, GA – July 18) Tonight’s race was the annual National Dragster Challenge and Jr. Drag Racing Challenge, giving racers a chance to win an NHRA “Wally” (the most coveted drag racing trophy). In addition, it was the annual Racer’s For Christ day at the track. All were invited to enjoy lunch and fellowship, and an inflatable playground was set up for all the children (both big and small) by RFC pastors Lloyd Shanks, Scott Griffith and a lot of helpers.

Atlanta Dragway racers were saddened this week to learn about the sudden passing of one of their icons, Eric “Buford Heavy” Duncan (1949-2009). Many folks never knew Duncan’s real name, as Buford Heavy was the only one they ever heard. Buford has been involved with several championship drag racing teams throughout his life, and has helped many other racers along the way. He was a top notch race car fabricator, and many racers were able to continue in competition after their racecar broke during National events, thanks to Buford’s Automotive. He is survived by wife Beverly, sister Florence, and mother Lora Carr. A ceremony was held at the starting line prior to the race in his memory. He had a lot of friends, and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Stan Sinack (’69 Dart – Lilburn, GA) earned the bye-run into the Super Pro final, where he faced Thomas Bell (’05 Undercover – Toccoa, GA). Sinack had a two-second-handicap with a 6.53 second dial, next to Bell’s 4.66 dial-in; regardless, Sinack treed Bell with a .033 green light against Bell’s .042 react. Bell chased Sinack’s Dart to the finish, breaking out with a 4.63 ET at 146.23 mph. Sinack won the round by going dead-on the 6.53 dial, at 102.55 mph, earning his first Wally. Sinack dedicated the win to the late Eric “Buford Heavy” Duncan and Harley Chapman (who passed one year ago from tonight), and thanked Bill Boomhower “for all his help.” Sinack also thanked Ed Nalley, a fellow racer recovering from a serious accident, for his visit to the track: “He probably gave me some luck today.” Joe Rampley (’05 Dragster – Gainesville, GA) was tonight’s Super Pro semi-finalist.

Rob Hogue (’68 Camaro – Loganville, GA) and Mickey Morris (’87 Corvette – Ellenwood, GA) made it to the Pro final round. Hogue left Morris behind with a .027 green, Morris following with a much-delayed .102 reaction time. Morris caught up with Hogue, but underestimated his ET, finishing in 6.47 seconds on a 6.59 dial-in, at 96.82 mph. Hogue won, breaking out less with a 7.40 ET on a 7.41 dial-in, at 92.20 mph. Hogue had been up for the Wally on three other occasions, all ending in defeat by a combined total of four thousandths of a second, and has finally earned the racer’s favorite mantle-piece. Hogue celebrated the night with his wife Jennifer, and daughters Chloe and Kyra, and thanked “Del Johnson, and the whole crew that came with me tonight.” He added, “We’re really sorry about Buford – we are thinking about him, and Beverly.” John Norris (’86 Camaro – Royston, GA) finished in the semi-finals.

The Sportsman class featured a duel between two SUV’s; Mark Hancock in his wife’s ’00 Jeep against Scott Preves in an ‘07 Trail Blazer. Both Commerce locals were staged for 16 second runs, Hancock leaving with a .033 green, while Preves launched too early with a -.026 red light. Preves ran it out, 16.45 seconds on his 16.45 dial, at 84.88 mph. Hancock finished in 16.16 seconds at 84.01 mph, on a 16.02 prediction. Notably, Hancock was last year’s National Dragster Challenge Sportsman winner, in the very same vehicle, and thanked his wife Paula for lending it to him. Hancock, a pallbearer at Buford’s funeral, said, “We raced today with heavy hearts,” and gave his “sincere thanks to Atlanta Dragway for accommodating us for the funeral service, letting us race today.” Hancock gave special thanks to track director Ray Wilkings and Mike Savage. Greenville, SC residents J.D. Burford (’07 Corvette) and D.A. Streber (’02 Hyundai) were the Sportsman semi-finalists.

Tim Sutton (’83 Suzuki – Clermont, GA) faced points leader Jay “Bird” Rhyne (’87 Kawasaki – Athens, GA) in the Motorcycle finals. Sutton had Rhyne on the tree, with a .026 light against Rhyne’s .041 reaction time, chasing Rhyne to the win stripe. Rhyne broke out with a 12.31 ET on his 12.33 prediction, at 101.53 mphh, while Sutton triggered the win light with a 9.32 second run on a 9.27 dial-in, at 133.84 mph. Sutton thanked his wife Jennifer for her dedicated crew work, and Jay “Bird” for borrowed parts, helping him win his first Wally. Wade Clark (’95 Kawasaki – Lawrenceville, GA) and Steve Jackson (’00 Motorcycle – Bogart, GA) finished in the semi-final round.

Chris Bowden (13 – Homer, GA) and Hunter James (10 – Cartersville, GA) raced in the 8-12 Junior Dragster category final. James had a slight handicap with his 9.51 dial-in against Bowden’s 8.96, and left the line with a .146 green light. Bowden launched after with a .040 reaction, chasing James to the win stripe. James’ run came a little too slow, in 9.59 seconds at 66.95 mph, while Bowden had a tighter run, in 9.02 seconds at 69.35 mph, securing the win and regaining his points lead. Bowden stuck with the 8.96 dial-in the entire race, and attributed the Wally win to “the memory of Buford.” Because Bowden’s dad Bobby was also a pallbearer for Buford, Bowden took care of preparing his car for each round, and asked Scott Griffith to set the idle for his car just prior to staging. Madison Lee (11 – Campobello, SC) was the 8-12 semi-finalist.

Points leader Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA) competed against Dylan Hutchins (14 – Monroe, GA) in the 13-17 Junior Dragster final. Hutchins cut a .096 light on his 8.01 prediction, Denton following closely with a .057 green on a 7.90 dial-in. Despite Hutchins’ 8.03 ET at 80.81 mph, Denton gained the win with a 7.94 ET at 82.40 mph – the victory coming down to performance at the Christmas Tree. Denton won the Wally with a .021 margin-of-victory, and gained a 110 points lead for the top position in the 13-17 Junior Dragster ranking. Kelsey Lynn (15 – Marietta, GA) and Mitchell Hennessee (14 – Dallas, GA) finished in the semi-finals.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the SATURDAY INSANITY "No Box Pro Series" on August 1, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

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SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Stan Sinack ’69 Dart Lilburn, GA 6.53 102.55 (6.53)

R/U: Thomas Bell ’05 Undercover Toccoa, GA 4.63 146.23 (4.66)

Semi: Joe Rampley ’05 Dragster Gainesville, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Rob Hogue ’68 Camaro Loganville, GA 7.40 92.20 (7.41)

R/U: Mickey Morris ’87 Corvette Ellenwood, GA 6.47 96.82 (6.59)

Semi: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA

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SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Mark Hancock ’00 Jeep Commerce, GA 16.16 84.01 (16.02)

R/U: Scott Preves ’07 Trail Blazer Commerce, GA 16.45 84.88 (16.45) (foul)

Semi: J.D. Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC

Semi: D.A. Streber ’02 Hyundai Greenville, SC

———————————————————————————————————————————————

MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Tim Sutton ’83 Suzuki Clermont, GA 10.64 123.84 (10.59)

R/U: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’87 Kawasaki Athens, GA 10.34 135.36 (10.10)

Semi: Wade Clark ’95 Kawasaki Lawrenceville, GA

Semi: Steve Jackson ’00 Motorcycle Bogart, GA

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8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Chris Bowden 13 Homer, GA 9.02 69.35 (8.96)

R/U: Hunter James 10 Cartersville, GA 9.59 66.95 (9.51)

Semi: Madison Lee 11 Campobello, SC

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13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA 7.94 82.40 (7.90)

R/U: Dylan Hutchins 14 Monroe, GA 8.03 80.81 (8.01)

Semi: Kelsey Lynn 15 Marietta, GA

Semi: Mitchell Hennessee 14 Dallas, GA

———————————————————————————————————————————————

Foul-free Finals, McCulloch Conquers Open Comp

2009-07-14T21:55:00.002-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – July 11) Today’s Saturday Insanity ran smoothly, allowing racing-enthusiasts a chance to test their vehicles, while others came to compete in the unique event. The 6.50 and 7.50 Index classes mean a set ET goal for racers, competing to stick closest to the determined index. The Open Comp (Full Body) category is basically bracket racing with a pro-tree. The Old School category is about the old days of racing, making whoever crossed the finish line first the victor. The track also got a visit from Diana Harker of the KDH Racing team, who came to test and tune her family’s Integration 4.0 Inc. Top Alcohol Dragster. Harker’s dragster blazed past the 1/8 mile mark in 3.86 seconds at 191.87 mph, a sufficiently exciting run of several the team made. Racers and fans had their fill of fun, making it home before dinner time (as races often have late-night finishes).

Matt Bates (Loganville, GA) and Paul Smith, Jr. (Alpharetta, GA) were the 6.50 Index finalists; Bates raced a ’70 Datsun against Smith’s PINKS-ALL-OUT-winning ’98 Corvette. Bates reacted first with a .023 light, Smith, Jr. following with a .059 reaction time. Mid-track, Smith’s Corvette coughed up, slowing while Bates continued to the finish line, crossing first in 6.77 seconds at 87.12 mph. The Corvette finished in 8.18 seconds at 60.27 mph. Bates was humble about the win, thanking his dad John “a whole lot” for his entire operation: “It’s his car, his truck, his trailer, and it’s a lot of mutual work.” Matt Ward (’69 Camaro – Fair Play, SC) was the 6.50 Index semi-finalist.

Jacob Rutledge (Hoschton, GA) brought a borrowed ’94 S-10 to the 7.50 Index final, against Ricky Page (Monroe, GA) in a ’90 Mustang. Both racers are points leaders in the Saturday Insanity competition, competing to maintain their ranking. Rutledge left the Christmas tree with a .035 light, jumping just ahead of Page, who cut a .077 green light. The two stayed close until the finish line, Page running the quarter mile in 7.53 seconds at 90.58 mph. However, Rutledge’s better light allowed him to close in at the top end, securing victory with a 7.56 ET at 87.25 mph, making for a .013 margin of victory. Rutledge thanked truck owner David Simmons for giving him a ride while he’s still putting his car together. He also thanked his wife Holly, “for sending me racing today,” and his son Tyler, “for being my pit crew.” The win was Rutledge’s first in a couple of years, after proving himself a well-seasoned, tough competitor. The 7.50 Index winner from the last Saturday Insanity, Stephen Rhoads (Rutledge, GA), made it to the semi-finals in an ’80 AMC.

The Open Comp (Full Body) class final featured Harold Wilson (’74 Nova SS – Winder, GA) against the previous Saturday Insanity’s Open Comp winner Charlie McCulloch (’98 Cobra – Kennesaw, GA). Wilson had the handicap with his 8.68 dial-in next to McCulloch’s 7.01 prediction, leaving first with a .077 green. McCulloch launched after him with a .039 light, chasing Wilson to the win stripe, where both broke out – Wilson ran an 8.62 ET at 78.14 mph, McCulloch breaking out less in 6.99 seconds at 95.62 mph. McCulloch thanked fellow Open Comp racer from Knoxville, Shane Williams, for calling him up to remind him of the race. He also thanked Tim Matherly at MV Performance and Pro Line Racing Engines. Bill Boomhower (’65 Plymouth – Walhalla, SC) and Eric Lewis (’85 Mustang – Cornelia, GA) ended their day in the semi-final round.

Bobby McNair (West Union, SC) and Mike Davis (Monroe, GA) raced in the Old School category final, McNair in a red ’95 Mustang, and Davis in a dark red ’66 GTO. The race started fairly close, Davis leaving the line with a .052 reaction after McNair’s better .033 green light. McNair held it to the end, finishing first in 6.42 seconds at 110.28 mph, Davis following with a 6.94 ET at 100.61 mph. McNair, an Atlanta Dragway veteran, felt the win a belated (by one day) birthday present. He thanked his wife Greta, and hopes for “more people to come out” to the event. John Cox (’67 Pontiac Tempest – Loganville, GA) and Alex Hill (Unspecified car – Cleveland, GA) were the Old School semi-finalists.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the National Dragster Challenge & Jr. Drag Racing Challenge on July 18, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/ .

6.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX

Win: Matt Bates ’70 Datsun Loganville, GA 6.77 87.12 (6.50)

R/U: Paul Smith, Jr. ’98 Corvette Alpharetta, GA 8.18 60.27 (6.50)

Semi: Matt Ward ’69 Camaro Fair Play, SC

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7.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX

Win: Jacob Rutledge ’94 S-10 Rutledge, GA 7.56 87.25 (7.50)

R/U: Ricky Page ’90 Mustang Monroe, GA 7.53 90.58 (7.50)

Semi: Stephen Rhoads ’80 AMC Rutledge, GA

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OPEN COMP CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN

Win: Charlie McCulloch ’98 Cobra Kennesaw, GA 6.99 95.62 (7.01)

R/U: Harold Wilson ’74 Nova SS Winder, GA 8.62 78.14 (8.68)

Semi: Bill Boomhower ’65 Plymouth Walhalla, SC

Semi: Eric Lewis ’85 Mustang Cornelia, GA

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OLD SCHOOL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH

Win: Bobby McNair ’95 Mustang West Union, SC 6.42 110.28

R/U: Mike Davis ’66 GTO Monroe, GA 6.94 100.61

Semi: John Cox ’67 Pontiac Tempest Loganville, GA

Semi: Alex Hill ’00 Car Cleveland, GA

Triple Header times two at South Georgia Motorsports Park, June 25 and 26

2009-07-02T21:09:00.002-04:00

Photos

Photos and article by Marvin T. Smith

South Georgia Motorsports Park hosted the Southeast Super Gas Association, the Southern Stock and Super Stock Association, and the monthly Summit Bracket Series race on June 25 and 26 for a big weekend of racing.

Thirty Seven Super Gas cars battled for the win on Saturday. The Southeast Super Gas Association races on a 6.40 eighth mile index instead of the usual NHRA 6.30 index. After six rounds of hard-fought action, Gene Abbott took his 38 Chevy roadster to the win over Jimmy Fuller’s 74 Camaro. Abbott took the starting line advantage, .036 to .044 and ran 6.402 at 108.79 to defeat Fuller’s 6.430 at 120.92. David Marcus was the lone semifinalist. Sunday’s Super Gas Race was not completed before the rains came after round 3. Mike Alligood, Michael Ruff, Richard Prucell, and Tracy Bragge, were still in the hunt.

Saturday’s Stock and Super Stock race featured twenty-six cars. In the final round, J.J. Carnero from Miami, Florida took the starting line advantage in his Pontiac Firebird and ran 12.219 on is 12.21 dial to defeat Daran Summerton who ran 11.404 on his 11.33 dial. Dan Dobson and Scott Helms were the semifinalists. Again, Rain won after round 3 on Sunday, but Harry Morgan, Robbie Shaw, James Hill, and Jeff Adkinson were still in the running.

In the Saturday Summit Series event, after eight rounds of Super Pro racing, Victor Fera defeated Wheeler Davis who fouled by .001. Fera ran a 4.902 on his 4.89 dial for the win. Charlie Boyd was the lone semifinalist. On Sunday, only two rounds were completed prior to rain.

In Saturday Pro action, Ken Grant defeated Jon Siegel when he ran a dead-on 7.380 to beat Siegel’s 6.701 on his 6.67 dial. Siegel took the starting line advantage, but couldn’t run his number. Ed Mucherino and Roger Kelly were the semifinalists. On Sunday, rain again took the win. After three rounds of racing, thirteen racers were still in the field.

Saturday Sportsman action saw Joe Tillman defeat Ray Williams, Sr. in the final. Tillman took a big reaction time advantage. Jake Wheeler was the semifinalist.

In Saturday Junior Dragster Action, Josh Cook defeated Colby Fuller in Jr. Novice when Fuller broke out. Zachery Holland was the semifinalist. After five rounds, Matt Cook defeated Frankie Villante to claim the Jr. Intermediate trophy. Cook’s better reaction time sealed the win. Eric Bowman and Demi Sheffeld were the semifinalists. Five rounds of Junior Advanced action came down to Neil Williams beating a fouling Dalton Samuel. Cody Harrison was the lone semifinalist. On Sunday, only the Junior Novice class was completed prior to rain. Abby Hostetter defeated Zachery Holland in a double break out final. Hostetter took the starting line advantage and ran a 12.935 on her 12.94 dial to beat Holland’s 12.921 on his 12.93 dial.

FIREWORKS, JETS AND SPEED LIGHT UP POWERADE NIGHT OF FIRE

2009-06-30T21:54:00.000-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – June 27) A surprise rainstorm turned the track into a sauna, but racers and fans were unfazed while the Atlanta Dragway crew worked to dry the track, for the annually anticipated Powerade Night of Fire event. The delays continued with car troubles and an extreme oil-down, but the show went on, giving the fans what they craved most – an action-packed experience loaded with exhibitions and entertainment. There was something for everyone – inflatable playgrounds for the kids, a midway for potential customers, the thrill of jet cars for adrenaline-seekers, and North Georgia’s largest fireworks show for the whole family.

This year’s Night of Fire showcased a handful of fast cars for the speed demon in all of us. A national anthem ceremony was held courtesy of visiting army officials, introducing the highlights of the night. Kate Harker (of the KDH racing team) brought her NHRA Top Alcohol dragster, covering the quarter mile in 5.97 seconds at 228 mph. Clayton Reeves, former Atlanta Dragway racer, ran his supercharged, alcohol burning Top Dragster (in preparation to run in the NHRA Top Dragster class), zooming past the grandstands in 6.97 seconds at 195.5 mph. Jeff Paulk (in a silver S-10 pick-up) and Keith Szabo (in a silver Mustang) demonstrated their outlaw series Limited Street cars, technically street legal with a TON of power – Szabo had an early shut-off, but Paulk covered the eighth mile course in 4.96 seconds at 150.38 mph. Szabo redeemed himself later in the evening, wowing the fans with a 4.87 at 160.67mph. Dan Parker (’63 Corvette) and Chris Patrick (’41 Willys) showed off their Dixie Pro Mods, thrilling the fans with sparks all the way down the track. Patrick had a 4.56 ET at 160 mph; Parker drove at 179.85 mph in 4.04 seconds.

The fans were already excited, but it spilled over when the jet cars rolled out – the quiet before the runs fueling the anticipation. First, Elaine Larsen in the Embry Riddle Jet Dragster pulled up alongside Mike “Hojo” Hojnacki’s police ‘Interceptor’ jet funny car (complete with sirens-and-flashing-lights crew vehicle), pumping the impressive flames spectators have come to expect from the outrageous machinery. Larsen “beat” Hojnacki’s run by covering the distance in 5.83 seconds at 271.17 mph, while Hojnacki finished in 6.22 seconds at 253.04 mph. Hojnacki made a show of ‘arresting’ Larsen in front of the crowd after the run. The final exhibition was a curious concept, a team of train-themed jet dragsters, their enormous tailpipes shielded by locomotive paintjobs. K.C. Jones manned the Cannonball Express, while James “Paul” Kelley “engineered” the Chattanooga Choo Choo. After a lengthy fire-show, the dragsters took off from the line with ferocity, Jones running a 7.06 ET at 224.06 mph and his teammate Kelley running a 7.60 ET at 217.32 mph.

Old age and treachery outdid youth and experience in the Super Pro final, pitting the seasoned Don Brown, Sr. (’01 Spitzer Dragster – Buford, GA) against former junior racer Jeremy Hancock (’05 M&M Dragster – Commerce, GA). In the previous two rounds, Brown had cut -.008 red-lights (with luck on his side and a bye run), preparing him to gear up for the final with fine-tuned anticipation. Both men were dialed at 4.95, keeping the race old school with a promise of some tight competition. Brown hit the tree hard with a .007 green, Hancock following closely with a .020 reaction time. Hancock ran dead-on the dial at 137.58 mph, but Brown’s reaction time took the win after crossing the line in 4.96 seconds at 139.73 mph, with a .004 margin-of-victory. “I was thinking ‘I got you now!’ at the tree,” Brown recalled. “I had to spray (nitrous) at the end, but I was thinking, ‘You’re done now.’ “Brown thanked his wife of 38 years, Susan, and Steve Carter, for helping him race. John Hobbs (’71 Vega Wagon – Conyers, GA) finished in the semi-final round of Super Pro.

After winning the last two points races, Chad Brewer was fired up in his deadly-consistent ’67 Camaro to stay on a roll, his challenger Randall Roop of Team Ford Thunder, bringing in a ’95 Mustang GT for a brand battle in the Pro finals. Both boys out of Canton meant business at the starting line, Brewer launching first (dialed at 7.29) with a .040 light, but Roop (dialed at 6.46) pulled a .007 green, making the chase neck-and-neck. Brewer finished in 7.30 seconds at 94.69, but Roop won with a .008 margin-of-victory, crossing the finish in 6.49 seconds at 104.11. “I told Chad I’d put him out of his misery tonight,” Roop joked, noting Brewer’s concern for the race as the current Pro points leader. Roop grinned appreciatively, saying, “When that car’s on, it’s just like sitting back in a lounge chair. It was all I asked it to be today.” Roop thanked Steve Garland for the win. “Whenever I’m in trouble, I go to him.” James Rice (’77 Camaro – Norcross, GA) and John Norris (’86 Camaro – Royston, GA) finished the day in the semi-final round.

