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David Dilbeck
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Georgia Drag Racing News
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February 2003
Van Puckett Wins Comp at Delayed NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Event
Posted Monday, February 24, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Snellville's Van Puckett wins Comp Eliminator at the Division 2 Race held at Gainesville. Florida. He singled in the final due to the crash of his scheduled opponent in a prior round.
Event Recap
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Sunday, February 23, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Kurt Johnson Proves to be Too Fast in Phoenix
Phoenix, Ariz., February 23, 2003 - Throughout the weekend of the Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals, Kurt Johnson's ACDelco Cavalier was among the quickest and fastest cars in Pro Stock. In qualifying, he recorded the best elapsed time in two of the four sessions, with his 6.841-second effort placing him fourth for Sunday's final eliminations. In addition, his 202.30 mph run on Friday established a new Firebird Raceway top speed record.
This trend continued on race day as the younger member of the Johnson racing family made his 200th NHRA Pro Stock start. In the first round, KJ's 6.857-second, 201.46 mph pass was again among the best, and more than enough to defeat Darrell Alderman for Johnson's 300th elimination round victory.
However, in the second round, Johnson was actually too fast, as he left the starting line one hundredth of a second early. This handed the automatic win to his opponent, Troy Coughlin despite KJ's posting a quicker elapsed time (6.866 vs. 6.877 sec.) and top speed (201.58 vs. 200.56 mph). Coughlin had also left before the green light came on, but still advanced, as Johnson was the first to commit the infraction. This was Johnson's first red light since the fall race in Dallas, TX, a span of 86 races.
"All weekend long I had been within six thousandths on my reaction times, from a .018 to a .024. This morning we slowed it down a little, and I went .028. I wasn't quite sure that would get the job done, so I pushed it in the second round. We both actually red lighted - I just did a better job of it. This is a game that is won or lost on the starting line, and today I was just too good.
"The ACDelco Cavalier actually ran pretty well. We worked on it all weekend, and found out what it liked, to where I thought we had a car we could win with today. We have a busy few weeks ahead, putting the new 2003 front end on our Cavalier, taking it to the wind tunnel and then testing it at least once. The bottom line is we're excited heading into Gainesville."
Warren Johnson Press Release
Posted Sunday, February 23, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Warren Johnson's Day is Cut Short in Phoenix.
Chandler, Ariz., February 23, 2003 - In the opening race of the season, Warren Johnson combined outstanding reaction times with great runs to score a dominating win in Pomona. After qualifying second, it looked as if the GM Performance Parts Racing Team would extend their string of successes at this weekend's Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals in Phoenix, AZ.
Facing long-time rival Jim Yates in the first round, Johnson knew it would take a strong run to advance to the second round. Although his opponent held a slight advantage at the start, Johnson quickly made up the difference and seemed poised to drive around for the win. However, at approximately 300 feet, he soon found himself fighting for control, which cost valuable time, allowing his opponent to just edge him at the finish line.
"Prior to eliminations, I had spoken to Allen Johnson (the runner-up to WJ in Pomona two weeks ago) in the staging lanes and we found it interesting that the two quickest and fastest cars in Pomona had both really struggled here in Phoenix. It seemed that our high-powered cars could just not get through second gear.
"As a result, we had to calm it so far down that we had no vehicle speed in the middle of the race track, and consequently had no down force on the spoiler, so the wheels started spinning and that's all there was to it.
"Our GM Performance Parts Grand Am was on a pretty decent run. I had the second best reaction time in that lane, and although Jim had a slightly better one, if I had not gotten loose, I certainly would have gotten around him. In fact, I had already caught him by the sixty-foot mark, but it just started sliding around in the middle of third gear. Some days, it's just hard to clam these things down.
"But, we've qualified second at both races, which bodes well for the consistency of our program. It's just a matter of taking care of these loose ends. We haven't had this so-called luxury of power for too long, so we'll be doing some testing, but overall, I think we'll be in good shape."
Whit Bazemore Press Release
Posted Sunday, February 23, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series
Round 2 of 23
CHECKER SCHUCK'S KRAGEN NATIONALS
FIREBIRD RACEWAY
CHANDLER, ARIZONA
SUNDAY, FEB. 23, 2003
Contact: Judy Stropus, 203-438-0501
BAZEMORE ADVANCES TO SEMIFINALS
WHIT BAZEMORE, MATCO TOOLS IRON EAGLE DODGE STRATUS R/T FUNNY CAR, advanced to the semifinal by first defeating Tommy Johnson Jr. in the first round (4.869/320.43 to 4.893/310.13), then his nemesis John Force in the quarterfinals (4.874/319.45 to 5.042/295.01). In the semifinal, he faced the last remaining Funny Car from the John Force team, Gary Densham's. Reaction times for both were dead even, .062 for Bazemore, .061 for Densham. But by the one-eighth mile mark it was Densham in front, where he stayed until the finish, eliminating Bazemore with a 4.835-second pass at 316.60 mph to Bazemore's 4.977/309.98.
BAZEMORE: "We dropped a cylinder about a second into the run. We're not sure why. Lee (Beard, crew chief) tuned up the car a little bit; we knew the track was going to be good and we knew that Densham was going to be tough. But the motor didn't respond the right way; it went the other way; it was weaker, and put a cylinder out. And they didn't make a mistake, so we got beat." WHAT'S THE POSITIVE SIDE? "The positive side is that our Matco Tools team performed really well, the car was good. We didn't have the best car here, but we were consistent and we were competitive. I think that's really the key thing. The most important thing as the year goes on is that we are consistently competitive. That's what we were this weekend. In that regard it was a good weekend." ON BEATING FORCE IN THE SECOND ROUND: "Honestly, it1s nice, but it's not as meaningful, obviously, because we didn't win the entire race. We1re here to win rounds and win races. At this point in the year it's not so much beating Force that's exciting, it's going rounds and winning races. Because we didn't win today we're a little disappointed, but we are two rounds ahead of him and that's important. Because I think at the end of the year he's still going to be the guy that you've got to beat to win the championship. So anytime you're ahead of him in points it's a good thing."
In the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series point standings, Whit moves into fourth place, with 131 points, just one point behind Gary Densham in third. Ron Capps, Funny Car winner here today takes over first place with 184 points.
Brandon Bernstein, Ron Capps, and Greg Anderson Win the NHRA POWERade Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals
Posted Sunday, February 23, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Brandon Bernstein wins Top Fuel in his second start. Georgia Pro Stock racers Terry Adams ( Barry Grant ) and Warren Johnson bow out in the first round, while Kurt Johnson loses in the 2nd. Kurt set Top Speed at 202.30. Whit Bazemore makes it to the semi-finals in funny car after defeating John Force in round two.
Eliminations Recap
WJ Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 22, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Warren Johnson's Pursuit of a Second Straight Win Will Start From the Second Position in Phoenix.
Sugar Hill, Ga., February 22, 2003 - For the fifth time in his Pro Stock career, Warren Johnson will start final eliminations at the Phoenix NHRA event from the second position. After his GM Performance Parts Grand Am set the pace on Friday afternoon with an impressive 6.835-second, 201.97 mph run, WJ spent Saturday working on the set-up. Although tire shake cut short his third attempt and allowed Bruce Allen to edge him for the top spot by four thousandths of a second, Johnson came back in the final qualifying session to record a solid 6.869-second elapsed time with a top speed of 201.67 mph
"On the first run, we were going for the throat, but the track wouldn't hold it, and it shook in second gear. We then calmed it down for this afternoon's session, but went a little too far. Having set the outer parameters, we've found the range we need to work in. We'll make some changes to our GM Performance Parts Grand Am to fine-tune it and have it ready for the first round tomorrow. We'll be fine."
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 22, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Kurt Johnson Saves the Best for Last, Qualifies Fourth in Phoenix
Phoenix, Ariz., February 22, 2003 - .On the strength of 6.841-second run made on his final attempt, Kurt Johnson qualified fourth for Sunday's final eliminations of the Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals. After leading the Pro Stock field after the first session on Friday, KJ took advantage of running in the left lane on his last run to once again post the quickest elapsed time of the session, and set the stage for a first-round encounter with rival Darrell Alderman.
"We've been working on our ACDelco Cavalier throughout the weekend, fine-tuning the set-up, and it finally came together on that last run. To be honest, the car just hasn't been acting right since the beginning of the year, and although we were able to make some good runs, we found ourselves making changes that we didn't have to in the six races before that.
"We did find a problem in the suspension that we fixed for the last session, made some other adjustments and the car really responded. It does look like the left lane is the hot ticket this weekend, so we'll take lane choice into the first round and work to keep it throughout the day. We know we have the package, it's just up to us to apply it."
Bazemore/Schumacher Racing Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 22, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series
Round 2 of 23
CHECKER SCHUCK'S KRAGEN NATIONALS
FIREBIRD RACEWAY
CHANDLER, ARIZONA
SATURDAY, FEB. 22, 2003
POST-QUALIFYING:
WHIT BAZEMORE: No. 6, 4.853/320.43
GARY SCELZI: No. 7, 4.861/319.98
SCOTTY CANNON: No. 16, 4.966/304.80
WHIT BAZEMORE, MATCO TOOLS IRON EAGLE DODGE STRATUS R/T FUNNY CAR, led the Schumacher Racing Funny Car team after four qualifying rounds, placing No. 6 with a solid 4.853-second pass at 320.43 mph. His earlier lap, in the third qualifying session today, was less than stellar when he smoked the tires and slowed to a 9.391-second effort at 90.10 mph. The final qualifying round found him paired against his rival John Force. Admitting that his heart rate was up at the starting line, Bazemore handily bettered Force's 4.905/291.89 with the 4.853/320.43 pass.
"We struggled a little bit early yesterday and today, and the run today kind of put us behind a little bit, because we wanted to be in a position to go for the pole. But because we smoked the tires this morning we were forced to back off a little bit and just go down the track and try to run a mid-.80, which is what we did. We're pretty happy that the car responded exactly to Lee's (Beard, crew chief) tune-up, so we feel like we have a decent baseline for tomorrow. Ultimately, that's the most important thing." ON RUNNING AGAINST FORCE: "I said it on T.V., it makes your heart beat a little more. I've been really relaxed this weekend and my lights have been good every run, and I'm just really comfortable in the car, really comfortable with the entire situation here now and I'm not letting Force rattle my cage at all. It's really important for us to have a good day tomorrow. I think we're in a position to do that."
GARY SCELZI, OAKLEY TIME BOMB DODGE STRATUS R/T FUNNY CAR, and his crew chief Mike Neff continue to impress, posting four strong qualifying runs in two days (4.937/307.16, 4.861/319.98,4.879/314.24 and in the last session, 4.909/315.05). He ended up No. 7 qualifier, just behind teammate Bazemore, with the 4.861/319.98 pass from yesterday evening.
"We went down the race track every time. We were a little disappointed with the 4.90 run; we thought it was going to run quicker, but it looks like right now the supercharger was down on boost and it was sluggish when I hit the gas and it never really recovered the rest of the way down the race track. At least we know what it is, so we'll change superchargers for the first round tomorrow and hopefully bring it back to the way it was. The supercharger we ran earlier in the weekend needed to be restripped. We wanted to try this one to see how it was, and obviously it's not good after two runs. We will put in the one we ran the .80s with, run it for the weekend. If we have to restrip it, we'll restrip it between rounds. We're feeling pretty good. I think we were the only car to go down the race track four times in a row again, so we're pretty happy. If we can have a little luck tomorrow, it could be late when we're talking again."
SCOTTY CANNON, OAKLEY TIME BOMB FUNNY CAR, hung on to No. 16 qualifying position, scoring a 4.966-second run at 304.80 mph in the final qualifying round.
"I'm just happy we qualified, and that's it. We're going to try to get the car running better for the first round tomorrow, that's it."
Doug Kalitta, Tony Pedregon, and Bruce Allen are Top Pro Qualifiers at the NHRA POWERade Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals
Posted Saturday, February 22, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Doug Kalitta ( 4.512 @ 329.02 ), Tony Pedregon ( 4.789 @ 322.11 ), and Bruce Allen ( 6.831 @ 201.31 ) are the #1 qualifiers in the pro categories at Phoenix. Whit Bazemore had a 4.853 @ 320.43 best in his Dodge Stratus that was good for the #6 position in FC. WJ ended up 2nd in Pro Stock with his 6.835 @ 201.97, KJ was #4 with a 6.841 @ 202.30, and Terry Adams, driving Barry Grant's 2nd car, made the field ( #11 ) with a 6.863 @ 201.37. Barry Grant just missed with a 18th best 6.877 @ 201.04, Mark Whisnant's 6.888 @ 200.08 ends up #20, and Gene Wilson can only muster a 6.923 @ 200.47 ( #32 ) while sorting out the new Mopar sonsored Dodge Stratus.