Josh Richardson (’98 Mountaineer – Canton, GA) and Mickey Morris (’98 Trans Am – Ellenwood, GA) raced the Sportsman final. Richardson’s SUV was dialed-in at 16.45 seconds, while Morris predicted a 13.01 second run for his car. Richardson left first with the handicapped tree, with a respectable .051 green light; Morris couldn’t take the anticipation and jumped the amber too soon with a -.024 foul, running way under his dial in 12.14 seconds at 112.46 mph. Richardson cruised the track a winner, finishing with a 16.34 ET at 84.72 mph. It was the first time Richardson had raced in a year, a “spur of the moment decision” when he wanted to show his girlfriend the jet exhibitions. He thanked his dad Doug, his girlfriend Amanda, his family, and Robby Crain, the owner of the Mercury Mountaineer. Though thankful for the win, Richardson noted, “Now my girlfriend wants to race jets!” Points leader J.D. “Doc” Burford (’07 Corvette – Greenville, SC) ended his evening in the semi-final round.

The Motorcycle category pulled an impressive 33 bike count, giving regulars plenty of competition to flaunt their skills. Points leader Jay “Bird” Rhyne (’81 Kawasaki – Athens, GA) made it to the final round against Jeff Hackney (’00 Motorcycle – Ranger, GA). Rhyne had the handicap on the tree, leaving first on his 12.41 dial-in with a .040 reaction time. Hackney left the starting line too soon, fouling with a -.024 red on his 13.01 dial-in. Hackney ran it out, finishing in 11.02 seconds at 121.58 mph, while Rhyne sailed to the finish with a 12.37 ET at 103.30 mph. “It’s all for the love!” Rhyne declared. His solo efforts have again and again proved a winning formula for the skilled racer. “If I get enough of these, will you cut me a T-bone steak?” Rhyne joked, about the winner’s complimentary concession coupons he’d been stacking up. “I had my work cut out for me, but I can just feel that comfortable bed now,” Rhyne said, ready to go home. Tim Sutton (’71 Suzuki – Clermont, GA) finished in third place.

Jefferson locals Cole Wood (11) and Salina Shanks (12) raced in the 8-12 Junior Dragster final. Shanks wrapped up the run with a -.011 foul, while Wood cut a cool .020 green light. Shanks made the run bittersweet with a dead-on finish in 8.98 seconds at 72.55 mph, as Wood finished with an 8.89 ET on an 8.92 dial-in, at 74.37 mph. Wood, a seasoned junior racer in a self-proclaimed slump, found his way back to the top tonight in an all-or-nothing fashion. “I’ve gone out every first round this year,” Wood mentioned, after recalling his past championships. Not only did he break his chain of bad luck, but tonight was Wood’s first Night of Fire win. Wood thanked his dad Richie, mom Melanie, little brother, Uncle Travis, his grandparents, and Mike Bos Chassis. Avery Smith (12 – McDonough, GA) was the 8-12 Junior Dragster semi-finalist.

The girls dominated the 13-17 Junior Dragster category, with Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA) and Valerie Clements (16 – Central, SC) in the final round. The two dragsters were dialed closely together (Denton with a 7.91, Clements with a 7.97), making the launch difference nearly indistinguishable – Denton left the line with a .059 green light, slightly better than Clements’ .076 reaction time. Their finish was just as close – Clements ran 7.98 seconds on her 7.97 prediction at 82.38 mph, while Denton closed in with a 7.93 second run at 82.36 mph. Denton grasped the win with her sharp reaction skills, maintaining her top position in points with her third Summit ET win of the 2009 season, and sixth win overall this year. Denton also raced her “best friend in the world” Clements last weekend in an Outlaw series, and won with a .005 margin of victory. Denton thanked her mom and dad, and has set a personal goal to beat friend Steve McMillan’s 15-wins-in-a-year record. She aims high, but delivers solid competition. Another female junior racer, Jackie Lastinger (16 – Lilburn, GA), holds third place tonight in the 13-17 Junior Dragster category.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the SATURDAY INSANITY "No Box Pro Series" on July 11, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

———————————————————————————————————————————————-
SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Don Brown, Sr. ‘01 Spitzer Dragster Buford, GA 4.96 139.73 (4.95)
R/U: Jeremy Hancock ’05 M&M Dragster Commerce, GA 4.95 137.58 (4.95)
Semi: John Hobbs ’71 Vega Wagon Conyers, GA
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PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Randall Roop ’95 Mustang GT Canton, GA 6.49 104.11 (6.46)
R/U: Chad Brewer ’67 Camaro Canton, GA 7.30 94.69 (7.29)
Semi: James Rice ’77 Camaro Norcross, GA
Semi: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Josh Richardson ’98 Mountaineer Canton, GA 16.34 84.72 (16.45)
R/U: Mickey Morris ’98 Trans Am Ellenwood, GA 12.14 112.46 (13.01) (foul)
Semi: J.D. Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC
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MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’81 Kawasaki Athens, GA 12.37 103.30 (12.41)
R/U: Jeff Hackney ’00 Motorcycle Ranger, GA 11.02 121.58 (10.99) (foul)
Semi: Tim Sutton ’71 Suzuki Clermont, GA
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8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Cole Wood 11 Jefferson, GA 8.89 74.37 (8.92)
R/U: Salina Shanks 12 Jefferson, GA 8.98 72.55 (8.98) (foul)
Semi: Avery Smith 12 McDonough, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA 7.93 82.36 (7.91)
R/U: Valerie Clements 16 Central, SC 7.98 82.38 (7.97)
Semi: Jackie Lastinger 16 Lilburn, GA

Sol Stewart 2009 Old Drag Racers Reunion Update

2009-06-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I've got an interesting story to tell about a 1950 Chevrolet...this one a "Business Coupe".
In 1959, a young man named Aubrey Padgett, age 24 at that time, built a drag race car, a 1950 Chevrolet Business Coupe and named the car "BIG IRON". With this car, he proceeded to dominate the "C" gas class at all the local drag strips.....Such was the domination by this car that in 1974, he was approached by football great Kenny "Snake" Stabler and his partner Dale Watson to buy the car. The offer was too good and Padgett sold the car. In 1998, Padgett desided to build another "BIG IRON", again using a 1950 Chevy Business Coupe. Once again, this car became an instant winner, and a great conversation piece for race fans that remembered the first "BIG IRON".
In 2005, tragedy struck when "BIG IRON" #2 burned to the ground when Padgett's shop caught fire and burned up with the old car inside.
Shortly after the fire, Padgett, at age 72, started all over again...he had one and only one 1950 Chevy Business Coupe body left.....Within weeks, he had "BIG IRON" #3 ready to race. HOW MANY MEN AGE 72 HAVE THIS MUCH SPUNK ?????
"BIG IRON" # 3 is STILL flying down the local drag strips....This car consistantly in the 6.30s on the local 1/8 mile tracks....being raced by a 75 yr. old racer.
This man, before retiring, operated a service center and an auto repair garage. He is a former city councilman for the city of Evergreen, Al. He is still very active in community development in his home county.
On Sept. 25th,2009 at the OLD DRAG RACERS REUNION IN MONTGOMERY, AL., one of our features will be a two out of three heads up match race between Padgett and another old drag racer, 74 yr. old "SPEEDY" Ball from Anniston, Ala. Speedy also has been racing continuous since 1959...........These two men, as far as we can find out, are the two oldest continuous drag racers in the state of Alabama.
Both men have been honored by being inducted into the OLD DRAG RACERS REUNION HALL of FAME.
Please take a moment and look at the attachment...A picture of "BIG IRON" # 3 and the owner/driver Aubrey Padgett.........Picture was made Sept. 27, 2008.

SOL STEWART for the OLD DRAG RACERS REUNION..........

Pro CyclePalooza Event at South Georgia Motorsports Park, June 19 and 20

2009-06-25T22:26:00.000-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

In spite of record 151 degree track temperatures, racers from fourteen states turned out for SGMP’s big money motorcycle bracket event. One race was held on Friday and two races were contested on Saturday in Street ET and Pro ET classes.

On Friday, thirty cycles battled for the Street ET class. In the finals, Craig Cross from Stone Mountain, Georgia defeated a fouling Daniel Ingram from Tallahassee, Florida. Semifinalists included Baybay Yarbrough from Georgia and Chad Isley from Illinois, both of whom broke out.

Friday’s Pro ET field of 65 bikes came down to Michael Mathawl from LaGrange, Texas against Bruce Damewood of Clinton, Iowa. Mathawl ran an outstanding 5.982 on his 5.98 dial to defeat Damewood who broke out by .006. Tim Hunt from Boynton Beach, Florida and Tony Davis from Houston, Texas were the semifinalists.

Two separate races were contested on Saturday, giving the bracket racers three chances to win in two days. Thirty-eight cycles made the call for the first Street ET race. After seven rounds of hard racing, Mike Sellulz from Virginia defeated Stanley Russell from Georgia. Sellulz had a strong .012 light to hold off Russell who rode closer to his dial. Andy Lynch from South Carolina was the lone semifinalist . In the second Street ET Saturday race, Tim Patrick from Florida defeated Andy Lynch from South Carolina In a good race. Lynch took the starting line advantage, .010 to .012, but Patrick ran 6.058 on his 6.04 dial to take the win over Lynch’s 6.538 on his 6.51 dial. Danny Ingram and Chad Isley were the semifinalists.

In Saturday Pro ET action, 59 bikes contested the first event. In the final round, Troy Crawford from Florida defeated John Spooky Markham from Kentucky in a strange, off-pace final. Crawford took the startling line advantage with a great .002 light and won with a 6.005 on his 5.66 dial when Markham ran an even slower 7.354 on his 6.91 dial. Candy Hagadorn and the other John Markham (not Spooky) were semifinalists. In the second Saturday Pro ET event, Chad Isley from Illinois defeated Steve Klemme from Illinois. Both dialed in a 5.99. Klemme took the startling line advantage, .024 to .042, but Isley ran a 6.094 to Klemme’s losing 6.125. Paul Holman from Texas was the lone semifinalist.

Saturday Insanity Event at Atlanta Dragway

2009-06-25T22:10:00.002-04:00

Racing the way it was meant to be, at Saturday Insanity
By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – June 20) The second Saturday Insanity took place tonight; there were some not-to-be-missed moments, when racers were pushing the limits in pro-mods and old school cars, thrilling spectators with a few close calls. The Atlanta Dragway crew diligently handled the event, packed with some of the best racing spectators could hope for. The competition was intense, with three holeshot wins out of four finals, coupled with very close margins of victory, along with plenty of test-and-tune runs for participants, the ideal formula for Atlanta Dragway’s new Saturday Insanity series. The 6.50 and 7.50 Index classes mean a set ET goal for racers, competing to stick closest to the determined index. The Open Comp (Full Body) category is basically bracket racing with a pro-tree. The Old School category was about the old days of racing, making whoever crossed the finish line first the victor.

The 6.50 index final was a run between beauty and the beast, between Mike Johnson’s polished metallic blue ’66 Mustang and Joe Rampley’s matte black ’76 Vega Wagon (he calls it “the hairless mammoth,” in reference to the Pink’s All Out show’s “Woolly Mammoth,” a wool-covered ’76 Vega Wagon). Johnson traveled all the way from Easley, SC to join the show, while Rampley is a much closer Gainesville local. Rampley launched with a .014 green light, Johnson following just a hair behind with a .027 reaction time. The top end was a double-breakout finish; Johnson finishing in 6.46 seconds at 105.09 mph, while Rampley stuck closer to the 6.50 index with a 6.48 ET at 104.61 mph, giving him a .01 advantage at the win stripe. Johnson recalled, “I was watching his fender the whole way.” Rampley was in the last Saturday Insanity 6.50 final, losing against Ed Nalley, to whom he dedicated tonight’s win. “He’s struggling to recover (from a recent motorcycle accident).” If he was here, I feel like he’d be there with me. My thoughts and prayers are with him.” Rampley also thanked his wife Peggy. Kenny Woodall (90 Mustang – Central, SC) and T.J. Thomas (’71 Chevelle – Baldwin, GA) were the 6.50 index semi-finalists.

The 7.50 Index final was between Sean Garner out of Oxford, GA, in a black ’89 S-10 Blazer, against Stephen Rhoads (Rutledge, GA), in a breathtaking teal and white ’55 Chevy. Rhoads cut a .011 light, Garner following with a .042 green – the chase looked even, until Rhoads crossed the line in 7.55 seconds at 99.33 mph, winning with a .01 margin-of-victory against Garner’s 7.53 seconds run at 90.68 mph. Rhoads considered the race a “tune-up for the Night of Fire” next weekend, and everything that could go wrong did – a blown-out dipstick, a dead battery, and a red-light loss in the first round. Rhoads overcame with victory in the final, and enthusiastically thanked Brad Howard of Brad’s Machine Shop, his sponsor and owner of the ’55 Chevy. “He helps support all my sixteen kids,” Rhoads noted with a grin. John Norris (’86 Camaro – Royston, GA) was the 7.50 Index semi-finalist.

The Open Comp (Full Body) class final was Cobra meets Camaro; Kennesaw’s Charlie McCulloch in a ’98 Mustang against Jimmy Mason (Canon, GA) in a ’93 Chevrolet. Mason treed McCulloch with a .069 light, McCulloch trailing with a .086 reaction time. Mason ran a 7.54 on his 7.41 dial-in, at 93.09 mph, McCulloch tripping the win-light in 7.26 seconds on a 7.15 dial at 85.35 mph, with a .01 margin-of-victory. McCulloch has had an impressive track record, as the ’07 Super Street champ at Silver Dollar Raceway, the ’06 Fun Ford Weekend Mod-Comp champ, the ’04 World Ford Challenge 7 in St. Louis Open-Comp champ, the and winner of a NHRA Division 2 ‘Wally’ in a super street race. McCulloch is in it to win it, saying, “I go wherever I can get to,” as he travels around to chase the big money races. He thanked Tim Matherly at MV Performance (for help with the car), as well as Pro Line Racing Engines. A self-assured McCulloch said, “I’ll be back for the next one.” Scott Reynolds (’90 Formula 350 – Cartersville, GA), last weekend’s Summit ET Sportsman winner, and Eric Smith (’71 Nova – Baldwin, GA) finished in the semi-final round.

The Old School class featured a handful of classic cars made to go fast, blurring their gorgeous paint jobs down the track. Wesley Anglin (Carlton, GA) raced a bright red ’51 Ford truck, against Tracy Simmons (Danielsville, GA) in a shockingly orange ’88 Mustang. After a nerve-wracking run in the semi-finals (Simmons car lost the track groove, squirreling to the finish line), he ran to the finish in the final straight-as-an-arrow, after cutting a .083 light. Anglin’s truck lost the advantage of the tree with a .143 light, marring his 5.84 ET (at 118.79 mph) against Simmons’ 5.87 run at 127.76 mph. Simmons won with a .03 advantage at the finish line. Wishing his class had pulled a bigger car count, Simmons still “had a lot of fun” at the show, winning the Old School final a second time. Simmons thanked his pit crew and family, and “the good Lord above.” Dwayne Stiles (’91 Mustang – Winder, GA) and Tim Davis (’80 Malibu) ended the day in the semi-finals.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the NIGHT OF FIRE PRESENTED BY POWERADE Summit ET race on June 27, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/ .

———————————————————————————————————————————————-
6.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Joe Rampley ’76 Vega Gainesville, GA 6.48 104.61 (6.50)
R/U: Mike Johnson ’66 Mustang Easley, SC 6.46 105.09 (6.50)
Semi: Kenny Woodall ’90 Mustang Central, SC
Semi: T.J. Thomas ’71 Chevelle Baldwin, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
7.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Stephen Rhoads ’55 Chevy Rutledge, GA 7.55 90.33 (7.50)
R/U: Sean Garner ’89 S-10 Blazer Oxford, GA 7.53 90.68 (7.50)
Semi: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
OPEN COMP CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Charlie McCulloch ’98 Cobra Kennesaw, GA 7.26 85.35 (7.15)
R/U: Jimmy Mason ’93 Camaro Canon, GA 7.54 93.09 (7.41)
Semi: Scott Reynolds ’90 Formula 350 Cartersville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
OLD SCHOOL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH
Win: Tracy Simmons ’88 Mustang Danielsville, GA 5.87 127.76
R/U: Wesley Anglin ’51 Ford Truck Carlton, GA 5.84 118.79
Semi: Dwayne Stiles ’91 Mustang Winder, GA
Semi: Tim Davis ’80 Malibu Flowery Branch, GA

ONDA EARNS FIRST ATLANTA DRAGWAY WIN

2009-06-15T18:33:00.001-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – June 13) After the well-known Super Chevy Show took place last weekend, regulars reclaimed their territory at tonight's Summit ET points race. The event went smoothly, with no weather barriers to speak of, and was wrapped up before sundown (meaning victory dinners could take place somewhere besides their favorite waffle joint).

Dragsters dominated the Super Pro final, with Jim Onda (Toccoa, GA) in his ’96 dragster against Tommy Motes (Loganville, GA) in his ’00 Undercover. The men were dialed closely, Onda at 4.89 and Motes at 4.93, followed by similar reaction times; Motes had a slightly better .024 green next to Onda’s .029 light. However, Motes’ dragster failed towards the top end, slowing due to mechanical issues (finishing with a 7.76 elapsed time at 48.44 mph), while Onda sped past to cross the win stripe first, in 5.09 seconds at 113.58 mph. According to Jim Onda, he “wasn’t even going to come today,” though you can be sure he was glad he did, as it was his first win at Atlanta Dragway. Onda recalled adding a new chrome radiator cap before the race – “That probably did it today,” he joked. Onda thanked his wife Dee for being there (Atlanta Dragway) all the time, although ironically, she didn’t come this once, for which he thanked his son Joey, for helping him tonight. Danny Dixon (Cleveland, GA) placed third in his ’81 Malibu.

Chad Brewer (Canton, GA), who won Pro class in the previous Summit event, topped his peers once more with his impressively reliable ’67 Camaro. Brewer was up against Jody Blalock (Commerce, GA), who raced a unique ’47 Hudson, not quite consistent enough to beat Brewer’s better package. Brewer, dialed at 7.30, left the starting line first with a .022 reaction time, followed by Blalock (dialed at 6.55), who cut a .073 light. Blalock couldn’t catch Brewer’s Camaro, which crossed first in 7.33 seconds at 91.99 mph, the Hudson slightly off the dial in 6.63 seconds at 103.21 mph. Brewer re-emphasized his gratitude to the “Mayor of Hickory Flat,” but also considered the Cub Scouts he met today a good luck charm. Scott Bullock and his Cub Scout Pack 3143, from John’s Creek (GA), visited, receiving an explanation on drag racing from Brewer earlier in the day. Clearly Brewer wasn’t just busting his chops, as this win would be his third for the 2009 Summit ET season. Randall Roop (Canton, GA) of Team Ford Thunder finished third in his ’95 Mustang GT.

J.D. “Doc” Burford (Greenville, SC) made it to his third (Summit ET series) final in a row, alongside Scott Reynolds (Cartersville, GA). Reynolds’ ’90 Formula 350 left the line first with a .020 reaction, Burford’s ’07 Corvette close behind with a .067 reaction time – however, Burford couldn’t catch Reynolds at the finish, taking 13.08 seconds on a 13.02 dial-in, at 110.38 mph. Reynolds had a tighter run, finishing with a 14.45 ET on his 14.42 prediction, at 92.90 mph, and thus became the night’s Sportsman champ. During last weekend’s event, the Super Chevy Show, Reynolds had raced Burford; Burford beating him with a .003 package (no easy task for a Sportsman car, let alone any other sort). “I got a little revenge on J.D.,” Reynolds quipped. He also thanked Russell Haskins, “for letting me use his cooler,” perhaps “what it took to make me win today.” Reynolds was all smiles, saying, “I’m just keepin’ it fun.” Mike Newby (Marietta, GA) was the Pro class semi-finalist, in his ’69 Chevelle.