Saturday Recap
Atlanta Dragway Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 22, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
For Immediate Release: February 22, 2003
For More Information, Contact: Craig Armstrong (706) 335-7736
RAIN SCRUBS ATLANTA DRAGWAY OPENER
Commerce, GA Persistent rain and severe storm alerts conspired to cancel
Atlanta Dragway's 2003 season-opening "Hayes Fan Fest" event on Saturday,
February 22nd.
"Needless to say, we are very disappointed," said track General Manager
Craig Armstrong. "In addition to the Test & Tune, we had a really fun day
planned for our racers and fans alike, with jet car exhibition runs and an
open house in the VIP Suite Tower, but I learned a long time ago that the
one thing you can't control is the weather."
According to track officials, the "Hayes Fan Fest" program has been
rescheduled to coincide with the season's first "Fast Friday" event on
Friday evening, February 28th. Gates will open for both racers and
spectators at 6:00 PM, with on-track activities beginning at 6:30. The two
jet-powered dragsters slated to appear on February 22nd have agreed to
return on February 28th , and are scheduled to stage exhibition runs at up
to 300 mph on Atlanta Dragway's quarter-mile dragstrip. The program will
also include Grudge Matches and Test & Tune opportunities for racecars as
well as street-legal machines.
Race fans who visited a Hayes Chrysler dealership in Lawrenceville or
Gainesville, or the Hayes Chevrolet store in Cornelia, and picked up "Free
Admission" coupons for the "Hayes Fan Fest", may now use the coupons for
Free Admission on Friday, February 28th. Valid for one free admission per
coupon, the coupons will remain available this week at all three Hayes
dealerships.
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 2003 events, including the 23rd annual Summit
Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals presented by Pontiac on May 1 - 4,
may be obtained by calling the track office (706-335-2301) or logging on to
www.atlantadragway.com.
Warren Johnson Press Release
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Warren Johnson Shatters Phoenix Track Record,
Leads Pro Stock Field at Qualifying Midpoint
Sugar Hill, Ga., February 21, 2003 - GM Performance Parts pilot Warren Johnson continued his string of strong performances during the first day of qualifying for the Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals. After opening with a solid 6.891-second, 201.97 mph effort on his first attempt, Johnson took full advantage of running in the preferred left lane in the second session to reclaim the Firebird Raceway elapsed time record from his son Kurt. Johnson's GM Performance Parts Grand Am blasted down the Firebird Raceway quarter-mile in 6.835 seconds with a top speed of 201.67 mph, and tops the Pro Stock field entering Saturday's final two sessions.
"It was a good run, but not a perfect one. Our primary goal in the second session was to get down the track smoothly and improve our qualifying position from outside the field to somewhere respectable. As a result, we had a conservative set-up, which gave up a little bit of time. I've found that if you err too much to the positive side, you can shoot yourself in the foot, and then have no data to go from for tomorrow's sessions. Now we know how much more we can put in it for tomorrow.
"We'll read the track in the morning, assess what's out there, tune up our GM Performance Parts Grand Am, and if the weather conditions are right, I think there's probably a 6.70 in it."
WJ Photo
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Contact: Jon G. Knapp
TMG Sports Marketing
Phone: (704) 662-3121
jgknapp@tmgsports.net
Kurt Johnson Sets Firebird Raceway Speed Record,
Sits Fourth Halfway Through Qualifying
Phoenix, Ariz., February 21, 2003 - Kurt Johnson opened his qualifying effort for the Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals in fine fashion on Friday, setting both the track elapsed time and top speed records on his first attempt. Running in the left lane, Johnson's ACDelco Cavalier streaked down the quarter-mile in 6.848 seconds, with a top speed of 202.30 mph.
Although his father Warren Johnson would eclipse his elapsed time mark in the second qualifying session, KJ's opening effort was enough to retain the top speed record and place the ACDelco Cavalier fourth midway through time trials.
"That was a pretty smooth run for our ACDelco Cavalier. Since it was our first pass down the track, the set-up was a little soft, but it just ran right down there. We tried to improve on it in the second session, because the track had really improved. Even though we were in the right hand lane, we were looking for a 6.82, but the car sat down on the rear tires at the end of low gear, which distorted the tires and got it out of shape.
"Even so, it was a strong first day. We'll get it fixed for tomorrow by moving around a little weight and changing the four-link. Fortunately, the weather stays pretty consistent in this area, so we can use the information from today to get after it and move up a few spots."
Kalitta, T. Pedregon, and Warren Johnson are #1 Pro Qualifiers After Two Sessions at the NHRA POWERade Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Doug Kalitta ( 4.529 @ 329.02 ), Tony Pedregon ( 4.797 @ 317.57 ), and Warren Johnson ( 6.835 @ 201.67 )lead qualifying at Phoenix. Whit Bazemore is currently #9 ( 4.885 @ 314.31 ) in funny car. Kurt Johnson set a new track speed record with his 4th best 6.848 @ 202.30. Barry Grant team driver Terry Adams is currently #14 ( 6.882 @ 201.37 ) while Barry Grant just missed with a 6.885 @ 200.50 ( #17 ). Mark Whisnant ( #25 6.913 @ 200.08 ) and Gene Wilson ( #29 6.923 @ 200.47 ) missed the top 16 on Friday, also.
Friday Recap
Don Schumacher Racing Press Release -Funny Car
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
DON SCHUMACHER RACING
NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series
Round 2 of 23
CHECKER SCHUCK'S KRAGEN NATIONALS
FIREBIRD RACEWAY
CHANDLER, ARIZONA
FRIDAY, FEB. 21, 2003
AFTER TWO OF FOUR QUALIFYING ROUNDS:
GARY SCELZI, OAKLEY TIME BOMB DODGE STRATUS R/T FUNNY CAR, qualified sixth
with a 4.861/319.98 pass in the second round of qualifying, which followed a
4.937/307.16 lap in the first round.
"This is our second race and we got down the race track twice again, which
has got to be an all-time record for how many times I've gone down the race
track in a row. Even when it smoked the tires in the first round in Pomona,
it went 4.99. We tried to go 4.80, 4.83, somewhere in that neighborhood, and
it went 4.86. So, we missed by three to five hundredths. We can live with
that. It went down the race track, we've got something to build on, it was
quicker than the first run, so no long faces here. We're excited; we're
still good."
WHIT BAZEMORE, MATCO TOOLS IRON EAGLE DODGE STRATUS R/T FUNNY CAR, dropped
to No. 9 from No. 3 position, when he lost traction at about the 330-foot
mark in the second session, slowing to a 9.443/90.39. His elapsed time in
today's first session, 4.885/314.31, held up for ninth spot.
"Our first run was good. We went out, we ran an .88, we were trying to run a
mid .80, so that was pretty close. And then tonight we got pretty aggressive
with it and the track just didn't hold the tune-up. It spun the tires early
on at the hit and then recovered a little bit and then went into more tire
smoke later within two seconds. It's one of those things, but this Matco
Tools team will be working hard. We feel like we know we have a handle on
the track, so we'll be OK tomorrow."
SCOTTY CANNON, OAKLEY TIME BOMB FUNNY CAR, clings to the No. 16 position
with his 5.056/262.90 pass in the second session, with two more qualifying
rounds on tap for tomorrow.
"We dropped a hole (cylinder) at 1.5 (seconds), and then I drove it to about
4.7 and I turned off, because I was afraid it was going to blow up, and
that's all I have to say."
Signs by Kines
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
If anyone needs signs or lettering, contact Wayne Kines ( signsbykines@aol.com ) at Signs by Kines. Wayne will treat you right! Tell him that GeorgiaDragRacing.com sent you.
Mark Whisnant Article in National Dragster
Posted Friday, February 21, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
There was a nice article about Mark and Reid Whisnant in last weeks National Dragster ( 02/14/03 ). "Whiz Kid" was written by John Jodauga and several photos of Reid's earlier cars were also included.
Warren Johnson Phoenix Preview
Posted Wednesday, February 19, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Tue, 18 Feb 2003, 10:21 AM
Having Seen the Lights, WJ Looks to Double Up in the Desert
Courtesy of Jon Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
GM Performance Parts Grand Am team Ready to Improve on Last Year's Runner-up Finish in Phoenix
CHANDLER, Ariz. -- Just over one week ago, Warren Johnson opened his 2003 championship chase with an impressive win in Pomona, California. After qualifying second, the GM Performance Parts Grand Am driver marched through the field in final eliminations, breaking records en route to the winner's circle. However, just as remarkable as his race car's performance was Johnson's quick adaptation to the new LED lights on the starting line "Christmas Tree" which debuted in Pomona.
Twice during final eliminations, WJ posted reaction times in the "double-zero" range, the only driver to accomplish this feat, including a nearly psychic .003 effort in the final to weld noted leaver Allen Johnson at the starting line. As the Professor explains, it all came down to pre-race preparation.
"I had the opportunity to watch the LED lights during the Las Vegas test session, and in Pomona prior to the race," explained Johnson. "I was able to stand in a position to compare them to the incandescent bulbs, and it was easy to perceive that the LEDs come on a lot quicker, perhaps as much as two or three hundredths of a second.
"It basically came down to adjusting our GM Performance Parts Grand Am so I wouldn't red light, which is very easy to do with the new lighting system. I think this will make things a lot more even. For example, even looking into the sunlight, you can see the LEDs much more clearly than the incandescent bulbs. Fortunately it all worked out for us in Pomona."
This weekend, the GM Performance Parts crew heads to Firebird Raceway looking to double their pleasure at the Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals. To accomplish this goal, their first order of business is to put their success in California behind them. With a completely different racing surface and weather conditions, the key to success will lie in which teams adapt their race cars to these changes, and the six-time Pro Stock champion is prepared to once again lead the field.
"Win or lose, you always leave the last race behind you," stated Johnson. "Pomona is in the record books, and our focus is squarely on getting our GM Performance Parts Grand Am ready for Phoenix.
"Due to the differences between the two racing surfaces, as well as the change in elevation, we know the Pomona track is in the vicinity of one-tenth of a second quicker than Firebird Raceway. Given decent weather conditions in Phoenix, this weekend we should be running in the in the high 6.80's.
"We'll go through last year's notes and make some slight adjustments beforehand, but we'll wait until we get to the track to determine exactly what changes our set-up will need, if any. Of course, everyone will be in the same boat, so our goal is to make sure we do it better than our competitors."
Facts on Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts Racing Team entering the Checker
Schuck's Kragen Nationals:
* The Professor at Phoenix: This will be Warren's 19th appearance at Firebird Raceway.
Throughout his career, WJ has recorded two wins in six final round appearances, with his
most recent win coming in 2001.
* One year ago: WJ qualified fifth at Phoenix with an elapsed time of 6.890 seconds and
a top speed of 201.22 mph, and advanced to the final round.
* Firebird Raceway record holder: Warren holds the Firebird Raceway Pro Stock elapsed
time track record at 6.865 seconds, which he recorded during the first round of
eliminations at last year's Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals.
* Top qualifier: Warren has been the No. 1 qualifier in Phoenix six times, including a
five-year streak that went from 1995-1999. Throughout his career, Warren has never
qualified lower than sixth at Firebird Raceway, and has an average qualifying performance
of 2.56.
* Fastest Man in Pro Stock: With his 204.91 mph pass in Pomona, WJ set a new NHRA
national top speed record. This is the 22nd time the Professor has held the national top
speed record, dating back to May 1976, when he set the standard at 156.66 mph in Denver,
CO.
* Low elapsed time? Top speed? - No problem: With his record-setting performance in
Pomona, WJ has now posted the top speed of the event 197 times. In addition, his
career-best 6.764-second effort in the semi-finals was the 130th time Warren has recorded
the low elapsed time of the race in his career.
* POWERade Points standings: After his win at the Winternationals, WJ comes into Phoenix
leading the 2003 POWERade points standings with 117 points, twenty-three ahead of second
place Allen Johnson. Warren finished fourth in 2002, his twenty-first consecutive Top Five
finish.
* No. 1 in National event wins: WJ's 89 national event victories are the most ever in the
history of the Pro Stock division and place him 2nd on the all-time NHRA win list. His
most recent win came at the 2003 Winternationals in Pomona, CA.
* Career best elapsed time: 6.764 seconds, Pomona 2003
* Career best top speed: 204.91 mph, Pomona 2003 (The fastest pass in NHRA Pro Stock
history.)