The Motorcycle final was determined at the Christmas tree, with a red-light foul guaranteeing the victor. Jimmy “Cha Cha” Heisler (Woodstock, GA) left first, cutting a .088 light on his ’00 Ninja. Perhaps the anticipation was too much for Michael Tlapa (Loganville, GA), who jumpstarted the tree with a -.035 red on his ’01 Hayabusa. Tlapa rode it out, a 10.34 second run on his 10.10 dial, at 135.36 mph, while Heisler finished with a 10.64 on a 10.59 dial-in, at 123.84 mph. Heisler was feeling lucky, worried through the race that his bike was leaking and his filter would fall off, but kept it together to the last run. His hard work (burning a knuckle to fix his bike) paid off, securing his first local win since 2003. Most notably, Heisler was last year’s AMA Street ET national champion. He thanked his sponsors: Motul Oils, Vanson Leathers, Precision Cycle of North Carolina, Mattei’s Cycle Supply in New Orleans, and Brock’s Performance. Heisler was also grateful to his wife, for being his “financial sponsor, videographer, and teammate.” Joe Brown (Baldwin, GA – ’06 Suzuki) and Howard Bowman (’06 Harley – Homer, GA) were the Motorcycle semi-finalists.

Madison Lee (11 – Campobello, SC) and Wesley Mayfield (12 – Gainesville, GA) ran together in the 8-12 Junior Dragster finals. Mayfield left the line first with a decent .018 green, but was trumped by Lee’s .010 light. Mayfield’s elapsed-time was 8.94 seconds at 68.84 mph, .03 seconds faster than his 8.97 dial-in, while Lee pulled off an 8.91 ET at 73.60 mph, on her 8.90 dial. Though Mayfield broke out, handing the win to Lee, Lee earned the victory with a smooth run, also reaching third in points. Bailey Brown (12 – Forest Park, GA) was the sole semi-finalist.

The 13-17 Junior Dragster category featured the formidable Brett Bowman (17 – Homer, GA) against Jennifer Jarrett (16 – Cartersville, GA) in the final round. The two were dialed closely, Bowman at 8.02 and Jarrett at 8.04. Jarrett left the line a bit too early, launching with a -.021 red-light, Bowman following with a .095 green. Jarrett also ran 8.02 at 81.77 mph, .02 seconds quicker than her 8.04 prediction, while Bowman ran dead on his 8.02 dial-in, at 80.24 mph. Bowman is now second place in points. Chase Mullinax (17 – Buford, GA) and Jordan Thurmond (16 – Statham, GA) were the semi-finalists.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the NIGHT OF FIRE PRESENTED BY POWERADE on June 27, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

Pro Mod Test at SGMP

2009-06-10T15:07:00.004-04:00

Here are some shots from Monday’s Roger Burgess, Raymond Commisso, and Melanie Troxel test at SGMP.

Marvin T. Smith Photos

Summit Series event at SGMP, June 7, 2009

2009-06-10T15:03:00.002-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

South Georgia Motorsports Park held a make-up Summit Bracket Series event on June 6-7 for an earlier rained-out event. Rain again intervened, shortening the two day event to Sunday only for all but the Junior Dragsters.

Junior Dragster eliminations round one was held on Saturday prior to the rain, and completed Sunday morning, with a second elimination event held Sunday afternoon. “Saturday” winners included Abby Hostetter, who beat Josh Cook in the Junior Novice class, Daniel Young, who beat Chris Bowman in the Junior Intermediate finals, and Trevor Estes, who defeated Corey Cox in the double break-out Junior Advanced final. On Sunday, Abby Hostetter beat Zachery Holland for the Junior Novice class to sweep the weekend and hold the series points lead. Matt Cook defeated Jordan Arnold for the Junior Intermediate class to hold the series points lead, and Trevor Estes repeated his Saturday win by again defeating Corey Cox for the Junior Advanced Class after the two raced four hard rounds.

Sunday was a beautiful day for racing. In the Street Class, Ethan Anderson defeated a fouling Dallas Burger in the final. Jamey Addison, Jr. was the sole semifinalist in the odd-number field.
Forty-nine cars battled for the Pro Class on Sunday. In the final round, David Walker defeated a fouling Jason Tucker. Walker, who took over the Summit Series points lead with his win, would have been hard to beat. He ran a 7.629 on his 7.62 dial. Roger Kelly was the lone semifinalist.
Fifty-four cars fought for the Super Pro Class on Sunday. After seven rounds of racing, Jennifer Bir defeated number one qualifier Mark Young. Bir took the starting line advantage with a .017 to .034 reaction time, and ran a 4.936 on her 4.93 dial to defeat Young’s dead on 4.990 on his 4.99 dial. Larry Strickland and Carol McCarty were the semifinalists.

SEMDRA at South Georgia Motorsports Park May 29-30, 2009

2009-06-01T18:06:00.002-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

The Southeastern Motorcycle Drag Racing Association staged a big event at South Georgia Motorsports Park May 29-30. Bikes from all over the Southeast participated in seven classes in the eighth mile format.
Headlining the event were the Pro Mod cycles. Travis Davis qualified number one in the twelve bike field and went on to score the win. In the finals, Davis ran low elapsed time of the event at 4.252 at 168 to defeat Lance Hines’ 4.33 at 169.38. Carlos Wilkerson was the semifinalist.
Twenty-seven bikes battled for the win in Top Gas. Racing on a 5.10 index, Curtis Clark of Florence, Mississippi, defeated Robin Procopio of Wake Forest, North Carolina, when Procopio broke out. Clark ran a fine 5.116 for the win.
The 35 bike Super Comp field was topped by Deshawn Wheeler of Louisville, Kentucky when he defeated John Falciglia of Davie, Florida. Wheeler ran 5.624 on the 5.60 index to beat Falciglia’s 5.698.
In Ultra Street, after six hard rounds of racing, Georgian Terry Singleton defeated Tim Patrick when Patrick broke out with a close 5.991 on the 6.00 index. Singleton ran 6.042.
Six rounds of Super Street boiled down to Stanley Russell beating Thomas Whytas in a double break-out final.
It took seven rounds, but Mike Lakoskey defeated Roy Koch in the final of Pro ET when Koch fouled.
Seventy-seven bikes raced in Street ET. In the eighth round, Andy Lynch of South Carolina defeated Georgian Jerome Hill when Hill broke out. Lynch ran a fine 6.465 on his 6.46 dial for the win.
In the V-Twin class, Troy Kersey of Naples, Florida defeated Hunter Hancock of Georgia in a double break-out final. Both ran on a 7.74 dial.

Summit ET event at Atlanta Dragway

2009-06-01T17:13:00.001-04:00

MASTER ABNEY SCHOOLS GRASSHOPPER BURFORD
By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – May 30) Tonight’s race exposed some Atlanta Dragway regulars as serious competition, with many names reappearing in the top spots of each category. Mel Abney and JD Burford gained another opportunity to race it out, reworking the last race’s (May 9) Sportsman final. Chad Brewer won his second Pro race of the 2009 season, and Jay “Bird” Rhyne is proving to be a Motorcycle winning-machine, laying out consistency with experience as a double-threat. The weather was crystal-clear after several other events rained out, setting up perfect conditions for the well-maintained dragstrip. Racers were also treated to the Pro Stock Motorycles of Junior Pippin and his protégé Doug Horne, both zooming to the quarter mile line in the 180’s (mph) in 7 seconds. Also, Clayton Reeves, former Atlanta Dragway racer, tested out his impressive new Top Alcohol dragster, covering the quarter mile mark in 7.09 seconds at 192.36 mph.

Gainesville’s Brad Howard got the bye-run into the finals, pitting his ’02 Miller Dragster against Stan Sinack’s ’69 Dart. Sinack (Lilburn, GA) left the line first with a .020 reaction time, while Howard chased with a -.018 red-light, instantly handing the win to Sinack, who ran under his 6.62 dial-in with a 6.56 ET at 103.96 mph. Howard drove it out with a 4.90 on his 4.89 dial, at 141.00 mph. The win was intense for Sinack, who worked very hard to make it to the final. Sinack thanked Bill Boomhower, Ed Nalley, and Cindy and James Rice for their help. Sinack also dedicated his victory to his late mother Betty Vihinen. Jim McKelvey (Loganville, GA) ended his evening in his (self-proclaimed) ’98 Junk.

The Pro final featured Rickey Morris (’80 Chevelle – Ellenwood, GA) up against Chad Brewer (’67 Camaro – Canton, GA). With an even split agreed to for the prize money, both men raced for the honor. Brewer left the starting line with a formidable .003 reaction time, followed by Morris’ weaker .102 green light. Morris couldn’t catch up, when Brewer crossed the win stripe with a 7.28 on his 7.27 dial-in, at 91.99 mph, while Morris finished with a 7.02 on his 6.97 dial, at 97.49 mph. Brewer, who was “just having a blast,” thanked once more the mysterious ‘”Mayor of Hickory Flat.” Jim Barton (’67 Corvette – Cumming, GA) ended his night as the sole Pro semi-finalist.

The Sportsman final was a re-run of the previous Summit ET race, when JD “Doc” Burford (Greenville, SC) met up with buddy and mentor Mel Abney (Cumming, GA) in the last round. Abney pulled out all the stops in his ’67 Camaro, against Burford’s ’07 Corvette, in hopes of altering the outcome (as Burford won the last race). Abney took the advantage on the tree, reacting with a .038 green light against Burford’s later reaction time. The pursuit for the win stripe was neck-and-neck, but Burford defeated himself at the end, breaking out with a 13.15 elapsed time on a 13.17 dial-in, at 110.33 mph. Abney was the victor, crossing the line at 103.94 mph, with a 13.07 on his13.02 dial-in. Pro winner Chad Brewer joked, “The master didn’t teach the grasshopper all his skills.” Abney insisted, “I just got lucky tonight,” but let slip with a grin, “We’re even now.” Abney thanked his wife “for making it possible to come and race,” and his fellow racers who “put on a good race, and made things exciting.” Allen Long (’96 Chevy 1500 – Ballground, GA) and Nick Wagner (’04 Dodge Neon – Jefferson, GA) were the Sportsman semi-finalists.

The motorcycle final featured old and new bikes, with Paul Cavanaugh (Loganville, GA) racing his ’02 Hayabusa against Jay “Bird” Rhyne (Athens, GA) on his trusty ’81 Kawasaki. Rhyne left the line first with a .033 reaction, Cavanaugh following with a .155 green light. Cavanaugh’s Hayabusa chased Rhyne to the finish line, crossing with a 9.65 ET on a 9.60 prediction, at 147.55 mph. Rhyne’s better reaction time determined his victory, as he finished with a 12.40 elapsed time on his 12.32 dial-in, at 94.11 mph. Howard Bowman (Homer, GA) finished in the semi-final round on his ’06 Harley.

In the 8-12 Junior Dragster Category, Austin Solesbee (11 – Sautee, GA) was up against Alexander Krause (11 – Peachtree City, GA) for the final run. Solesbee left first with a .061 light, Krause pursuing with a .106 green. Krause finished with a 9.00 ET on his 8.95 prediction at 71.29 mph, but Solesbee stole the show with a tighter 9.07 ET on a 9.03 dial, at 71.39 mph. The final was Solesbee’s first win, making the day very special for the multi-talented junior racer, who also sings and acts. Solesbee commented, “It was nerve-wracking.” He also thanked his mom and dad for their help and support. 8-12 Junior points leader Chris Bowden (13 – Homer, GA) was the category’s semi-finalist.

The 13-17 Junior Dragster final featured a mutual 7.90 dial-in duel between Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA) and Chase Mullinax (17 – Buford, GA). Mullinax left first with a .043 light, Denton following closely with a .067 reaction. Denton later reflected, “We pedaled a lot.” Mullinax ran too quickly, breaking out with a 7.88 at 78.86 mph, while Denton stayed on top of things with an 8.02 ET at 63.24 mph. Denton thanked her parents, grandparents, and brother for the win. Leighann Mayfield (16 – Gainesville, GA) and Mitchell Hennessee (13 – Dallas, GA) were the semi-finalists.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the 29th Annual SUPER CHEVY SHOW "Feel the Power" Tour on June 5-7, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com.

———————————————————————————————————————————————-
SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Stan Sinack ’69 Dart Lilburn, GA 6.56 103.96 (6.62)
R/U: Brad Howard ’02 Miller Dragster Gainesville, GA 4.90 141.00 (4.89) (foul)
Semi: Jim McKelvey ’98 Junk Snellville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Chad Brewer ’67 Camaro Canton, GA 7.28 91.99 (7.27)
R/U: Rickey Morris ’80 Malibu Ellenwood, GA 7.02 97.49 (6.97)
Semi: Jim Barton ’67 Corvette Cumming, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 13.07 103.94 (13.02)
R/U: Jim Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC 13.15 110.33 (13.17)
Semi: Allen Long ’96 Chevy 1500 Ballground, GA
Semi: Nick Wagner ’04 Dodge Neon Jefferson, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’81 Kawasaki Athens, GA 12.40 94.11 (12.32)
R/U: Paul Cavanaugh ’02 Hayabusa Loganville, GA 9.65 147.55 (9.60)
Semi: Howard Bowman ’06 Harley Homer, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Austin Solesbee 11 Sautee, GA 9.07 71.39 (9.03)
R/U: Alexander Krause 11 Peachtree City, GA 9.00 71.29 (8.95)
Semi: Chris Bowden 13 Homer, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA 8.02 63.24 (7.90)
R/U: Chase Mullinax 17 Buford, GA 7.88 78.86 (7.90)
Semi: Leighann Mayfield 16 Gainesville, GA
Semi: Mitchell Hennessee 13 Dallas, GA

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS!!!!

2009-05-29T18:35:00.001-04:00

Atlanta Motor Speedway kicks off their Hot Summer Nights racing series next Thursday and Friday, June 4th and 5th. A summer full of action packed, family fun is set to begin with the respective season opening events for the Thursday Thunder Series and Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine. The 2009 schedule will conclude with the very first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race held under the lights in Atlanta Motor Speedway history.

THURSDAY THUNDER ENTERS IT’S 12TH SEASON
Atlanta Motor Speedway’s longest running summertime series of racing is the Thursday Thunder Racing Series. The ten night series showcases drivers from the age of eight to eighty competing in legends cars, bandolero cars and thunder roadsters. The family oriented entertainment series has spring-boarded the careers of current NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers Reed Sorenson, David Ragan and Joey Logano. All three of the star drivers began their racing careers on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s thunder ring quarter-mile.

Race fans can look forward to seeing some of the sports emerging stars compete this season with ‘Racin’ Mason Massey (Winston, GA) and Blake Jones (Sevierville, TN) making the switch from Bandolero Cars to Legends Cars. Twelve year old Massey was the Bandolero Bandits division champion in 2008 while Jones claimed the laurels in the Bandolero Young Guns last season. The youngsters will be joined by former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Bill Elliott’s son, Chase Elliott (Dawnsonville, GA), national bandolero champion Ronnie ‘The Rock’ Bassett (Winston-Salem, NC) and the ‘Tennessee Terror’ Chad Finchum (Knoxville, TN) as they vie for the coveted Young Lions title.

The 2009 season kicks off on Thursday, June 4th with racing in eight divisions. The gates open at 6pm. The on-track autograph session opens at 7:15pm with feature races planned for 7:35pm. Thursday Thunder remains the most affordable ticket in the area with adult prices set at $5 and children’s tickets only $1. Kids five and under are admitted for free. For additional information on Thursday Thunder racing at Atlanta Motor Speedway visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com or www.legendsofga.com.

FRIDAY NIGHT DRAGS & SHOW-N-SHINE SET TO BEGIN
The wildly popular Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine will kick start it’s third full season of racing on Friday, June 5th. The street drag racing style event has taken the area by surprise as weekly competitors from a seventy mile radius compete for points, trophies and bragging rights on the 1/8th mile long pit road drag strip. Fourteen divisions allow drivers to compete in classes similar to their vehicle while keeping the drag racing close throughout the event. Drag racers will compete in everything from wide open dragsters in the Super Pro class to ‘off the lot’ four cylinders in the Sport Compact class. There are divisions for trucks, ATVs and motorcycles as well.

The Show-N-Shine welcomes all classic, custom and showroom vehicles to compete for best judged entries each Friday night. Fans will see flashy colors, sparkling chrome, jet black tires and feather-dusted rides in all shapes and sizes. Cars, trucks and motorcycles are eligible for competition in six different classes. Each night will also feature a President’s Award determined by the speedway president and new for 2009 is the weekly ‘special’ class awards. Another special activity for the Show-N-Shine participants is the weekly Speedway Cruise where they can drive their beauties on the high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway. The vehicles sparkle under the lights before stopping along the front stretch for the awards ceremony.

Opening night, June 5th, will feature the kid’s candy and coin scramble during our short break before drag racing. All kids 12 and under are invited to scramble into the infield grass finding FREE candy and coins. Atlanta Motor Speedway will separate the kids into age groups and all participants will receive prizes. There will also be the first of our weekly special awards in the Show-N-Shine area. The category on June 5th will ’50s are Forever’ and judges will determine the best entries that were built during the decade of the 50’s. A complete activity listing for the 2009 season is attached below.

The garage are opens every Friday night at 6pm. The grandstands open at 6:30pm. Drag practice runs end at 8:15pm with the Show-N-Shine Speedway Cruise set for 8:20pm. Opening ceremonies begin around 9pm with the first drag race elimination round starting at 9:09pm. Tickets are $7 with children five and under admitted for free. It costs $20 to enter the drag races or show-n-shine. For additional information on the Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS – THURSDAY THUNDER SCHEDULE & FAMILY ACTIVITIES
* Each night includes a full racing card with Legends Cars, Bandolero Cars and Roadsters
6/4 Thursday Thunder Season Opener – Autograph & Photograph Night
6/11 Thursday Thunder – Georgia Auto Racing Hall of Fame ‘Vintage Race Cars’ and Kid’s Candy & Coin Scramble
6/18 Thursday Thunder – Mascot Mania Race
6/25 Thursday Thunder – Kid’s Bike & Trike Races
7/2 Thursday Thunder – America’s Birthday Celebration and FIREWORKS
7/9 Thursday Thunder – Trailer Race of Destruction and Joe Momma Night (If your name is Joe and you bring your momma, both get in for FREE)
7/16 Thursday Thunder – Faster Pastor 2009. Area church leaders compete for the annual title of Atlanta’s ‘Faster Pastor’
7/23 Thursday Thunder – Bandolero Car Nationals pre-event ceremonies and Disco Night
7/30 Thursday Thunder – Classic Car Cruise Night
8/6 Thursday Thunder – Championship Night

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS – FRIDAY NIGHT DRAGS & SHOW-N-SHINE SPECIAL EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
* Each night includes a full night of drag racing in 14 divisions along with a full show-n-shine event
6/5 Friday Night Drags – Season Points Opener & Kid’s Candy and Coin Scramble
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special 50’s are Forever
6/12 Friday Night Drags – Kid’s Power Wheel Races (you know the little electric cars – bring ‘em out for some kiddie drag racing)
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special 60’s Muscle Cars
6/19 Friday Night Drags – Backwards Drag Racing
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Modern Day Tuners
6/26 Friday Night Drags – Lucky Ladies Night (All female drag racers receive FREE drag race entry)
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Hot Rod Heaven
7/3 Friday Night Drags – FIREWORKS, FIREWORKS, FIREWORKS
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Harley-Davidson Motorcycles
7/10 Friday Night Drags – Double Points Night in all divisions
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Ford Owners Rally
7/17 Friday Night Drags – Kid’s Candy & Coin Scramble II
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Mopar Owners Rally
7/24 Friday Night Drags – Ride Along Night (take along a passenger down the drag strip - $20 per person)
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Foreign Car Owners Rally
7/31 Friday Night Drags – Kids Power Wheel Races II
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Chevy Car Owners Rally
8/7 ***NO RACING***
***NO SHOW-N-SHINE***
8/14 Friday Night Drags – Double Points Night in all divisions
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Trucks
8/21 Friday Night Drags – The Great Moodini death-defying stunt
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Super Bike Motorcycle
8/28 Friday Night Drags – Lucky Ladies Night II
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Classic Car Showcase
9/4 ***NO RACING – NASCAR WEEKEND***
***NO SHOW-N-SHINE***
9/11 Friday Night Drags – Championship Night
Show-N-Shine – All divisions and the special Season’s Winners Showcase

Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway
www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

LABOR DAY CLASSIC 500
Sunday, September 6

Degree V12 300
Saturday, September 5

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
www.atlantamotorspeedway.com
770-946-4211

Memorial Day Observance

2009-05-24T22:31:00.002-04:00

Today (and always), please remember the veterans and all of those that paid the ultimate price so that we may live free in the greatest country on Earth.