Event schedule:
Qualifying: Friday, February 21: Two sessions at 1:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 22: Two sessions at 1:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Eliminations: Sunday, February 23:
Pre-race ceremonies & driver introductions begin at 10 a.m., followed by the first
round of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
TV Schedule:
Qualifying Highlights: Saturday, February, 22: 11:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
Final Eliminations Coverage: Sunday, February 23: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. (ESPN)
9:00 - 11:00 p.m. (ESPN2)
NHRA2Day: Sunday, February 23: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
(Note: All times are Eastern. Please check your local listings for updated air times.)
Kurt Johnson Phoenix Preview
Posted Wednesday, February 19, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Tue, 18 Feb 2003, 10:21 AM
Kurt Johnson is One Son Ready to Shine in Phoenix
Courtesy of Jon Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Cavalier Driver Aims to Duplicate Father's Winning Performance at Checker Schuck's Kragen Na
CHANDLER, Ariz. -- This weekend's Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals offers ACDelco Cavalier pilot Kurt Johnson the opportunity to reach a pair of notable career milestones. For example, by simply qualifying for Sunday's eliminations, KJ will earn his 200th Pro Stock start. In addition, Johnson's next elimination round win will be his 300th.
However, the figure on KJ's racing resume that he is most interested in adding to is the number of career national event wins, which currently stands at twenty-three. An increase in this total would be the achievement that brings the biggest smile to the Buford, Ga. resident's face.
"The way we see it, if we win, everything else is covered," stated Johnson. "At every race, we look to qualify in the top three or four and then go to at least the semis on Sunday. In that way, we'll consistently put our ACDelco Cavalier in a good position to win the race. This weekend in Phoenix is not any different. We're there to win."
After a solid performance at the season-opening race ten days ago that saw him establish a career best top speed, Johnson arrives at Firebird Raceway quietly optimistic. Adding to his pre-race confidence is his father Warren Johnson's dominating performance in Pomona. With his ACDelco Cavalier a product of the same stable, KJ knows the potential is there for an equally impressive showing from his machine.
"Our program can definitely benefit from Dad's win in Pomona," said Johnson. "He's the car to beat right now. The good part is that the cars come from the same shop, and we share information, so we know we're capable of running with him. It's just up to us to get the job done, and when we do, our ACDelco Cavalier will be the other car to beat."
The ACDelco Racing team's first assignment upon reaching the venerable Arizona facility will be to evaluate the racing surface, as conditions are expected to be completely different from those encountered ten days ago in California. With another tight Pro Stock field expected, teams will be battling to find the right combination, and KJ's crew is determined to be among the leaders.
"We were one of the few cars to go down the track on every run in Pomona," declared Johnson. "Of course, you're never happy unless you win. It never ran slower than a 6.86, so it wasn't completely off, but in Pro Stock, there's no room for error. We'll have it tuned up for Phoenix.
"This weekend we race on a track completely unlike the last one. The Firebird Raceway surface is older and much rougher, with cracks and other obstacles, including the occasional lizard on the track. Naturally, you have to pick the right gear and clutch settings, but once you leave the starting line, it's up to the driver to keep it in the very narrow groove. It makes every run an experience. All the way around, it's going to be a challenge, but the ACDelco crew is ready for it."
Facts on Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Racing Team entering the NHRA Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals:
* Quarter-Milestones: When Kurt lines up for Sunday's final eliminations of the NHRA
Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals, he will be making the 200th start of his illustrious
NHRA Pro Stock career. In addition, should he advance to the second round of
eliminations, he will have scored his 300th elimination round win.
* KJ at Phoenix: This will be Kurt's 11th appearance at Firebird Raceway, where he has
recorded one win (in 1999), as well as three semi-final finishes.
* One year ago: Kurt qualified eighth with an elapsed time of 6.903 seconds with a top
speed of 200.71 mph, and advanced to the semi-finals.
* POWERade Points standings: Following the season-opening Winternationals, Kurt is 6th in
the 2003 POWERade points standings, two points behind 5th place Ron Krisher. Kurt
finished 6th in 2002, his tenth consecutive Top Ten finish.
* Winning percentage: Kurt's .629 elimination round winning percentage (299-176) ranks
12th among all active NHRA professional drivers.
* National event wins: Kurt's 23 national event victories place him 20th on the all-time
NHRA professional win list. Kurt's most recent win came last November at the 2002 Auto
Club of Southern California Finals in Pomona, CA.
* Career best elapsed time: 6.779 seconds, Reading, PA. 2001
* Career best top speed: 204.57 mph, Pomona, CA. 2003 (the fourth fastest in NHRA Pro
Stock history.)
Event schedule:
Qualifying:
Friday, February 21: Two sessions at 1:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 22: Two sessions at 1:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Eliminations:
Sunday, February 23:
Pre-race ceremonies & driver introductions begin at 10 a.m.,
followed by the first round of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
TV Schedule:
Qualifying Highlights:
Saturday, February, 22: 11:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
Final Eliminations Coverage:
Sunday, February 23: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. (ESPN)
8:30 - 10:30 p.m. (ESPN2)
NHRA2Day:
Sunday, February 23: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
(Note: All times are Eastern. Please check your local listings for updated air times.)
GDR Website Updated
Posted Tuesday, February 18, 2003 by johndilbeck
Several new photos have been added today (GDR-00322 through GDR-00327).
Thanks to the Fermier Brothers, Fred Simmons, David Dilbeck and Wayne Holland for sharing their photos with us.
Roger Swanson corrected an update we made to Bunky Bobo's Willys shown in photo GDR-00133.
Jerry Langley offered some further information about the 1932 Roadster shown in photo GDR-00144.
Two new articles were submitted for February 2003.
Marvin T. Smith submitted information in memory of Sneaky Pete Robinson.
Tony Bobo submitted a multi-part article with photos about the Hemi Hurricane Restoration. There are lots of photos in this article, so the page will take some time to load. Be patient.
Jerry King wrote about some of My Cars From the 50s and 60s.
Minor corrections were made to the NHRA Division II Hall of Fame and a new page was added for the Southeastern Drag Racers Hall of Fame.
Thanks to each of you for your contributions.
James Finch's Phoenix Racing at Daytona
Posted Sunday, February 16, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Obviously, I wouldn't normally post NASCAR results here, but I am going to make an exception for James Finch. Mr. Finch, who is a board of directors member for the Southeastern Drag Racers Hall of Fame ( along with Jack Cooley, J.C. Sizemore, Billy" Big Deal" Jacobs, Emmitt "Rattlesnake" Austin, and Sol Stewart ), hosted an open house at his racing shop during the weekend of Sol and Anne Stewart's 2nd Annual Old Drag Racer's Reunion ( Sept. 2002 )in Panama City Beach, FL. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Finch and enjoying his great hospitality ( live entertainment, food, and drink! ) during the Friday night party.