Joe Tillman scores rare triple at All Mopar Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park May 22-24

2009-05-24T22:18:00.005-04:00

Article and photos by Marvin T. Smith

Joe Tillman won three classes at the All Mopar Southern Nationals presented by the South Georgia Mopar Association. His victories were even more impressive because they all happened on Sunday after rains washed out the Saturday racing. Tillman raced two vehicles in three classes and took home the title in Pro, Street, and the Mopar Muscle Magazine Young Guns categories. The event featured eighth mile racing on the strip, a car show, and a parts swap meet.
New this year was the Mopars “All Out” arm drop start event sponsored by Brangus Beef. Sixteen tightly clustered cars (based on elapsed time) were selected for the event. In the final, Woody Dunkin defeated Cleve Edgerton in an exciting race. John Tyler and Ken Grant were the semifinalists.
In Creative Customs Super Pro, thirty cars from as far away as Ohio battled for the win. In the final, Jim Berkeben, Jr. defeated local racer Ray Lloyd when Lloyd fouled. Berkeben would have been hard to beat with a 5.787 on his 5.78 dial and a reaction time of .021. Chris Adam and Jeff Warry were the round five losers.
After seven rounds of racing, Joe Tillman won the Cooper’s Pro category driving a Plymouth Scamp. In the final, his 7.889 on his 7.87 dial beat Garret Struck’s 6.449 on his 6.42 dial. Tillman had the starting line advantage and never looked back. Cleve Edgerton was the Round Six loser.
In Jones Chrysler Dodge Street class, Tillman again won, driving his Dodge Ram 2500 truck. He took the starting line advantage again, and ran a 10.599 (10.58 dial) to defeat Mike Jubinski who broke out with an 8.751 on his 8.76 dial. Ken Grant and Kevin Davis were the semifinalists.
Tillman also took the Mopar Muscle Magazine Young Guns class driving the big Dodge truck when James Guy fouled in the final. Kevin Davis was the lone semifinalist in the odd number car field.
More Mopar Meet photos by Marvin T. Smith here.

2009 Old Drag Racers Reunion Info

2009-05-23T22:15:00.002-04:00

Sol Stewart recently sent a flyer with all kinds of information regarding this years Old Drag Racers Reunion and I've posted it here. The new location at Montgomery Motorsports Park should provide even more fun this year!

Summit Series Event at South Georgia Motorsports Park, May 16-17

2009-05-19T21:16:00.007-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

A large number of racers turned out for the monthly Summit Series Bracket Race at South Georgia Motorsports Park. The two day event featured full eliminations on both Saturday and Sunday.

Sixty-one cars fought for the Super Pro win on Saturday. It was dragster vs. door car in the finals, with Kevin Powers’ dragster topping Shannon Newell’s 70 Nova. In an amazingly close race, Powers ran a 5.454 on his 5.45 dial to defeat Newell’s 6.451 on his 6.45 dial. Powers had the slight starting line advantage, .012 to .018, to take the win.

Forty-six cars contested Pro on Saturday. Blake Carnell defeated Jon Siegel in a double breakout final. Carnell took the starting line advantage and forced Siegel to break out by more.

In the new Pro Cycle class, Kevin Cadby defeated Troy Crawford in the final round of the eight bike field. Jamey Addison, Jr. beat Britt Estes in the Street class. Lisa Mouat and Ronald Weeks were the semifinalists.

Abby Hostetter defeated Josh Cook in the four car Junior Dragster Novice class, Drew Hostetter defeated a fouling Frankie Villante in the twelve car Junior Intermediate class, and Neil Williams defeated Gevin Croft in the ten car Junior Advanced class when he ran a fine 8.098 on his 8.09 dial.

On Sunday, the racers returned to do it all over again. Only the Cycle class was not contested on Sunday.

In Super Pro action, Glenn Newmans took the dragster he had won from the track last year to the victory over Carol McCarty. Newmans had a great .006 light to take the win. Shaun Edenfield and David Kehren, Jr. were the semifinalists.

In Pro, Kelly King took his Jeep to yet another win, this time over Richard Wilson. Dan Dobson was the sole semifinalist as Wilson had the single.

Ronald Weeks won Street class, defeating Jamey Addison, Jr. in the finals. Addison won Saturday night for a near sweep.

In Junior Dragster action, Abby Hostetter completed her Novice class weekend sweep by defeating Josh Cook in a repeat of the Saturday final match. Daniel Young defeated Matt Cook for the Junior Intermediate trophy when Cook broke out. Cory Cox won Junior Advanced over Trever Estes. Cox had a psychic .004 light in the final to take the win.

Blast From the Past Photos from Jerry Coley's Collection

2009-05-18T21:10:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Jerry Coley for sharing these shots of Georgia drag racers taken at Phenix City Dragway (Alabama)! Not sure of the years the shots were taken, but these are some of the best drag racers from the South East!

The top photo is Bob Callaham vs. Hood & Payne. Both of these cars were NHRA National Record holders at one time or another and this was a classic match-up in Street Eliminator (or Modified Elim.). I saw these cars many times at Houston Bros. Drag Strip in Fairburn, GA (and at several other tracks).

The second photo is Hubert Platt in the Platt & Yates (Larry) Pro Stock Maverick. This shot was probably taken in 1972. Hubert put on some of the best wheelstanding shows of anyone!

Last, but certainly not least is the late Pete Robinson in his SOHC Ford Top Fueler! Pete is still missed by many.

Thanks again for sharing your photos, Jerry!

Atlanta Motor Speedway Storms Into Summer with Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags, Providing Racing Entertainment for the Whole Family

2009-05-18T21:02:00.001-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marcy Scott
Matthew Simmons

HAMPTON, Ga. (May 18, 2009) – Revered among local motorsports fans as annual rites of summer in Georgia, Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags are geared up for another summer of short-track racing and street-style drag racing.

Offering affordable racing entertainment for the whole family, Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags return for the 2009 seasons on May 22 and June 4 respectively. Featuring multiple classes of high-speed racing, weekly entertainment and affordable ticket prices, Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags have become among the most popular summer-entertainment options in the Atlanta area.

Each week at Thursday Thunder, the action features a full slate of Legends, Bandolero and Thunder Roadster racing, in addition to family entertainment that includes concourse activities, grandstand games and intermission amusements. Entertainment during the 10-week schedule includes weekly on-track autograph sessions, fireworks, and a kids’ bike, trike and Power Wheels race.

Adding to the intrigue surrounding Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Thursday Thunder, the series has become a training ground for young racers looking to advance their budding careers. In past years, fans have witnessed the meteoric rise of NASCAR upstarts David Ragan, Reed Sorenson and Joey Logano on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring”.

At Friday Night Drags, everything from grandma’s grocery getter to full-blown dragsters can be seen barreling down AMS’ one-eighth mile drag strip. Entering the event’s third-full season, the 2009 Friday Night Drags schedule has been expanded from 10 to 14 weeks to meet burgeoning fan and racer demand. With weekly entertainment that includes backwards drag racing, special competitor classes, kids’ Power Wheel races and fireworks, Friday Night Drags has quickly become a local Friday-night favorite. In addition, on select dates ladies can race for free or fans can ride-along in lower division cars for $20.

Adult tickets to Thursday Thunder are just $5 and children ages six to 11 are just $1, while ages five and under are admitted free of charge. Making Thursday Thunder an even better family value, exterior parking at the Speedway is free.

For Friday Night Drags, spectator entry is just $7, while children ages five and under are admitted free of charge. To compete, the cost to drag race or enter the Show-N-Shine car show is just $20 for one or $30 to enter both. Outside parking is free for spectators or just $20 to park on the AMS infield.

New for the 2009 seasons, both Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags will feature new competitor classes. The addition of the Young Lions class to Thursday Thunder will divide the Semi-Pro class, allowing the Young Lions division to serve as a developmental class for drivers ages 12 to 15, while resulting in more competitive racing among the Semi-Pros.

For Friday Night Drags, five new classes have been introduced to provide fans and competitors with more competitive racing. For stock foreign and domestic sport compact cars, the Sport Compact class has been introduced as a novice division for Tuners. The Truck Advanced class has been created for significantly-modified trucks, while AMS has fine tuned its Pro division by adding the Super Pro division for the most-advanced drag cars and leaving Pro for naturally-aspirated engines only. For motorcycle enthusiasts, AMS has also developed a Super Bike class and a Motorcycle division.

Grandstand gate 13 opens at 6:00 p.m. for Thursday Thunder and gate 15 opens at 6:30 p.m. for Friday Night Drags.

For more information on Thursday Thunder or Friday Night Drags, visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com or call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or 770-946-4211.

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2009 Thursday Thunder Promotional Schedule

June 4 – Clayton County Chamber of Commerce Night and Networking Night

June 11 – Kids' Candy and Coin Scramble and Georgia Auto Racing Hall of Fame Night

June 18 – Mascot Mania Night

June 25 – Kid’s Bike, Trike and Power Wheel Race Night

July 2 – Double Feature Night featuring Independence Day Fireworks Show

July 9 – Joe Momma Night featuring the Kid’s Candy & Coin Scramble

July 16 – Fastor Pastor Race Night

July 23 – Disco Night featuring the 2009 Bandolero Nationals ‘Green Flag Party’

July 30 – Classic Car Night featuring the Classic Car Cruise

Aug. 6 – Championship Night

2009 Friday Night Drags Promotional Schedule

May 22 – $20 Drag Ride-Along Night (Non-points night)

May 29 – OFF WEEK

June 5 – Points Opener and Kids’ Candy & Coin Scramble

June 12 – 60’s Muscle Cars Show Class and Kids’ Power Wheels Races

June 19 – Backwards Drag Racing and Modern Tuner Show Class

June 26 – Lucky Ladies Race Free and Hot Rod Heaven Show Class

July 3 – FIREWORKS! and Harley-Davidson Show Class

July 10 – Double Points Night and Ford Owners Rally

July 17 – Kids’ Candy & Coin Scramble and Mopar Owners Rally

July 24 – $20 Drag Ride-Along and Foreign Car Owners Rally

July 31 – Kids’ Power Wheel Races and Chevy Owners Rally

Aug. 7 – OFF WEEK

Aug. 14 – Double Points Night and Truck Show Class

Aug. 21 – The Great Moodini and Super Bike Show Class

Aug. 28 – Lucky Ladies Race Free and Classic Car Show Class

Sept. 4 – OFF WEEK for Atlanta’s first Sprint Cup night race on Sept. 6

Sept. 11 – Championship Night with Final Ladders

Outlaw Radial Tire Championship event at SGMP

2009-05-11T19:35:00.001-04:00

By Marvin T. Smith

Some of the best Drag Radial cars in the East crowded into South Georgia Motorsports Park May 8-9 for the Outlaw Radial Trie Championship Series presented by Proline Race Engines. Headlining the event was the Wolfe Racecraft Boost vs. Monte Smith Performance No Boost race for radial tire competitors. In the Wolfe Boost category, Steve Jackson dominated the 21 car field. He qualified Number 1 at 4.609 speeding to the best-ever elapsed time in race competition. Jackson was actually outrun in the third round by Terry Elam, 4.71 to 4.73, but Elam’s car caught fire and was hauled off the track. When Elam bypassed the scales, Jackson was reinstated in accordance with the rules. In the final round, Jackson defeated John Kolivas with a great run of 4.635 at 164 to Kolivas’ 4.72 at 159.66. David Hance had top speed at 167.36.
In the Monte Smith Performance No Boost category, Number 1 Qualifier Troy Pirez ran 4.88, 4.89, 4.81 and low elapsed time of the class 4.794 in the final to defeat Scott Gurdagno in the field of 22.

The winners and runner-ups then faced off in the Boost vs. No Boost race. Steve Jackson defeated Scott Gurdagno 4.70 161 to 4.956 at 150. John Kolivas beat the broken Troy Pirez in the other semifinal. In the final, it was Boost vs. Boost. John Kolivas got revenge on Steve Jackson when he ran 4.678 at 160.56 to defeat the fouling Jackson’s 4.97 at 160.44.

Twenty-four cars lined up for the Real Street class. Charlie Pixley ran all four rounds in the 5.30s to win. He had top speed and low elapsed time of the class at 132.57 and 5.326. His final round opponent was number one qualifier Bart Tobener, who ran a troubled 6.90 in the final.
Five cars raced for the Outlaw 632 class. In a final round battle of flamed Camaros, Robert Remek defeated Mike Schmidt with a 4.952 at 153 to the losing 5.06 at 149.

Ten cars made up the Pro Street class. Number one qualifier Jake Carlton ran as quick as 4.13 during eliminations, but broke in the final round, giving the win to number two qualifier Ray Chavez in his beautiful 2006 GTO Judge. Chavez ran as quick as 4.17 in eliminations.

Keith Szabo qualified number one in the seven car Limited Street class over such heavies as Eric Dillard and Carlton Thompson. In the all Mustang final round, Szabo ran 4.929 at 157.50 to defeat Carlton Thompson’s troubled 5.79 at 112. Szabo had low elapsed time of 4.871 and Eric Dillard had top speed at 162.90.

Nineteen cars raced in the Open Comp category. In the final round, Viktor Adams defeated Ray Williams, Sr. Adams took the better light and ran a dead on 7.500 on his 7.50 dial to defeat Williams who was forced to break out.

John Marconi won the 6.50 index class in his beautiful 1958 Corvette. In the final, Marconi ran 6.606 to defeat Jimmy Griner who slowed to a 6.912. Twenty cars made up the field.

In the 7.50 Index class, Brandon Wood won the double breakout final over Viktor Adams. Wood’s wheelstanding Chevy ran 7.476 to Adams’ 7.432. Derek Putnam was the number one qualifier in the 18 car field.

Photos

2009 AMS Friday Night Drags Division Rules

2009-05-11T19:30:00.001-04:00

From Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway

We have received a good number of requests to create a class at Friday Night Drags to allow naturally aspirated cars to compete outside of the dragsters spraying nitrous in our Pro Division. We welcome suggestions from our competitors and fans to how we could improve our show at Friday Night Drags. We take all suggestions under careful consideration. The decisions may not always be what each individual desires, but we must always look out for all of our competitors and fans. These decisions are based on the best overall needs for the series to continue to be successful.

We have decided to add another division for the 2009 Friday Night Drags season. We will now have a Super Pro division and a Pro division. I have pasted the updated rulebook below for all to review. We also added divisions to better separate the import cars and trucks this season. We are looking for our fans and competitors to assist in spreading the word of our changes for the 2009 season. Pass this e-mail along to friends, co-workers and fellow competitors. Let’s work together to make this season of Friday Night Drags the best one so far.

Thank you!

This Friday, May 15th – Test & Tune
Gates Open at 6pm.
Tech & Registration Open at 6pm.
Practice Runs begin at 6:15pm.
Tech & Practice Runs end at 9pm.
$10 per person. Infield entrance only.

2009 Friday Night Drags Division Rules

SUPER PRO (SUPER) – Any and All. This is the class that is wide open.

PRO (P) – Naturally aspirated engines only. Open chassis rules. Open tire rules.

STREET OUTLAW (SO) – Any car or truck with stock appearing body. Minimal tubbing allowed (full tubbing ‘narrowed up’ is not allowed). Four links, ladder bars and coil over shocks are permitted. Any engine modification is allowed. Maximum 29 x 10.5w size tires. No wheelie bars.

SPORTSMAN (SM) – Foreign and Domestic cars or trucks with stock body and six cylinder powered race cars with power adders. All control arms, shocks and springs must be in stock location. No cutting of inner or rear fender wells (only outside can be rolled). Any engine modification allowed. Maximum tire size is 28 x 10.5. No ‘W’ tires allowed. No wheelie bars allowed.

TRUCK ADVANCED (TA) – All diesel powered or modified gas powered full size trucks only. Ford F-Series, GM C and K Series, Dodge Ram Series, Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra. Any tire allowed.

TRUCK (TR) – Stock, eight cylinder, gas powered full size trucks only. Ford F-Series, GM C and K Series, Dodge Ram Series, Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra. No modifications allowed with the exception of bolt-on and exhaust air cleaners. HARD TREADED RADIAL tires only. No drag radials, DOT slicks or bias ply tires. No power adders. No points championship in this division.

DOMESTIC ADVANCED (DA) – Same rules as the Domestic class only nitrous is allowed. DRAG RADIALS ONLY. No E.T. Streets, bias ply or special tires. Maximum tire size of 295/50/15.

DOMESTIC (DM) – American made cars with stock suspension in stock location, stock interior, no cutting of the body, fender wells or floor pan. No nitrous allowed. HARD TREADED RADIAL tires only. No drag radials, soft compound, bias ply or special tires. No points championship in this division.

PRO FOUR (P4) – Foreign and Domestic cars or trucks with three or four cylinders that have anything more than stock along with six cylinder race cars with naturally aspirated engines. Racing slicks, nitrous, modified suspension, rotary engines, power adders (except six cylinders) and drive train modifications are allowed. This is the top class for the Tuner guys.

TUNER (TU) – Any three, four or six cylinder vehicle with power adders. Must have stock body and interior. No aftermarket turbo or superchargers. No race cars or trucks allowed. DRAG RADIALS ONLY. No E.T. Streets, bias ply or special tires.

SPORT COMPACT (SC) – Naturally aspirated foreign and domestic sport compact cars and trucks with three, four or six cylinders (no diesel and no nitrous) with stock suspension in stock location, stock interior and no cutting of the body, fender wells or floor pan. HARD TREADED RADIAL tires only. No drag radials, soft compound, bias ply or special tires. No points championship in this division.

ATV (ATV) – Any four wheeled vehicle that falls outside our car and truck divisions (i.e. ATV, go-kart, Legends Cars, Bandolero Cars).

SUPER BIKE (B) – Any super bike type motorcycle or drag bike. This class is wide open for our two wheel speed fanatics. Atlanta Motor Speedway recommends long sleeves, long denim pants, full finger gloves, full face helmet, above ankle boots and a jacket.

MOTORCYCLES (M) – Harley-Davidsons; Interstate type motorcycles; Dirt Bikes and any other motorcycle not classified as a Super Bike. Atlanta Motor Speedway recommends long sleeves, long denim pants, full finger gloves, full face helmet, above ankle boots and a jacket.

All competitors must register their vehicle prior to being eligible for competition. Registration takes place at the Drag Race Tech Area located inside the NASCAR Sprint Cup garage. All cars must pass through an annual tech inspection prior to their first competition. Points follow the vehicle registration number and will not be combined. Accumulated points do not transfer divisions.

Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway
www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

“DOC” BURFORD WINS SPORTSMAN, GOES TO SEMIS IN PRO WITH STOCK VETTE

2009-05-11T19:23:00.001-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – May 9) After a long break from the Summit ET series, racers came in ready to roll, despite the threat of scattered thunderstorms. The race track had recently hosted the Southern Nationals, as well as being a filming site for the Speed TV series Pass Time, garnering excitement for the summer season. According to JD Burford, it was “the courageous and the cabin-fevered that showed up,” perhaps eager to obtain a Mother’s Day surprise.

The Super Pro finals pitted regulars Jesse Young and Mardy Kennedy against one another. The starting line was tight, when Young (Danielsville, GA) cut a .013 light in his ’00 Undercover, while Kennedy (Auburn, GA) had a .027 reaction time in his ’67 Camaro. It all came down to the finish line, when Kennedy crossed too early, with a 6.56 elapsed time on his 6.65 dial-in, at 103.67 mph. This mattered little compared to Young’s numbers – Young ran dead-on his 4.86 dial-in, at 141.68 mph, securing victory with an excellent run. Young reported, “I ran all day with a broken rear-end…I worked until one last night on it.” Young, an absolute family man, thanked his wife and baby, and his dad for helping him work on the dragster, as well as his sponsor James D. Young Contracting. Jason James out of Taylorsville, GA finished in the semi-final round, in his ’95 Cutlass.

The Pro final was an exciting one, resting ultimately on Justin Buchanan and former Summit champion Kelly King’s skills at the Christmas tree. Buchanan’s ’72 Nova launched with a .002 light, surpassing King’s .072 light in his modified ’90 Jeep. Both men ran slower than their predictions, Buchanan (Six Mile, SC) finishing with a 7.14 ET on a 7.11 dial-in at 93.55 mph, while King (Stockbridge, GA) ran a 6.90 on his 6.89 dial-in at 96.93 mph. Buchanan’s impressive start at the tree won the night. Buchanan thanked his family – mom, dad, and sister – for the win, and made sure to say “Go Tigers!” in the spirit of his student life at Clemson University. JD “Doc” Burford, a medical doctor from Greenville, SC, made it to the semis in his ’07 Corvette.

Burford was kept busy, following his semi-final finish in the Pro class with the Sportsman final. “I was just hot-lapping, and didn’t seem to get out of my car for three hours!” It was student against teacher, as Burford ran against his mentor Mel Abney (Cumming, GA). Burford’s hot-lapping produced consistently impressive reaction times, his stock ‘vette leaving the starting line with a .008 green light. Abney’s ’67 Camaro launched with a .054 light, finishing with a 13.21 ET, far from his 13.05 prediction, at 107.21 mph. “Doc” Burford sealed the deal with surgical precision, running dead on his 13.10 dial-in at 99.60 mph. Burford reflected, “It was a fun day, all the racers had a great morale.” Burford thanked Mel Abney for the win: “He taught me everything there is to know about drag racing.” Mike Puckett (Norcross, GA), good friend of Burford and Abney, made it a ‘team win’ as the sole Sportsman semi-finalist in his ’90 Thunderbird SL.

Jay “Bird” Rhyne (Athens, GA) and Jimmy “Cha Cha” Heisler (Woodstock, GA) were the Motorcycle finalists, with Rhyne’s ’81 Kawasaki against Heisler’s ’00 Kawasaki. Rhyne left the line first with a .029 reaction, Heisler following with a .135 green light. Heisler just couldn’t catch Rhyne at the top end, running a 10.58 on his 10.52 dial at 125.37 mph. Rhyne ran a much tighter 12.36 on his 12.33 prediction, at 99.61 mph. Rhyne won the race without time runs, after his first bike broke during the second time trial. After buying back from a red-lit first round, Rhyne made good lights the rest of the night. Rhyne thanked Jeff Vance and Tim Sutton for their help. Howard Bowman (Homer, GA) finished in the semis, on his ’06 Harley.

The 8-12 Junior Dragster final was a big boost for 12 year old Chris Bowden (Homer, GA), who shot from fourth to first in points after tonight’s victory. The final was a dual breakout, with Charlie Smith (9 – McDonough, GA) running a 13.096 on his 13.10 dial-in at 49.07 mph. Despite Smith’s better .069 light, against Bowden’s .215, Bowden cut it slightly closer, winning with an 8.917 elapsed time on his 8.92 dial-in, at 73.12 mph. Bowden was worried about his inconsistent engine, replacing the existing carburetor for today’s race with a smaller carburetor. This proved to do the trick, as Bowden dialed the same number all day long. Bowden thanked Roy Whaley, and Jimmy Mayfield, who lent him the carburetor that made the engine run so well. Smith’s older sister Avery Smith (12 – McDonough, GA) finished in the semi-final round.

Bailey Denton (15 – McDonough, GA) and Kiley Oliver (17 – Buford, GA) made it to the final round in the 13-17 Junior Dragster class. Oliver cut a .149 light, crossing the line with a 9.45 on a 9.32 dial, at 66.94 mph. Denton pulled off a much tighter run, with a .040 reaction time, finishing with a 7.93 on a 7.90 dial at 77.63 mph. Denton’s success gained the second place in the points standings. Ricky Hebert (15 – Evans, GA) and Jordan Thurmond (16 – Statham, GA) were the semi-finalists.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the ORSCA OUTLAW 10.5 Racing Series on May 16-May 17, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/ .

———————————————————————————————————————————————-
SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jesse Young ’00 Undercover Danielsville, GA 4.86 141.68 (4.86)
R/U: Mardy Kennedy ’67 Camaro Auburn, GA 6.56 103.67 (6.65)
Semi: Jason James ’95 Cutlass Taylorsville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Justin Buchanan ’72 Nova Six Mile, SC 7.14 93.55 (7.11)
R/U: Kelly King ’90 Jeep Stockbridge, GA 6.90 96.93 (6.89)
Semi: JD “Doc” Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC
———————————————————————————————————————————————
SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: JD “Doc” Burford ’07 Corvette Greenville, SC 13.10 99.60 (13.10)
R/U: Mel Abney ’67 Camaro Cumming, GA 13.21 107.21 (13.05)
Semi: Mike Puckett ’90 Thunderbird SL Norcross, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Jay “Bird” Rhyne ’81 Kawasaki Athens, GA 12.36 99.61 (12.33)
R/U: Jimmy Heisler ’00 Kaw. ZX6R Woodstock, GA 10.58 125.37 (10.52)
Semi: Howard Bowman ’06 Harley Homer, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Chris Bowden 12 Homer, GA 8.91 73.12 (8.92)
R/U: Charlie Smith 9 McDonough, GA 13.09 49.07 (13.10)
Semi: Avery Smith 12 McDonough, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Bailey Denton 15 McDonough, GA 7.93 77.63 (7.90)
R/U: Kiley Oliver 17 Buford, GA 9.45 66.94 (9.32)
Semi: Ricky Hebert 15 Evans, GA
Semi: Jordan Thurmond 16 Statham, GA———————————————————————————————————————————————

SGMP Drag Radial Photos by Marvin T. Smith

2009-05-10T22:50:00.005-04:00

More Photos

Summit Series event at South Georgia Motorsports Park

2009-04-28T21:25:00.006-04:00

April 25-26

Beautiful weather and a great racer turnout made for an exciting two days of bracket racing at SGMP. The event was the first in the Summit Bracket Racing series for the year. Over 230 vehicles entered the weekend event.

Saturday’s Super Pro field of 138 cars took eight rounds to determine the winner. In the finals, frequent winners Ray Lloyd and Larry McDuffie squared off for the money. McDuffie took a slight startling line advantage, .020 to .021, but Lloyd chased him down with a 6.311 on his 6.31 dial to beat McDuffie’s also excellent 6.806 on his 6.79 dial. Roger Mann was the lone Semifinalist loser as Lloyd got the bye.

In Saturday Pro action, 62 cars fought seven rounds. In the finals Ed Mucherino took a slight starting line advantage but was overcome by Richard Wilson who ran a 7.061 on his 7.04 dial when Mucherino slipped to a 7.194 on his 7.14 dial. Semifinalists were David Delk and Joel Kyle.

In the Saturday Street Action, Ray Williams, Sr. defeated Joe Tillman. Christie Burger and Jamey Addison Jr. lost in the semifinal round.

This year, a Pro Cycle class was added to the Summit Series. Robert Meeks became the first SGMP Pro Cycle winner when he defeated Mike Lakosky. Lakosky’s Suzuki broke out giving the win to Meeks who had a big advantage on the tree.

Fourteen Advanced Junior Dragsters entered Saturday night competition. Cody Harrison defeated Ladson Selph in the final round with a 7.927 on his 7.92 dial when Selph broke out with a 7.890 on his 7.90 dial.

Saturday Intermediate Junior Dragster class was an eighteen car field. Macy Weeks of Alamo, GA defeated Jordan Arnold of Jacksonville, FL in an all-girl, double breakout, final round.

Sunday was a little cooler and most of the cars returned, although the cycle class was not contested. Sunday’s Super Pro action saw number one qualifier Vince Addison in his 70 Nova defeat Marcus Crews in his dragster when Crews fouled. That made it a two day sweep for door cars in Super Pro.

In Sunday’s Pro class, Joe Tillman took the starting line advantage and defeated Jon Siegel’s wheelstanding station wagon.

Joe Tillman came back and also won the Street Class on Sunday when he defeated Christie Burger who broke out. Christie, who just returned to racing after a multi-year absence, had a good weekend, also reaching the semifinals on Saturday night.

Cody Harrison continued his weekend dominance of the Advanced Junior Dragster class when he defeated Courtney Johnson in the finals. Johnson unfortunately broke allowing Harrison to single in the final after four earlier rounds of racing.

In the Intermediate Junior Dragster class, Brandon Ranslow defeated Eric Bowman in fifth round action. Ranslow took a huge startling line advantage and ran closer to his dial to take the win.

Marvin T. Smith

New Article: Drag Racing Tip: Letting Other Drivers Get To You

2009-04-28T21:07:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Julie McKee for submitting this article! Check it out here!

More Southern National Photos from Fred Simmons!

2009-04-23T17:58:00.004-04:00

Fred Simmons has sent more of his photos from last weekend's NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Thanks, Fred! I'll be adding more photos as I have time so check back often.
Click here for the photos.

GMP's 2nd Annual Rod Run & Custom Car Show - Winder, GA May 9, 2009

2009-04-23T17:46:00.002-04:00

Flyer and Map

GMP's 2nd Annual Rod Run & Custom Car Show will be from 11 AM to 4 PM May 9, 2009 at their world headquarters in Winder, GA.

Food and refreshments will be available.

This should be a lot of fun for everyone!

GMP is located at 45 Polite Rd., Winder, GA 30680 (Behind Akins Ford Dealership)

Contact Tom, Mat or Alice @ 770-868-1042 8-5 M-F

Click link above for more information.

Atlanta Motor Speedway NEWS & NOTES – Drags, Car Shows and More!

2009-04-23T16:24:00.001-04:00

· Mopar Southern Classic – Saturday, May 2nd
Huge car show for Mopar lovers! Swap Meet and Manufacturer’s Midway!
Speedway Cruises! Plymouth Plaza Kid’s Corner!
Door Prizes! 50/50 Raffle! Photos in Victory Lane!
PLUS – DRAG RACING!!!!
Gates Open at 8am (enter through the infield tunnel on Speedway Boulevard)
More info at http://www.northgeorgiamoparclub.com/
Spectator Admission = $7; Kids 12 and under admitted for FREE.

· Drag Racing – Saturday, May 2nd
1/8th mile heads up drag racing (just like Friday Night Drags)
ALL MAKES AND MODELS ARE WELCOME!
Grudge Races! Class Races! Gambler’s Race!
Plus – Hotlanta Mopar Challenge presented by Mopar Collector’s Guide
Drag Garage Opens at 10am. Tech opens at 10am.
Register and get ready for Friday Night Drags!!!

· Friday Night Drags Adds New Divisions of Competition
Returning divisions: Pro; Street Outlaw; Sportsman; Truck; Domestic Advanced; Domestic; Pro Four; ATV
Newly designed or created divisions: Truck Advanced; Tuner; Sport Compact; Super Bike; Motorcycles
Check out the new rules and rulebook at http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/drags/

· Show-N-Shine Winners Honored at First Night Race
All of the 2009 Show-N-Shine winners from each night of the season will be honored with a special ceremony and car show during the speedway’s inaugural night race on Labor Day weekend. Show off your championship classic to thousands of race fans at the Pep Boys Auto 500!!!

· Friday Night Drags Test & Tune Night – Friday, May 15th
Get ready for the season with an open test and tune night!
Tech your vehicle. Register for the season. Make some practice runs.
$10 per person. Gates open at 6pm. Practice runs start at 6:15pm. Practice ends at 9:15pm.

· Join us on Facebook and MySpace
Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine will have continuous updates on Facebook under ‘Friday Night’.
You can also stay up to date with our shows at http://www.myspace.com/atlantamotorspeedwaydrags
Photos, promotional information, updated points and more will be available at these internet sites!

· Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine ‘First Race of the Year’ – Friday, May 22nd
All divisions will be drag racing for beautiful trophies in the first race of the season!
Show cars will be awarded the first trophies of the year in the Show-N-Shine!
Plus, the speedway cruise for all Show-N-Shine participants!
And…RIDE ALONG NIGHT for Domestic, Sport Compact and Truck divisions!
Drag race with a friend or family member in the passenger seat!!!
Pits open at 6:00pm. Tech and Registration open at 6:00pm.
Grandstand opens at 6:30pm. Speedway Cruise at 8:15pm. Drag racing at 9:09pm.
Spectators - $7; Children six and under FREE
Drag Race entry - $20; Ride Along Rider - $20; Show-N-Shine entry - $20
More information at http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/

· Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine ‘Points Opener’ – Friday, June 5th
The top drivers and riders in all divisions except Domestic, Sport Compact and Truck will race for points.
The top three in each points class will receive year end awards.
The top eight in each points class will lock into the Championship Race ladder for the end of the year.
Event winner will receive three points. The runner-up will receive two points while all others competing receive a single point.
Point standing updates will be available at the speedway website as well as on Facebook and MySpace.
There will be a special event for the kids on Friday, June 5th. Bring the young ones out for the Candy & Coin Scramble!
Thousands of candy pieces and coins will be available for the kids to scramble for during pre-race activities.
Pits open at 6:00pm. Tech and Registration open at 6:00pm.
Grandstand opens at 6:30pm. Speedway Cruise at 8:15pm.
Kid’s Candy & Coin Scramble at 8:45pm. Drag racing at 9:09pm.
Spectators - $7; Children six and under FREE
Drag Race entry - $20; Show-N-Shine entry - $20
More information at http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/

· Special Events Planned for Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine
Each night of the season Atlanta Motor Speedway has planned for special events!
June 5: Kid’s Candy & Coin Scramble; 50’s are Forever Car Show Special
June 12: Kid’s Power Wheel Drag Races; 60’s Muscle Car Show Special
June 19: Backward’s Drag Racing; Modern Day Tuner Car Show Special
June 26: Lucky Ladies Drag Racing (Any female drag racer FREE ENTRY); Hot Rod Heaven Car Show Special
For more event and calendar information visit http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/drags/

Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway

29th Annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals has Wet and Wild Finish

2009-04-20T22:43:00.002-04:00

by Tim Glover

Photos by Wanda Glover

The long anticipated Southern Nationals, stop six on the 2009 National Hot Rod Association’s 24 event (NHRA) national tour, came to Commerce, GA the weekend of April 16-19, 2009, and the sounds of Nitromethane powered Top Fuel dragsters and Funny cars are still reverberating in many race fans’ ears.

The 70 percent chance of rain played a big role in Sunday’s elimination rounds. However, thanks to the dedicated NHRA Safety Safari workers, who spent more than six hours total during the day preparing and then drying the track in between showers, three of the four Professional classes were completed, giving fans their money’s worth. Pro Stock had two remaining cars, piloted by Mike Edwards and Jeg Coughlin, along with finalists in all the Sportsman classes. Eliminations for these racers began 9:00 Monday morning.

When the smoke cleared after a wild “pedalfest” in Top Fuel Dragster, Morgan Lucas emerged as a first time victor. Although both Lucas and his opponent, rookie Spencer Massey, were youngsters (Lucas is 25 years old, Massey 26), Lucas’ wealth of experience played the winning hand after both cars lost traction immediately after launching from the starting line. Lucas was on and off the throttle four times, smoking the tires violently, as the car never really did regain traction. However, even though his 8000 horsepower supercharged engine pitched the supercharger drive belt off about 75 feet before the finish line, his Geico dragster took the win stripe first with a 5.231 second, 162.86mph pass. “That was the longest 75 feet of my life,” Lucas exclaimed in the winner’s circle. Massey’s machine slewed sideways in one direction and then another before he was able to reel it in, and he crossed the finish line with a slower 5.418 second, 145.25mph effort. Massey was disappointed, but not terribly so, as he had already won the Top Alcohol Dragster class in the 2007 and the 2008 Southern Nationals, making this his third straight Southern Nationals final round. Tony Schumacher and Cory McClenathan were the semi-final finishers.

Morgan Lucas spent five years and 107 races chasing the elusive NHRA winner’s trophy, also known as a “Wally”, so when he received his hard earned trophy, no one could pry it away. His parents, Forrest and Charlotte Lucas of Lucas Oil Company, normally attend all his races, but chose to stay home this weekend. Lucas said, “I just knew I would win on a weekend they didn’t come.” There was talk in the crew about banning his parents from future events, but it was more likely the crew having fun.

Jack Beckman earned his Top Fuel Funny Car win the hard way, taking on three members of the Force Racing team with his ’09 Charger, and defeating four different 45th Anniversary Mustangs en route to his victory. Beckman downplayed the Mustang angle, but added it was good for the sport to have a rivalry going. He then added with a smile, “I’m going to call Dodge and see if they have a double bonus.” Beckman defeated Force racer Robert Hight in round one, John Force himself in round two, Mustang racer Tim Wilkerson in round three, and faced Ashley Force Hood, who has been on a hot streak, winning Funny Car at the previous NHRA event in Las Vegas, and then qualifying number one at Atlanta with a 4.073 second pass. She also had the fastest car, at 312.13mph. However, as announcer Bob Frey said, “There’s this silly little rule about having to actually run the cars against each other.” Beckman’s machine roared down the track to a 4.12 second pass at 303.43mph for the win and the “Wally” trophy. Force Hood’s Mustang, which had been deadly consistent all day, varying only four thousandths of a second in three passes (from 4.078 seconds to 4.082 seconds), chose the final round to wound its engine, and slowed to a 4.157 second pass at only 248.39mph. Tony Pedregon (’09 Impala) and Tim Wilkerson (’09 Mustang) were the semi-final finishers. The win was Beckman’s first for 2009, and his seventh overall, in 14 final round appearances.

Mike Edwards, who also won the 2008 Southern Nationals in Pro Stock, came to the starting line with his ’09 Pontiac GXP shortly after 10:00am Monday morning “loaded for bear”, and sealed the win against Jeg Coughlin Jr.’s ’09 Cobalt with a stellar .019 reaction time, coupled with a 6.645 second, 208.17mph winning pass. Coughlin had a good .043 react, but was out of the running early, as his car apparently shook the tires, spun and slowed to a 7.190 at 155.11mph. “It wasn’t too good of a run, but it turned on the win light. It doesn’t matter if you win on Sunday or Monday, it still feels good,” added a happy Mike Edwards. The semi-final finishers were Summit Racing Equipment racers Greg Anderson (’09 GXP) and his teammate Jason Line (’09 GXP).

Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Eddie Krawiec earned the dubious distinction of winning an NHRA championship in 2009 without winning a single race. Krawiec earned his first ever Pro Stock Motorcycle win by reacting quicker with his ’09 V-Rod at the starting line and then taking the win stripe first with a 6.902 at 192.91mph against newcomer Douglas Horne. Horne, who qualified fifth, ended the day in second place, courtesy of a 6.949 at 191.13mph. Horne debuted at Atlanta Dragway earlier this season, with the help of local standout Junior Pippin, who qualified eighth in the Pro Stock Motorcycle class this weekend. “This is the moment I’ve been waiting for; to finally get my first “Wally” and put it next to my championship trophy,” said a jubilant Krawiec as he hoisted the trophy high in the air. Andrew Hines (’09 V-Rod) and Matt Smith (’03 Suzuki) finished their day in the semi-final round. “He had the best bike, and now he gets the win,” added announcer Bob Frey.

The local guys also had a good weekend at the Southern Nationals. Bob Vandergriff Jr’s sponsorship with UPS ended in 2008. However, Speedco made a two race deal with him, allowing him to compete in front of his hometown fans. An engine explosion in round two cost him the race. Pro Stock racers Warren and Kurt Johnson from nearby Sugar Hill qualified again for this year’s field. Kurt’s car would not start for round one, and Warren lost a close match against his former crew chief Greg Anderson in round two. Jeremy Hancock, a weekly racer in the local Summit ET Series had a great weekend in Super Comp, running a perfect 8.900 in round two against the ever tough Sherman Adcock, and making it down to nine cars in a 66 car field, falling to eventual runner up Michael Rastall by only three thousandths of a second. David Simmons, another local racer, made it to round three in Super Stock with his ’98 S10 pickup.

Following is the winner and runner up in the Sportsman classes:

Competition Eliminator:
Win: Pat Ross (’05 Grand Am) 8.068, 166.60mph (8.58 index)
R/U: Arnie Martel (’07 GTO) 7.989, 168.56mph (8.48 index)

Super Stock:
Win: Anthony Bertozzi (’98 Grand Am) 9.615, 120.68mph (9.50 dial)
R/U: Bo Butner (’09 Cobalt) (foul) 9.833, 95.64mph (8.86 dial)
Butner won the Perfectly Strange award in the semi-finals with a perfect 8.860 second pass.

Super Comp:
Win: Luke Bogacki (’08 Dragster) 8.927, 170.28mph (8.90 index)
R/U: Michael Rastall (’07 Mullis) 8.937, 169.51mph (8.90 index)
This was Bogacki’s first ever NHRA National event win, although he has won literally hundreds of bracket races all over the southeast United States.

Super Gas:
Win: Steve Cohen (’04 Grand Am) 9.941, 157.12mph (9.90 index)
R/U: Jeremy Jensen (’86 Corvette) 9.949, 147.25mph (9.90 index)

Super Street:
Win: Mike Desio (’67 Chevy II) 10.902, 137.92mph (10.90 index)
R/U: Mike Griggs (’66 Chevy II) 10.896, 132.50mph (10.90 index)

Top Sportsman:
Win: Mark Pickens (’07 GTO) 7.086, 192.82mph (7.07 dial)
R/U: Jeff Brooks (’51 Henry J) 6.929, 196.99mph (6.91 dial)

Southern Nationals Photos by Fred Simmons

2009-04-18T22:18:00.005-04:00

More Fred Simmons Southern Nationals Photos

Massey, Force-Hood, Anderson & Hines Take Top Pro Qualifying Spots at Atlanta Dragway

2009-04-18T21:33:00.002-04:00

Qualifying Recap

Lucas, Force-Hood, Anderson and Hines Lead Qualifying at Atlanta Dragway

2009-04-17T21:58:00.001-04:00

More Info

Becky Milner Passes

2009-04-17T19:24:00.002-04:00

Sol Stewart called to inform me that Becky Milner, Ellis Milner's wife, passed away yesterday. I'll post more info as I get it.

Our condolences to the family and friends of Mrs. Milner.

JOHN FORCE RACING TEAMS UP WITH ALLAN VIGIL FORD

2009-04-13T22:01:00.001-04:00

ATLANTA, GA – Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury is providing support vehicles the weekend of April 17-19, for John Force Racing drivers, crew chiefs and executives including John Force and his drag racing daughter, Ashley Force Hood as part of a multi-faceted marketing partnership.

In addition to the Forces, who drive 310 mile-an-hour Ford Mustang Funny Cars sponsored by Castrol GTX and Castrol GTX High Mileage on the pro drag racing tour, John Force Racing also features Robert Hight, driver of the Auto Club of Southern California Mustang, and Mike Neff, driver of the Ford Drive One Mustang.