Well, congratulations are in order for his Phoenix Racing Team's Daytona weekend! His driver, Jamie McMurray finished 5th in Saturday's Busch Koolerz 300 and his Winston Cup driver, Mike Wallace, finished 9th in the rain shortened Daytona 500! CONGRATULATIONS TO JAMES FINCH AND ALL OF THE PHOENIX RACING TEAM MEMBERS FOR THEIR DAYTONA FINISHES!
WJ on NHRA2Day This Sunday
Posted Saturday, February 15, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Details
Atlanta Dragway Fan Fest
Posted Thursday, February 13, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Craig Armstrong, (706) 335-2301
ATLANTA DRAGWAY FAN FEST
TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 22, 2003
COMMERCE, GA (February 12, 2003) - The Atlanta Dragway will officially open
their 2003 racing season on Saturday, February 22 with the 1st annual Hayes
Fan Fest and Test & Tune.
Everyone is invited to tour the facility, including the VIP Suites and meet
the track staff from 9 AM until 5 PM. In addition, fans will be treated to
jet car exhibition races throughout the afternoon with a special appearance
by Watkinsville's Paul Miller in his "U.S. 1 The Next Generation" jet car
and an inaugural run by jet car racer Jeff Rice of Lavonia in his "Georgia
FireFly". Jet cars, capable of 300 MPH speeds, are always a favorite among
the crowd. Free spectator passes are available at Hayes Dealerships in
Lawrenceville, Gainesville, and Cornelia or $10 at the gate.
Local racers are encouraged to bring their own cars to test and tune all day
long for $25. An Atlanta Dragway tradition, future Test and Tunes will be
held on "Fast Friday" nights throughout the season and will include a Hayes
Import Challenge Series.
The 2003 racing season will be extended until November 21 and will include
several special events including the Summit Racing Equipment Southern
Nationals presented by Pontiac, May 1 - 4. Racers and fans can check the
Atlanta Dragway website (www.atlantadragway.com) or contact the track at
706.335.2301 for more information.
Ol' Racers Reunion
Posted Tuesday, February 11, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Albany, Georgia February 7 and 8, 2003
Bill Connell, former owner of U.S. 19 Dragstrip in Albany, Georgia, put on a fine racer's reunion last weekend. Bill also ran a local roundy-round track, so the event was for all kinds of racers. There was a car show and a chance for everyone to get together and bench race and remember old friends. There were about 30 cars on display, and lots of people to talk to. There were representatives from the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame ready to sign up new members. Drag racing slides and videos, provided by Bob Fermier, ran constantly in the meeting hall. There was even a computer and scanner for copying old photos.
Some beautifully restored circle track cars stole the show, but there was an award for the best drag car that was won by a nice 50 Olds IHRA record-holding stocker. The Sportsmanship award, voted on by the attendees, was won by drag racer Ellis Milner. Lamar "Bunky" Bobo, former gasser great and funny car star, won the first door prize, and almost claimed the long distance award.
Plenty of people showed up with photos to remember the old days.
Everything from Tommy Ivo's twin Buick dragster from the early sixties to stockers was shown. We even matched up two photos from two different people of the same car with two different lettering jobs. Some of the other drag racing attendees included Sol and Anne Stewart, Bobby Watson, Sonny Rollo, and Bob Fermier; all great racers from the sixties. Attendees came from Georgia, Florida, and Alabama.
Look for the second annual event next year. This event is definitely not to be missed. -Marvin T. Smith
Photos
Warren Johnson Press Release
Posted Monday, February 10, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Mon, 10 Feb 2003, 03:29 PM
Warren Johnson Opens the 2003 NHRA Season with A Dominating Win in Pomona
Courtesy of Jon Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
POMONA, Calif. -- Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts Racing team started the 2003 NHRA POWERade season in impressive fashion today by winning the 43rd annual Winternationals in Pomona, California. After defeating Troy Coughlin, Kurt Johnson and Darrell Alderman in the earlier rounds, Johnson used a nearly perfect .003 second reaction time to leave Allen Johnson at the starting line and never looked back, using his fourth 6.7 second, 204 mph pass of the day to gain the victory. It was Johnson's eighty-ninth career national event win and tenth at Pomona Raceway, site of the traditional drag racing season-opener.
"It's always a good day when you win," stated Johnson. "It's certainly beneficial for the team, paying early dividends for all the hard work they did during the wintertime. Our GM Performance Parts team worked intensively during the off-season, spending a lot of time on our engine program and aero package, and today's results speak for themselves."
After qualifying second in the quickest field in Pro Stock history, Johnson wasted little time in demonstrating his intentions on race day. Facing Troy Coughlin in the first round, WJ easily advanced by not only posting the quickest elapsed time of the round at 6.767 seconds, but also recording the fastest Top Speed in the history of the division at 204.91 mph. This marked the twenty-second time that Johnson has held the national top speed record.
"We were fortunate to have almost ideal conditions today," said Johnson. "The track surface, which is one of the smoothest we race on, never got above ninety-three degrees and it came around pretty well after the NHRA ground the starting line on Friday night. Kurt and I both ran 205 during testing in Bradenton, so we knew our GM Performance Parts Grand Am was capable. Fortunately, it all worked out today."
The second round found WJ paired against his son Kurt. The elder Johnson maintained the family order by combining a lightning quick .005 reaction time with a 6.780-second, 204.39 mph pass to earn the narrow victory.
However, "The Professor's" assignment did not get any easier. In the semi-finals he faced long-time rival Darrell Alderman, and responded by posting the quickest elapsed time of the weekend at 6.764 seconds to reach the 139th final round of his illustrious career.
This set the stage for a final round encounter with Alderman team owner Allen Johnson, another competitor known for his starting line prowess. Reacting almost instinctively to the new LED starting line "Christmas tree", WJ's distinctive yellow Grand Am shot ahead at the start and streaked down the quarter-mile in 6.788 seconds with a top speed of 204.01 mph to earn Johnson his first victory since the Bristol event in 2002.
"I really can't afford to worry about who is in the other lane," joked Johnson. "because my arms are too short to reach over and drive that car. Therefore I prefer to focus on extracting the most from our GM Performance Parts Grand Am. However, both Darrell and Allen are excellent drivers, so we do our best to prepare and race them competitively. This was a big win for our team, and the best possible way to start the year, but we've got a long way to go."
The NHRA will take next weekend off before heading to Firebird Raceway in Phoenix, Arizona for the Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals, which will be hled from February 20 - 23.
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Monday, February 10, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Mon, 10 Feb 2003, 03:37 PM
KJ Resets Personal Top Speed Record in Advancing to Pomona Quarter-Finals
Courtesy of Jon Knapp,TMG Sports Marketing
POMONA, Calif. -- After qualifying tenth for the 43rd annual Winternationals, ACDelco Cavalier pilot Kurt Johnson knew he had his work cut out for him. Not only would he be facing a tough opponent in Mark Osborne in the first round, but he would also be doing so without the benefit of lane choice, which had played a significant role in qualifying.
Undaunted, KJ responded to the challenge by posting his best elapsed time of the weekend at 6.783 seconds with an impressive top speed of 204.57 mph to easily advance to the second round. Incidentally, Johnson's speed was the quickest ever recorded in Pro Stock, and gave him the national top speed record. However, this honor was short-lived, as his father, Warren Johnson would eclipse this mark with a 204.91 blast of his own.
Ironically, the second round would match the two fastest cars in the history of the Pro Stock division against each other, with the two Johnsons squaring off for the right to advance to the semi-finals. Once again, Kurt found himself relegated to the less-preferred right lane. Although he was able to make a competitive 6.812-second, 204.01 mph run, it was not enough to hold off the elder Johnson.
"I was confident going into the second round. We got our ACDelco Cavalier straightened out and ran that 6.78 against Osborne. In hindsight, we should have made some adjustments, but when you make your smoothest run of the weekend, you really don't want to mess with it a whole lot. Even though it was better than it had been the last few days, it shook about two or three hundredths out of it against Dad.
"We'll take what we learned here and go to Phoenix. We took the conservative approach this weekend, preferring not to throw the moon at it and end up not in the show. Although you're only satisfied when you win, we went down the track on every run, and that's how you gather valuable information. We'll get this ironed out and find the consistent performance we're looking for."
Warren Johnson Sets 204.91 MPH Record and Wins Pro Stock over Allen Johnson- Larry Dixon and Tony Pedregon also Win at the NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Posted Sunday, February 9, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Kurt Johnson loses to Warren in the second round, but Kurt held the MPH record briefly in the first round - until Warren took it away in his first round victory. Warren sets Low ET and Top Speed on the way to the winner's circle.
Eliminations Recap
Warren Johnson Press Release
Posted Sunday, February 9, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Sun, 9 Feb 2003, 10:51 AM
WJ Records Fastest Pro Stock Speed and Posts Career Best Elapsed Time
Courtesy of Jon Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
POMONA, Calif. -- Entering the final day of qualifying for the NHRA Winternationals, Warren Johnson faced an unfamiliar situation. After battling a tricky Pomona Raceway during the first two days, WJ's chances of earning a spot in final eliminations came down to the last two sessions on Saturday.
However, any doubts of Johnson's participation on race day were quickly erased on his first attempt, as he blasted down the quarter-mile in 6.779 seconds with a top speed of 204.54 mph. This not only represented a career-best elapsed time for Johnson (bettering his previous best of 6.783), but also the highest top speed ever posted in the Pro Stock division (besting the mark of 204.35 mph, set in October 2001).
Despite the impressive nature of the run, Johnson allowed that there was room for even further improvement.
"The elapsed time surprised me somewhat," said Johnson. "I know our GM Performance Parts Grand Am is fully capable, but it really rattled the tires in second gear, which hurt the e.t.. In addition, it got off to the right a little bit, which also didn't help. If we had made a nice clean pass, it could have certainly gone a 6.75 or 6.76.
"Tomorrow, however, we'll have no choice but to get it back down to where we'll be on the safe side. We certainly have enough power to drive around anyone out here, so we'll just have to use a conservative approach."
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Sunday, February 9, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Sun, 9 Feb 2003, 11:11 AM
KJ Runs Career Best Top Speed in Slotting 10th in Pomona
Courtesy of Jon Knapp
POMONA, Calif. -- The NHRA's Pro Stock division is known for producing sixteen-car fields covered by mere thousandths of a second. A perfect example of Pro Stock's competitive nature came during the final day of qualifying for the season-opening Winternationals. Taking advantage of nearly ideal conditions, the "factory hot rods" delivered the quickest field in the category's history, with the first and final qualifiers separated by thirty-nine thousandths.
ACDelco Cavalier pilot Kurt Johnson was among those making impressive runs during Saturday's final qualifying sessions, posting an elapsed time of 6.800 seconds. Johnson's top speed of 204.11 mph on that run was a new personal best, as well as the third fastest run in Pro Stock History. Although this performance placed Johnson 10th in Sunday's final eliminations, the ACDelco crew was not satisfied, and started formulating a strategy to improve their performance even further.
"The complexion of the starting line has completely changed since we won here last November, and it's unfortunate. We brought the same combination of race car and motor back for this race, and we've been fighting to get it off the starting line all weekend. They did grind the track last night trying to make it better, but that made our notes from the first two days pretty useless.
"We made several changes throughout the day, and although it improved, it wasn't enough. We'll throw the farm at it tomorrow and hopefully get the tires to stick. We know this ACDelco Cavalier is fully capable of running a 6.76 or 6.77 - it's just a matter of doing it."
WJ and KJ Qualify in Pro Stock- Other Georgians Miss the Cut at Pomona
Posted Saturday, February 8, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Warren Johnson ends up in the #2 spot with a 6.775 @ 204.54. Warren could end up with the NHRA speed record if he can back up the 204. Kurt Johnson qualifies #10 with a 6.800 @ 204.11. Georgia teams that fail to make the show are: Terry Adams ( #17 - Barry Grant team car 6.812 @ 203.06 ), Barry Grant ( #18 - 6.814 @ 203.03 ), Mark Whisnant ( #24 - 6.826 @ 202.15 ), and Gene Wilson ( #37 - 6.895 @ 199.67 ). Four of the 2002 Top Ten do not qualify at the season opener. Pro Stock Final Qualifying Results
Kalitta, Wilkerson, Stanfield Number One Pro Qualifiers at the NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Posted Saturday, February 8, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Saturday Recap
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 8, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
February 8, 2003
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-798-7212
704-957-3940 (Mobile) pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Welcomes Snap-On Tools as Associate Sponsor
POMONA, Calif. – Today Mark and Reid Whisnant welcomed Snap-On Tools as their new associate sponsor on their RW Performance Chevrolet Pro Stock Cavalier.