Fans who visit Allan Vigil Ford between April 10th and April 17th and test drive any Ford product will automatically be entered to win two (2) free race tickets along with the chance to meet all four JFR drivers during a special meet-and-greet.

John Force, a 14-time NHRA series champion, is a six time winner and 15-time finalist at Atlanta Dragway, site of the 29th annual NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, the sixth event on the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle tour was excited to make this partnership happen in these economic times.

“We wanted to find a way to work with local Ford dealers this year,” Force said, “because in these hard economic times, we need to help out our sponsors in any way we can. We are proud to be a part of the Ford family and we want to encourage all our fans to go out to Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury this week and test drive a new Mustang, Flex, Edge, Fusion or other great Ford car or truck before they come out to the track to see is.”

Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury is located at 6790 Mt. Zion Boulevard, Morrow, GA 30260, (888) 542-3388, http://allanvigilford.dealerconnection.com/ .

“We are excited to be working with John Force Racing. Our goal is to raise the awareness for the Southern Nationals and hopefully bring more big events like this to Atlanta Dragway. John is a great champion and we are thrilled he will be driving our Fords during the race,” said Dennis Kerce, Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury General Manager.

Courtesy John Force Racing

Star Racing Loses Team Member

2009-04-13T21:57:00.000-04:00

April 13, 2009, Americus, GA – Mike Espe, a 15-year employee of Star Racing, was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident Friday after work. Details are somewhat sketchy, but eyewitness reports state he was riding a friend’s street bike and lost control when the throttle possibly stuck.

Mike was an integral part of the Star team and knowledgeable in all areas of machining and engine building. Many of you may remember talking to Mike on the phone as he often took technical calls and parts orders while working in the shop. His boundless good humor brightened the lives of everyone around him. He will be greatly missed.

Mike is survived by his wife of 18 years, Tammy. He did not have life insurance. Anyone wishing to help with funeral expenses may send love offerings to Tammy Espe, C/O Star Racing, PO Box 1241, Americus GA 31709.
Friends and family may send their condolences on-line at www.raineyfuneral.com.

FURNISHED BY: STAR RACINGOWNERS: GEORGE & JACKIE BRYCE
DISTRIBUTED HERE BY: Jerry Battle

Pro Mod Heaven at South Georgia Motorsports Park

2009-04-12T21:33:00.006-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith

Photos

It was Pro Mod heaven at SGMP on April 10-11 when the ADRL came to town for the biggest event in SGMP history. Over 130 vehicles battled for the sixteen spots in five eliminations categories before the largest crowd ever to view a drag race in south Georgia.

In Pro Extreme, Jason Scruggs led qualifying with a 3.75 second run in his new 68 Camaro followed closely by Frankie Taylor with a 3.762 in a field of over 30 cars. The bump spot was a record 3.925 for the quickest field in ADRL history. Scruggs began his trip to the final round by defeating Bil Clanton in round one (3.78 at 201), Brian Daniels in round two (3.735 at 204.85 for a new track mph record), and in a great race Quain Stott in round three with a great 3.724 (track record) at 204.29 to Stott’s game 3.77 at 198. Taylor similarly appeared to be marching through the field with a great 3.77 at 202 to beat Ken Thomas in round one, a 3.79 at 200 to beat Mike Bell in round two, but was stopped by Jason Hamstra’s holeshot win in the semi finals when Hamstra’s 3.81 at 195 beat Taylor’s better 3.808 at 201.73. Hamstra was looking equally strong with a 3.83 in round one and a 3.79 in round two. Note that all of the semifinalists were in the 3.70s in round two. Also note that eliminations saw eight runs over 200 miles per hour – a speedfest that will probably be unequalled for a long time. In the final round, favorite Scruggs shook and watched Jason Hamstra streak to a fine 3.801 at 197.45 for the win.

Pro Nitrous was also exciting. Number one qualifier Khalid Al-Balooshi ran a 3.870 at 196.33 for a potential record if he could back it up. The bump spot for the field was 4.122 as 24 cars tried to qualify. Al-Balooshi’s day ended in round 2 when he broke before backing up his record pass in qualifying. Number eight qualifier Steve Vick picked up in eliminations running a 3.96 over John DeFlorian in round one, a 3.93 at 189 to defeat Al-Balooshi in round two, and a 3.94 at 199 to defeat Johnny Pilcher in round three. On the other side of the ladder, it was all SGMP track record holder (3.84) Jim Halsey. In round one he defeated a broken Thomas Myers and ran 3.898 at 193.02, took an easy single in round two when Pat Stoken couldn’t appear, and shut off in round three after Auxier fouled. In a great final, Halsey ran 3.921 at 191 to defeat Vick’s 3.953 at 187.

In Flowmaster Extreme 10.5, Jeff Naiser qualified number one with a 4.106. Just behind was number one points man Billy Glidden at 4.111. Naser lost in the second round, but Glidden was not to be denied. He dipped into the luck bank for the first two rounds, running sub-par times but getting the wins. In the Semifinals, he found his groove and defeated number three qualifier Steve Kirk with a new ADRL record 4.083 at 175. In the finals, Glidden defeated Spiro Pappas whose new machine was getting better and better as the event went on. Glidden ran 4.09 at 176 to defeat Pappas’ 4.16 at 178.

Sixteen cars turned out for the Extreme Pro Stock field. Robert Patrick established a new ADRL record of 4.059 to lead qualifying, but shook the tires in round one to go home early. This loss opened the door for number two qualifier Brian Gahm to win. Gahm ran 4.13, 4.09, 4.07 at a new speed record 177.28 to reach the finals, where he defeated Cary Goforth with a 4.085 at 177.09 to Goforth’s losing 4.13 at 175.

The Pro Extreme Motorcycle field was the quickest in ADRL history with a 4.345 bump as approximately 40 cycles battled in qualifying. In the finals, Matt Prophit defeated brother Charlie Prophit with a great 4.23 at 170.39 when number one qualifier Charlie (4.21) was forced to slow to a 11 second run.

Star Racing to Attend ADRL Race

2009-04-08T22:08:00.001-04:00

April 8, 2009, Americus, GA

Star Racing will debut their newest creation at this weekend’s ADRL Hardees Georgia Drags on April 10th and 11th at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Adel, GA. The guys at the shop have been working feverishly to convert their NHRA Pro Stock bike into a ground pounding Pro Extreme motorcycle. The results to date have been so sensational that Star Racing is offering $3,000 contingency to any winner who uses their conversion package.

This is the same motorcycle that won four NHRA events in 2008 including the World Finals and set the track e.t. record at Pomona, CA. This weekend the S&S powered V-Twin will be driven by NHRA record holder and champion Matt Smith of King, NC.

“When I first saw the motorcycle I had to laugh,” said Smith. “Those engines were not developed to run carburetors. Who else but Star owner George Bryce and the Star Racing team could make something like that run, and go fast. I’m excited about the opportunity to be the first one to race the bike with the new setup.”

George and crew chief Ken Johnson will also be on hand to offer track support and answer questions from racers and fans.

“SGMP is our home track,” said Bryce, “and we can hardly wait to show some of our new product lines including the race bike. We’re busy packing the rig full of parts, displays, engines and motorcycles, and there is sure to be something in there to wow anyone who loves racing.”

In 1980, George Bryce and his wife Jackie founded Star Racing to support the motorcycle drag racing community. Their high performance motorcycle company has evolved into a successful mail-order parts business, with engine building, and machine shop services. Their state-of-the-art machine shop houses a 5-Axis Haas CNC machine, Sunnen boring and honing equipment, a Spintron; DTS and Superflow engine dynos, and a DynoJet chassis dyno. Check them out on the web at www.starracing.com or call 800-841-7827.

FURNISHED BY:
STAR RACINGOWNERS: GEORGE & JACKIE BRYCE
DISTRIBUTED HERE BY: Jerry Battle

The Woodstock of Drag Racing!!!

2009-04-08T21:51:00.001-04:00

1st Annual Legends of Drag Racing…
Reunion, Races, Music and Art Festival

East Coast, West Coast, Midwest Old School Shoot-Out

Don’t miss the first annual Legends of Drag Racing Festival June 12, 13 and 14, 2009 at the legendary Great Lakes Dragaway in Union Grove, Wisconsin. We’re celebrating drag racing from back in the day!

What better track to hold our inaugural event at? Great Lakes Dragaway is the world’s longest operating drag strip, established December 1954!

The legendary “Broadway Bob” will be on hand to meet and greet everyone. “Broadway Bob” is the only drag racing promoter inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Some of the famous racers will include: Butch Leal, Bill Shrewsberry, Fred Sibley, Doug Rose, Jess Tyree, Arlen Vanke, Big Willie…King of the Street Racers, John Wiebe, Dick LaHaie, Pat Minick, Larry Reyes, the Rocketmen…Ky Michaelson and Ed Ballinger, Tommy Grove, Tommy Ivo, Gas Ronda, George Montgomery, Arnie Beswick, Bruce Larson, Hubert Platt, Earl Wade and Kenny Youngblood!

Our pre-1972 Invitational will include: Top Fuel Front Engine Dragsters, Nitro Burning Funny Cars, Blown Gassers and Altereds, Super Stockers, A F/Xers, Jet Cars and Wheelstanders. Also, Motorcycles and Hot Rods, all racing HEADS UP, with a full tree!!!

This is a “Run What Ya Brung, And Hope Ya Brung Enough” event!

You will also see Jack Chrisman’s Comet, the world’s first Nitro Burning Funny Car, owned and driven by Jim Barillaro.

This event will also include a Car Show, Swap Meet, Vendors, Bench Racing With The Stars and a Pin-Up Girl contest. And the fun doesn’t stop there! We will also have a huge Beer Garden, Carnival Rides, Drive-In Movie, Model Car Contest, onsite camping and great music too! On Friday night, spend an evening with Jimi Hendrix featuring Randy Hansen. Randy will be doing his tribute to Hendrix and performing some great blues as well. The phenomenal Jan and Dean Show, featuring Dean Torrence, will take the stage on Saturday night and will be rockin’ the house under the stars, playing all your favorite Jan & Dean and Beach Boys songs!
Plus, special guest star Jimy Sohns from Shadows of Knight will be stopping by!

Make plans now.

Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend of fun, music and racing!

Catch us online at: http://www.oldschooldrags.com/ to register or buy tickets.
Our Race Hot Line is: (847) 359-3232.

“Old School Is Cool!!!”

29TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN NATIONALS SET FOR APRIL 16-19 AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

2009-04-08T21:47:00.000-04:00

by Tim Glover

The hills of North Georgia will be echoing thunder coming from Atlanta Dragway again April 16-19, 2009 when the 29th Annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals rolls into its sixth stop of the season at Hotlanta.

The Southern Nationals features the best racers from all over the world, all competing on the quarter mile surface to claim the coveted winner's trophy, also known as a "Wally".

The wildly popular Funny Car racer Ashley Force Hood will be gunning for her third win. Force beat her legendary dad, John Force (14 time Funny Car champion) to earn her first win at the 2008 Southern Nationals and is hot off her O'Reilly Spring Nationals win at Houston Raceway Park. However, points leader Ron Capps will have something to say about that.

Last year's Southern Nationals Top Fuel Dragster winner, Antron Brown, is doing well in his sophomore season. Brown was leading the points chase until six time world champion Tony Schumacher took yet another win at Las Vegas on April 5, but look for Brown to claw his way back to the top. The rest of the class, including third place Brandon Bernstein and fourth place Larry Dixon, are hot on his heels.

This event is the third on the schedule to feature the high-revving 190-mph Pro Stock Motorcycles, piloted by racers like the ever popular Steve Johnson, who hails from nearby Alabama. Local standout Junior Pippin is entered, along with his protege, first year racer Douglas Horne, who finished runner up at the O'Reilly event.

Six time Pro Stock champion Warren Johnson from nearby Sugar Hill is already on the entry list, along with his son Kurt Johnson. Look for these cars to dip into the mid six second range at well over 200mph!

Five more fast action classes are on tap, along with many exhibition runs. The pit side of the track will be packed wall to wall with all kinds of speed equipment on display, and there will be something for everyone for the entire weekend at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Georgia on April 16-19.

Recognizing the tough times currently faced by fans across the country, NHRA has announced several fan-relief programs for the 2009 season, including reduced-priced general-admission tickets, the admittance of children 12 and under for free, and a military-appreciation offer. For details, please visit www.nhra.com, or www.atlantadragway.com .

Upsets abound at the SGMP NHRA Division 2 Points Meet

2009-04-07T16:58:00.006-04:00

More photos

April 5, 2009

There were plenty of upsets and some familiar winners at the NHRA Division 2 Points meet last weekend. In Alcohol Dragster, Artie Allen scored the number one qualifying position with a track record and personal best 5.29 run. The star-studded field included recent Gatornationals winner Duane Shields, Art Gallant (new SGMP mph record holder at 271), Robin Samsel, Dan Mercier, Jared Dreher, Bill Evans, and Cherissa Griffis. Round One winners included Shields, who improved to a 5.303 at 270, Gallant (5.34 at 270), Allen (5.34 at 263), and Bill Evans (5.70). In round two, Evans surprised Gallant with a 5.45 holeshot win over Gallant's better 5.405 at 269, and Allen defeated Shields with a 5.38 when Shields was forced to shut off early. Allen was the heavy favorite in the final, but turned on the red light to give the win to Bill Evans who ran 5.78 at 254.

In the seven car Top Alcohol Funny Car field, Mickey Ferro set the qualifying pace at a new track record 5.600 at 260.ll mph. Just a tick behind was Mick Snyder with a 5.61, Alexis De Joria (5.67), Thomas Carter (5.68), Terry Munroe (5.72), Mark Billington (5.76), and John Sullivan (9.76). Ferro got the round one bye, and make a tire shaking early shut off pass. Snyder beat Sullivan with a new track record 5.578, Billington got the hole shot victory over De Joria, 5.71 to 5.70, and Carter took out Munroe with 5.69 at 253. In Round Two, Ferro beat Carter, 5.65 to 5.99, and Billington upset new track record holder Snyder with a steady 5.78 when Snyder got badly out of shape and slowed to a 6.79 at 147. In the final, Billington took the surprise victory over favored Ferro when Ferro had problems at the line. Billington ran a troubled 6.40 at 237 for the win.

Kurt Damron won Top Sportsman over Mike Thompson. Damron had earlier beaten number one qualifier Ronnie Davis. Glen Treadwell won Competition Eliminator over his daughter Jenny when Jenny failed to appear. Treadwell had earlier set a new NHRA national record. Mike Crutchfield won Super Stock over Bo Butner. Mickey Whaley won Stock over Bud Rowe. Steve Cohen won top dragster over Ken Wells. Sherman Adcock, Jr. won Super Comp over Trevor Wiggins. Steve Furr won Super Gas over Mike Corry. In Super Street, Greg McInerny beat MikeDesio.

Marvin T. Smith

NHRA Division 2 Points meet at SGMP

2009-04-05T21:29:00.005-04:00

Photos and text by Marvin T. Smith

More photos

It was a beautiful day at the track for the NHRA Division 2 Points meet at SGMP. NHRA national records and all of the Alky track records took a beating, with more to come tomorrow. In Alky Dragster, Artie Allen ran a personal best and new track record 5.295 (265) to qualify number one in the nine car field. Arthur Gallant set the track Alky dragster speed record with a great 271.13 and qualified 3rd with a 5.38. Second went to Robin Samsel with a great 5.37 at 265.90.

In Alcohol FC, the track records again took a beating. Mick Snyder temporarily set the record at 5.62, and Mickey Ferro took the speed record with a 259.26 in round one, but when the clutch dust settled, the record went to Mickey Ferro with a fine 5.600 at 260.11 to reset both ends of the record in the final qualifying session. Tom Carter and Alexis DeJoria (tuned by Bob Newberry) also ran in the 5.60s.

ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY – Spring Event News

2009-03-24T21:43:00.002-04:00

Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway

Sweet Repeats Consignment Sale – March 26, 27 and 28
Help raise money for a local Henry County charity while saving money on some of the best bargains in town. You can find everything from baby items to books to furniture at prices that will surprise everyone. This consignment sale fills the entire NASCAR Nationwide garage (22,000 square feet). Doors open at 8am each day. Enter the speedway infield at the Main Tunnel entrance off Speedway Boulevard. No cost for admission to the show.

RV SuperShow & Outdoor Extravaganza – April 17, 18 and 19
Georgia's largest showcase of RVs, motorhomes, travel trailers, pop-up campers, tents and camping accessories. Hundreds of units on display will allow enthusiasts to shop and compare various brands to get the best possible deal. Vendors will include satellites, camping accessories, supplies and more. Attend camping seminars, cooking shows and experience the thrill of NASCAR with speedway rides. Gates open Friday 11am – 7pm; Saturday 10am – 7pm; Sunday 11am – 5pm. Enter the speedway infield at the Main Tunnel entrance off Speedway Boulevard. Ticket prices are $10 for adults; $9 for over 55; $5 for ages 8 – 18; Under 8 is FREE. Family package is available for the weekend. Ticket prices include admission into the Tara Place Home & Garden Show.
* Trade show booth space available by calling: 770-826-1448.

Tara Place Home & Garden Show – April 17, 18 and 19
Enjoy a showcase of home and garden ideas. If you are planning your dream home, looking for property, building, remodeling, landscaping, creating custom lighting or doing anything to your home and garden, this show will have companies that can assist your planning, design and implementation. Businesses from all over Atlanta and central Georgia will be in attendance for this Spring show. Gates open Friday 11am – 7pm; Saturday 10am – 7pm; Sunday 11am – 5pm. Enter the speedway infield at the Main Tunnel entrance off Speedway Boulevard. Ticket prices are $10 for adults; $9 for over 55; $5 for ages 8 – 18; Under 8 is FREE. Family package is available for the weekend. Ticket prices include admission into the RV SuperShow and Outdoor Extravaganza.
* Trade show booth space available by calling: 770-826-1448.

7th Annual Mopar Southern Classic – May 2
Enthusiasts can enjoy the southeast’s largest display of classic, custom and current Mopars. Hundreds of prizes and multiple categories. Plus, Huge Swap Meet, Cars For Sale Corral and Manufacturer’s Midway. 1/8th Mile Drag Racing with the Hotlanta Mopar Challenge – ALL CARS INVITED!!! Drive your classic or custom entry on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s high-banked super speedway. Plymouth Plaza ‘Kids Corner’ (Bring the whole family); 50/50 Raffle Drawing, Photos in Victory Lane and lots more! Enter the speedway infield at the Main Tunnel entrance off Speedway Boulevard. Gates Open at 8:00am. $7 for spectators (kids 12 and under are FREE). Drag Racing starts at 10:00am. Street Racing – No timing system. Car Show entry, vendor and car corral information: 2009MoparShow@mindspring.com

Friday Night Drags Test & Tune – May 15
Local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among several divisions. Everything from full-blown dragsters to grandma's grocery-getter will compete in side-by-side, heads-up drag racing along the speedway's pit road eighth-mile drag strip. Open testing begins at 6:15pm. $10 per person. Tech opens at 6:30pm and will remain open until 9:00pm. Grandstands will not be open for this event. Friday Night Drag rules are available at http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/drags/.

Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine ‘Season Opener’ – May 22
The first night of competition cranks up with several divisions of street drag racing. Everything from full blown dragsters to tuner cars to trucks and motorcycles competing in side by side, straight-up drag races down the 1/8th mile pit road drag strip. Plus, the season’s very first Show-N-Shine car show takes place in the Nationwide Garage and out on the high banks of the speedway. Pit area opens at 6pm. Grandstands open at 6:30pm. Speedway Parade at 8:20pm with Drag Race Eliminations beginning at 9:05pm. Spectator admission is $7. Drag race or Show competitors are $20. FREE parking outside the facility. Drag rules and Show divisions are available at http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/drags/.
* Pre-season advance sale group ticket packages for this opening night event are available for only $2 per ticket (minimum of 100 ordered). Contact Ted Austad at 770-946-3954.

REMEMBER…Night Racing comes to Atlanta Motor Speedway this upcoming Labor Day weekend (September 5 and 6, 2009). NASCAR Sprint Cup racing ‘under the lights’ with the Sunday, September 6th running of the Pep Boys Auto 500. A great tradition of racing in the southeast over Labor Day weekend returns. Tickets are selling fast. Check out our ticket specials below, make plans with family and friends and purchase your tickets now. The Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office can be reached by calling 770-946-4211.

www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

INAUGURAL SATURDAY INSANITY RACE A SUCCESS

2009-03-24T20:57:00.001-04:00

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA – March 21) The first day of spring also marked the inaugural ‘Saturday Insanity’ event at Atlanta Dragway. Track Manager Ray Wilkings sought to change things up, by creating a “fun family day of testing and competition.” Throughout the day is open Test & Tune, as well as 6.50 and 7.50 Index classes, along with the new “No Box Pro Series” classes, Open Wheel and Full-Bodied. Racers also have the option of organizing a “Gambler’s Race,” pooling entry money for the purse payout, while Atlanta Dragway provides the facilities. Altogether, the event is made to reach back to racing’s roots, making it much simpler, and a lot of fun.

The new “No Box Pro Series” provides serious bracket racing without electronics, and is designed to challenge individuals to strive for consistency. The best qualifying run is chosen from a competitor’s runs, and their individual index becomes .05 seconds under that run. The series is a points series, similar to the Summit ET series, allowing competitors to qualify for the Division Finals, and run for a “Wally” and a Gold Card. Also, the Open Wheel and 6.50 Index classes start with a .400 Pro Tree, while the Full-Bodied and 7.50 Index classes start with a .500 Pro Tree.

The 6.50 Index Final was a ’76 Vega showdown, between Ed Nalley (Maysville, GA) and Joe Rampley (Gainesville, GA). Rampley launched with a .085 light, but broke out by .001 of a second, running a 6.49 at 105.62 mph. Nalley stayed on top of things, cutting a .046 light, and crossing the line with a 6.56 elapsed time at 99.83 mph. Nalley was enthused about the new event. “I can’t believe I won the first one!” Nalley thanked his new sponsor O’Reilley’s at Commerce, his tire sponsor Bill Boomhower, and all his friends. He also thanked Ray Wilkings and everyone that works at the track, “for putting on a good show. The track was phenomenal.” Matt Ward (’69 Camaro – Fair Play, SC) and Todd Mayfield (’85 Firebird – Dallas, GA) were the semi-finalists.

The 7.50 Index final was between John Norris’s ’86 Camaro and Team Ford Thunder’s Randall Roop in a ’66 Mustang. Roop, out of Canton, GA, jumpstarted the tree, with a -.008 red-light. Norris, from Royston, GA, cut a decent .075 light, crossing the finish line in 7.53 seconds at 92.33 mph. Norris (no relation to Chuck), who had never run a Pro Tree, liked the change, saying, “I’ll be back.” Norris thanked Wade Bryant automotive, Mason Racing, and everyone at the track. Gainesville’s Danny Freeman ended the night in his Mustang.

The Open Wheel category was a race for the regulars, with Jesse Young in his ’00 Undercover dragster and Keith Neal’s ’02 Spitzer dragster in the final round. Neal (Snellville, GA) left with the better reaction time of .050, against the .108 reaction Young (Danielsville, GA) launched with. However, Neal ran a 5.09 on his 4.88 index, as 128.82 mph, while Young ran much closer at the top end, crossing the win stripe in 4.89 seconds on a 4.80 index, at 130.92 mph. Young described the win as “awesome,” adding, “I hope more people come next time; it’s a good program.” Young was cheered on by his 17-month-old son Lucas, and thanked his dad David and wife Corie “for putting up with me racing.” Commerce local Jeremy Hancock finished in the semi-finals, in his ’05 M&N Dragster.

The Full-Bodied class provided a tight final between Bill Boomhower (Walhalla, SC) and Jimmy Mason (Canon, GA). Boomhower’s ’65 Plymouth left the tree with a .084 reaction time, while Mason’s ’93 Camaro left a little late with a .101 light. Mason ran a 7.20 on a 7.15 index at 96.92 mph (a .151 package), while Boomhower ran a 6.17 on a 6.11 index, at 100.10 mph (a .150 package). Boomhower’s reaction time sealed the deal, winning the run with an impressive .001 margin of victory. Boomhower said he “had a good day; I like heads-up stuff,” and joked, “I seem to do better at this than full tree racing.” Boomhower thanked 6.50 Index winner Ed Nalley, for helping with fueling, and Tim Gibson, for his transmission. Steve Adams (’78 Malibu Wagon – Buford, GA) finished in the semi-finals, along with double-entrant, double-semi-finalist Matt Ward (’69 Camaro – Fair Play, SC).

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the NHRA Summit Southern Nationals on April 16-April 19, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com .

———————————————————————————————————————————————-
6.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Ed Nalley ’76 Vega Maysville, GA 6.56 99.83 (6.50)
R/U: Joe Rampley ’76 Vega Gainesville, GA 6.49 105.62 (6.50)
Semi: Matt Ward ’69 Camaro Fair Play, SC
Semi: Todd Mayfield ’85 Firebird Dallas, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
7.50 INDEX CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: John Norris ’86 Camaro Royston, GA 7.53 92.33 (7.50)
R/U: Randall Roop ’66 Mustang Canton, GA 7.72 73.20 (7.50) (foul)
Semi: Danny Freeman ’90 Mustang Gainesville, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
OPEN WHEEL CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Jesse Young ’00 Undercover Danielsville, GA 4.89 130.92 (4.80)
R/U: Keith Neal ’02 Spitzer Snellville, GA 5.09 128.82 (4.88)
Semi: Jeremy Hancock ’05 M&N Dragster Commerce, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————
FULL-BODIED CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH INDEX
Win: Bill Boomhower ’65 Plymouth Walhalla, SC 6.17 100.10 (6.11)
R/U: Jimmy Mason ’93 Camaro Canon, GA 7.20 96.92 (7.15)
Semi: Matt Ward ’69 Camaro Fair Play, SC
Semi: Steve Adams ’78 Malibu Wagon Buford, GA
———————————————————————————————————————————————

Georgians at the Gators

2009-03-15T19:17:00.005-04:00

Click here for more Marvin T. Smith photos.

It wasn't the best year for Georgians at the NHRA Gatornationals in 2009. Although some twenty-seven racers from our state entered the event, none walked away with the coveted Wally.

Since Bob Vandergriff is sitting out Top Fuel at the moment, Georgia has no local hero to cheer for. In the finals, Larry Dixon put the Al-Anabi Alan Johnson top fueler in the winner's circle with a win over Cory McClenathan.

We likewise have no Georgian in Funny Car. Bob Tasca III beat last year's winner Tony Pedregon. Tasca was also the number one qualifier.

In Pro Stock, Warren Johnson failed to qualify, but Kurt Johnson qualified number 4 and lost round two to eventual winner Jason Line. Line beat Allen Johnson's Mopar in the final on a holeshot.

With the George Bryce team currently sidelined, Georgia's only hope in Pro Stock Bike, Junior Pippen, qualified number 15, but lost in Round 1 to eventual winner Hector Arana. In the finals, Arana beat Matt Smith.

Georgia's Roger Burgess qualified number 1 in Pro Mod, but lost in round two to eventual winner Mike Castellana in a close race, 6.05 to the winning 6.01. Burgess did have the top speed of the Pro Mods at 243.55. Castellana bead Al-Anabi teammate Burton Auxier in the final, 6.04 to 6.17.

Gainesville's Steve Harker was the Georgia hope in Top Alcohol Funny Car. Harker qualified an impressive third, and went to the final round where he fell short of stopping the onslaught of Frank Manzo. Manzo dominated with low et and top speed of the class. Harker smoked the tires in the final, but would have been hard pressed to stop Manzo's final 5.52 at 262 mph.

No Georgians entered Top Alcohol Dragster. Duane Shields took the win.

Competition Eliminator had three Georgia qualifiers, Grant Lewis (Q15), Don Eberly (Q28), and Van Puckett (Q30). Eberly went the farthest in the field, losing round three when he failed to show. The win went to Florida's David Eaton.

In Super Stock, Jeff Adkinson qualified the best of four Georgians in 6th place. David Simmons of Suwannee lasted until round 4. Eventual winner was Herbie Hull.

Stock saw six Georgians in the 73 car field. Brandon Wood of Thomasville was the most successful, losing in Round 3. Scott Helms claimed the title.

Nine Georgians entered Super Comp. David Miller, Scott Lyons, Arnold Reed, and Jerry Sosebee all won Round 1. Miller and Lyons lost Round 2, Reed lost Round 3, and Sosebee lost Round 5 to the eventual event winner Brian Forrester.

So this year the best Georgians could do was Steve Harker's runner-up in Top Alcohol Funny Car and Roger Burgess' number one qualifier spot in Pro Mod. Congratulations to Steve, Roger, and all of our Georgia racers for giving it their best shot. Next year let's bring home the Wallys!

Marvin T. Smith

RAINS FORCE CANCELLATION OF MARCH 15 IMPORT FACE-OFF EVENT AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

2009-03-15T18:46:00.000-04:00

RACE DATE: March 15, 2009
EVENT: Import Face-Off event at Atlanta Dragway in 2009
by Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA March 15) The clear weather originally predicted for the March 15 Import Face-Off event did not materialize, forcing the event to be cancelled. Track manager Ray Wilkings posted a notice to that effect on the site, stating, The Import Face-Off event scheduled for Sunday, March 15th, 2009 has been cancelled due to inclement weather.

RAINS FORCE CANCELLATION OF MARCH 14 SUMMIT ET SERIES EVENT AT ATLANTA DRAGWAY

2009-03-15T18:43:00.001-04:00

RACE DATE: March 14, 2009
EVENT: Summit ET Series event at Atlanta Dragway in 2009
by Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA March 14) Once again, inclement weather prevented Atlanta Dragway personnel from hosting a Summit ET Series event. Track manager Ray Wilkings posted a notice to that effect on the site, stating, The Year One Fast Friday event scheduled for Friday, March 13th and the Summit Racing Series event scheduled for Saturday, March 14th have been cancelled due to inclement weather. At this time, the Import Face-off event scheduled for Sunday, March 15th will take place as planned. More information on this event can be found at www.importfaceoff.net.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the NHRA Summit Southern Nationals on April 16-April 19, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to www.atlantadragway.com.

WJ is Ready to Get Down to Business in Gainesville

2009-03-13T15:12:00.002-04:00

Contact:
Jon Knapp
J2Racing Inc.

All-time Gatornationals Wins Leader to make his 30th appearance at East Coast opener

Sugar Hill, Ga., March 11, 2009 â€“ This weekend, the NHRA will head to Gainesville, FL for one of the sport's marquee events, the Gatornationals, and Pro Stock icon Warren Johnson is ready to finally get his season started in earnest. Having spent the majority of the off-season in search of a sponsor, the Hall of Fame racer entered the 2009 Full Throttle Drag Racing campaign with a virtually untested race car, a challenge that was further heightened by the rains that canceled all but one quali fying session at the season-opening event in Pomona.

Despite not being at full strength, the team still acquitted themselves fairly well in the first two races, showing glimpses of the potential performance to come. Therefore, with a full two and a half weeks to prepare, Johnson and his K&N Filters Pontiac Racing team are looking forward to getting back on the winning track and staking their claim in this year's championship countdown.

During the off-season, we were more preoccupied with making sure we would have the opportunity to race than we were with getting this new race car ready for competition, with our search for sponsorship taking us ri ght down to the wire, said Johnson. As if that didn't put us behind the eight ball enough, Mother Nature decided to throw us a couple curves of her own, with rain wiping out one full day of our only pre-season test session and limiting us to a single qualifying pass in Pomona. Even so, we were able to make a decent showing in Pomona and Phoenix. Having now had a little time to work on things, I feel pretty comfortable that we'll be right back in the hunt at the Gatornationals.

Since returning from Arizona, The Professor has been ensconced in his shop in Sugar Hill, GA, filtering through all the data collected in this particular chassis' brief existence. However, to accelerate the learning curve, WJ cross-referenced this information with his extensive library of tuning notes, extrapolating ideas that he hopes to put to good use this weekend.

"Basically, we are doing what we have always done, referencing our notes from previous years to see if there is any information that we can use with our current race car, said Johnson. In some cases, that includes going as far back as 1992. Fortunately, I've come up with a few things that I am confident we can apply directly to our K&N Filters Pontiac.

"We made one change based on what we found for the first round at Phoenix, and the car responded in the first sixty feet, which has been our Achilles heel of late. Having found a direction to head in we'll do some testing in Valdosta on Wednesday and Thursday to fine-tune our set-up and head to Florida ready to come out firing."

Fortunately, the one factor in the tuning equation with which Johnson is quite familiar is the racing surface at venerable Gainesville Raceway. This year's edition will mark WJ's 30th appearance at the historic Florida quarter-mile, where he has compiled an impressive nine wins in ten final round appearances to lead all professional competitors. Despite his unparalleled success, he maintains the proper perspective when approaching one of the most coveted wins in drag racing.

"This will be my 30th Gatornationals, and I always enjoy going there, said Johnson. The timing of this race is perfect for everyone suffering from cabin fever, allowing everyone on the East Coast to come down out of the cold and get their first taste of drag racing for the year. As a result, we historically have the best and most enthusiastic crowds we'll see all season in Gainesville.

The track is relatively decent, which isn't bad considering it's built on swampland. There's not a lot of starting line, and at this time of year, it can be a little slippery, but the atmospheric conditions are such that you can still see some pretty good numbers. The bottom line, however, is that this is one of our premier events, and one of the wins everyone wants on his or her resume.

"We've had pretty good success in Gainesville, and I'd certainly like to put my finger on the pulse of exactly why. To be honest, we really don't do anything specifically for Gainesville, so I guess we've just been lucky. Whatever the combination is, we're looking to put it to work again this weekend. After all, everyone on this K&N Filters GXP crew would like to get that win total into double digits."

Star Racing Nationals March 21st, 2009

2009-03-13T14:46:00.004-04:00

March 12th, 2009, Americus, GA - Star Racing would like to invite all motorcycle drag racing enthusiasts to the upcoming South Eastern Drag Racing Association (SEMDRA) season opener on March 21st. The Star Racing Nationals will be held at South Georgia Motorsports Park (SGMP) in Cecil, GA with Friday night test and tune, and time trials beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday.

The one-day event features seven classes starting with the ever popular Street ET, Pro ET, Ultra Street, Super Street, Super Comp, Top Gas, and ends the round with the explosive nitrous burning Pro Mod category. Racing is fast paced and furious on the 1/8 mile track. SEMDRA has a guaranteed purse, year end bonus and no bike minimums. Three additional races are scheduled for 2009; May 30th, August 15th and October 17th. In conjunction with sponsoring the first race of the season, Star is also the year long sponsor of the 6.0 Ultra Street Class.

Do you own a V-Twin? A special V-Twin trophy class is being offered at all four events for Harley Davidson and other makes of V-Twin motorcycles. Ride your street bike to the track and experience the thrill of seeing an 1/8 mile time on the “big board.” Riders will not only earn bragging rights, but may take home a giant trophy.

Also look for Star Racing’s “big red rig” at the track March 21st. Long time winning NHRA race team owner George Bryce, and crew chief Ken Johnson will be on hand to offer track support. Come by and preview prototypes, cutting edge designs, latest developments, and the coolest upgrades for drag racing as well as street bikes.

For more details contact Star Racing, 800-841-7827 or http://www.starracing.com/, SEMDRA web site at http://www.semdra.org/ or SGMP at http://www.racesgmp.com/, 229-896-7000.

In 1980, George Bryce and his wife, Jackie founded Star Racing to support the motorcycle drag racing community. Their high performance motorcycle company has evolved into a successful mail-order parts business, with engine building, and machine shop services. Their state-of-the-art machine shop houses a 5-Axis Haas CNC machine, Sunnen boring and honing equipment, a Spintron; DTS and Superflow engine dynos, and a DynoJet chassis dyno. Check us out on the web at http://www.starracing.com/.

FURNISHED BY: STAR RACING

DISTRIBUTED HERE BY: Jerry Battle

http://www.jerrybattle.com/

http://www.georgia-motorsports.com/

Pre-Gatornationals Testing At South Georgia Motorsports Park- Photos by Marvin T. Smith

2009-03-11T18:34:00.007-04:00

Click here for photos.

South Georgia Motorsports Park opened its gates March 9-11 to all racers wishing to test prior to the Gatornationals. Numerous NHRA pro teams, some IHRA and ADRL teams, and some sportsman teams came out under beautiful blue skies to try out their new set-ups.

The largest contingent was the NHRA Pro Stocks. Greg Anderson, Jason Line, Warren Johnson, Kurt Johnson, Allen Johnson, Tom Martino, Tom Hammonds, Mike Edwards, Rickie Jones, Bob Benza, Dave Northrop, Larry Morgan, Steve Spiess, Ron Krisher, V. Gaines, and Johnny Gray all made runs. Anderson paced the field with a new track record elapsed time of 6.558 at over 210 mph on Wednesday morning, and ran many other high 6.50s seemingly at will. Mike Edwards ran a good 6.60 at 208 which paced one afternoon session in the heat. Jason Line and Allen Johnson also ran in the high 6.50s at least once during the event.

NHRA Pro Stock Bikes included Matt Smith, Eddie Krawiec, Andrew Hines, Karen Stoffer, Mike Berry, Rendell Harris, Shaun Gann, Wes Wells, Steve Johnson, Joe DeSantis , and Angie McBride. Smith (low et at 6.909), McBride, Hines, Johnson, and Stoffer all ran in the 6.90s.

Pro Mods stars at the event included Chip King, Billy Gibson, Rickie Smith, Brandon Switzer in Mike Castellana’s car, Jay Payne, Rick Stivers, Mike Knowles, Joe Baker, and Tim Tindle. Joe Baker paced the field with a 5.98 at 240, but Stivers, Payne, and King all ran in the 6.0s, and Gibson ran an early shut-off 6.15 to show his potential. Rickie Smith had the best eighth mile time at 3.908 at 191 mph in his new nitrous Camaro and backed it up with a second run of 3.93 at 190.

Robert Patrick ran his IHRA/ADRL Pro Stocker to a fine 6.35 at 220.48 and Trevor Eman made several passes in his car.

Paul Romine brought out his new Nitro Nostalgia Funny Car Mustang, and cranked off a 5.95 at 244 and a 5.96 at 235. Mick Snyder tested his Alcohol Funny Car, and other sportsman worked on their set-ups. It was a great session.

Marvin T. Smith

Spiderman McBride wins AMA Dragbike event at South Georgia Motorsports Park

2009-03-08T22:28:00.002-04:00

by Marvin T. Smith
Photos

Larry Spiderman McBride won Top Fuel at Sunday's AMA Dragbike event at South Georgia Motorsports Park in a convincing manner. He ran five second elapsed times every day of the event, capping off a final round victory over Chris Hand with a 5.936 at 220.19 mph to beat Hand's troubled 6.45 168. McBride qualified number one on Saturday and never looked back. He also ran a 5.93 in round one.

Travis Davis won Funnybike with a 6.58 at 207 over a fouling Champ Wagoner. Low elapsed time went to J. Sternotti on the Ray Price Nitro Harley at 6.388 at 222.55 mph. Sternotti lost in round one.

Number one qualifier E. McKinney won Pro Mod with a final round 6.660 at 192.63. The elapsed time was low for the event. Runner-up was David Vantine who trailed with a 6.80 at 195.

Mike Slowe won Pro Street and set a new national record of 7.171 seconds. His final round opponent was G. Gooch who ran a 7.45 in his losing effort. Slowe ran a string of elapsed times of 7.17, 7.24, 7.22, and a final round 7.20 and ran over 200 mph every pass on Sunday, including a best of 201.94 in round one.

John Fernandez beat Rickie Gadson for Super Street, but Gadson did win the Super Sport class. Top Gas went to John Schwartz. John Hall won Real Street, Michael Smith won Street Fighter, Tom Edwards won Super Comp, and Ken Edwards won Street E.T.

NHRA Racers move over to circle track

2009-03-08T22:19:00.005-04:00

No, it is not April Fools Day and it is not an exodus to NASCAR. Early arriving NHRA teams who came for the big Pre-Gatornationals testing session at South Georgia Motorsports Park this week set up in the circle track Sunday to get a head-start on preparations for Monday's test while the AMA Dragbike National Event was being held on the famed SGMP all-concrete quarter mile. Numerous Pro Stocks, Pro Stock Bikes, Pro Mods, Alky Funny Cars, and the lone nostalgia Nitro FC of Paul Romaine are already at the track and ready to go in the morning.

Marvin T. Smith

Marvin T. Smith Photos

Butch Payne Wins Stock at Orlando NHRA Division 2 Race - Bertozzi Scores Double in Comp & Super Stock

2009-03-08T22:03:00.002-04:00

Rome, Ga racer Butch Payne (Randy Payne's son) scored his first Divisional win today, scoring in Stock Eliminator after seven rounds of competition. Congratulations, Butch!

Results at CompetitionPlus.com

RACERS SPRING FORWARD TO NEW SEASON, ALDRIDGE SMOKES THE COMPETITION

2009-03-08T21:28:00.002-04:00

EVENT: Summit ET Series event at Atlanta Dragway in 2009

By: Amy Glover

(Commerce, GA March 7) Despite the economic downturn, racers still have a place to race at Atlanta Dragway. And what better way to begin the 2009 season, than with fair weather and a reunion with the regulars, who dominated the categories tonight. The first race ran smoothly thanks to Atlanta Dragway staff. Once the sun went down, the staff altered the Motorcycle class format from quarter mile to eighth mile runs, in order to preserve safety.

To the delight of race fans, Junior Pippin, a long time Atlanta Dragway regular, tested his 07 Buell NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle at the track in preparation for next weeks NHRA national event in Gainesville, Florida. Pippin also brought his protg, 21 year old Douglas Horne, who is in his first year of campaigning an 09 Buell. Horne did well with a cumulative best of 7.237 seconds and 185.33mph, but Pippin showed him how it's done, posting a 7.02 at 186.28mph. A familiar name to Atlanta Dragway racers, Clayton Reeves (raced Super Pro four years at Atlanta, most recently in an 03 Horton Dragster) returned to the racing scene in a much more powerful machine, an 05 Horton Top Alcohol Dragster. Reeves is currently sorting out his tune-up before entering competition.

In the Super Pro category, Joe Haddon, of Oxford, GA, dominated the tree with his 05 Miller Dragster, launching with a .003 light against Joe Cheek's .050 in an 02 Firebird. Cheek, out of Lavonia, GA, had a tighter package at the top end, running a 5.07 on a 5.06 prediction at 135.95 mph, but Haddon's reaction sealed the deal, despite finishing with a 4.99 on a 4.96 dial at 136.07 mph. Haddon agreed it was a great way to start off the season, but made sure to thank his wife: She's the one that lets me do this! Haddon started his day with some experimentation, switching from a gas carburetor to an alcohol carburetor in the time trials, citing the first as slow. It almost picked up a tenth when we switched, Haddon added. He also made sure to thank Mike Pittman and Brad Howard, not only for their machine work, but for the alcohol he needed to run. I had to bum alcohol off of Mike and Brad, but not the kind you drink! Haddon was all smiles with his wife Vicki. It was a lucky night. Ricky Page (Monroe, GA) finished in the semis, in his 90 Mustang.

The Pro class featured a father-son semi-final round between Mickey Morris 87 Corvette, and his dad Rickey Morris' 80 Malibu (Both from Ellenwood, GA). There was no mercy shown in the run (.018 react for Mickey and .015 react for Rickey), and Mickey Morris went on to face Canton's Chad Brewer in the finals. Brewer cut a .030 light in a 67 Camaro, preceding Morris' later reaction. Morris' 6.43 dial-in proved too slow, his Malibu breaking out at a 6.33 at 102.07 mph, while Brewer ran dead-on with a 7.16 at 95.79 mph. Brewer was a formidable competitor from the get-go, as a three times track champion from the recently closed Southeastern International Dragway. Brewer grinned from ear-to-ear, saying, I'm the points leader already! He mysteriously thanked the mayor of Hickory Flat for his help.

Sportsman racers were overtaken by Gerald Aldridge's smoke show in his 01 Dodge 2500. Jack Roberts (Kennesaw, GA) fouled at the starting line, jumping the tree in his 83 Thunderbird. Aldridge, from Dacula, GA, ran his diesel parade to the finish with a 13.54 on a 13.50 dial-in at 98.83 mph, while Roberts finished off with a 15.19 on a 15.03 prediction at 90.79 mph. Aldridge, the track's Racer' For Christ (RFC) chaplain for eight seasons, was glad to gain credibility among his peers, winning the first race in his second season of Sportsman class. It's tough competition here. These guys are serious. The race was also his first Atlanta Dragway win, and his second win overall. Aldridge is a one-man show, running a solo operation, but added, I want to thank the Lord, who is a major part of my life. I race as part of my ministry. Mel Abney, from Cumming, GA, ended his night in the semi-finals, with his 67 Camaro.

The Motorcycle category featured a tight final between Scott Reynolds (Cartersville, GA) and five-time track champion Jay Bird Rhyne (Athens, GA). Rhyne's formidable 81 Kawasaki launched with a .044 green light, surpassed by Reynold's .034 light. The men crossed the finish line close, but Reynolds won, running a 6.59 on a 6.55 dial at 112.23 mph, against Rhyne's 7.68 elapsed time on a 7.65 dial at 86.22 mph. The margin of victory was an intense .002, making the race a hot one. Reynolds raced an 03 GSXR 1000, a street-legal Suzuki model without any electronics. Reynolds emphasized, Just keep it simple. Though he plans to be in a car next week, his for-sale bike was the only thing at the house to race, a lucky choice for the night;s event. It feels good to get the win against Jay, since he;s a track champion. Despite the good fortune, Reynolds is ready to get back to street cars. Tim Sutton (Clermont, GA), another tough regular, finished in the semi-final round in his 83 Suzuki.

The 8-12 Junior Dragster final included juniors from racing families regular to Atlanta Dragway. Tallapoosa's Malone Wilson, 9, won against Salina Shanks (12 Jefferson, GA). Wilson made a strategic run, deep-staging to prevent exceeding his 12.90 dial-in. Wilson treed Shanks with his .030 against her .044 light, and crossed the win stripe first with a 12.95 elapsed time at 49.73 mph, Shanks following with an 8.99 on her 8.90 dial, at 72.11 mph. Wilson ran a handful of races last year, and started the season right with his first win ever. He thanked his dad, Brian Wilson, who said, We do it together. He does a lot of work; he can sit there, take it apart and put it back together. Avery Smith (11 McDonough, GA) was the 8-12 semi-finalist.

The 13-17 Junior Dragster category was won by 15-year-old Blake Griffith of Homer, GA, when Brittney Hellemn, last year's 8-12 track champion, red-lit. The run had eerily similar numbers, as both ran a 7.94 on a 7.90 dial-in, Hellemn (13 Buford, GA) running 81.61 mph, while Griffith ran a tad faster at 81.62 mph. The semi-finalists were a pair of siblings out of Evans, GA, 17-year-old Alicia Charette and her 13-year-old brother Paul Charette.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Atlanta Dragway is located just off I-85 at Exit 149 in the Banks Crossing area of Commerce, Georgia. Information on all 2009 events, including the NHRA Summit Southern Nationals on April 16-April 19, 2009, may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to http://www.atlantadragway.com/.

SUPER PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Joe Haddon 05 Miller Dragster Oxford, GA 4.99 136.07 (4.96)R/U: Joe Cheek 02 Firebird Lavonia, GA 5.07 135.95 (5.06)
Semi: Ricky Page 90 Mustang Monroe, GA

PRO CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Chad Brewer 67 Camaro Canton, GA 7.16 95.79 (7.16)R/U: Mickey Morris 87 Corvette Ellenwood, GA 6.33 102.07 (6.43)Semi: Rickey Morris 80 Malibu Ellenwood, GA

SPORTSMAN CAR HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Gerald Aldridge 01 Dodge 2500 Dacula, GA 13.54 98.83 (13.50)
R/U: Jack Roberts 83 Thunderbird Kennesaw, GA 15.19 90.79 (15.03)
Semi: Mel Abney 67 Camaro Cumming, GA

MOTORCYCLE BIKE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Scott Reynolds 03 GSXR 1000 Cartersville, GA 6.59 112.23 (6.55)
R/U: Jay Bird Rhyne 81 Kawasaki Athens, GA 7.68 86.22 (7.65)
Semi: Tim Sutton 83 Suzuki Clermont, GA

8-12 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Malone Wilson 9 Tallapoosa, GA 12.95 49.73 (12.90)
R/U: Salina Shanks 12 Jefferson, GA 8.99 72.11 (8.90)
Semi: Avery Smith 11 McDonough, GA

13-17 JR DRAGSTER AGE HOMETOWN ET MPH DIAL-IN
Win: Blake Griffith 15 Homer, GA 7.94 81.62 (7.90)
R/U: Brittany Hellemn 13 Buford, GA 7.94 81.61 (7.90) (foul)
Semi: Alicia Charette 17 Evans, GASemi: Paul Charette 13 Evans, GA

Spiderman McBride Qualifies number 1 again.

2009-03-08T21:21:00.001-04:00

Photos
Larry Spiderman McBride qualified number 1 in Top Fuel for the umpteenth time in AMA Dragbike competition during the B&B Bikeweek Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park. On Friday the Spiderman made a 5.99 checkout pass during the test and tune session. In the first round of qualifying on Saturday, McBride bettered his time to a 5.97 at only 224 mph placing him number 1 in the three bike top fuel field. In the afternoon session, McBride smoked the tire and peddled to a spectacular 6.95 at 227.

Apparently this year they are allowing the Injected Nitro bikes in FunnyBike. Judging from the record performances, they will be put back in Top Fuel. Joey Sternotti on the Ray Price Harley ran a 6.38 222 and a 6.46 to qualify number 1 by a large margin.

537 Bikes have run so far, making this one of the largest fields in AMA Dragbike history. Eliminations will be held Sunday.

Marvin T. Smith

Geico Commercial shoot at SGMP

2009-03-04T18:07:00.001-05:00

Karen Stoffer and Morgan Lucas visited South Georgia Motorsports Park in Cecil Georgia on March 2 and 3 to film a new Geico television commercial. Watch for it on a NHRA telecast near you. Karen Stoffer is sporting wild new yellow colors this year. Look for her debut at the Gatornationals.

Marvin T. Smith

Photo by Phil Hubbard

Records shattered at ESTN

2009-03-01T19:41:00.005-05:00

For immediate Release March 1, 2009

South Georgia Motorsports Park presented the Eastern Spring Test Nationals February 25-28. This event is designed to allow racers from all series to test on a quality track prior to the big national events in the eastern United States. With the NHRA limitations on nitro testing this year, the ESTN became a big doorslammer event, although alky dragsters and one funny car participated. Quarter-mile and eighth-mile Pro Mods, Outlaw 10.5s, Drag Radial cars, Pro Mod cycles, snowmobiles, and sportsman cars provided thrills for four days on the SGMP all-concrete quarter mile.

A few racers took advantage of the early Wednesday start this year. Most cars were having trouble navigating the track on the first day. Tim O'Hare ran a 4.14 at 174 and Brad Personett ran a 4.11 at 185 in his turbo Pro Mod Camaro. The big surprise of the day was the appearance of Josh Hernandez with the ADRL Red Team Camaro. This was Josh's first outing with a screw blower in the Camaro. After a troubled first pass, Josh ripped off an effortless 3.95 at 192 for the best run of the day.

By Thursday, many more cars had arrived. Tom Carter's Jawbreaker Alky FC ripped off a nice 5.81 at only 209 for the quickest pass of the day. Dan Kracht made a few hits in Randy Meyers' A/FD. The highlight of Thursday's action was the record-shattering run by Jim Halsey in his nitrous Pro Mod. Halsey obliterated the SGMP track records with a fine 3.84 at 196 to become the quickest and fastest eighth-mile nitrous Pro Mod in the country. Josh Hernandez made another fine pass at 3.865 at 195. Ed Hoover arrived and ran a nice 3.91 at 192, and Tim O'Hare ran a 3.99 and a 3.98. John Montecalvo ran a great 6.281 at 223 mph quarter mile pass in his Pro Stock machine.

The car count increased again on Friday. Over 80 cars and bikes would eventually participate in the event. The big news on Friday was a track-record smashing 3.738 at 198.85 by Jason Scruggs at high noon in the blazing sun. Jason had formerly held the track records at 3.80, 198.67. Jim Halsey backed up his Thursday 3.84 with another fine run of 3.87. Scott Canon ran a 3.89 at 192, Bennie McDonald ran 3.90 and 3.91, and Ed Hoover was right behind with a 3.92. Steve Vick posted a fine 3.97 at 187 mph in his nitrous Pro Mod. This would have been a fine run anywhere else, but was a tenth of a second behind Halsey. Tyler Jenkins in the Eagle Racing Automatic Pro Mod ran a great 4.04 at 180.77, Ronnie Davis ran a 4.13 at 179 in his Automatic, and Brad Personett continued to improve with a 4.07 at 190 in the turbo car. Thomas Carter ran a nice 5.75 at 249 in his Alky Funny Car. Harold Martin debuted his Martin M4, a wildly futuristic automobile. He has constructed the outlaw Pro Mod version first, and hopes to put a
street version in production soon.

Saturday was the final day of the event. Many racers opted to skip the Saturday race due to threatened severe weather, but a few new cars arrived to change the complexion of the event. The plan was to run two time trials, and then have a Chicago-style run-off between the quickest two cars in each class while other cars continued open testing. High winds and the threat of tornadoes shortened the event, and "winners" were crowned in the classes based on low elapsed time for the first two rounds. Brian Markiewicz won the 10.5 trophy with a fine 4.356 at 175.71 mph. John Kolivas won Drag Radial with a 4.88 at 155.58. Scott Cannon, Jr. won the quarter-mile Pro Mod class with a run of 6.022 at 244.56 mph. Mike Janis won the eighth-mile supercharged Pro Mod class with a fine 3.801 at 198.73 backed up with a 3.85 at 196 mph earlier in the day. Steve Vick won Nitrous eighth-mile Pro Mod with a 3.96 at 186 when Jim Halsey had problems. Thomas Carter won Alky Funny Car with a 5.76 at 243. In other action, Mike Moran attempted to collect a $10,000 bounty for becoming the first Turbo Pro Mod in the five second zone in the quarter mile. He made numerous laps including a fine 6.17 at 244.87 mph, but failed to collect the bounty. Other good hits in Nitrous Pro Mod included Burton Auxier at 4.008 182, Brandon Switzer in Mike Castellana's car at 3.972 at 176, and Ronnie Davis in his automatic Pro Mod at 4.23 174. Dan Kracht ran an early shut-off 5.70 at only 216 mph for his best effort of the week in Randy Meyer's A/FD.

Marvin T. Smith

Track Reporter, SGMP

Photos by Marvin T. Smith

ESTN at SGMP

2009-02-26T20:05:00.003-05:00

This is Marvin T. Smith's report from Wednesday:

Today was the first day of the ESTN event at South Georgia Motorsports Park. About 40 cars and bikes were already there preparing for the big event. Most cars were having trouble navigating the track on the first day. Tim O'Hare ran a 414 at 174 and Brad Personnett ran a 4.11 at 185 in the turbo Camaro. The big surprise of the day was the presence of Josh Hernandez with the ADRL Red Team Camaro. This was Josh's first outing with a screw blower. After a troubled first pass, Josh ripped off an effortless 3.95 at 192 about 5:00PM for the best run of the day. Now he has something to work with. It was good to see Troy Critchley and Jim Oddy at the track. There are some outstanding cars present, with more expected.

Marvin's Photos

Maxwell High School of Technology's New Shop Article in Local Paper - Butch Luther Instructor

2009-02-25T18:33:00.003-05:00

The Gwinnet Daily Post ran an article today about Maxwell High School of Technology's new state of the art auto shop. Instructor Butch Luther (former Georgia drag racer) was quoted and featured in a lead photo. After watching him race in the late 60s and early 70s, I had the pleasure to meet and interview Butch a few years ago. At that time he shared some of his photos with me. Great to see that Mr. Luther is still the instructor there!

To view the article and a photo slide show, click here.

To see Butch Luther photos on GeorgiaDragRacing.com, click here.

Two New 1/24 Scale Diecast Camaro Pro Stockers From RSC!

2009-02-17T17:56:00.004-05:00

RSC recently released two new 1968 Camaro diecast models - Mike Fons and Bill Blanding's "Mimi" Pro Stockers! I shot the photos above (color is off slightly - check RSC website for better color and more info). I've seen several of RSC's other models and they are great. I have one of the Mike Fons Camaro diecast models and it is a nice piece! Stay tuned for a more in-depth review of the Mike Fons model. For more info, check out RSC's site!

Pro Mod testing at SGMP, Feb 12-13

2009-02-15T00:00:00.007-05:00

Marvin T. Smith sent us these great photos from South Georgia Motorsports Park. For more of Marvin's photos, click here.

Marv's report:

South Georgia Motorsports Park welcomed Pro Mods and other racers for testing on February 12-13. Several racers brought out their new cars or rebuilt cars to get ready for the 2009 season. R. E. Smith brought his reconstructed ex-Scotty Cannon Stude out and ran times of 4.20, 4.10, and 4.09 in the eighth as one of the only cars to negotiate a tricky track surface on Thursday. Keith Baker ran some low 4 second passes on Thursday, but elected not to run on Friday. Tim Tindle brought his Shelby Mustang and with help from veteran Quain Stott, make pass after pass over the two day period. On Friday afternoon, Tindle had three eighth mile runs of 3.96, 3.95, and a 3.94 in a row, followed by a final full quarter mile blast of 5.99 at 238.30 (eighth mile 3.928 at 190.35). Joe Baker debuted Mike Ashley’s new 68 Camaro in fine style, making two three second eighth mile passes on Thursday. On Friday Baker ran a great 5.936 at 243.90 in the Quarter for low elapsed time and top speed of the two day test. This was a brand new car and utilized a Roots blower, not a screw. Jim Halsey brought out a new and super-trick Tim McAmis 68 Camaro. He never made it down the track on Thurdsay, but ran a great 3 second pass on Friday (The team requested that their exact times not be revealed). Steve Vick debuted a new Alan Pittman 68 Camaro. On Thursday he ran a best of 4.05, but by Friday he had stepped up to a very good 3.98, 3.97, and a final 3.94 at 187.18 for the best nitrous times of the week. Joey Martin brought out the Lowmad and broke the rear end on Thursday afternoon. After driving hundreds of miles to fix the rear, he returned Friday to post an outstanding 3.917 at only 165 as the burst panel blew near the top end. This is clearly a 3.80 machine ready to challenge the ADRL! Bruton Auxier brought his new car out on Friday and posted a best of 4.32 at 183. Jason Collins ran his IHRA Pro Stock to some great times, including a near track record 6.268 at 222.77 (4.06 177 eighth mile).

Marvin T. Smith

Like Father, Like Daughter

2009-02-05T20:59:00.002-05:00

Amy Glover of Cumming, Georgia, currently an English major in her junior year at North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, recently received a nice surprise. Glover, who writes for her college newspaper, The Saint, also wrote race stories for Atlanta Dragway in 2008. A few weeks ago, she learned she was selected as the National Dragster Contributor of the Year for 2008, and was invited to the National Hot Rod Association Division Two awards banquet in Orlando, Florida to accept the award. National Dragster, with a circulation of over 80,000, is the weekly publication distributed by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Glover raced under the NHRA sanction at Atlanta Dragway in the Junior Dragster class for six years, which helped her learn the sport and some of the participants. On the podium, Glover mentioned she kidded her dad earlier in the year about stealing his title away, and as it turned out, backed up her claim by earning the award. She thanked her dad, who has previously won the award, for helping and inspiring her to earn this achievement.

K&N Filters to Sponsor WJ

2009-02-04T18:48:00.001-05:00

Details

1968 Atlanta $10,000 Video by Hugh Greeson - Supplied by Wayne Holland -See Bogan Renfroe's Cat Skinner, too!

2009-02-03T19:10:00.002-05:00

Along with all of the other drag racing legends, be sure to notice GeorgiaDragRacing.com site sponsor Bogan Renfroe's great looking "Cat Skinner" Willys!

WJ, KJ & Anderson Testing at SGMP

2009-01-27T23:14:00.003-05:00

Photos and text by Marvin T. Smith

Warren Johnson, Kurt Johnson, and Greg Anderson brought their NHRA Pro Stocks out to South Georgia Motorsports Park on Tuesday, January 27. Coming off an incredible 6.52 at 212 at West Palm Beach (although in unworldly atmospheric conditions), Anderson had to be considered to be the favorite for low elapsed time. At the beginning of the session, the track record stood at 6.59 (Allen Johnson) and 211.00 (Warren Johnson). Both records would be bettered multiple times during the afternoon. WJ appeared in white primer, letting nothing out of the bag on his possible sponsorship for the season.

Both KJ and Anderson ran early 6.58s to better the track record with KJ's 6.581 being the best. Early in the afternoon, Anderson stepped up and bettered the mph record with a nice 211.03 with a 6.587 et. Warren Johnson's first two passes were 6.61s at 210. At 3:55 Anderson ran a near record 6.582 at 210.73. At 4:05, KJ ran a 6.588 at 210. Next WJ slowed to a 6.65 at 209. We seemed to be mired in the 6.58 zone, until Greg Anderson blasted out a 6.578 at 211.23 to snatch both ends of the track record at 5:16 PM. KJ came back and ran 6.588 at 210 about 5:40. Just after dark, Anderson made his last pass of the evening and lowered the elapsed time record to a great 6.568 at 210.93. Unfortunately I had to leave at this point and I suspect that WJ and KJ both took another shot.

New Mustang Cobra Jet Race Cars to be at NHRA Winternationals -Hubert Platt to Attend

2009-01-26T23:07:00.004-05:00

What I hear is that there will be at least four of the special new Ford Mustangs racing at the Winternationals and at least two of them have been lettered. Hubert Platt/Paul Harvey Ford and Gas Ronda/Russ Davis Ford (and Cobra Jet on the quarters) are on those two. The cars will be raced in Stock Eliminator and Ford is flying in Hubert Platt for the event. I would guess that Gas Ronda will be there, too. Brent Hajek is the owner of these cars (and several more).