“We feel very fortunate to have this association with Snap-On Tools,” said Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance Chevrolet Cavalier. “Snap-On is a quality company with a rich history in motorsports. Snap-On Tools is know for producing the best tools in the world, and have the same high standards when it comes to selecting teams to carry the Snap-On name.
“I am excited to be part of the Snap-on Tools team. Doug Herbert, Steve Johnson, Kevin Harvick, and Dale jr.; are all great drivers and competitors. I am honored I have been chosen to join them as teammates, and will do everything in my power to live up to their reputation.
“I want to thank Carl Johanson for his faith in myself and our RW Performance team. I believe that we can live up to Snap-Ons reputation as leaders in motorsports, and hopefully, we can help strengthen it by carrying the Snap-On name all the way to the winner circle.
“As tough as Pro Stock racing is, I know that with Snap-On Tools in our pits I will always very the right tool to get the job done.”
Headquartered in Kenosha, Wis., Snap-On Tools Incorporated is a leading global innovator, manufacturing, and marketer of tool, diagnostic, and equipment solutions for professional tool users.
Mark Whisnant Press Release
Posted Saturday, February 8, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
February 8, 2003
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-751-3882
704-957-3940 (Mobile) pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Whisnant Misses the WinterNationals
POMONA, Calif. – Mark Whisnant arrived in Pomona, Calif. with hopes of placing is RW Performance/ Snap-On Tools Chevrolet Cavalier in the Pro Stock field for the 43rd annual K&N WinterNationals. His hopes dissolved when the best run he could produce was a 6.826 / 202.15 mph, which placed him 23rd and on the outside looking in.
“Not qualifying is always hard to take,” said Whisnant of Stockbridge, Ga., “but I am still pleased with the results of this race.
“Four days before we left for testing in Houston, we lost out crew chief. It could have been a disaster, but luckily Gary Pearman and Markus Svennson where available. They started with us in Houston, which was only a week ago. Seven days is a very short time to become comfortable with the car, our equipment, and each other. Considering what they were up against, I feel they did and excellent job.
“I would like to be racing tomorrow, but I know that this team has a lot of potential. I know that we just need a little more time together and we will be as good as any team out there.
“We will be in Phoenix in two weeks to give it another try.”
The next race on the 2003 POWERade Drag Racing schedule will be the 19th annual Checks Shucks Kragen NHRA Nationals February 20-23 in Phoenix, Ariz.
Millican, Wilkerson, and Coughlin Lead Pro Fields After Two Sessions at the NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Posted Friday, February 7, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Georgia Pro Stock racers Kurt Johnson (#4), Terry Adams (#8 - Barry Grant team car ), and Barry Grant (#9) are now qualified after two sessions. Mark Whisnant (#21) received a No Time on his run and Warren Johnson had handling problems and is in the 38th position. Friday Recap
GDR Website Updated
Posted Friday, February 7, 2003 by johndilbeck
Tina Whitt offered some comments about her dad's Hippie Hemi funny car shown in photo GDR-00009.
Stanley McCrory offered some further information about David Smith's Firebird shown in photo GDR-00145.
Two new articles were submitted for February 2003.
Marvin T. Smith submitted Gene Cromer: The Invader from South Carolina.
David R. Burlington submitted Glen Hyder, Sr., Fuel Altered Racer.
Thanks to each of you for your contributions.
Mark Whisnant Leads the Georgia Pro Stocks with a Third Best 6.839 @ 201.34 in the RW Performance Cavalier at the NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Posted Friday, February 7, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Mark Whisnant (#3) and Kurt Johnson (#10) are the only Georgia Pro Stockers in the field after the first session at Pomona. Warren Johnson (#25), Gene Wilson (#28), and the Barry Grant team ( Terry Adams #35 -Barry Grant #36 ) will have three more qualifying sessions to attempt to make the program. Round One Qualifying
Dixon, Wilkerson, and Pawuk Lead Pro Qualifying at the Season Opening NHRA POWERade K&N Filters Winternationals
Posted Friday, February 7, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
2002 Top Fuel Champ Larry Dixon leads the pack with a 4.586 at 313.88, Tim Wilkerson steps up with a 4.759 at 318.32 in Funny Car, and Troy Coughlin is #1 with a 6.809 at 202.42 in Pro Stock after the first round of pro qualifying. Mark Pawuk, with Bob Glidden tuning, narrowly misses the #1 spot in Pro Stock with a 6.818 at 201.82.
Thursday Recap
Warren Johnson Press Release
Posted Thursday, February 6, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Wed, 5 Feb 2003, 07:05 PM
After 27 years, WJ's Outlook Remains the Same in Pomona
Courtesy of Jon G. Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
GM Performance Parts Grand Am Pilot Set to Kick Off 2003 Season with
POMONA, Calif. -- Winternationals Win For over twenty-seven years, Warren Johnson has come to Pomona Raceway for the start of the NHRA season. In that time, "The Professor" has played a vital role in the Pro Stock division's evolution from a relatively new professional category to the most competitive in all of motorsports. Part of this progression has included a series of changes.
For example, WJ's sleek, wind tunnel tuned GM Performance Parts Pontiac Grand Am with which he will compete at next weekend's Winternationals bears little resemblance to the relatively boxy Camaro he raced in 1976. However, one constant through each of "The Professor's" forays down the quarter-mile is his competitive fire.
"Today's race cars are much more sophisticated than they were twenty-seven years ago," noted Johnson. "The proof is in the performance. We're running elapsed times that are two seconds quicker and top speeds almost fifty miles per hour faster.
'In addition, while racing continues to be my only business, it has blossomed from a program run out of a garage in the backyard to working in a shop with state-of-the art equipment, full-time employees and an ongoing R&D program. But through it all, one thing has remained unchanged - my desire to win."
Therefore, as the 2003 POWERade Drag Racing season gets underway, Johnson's goals remain the same as the first time he took to the track, namely to win the race and eventually the championship. Based on the results of preseason testing, he appears to be in a good position to accomplish both.
"We recently spent a couple days testing in Florida and produced some excellent numbers," stated Johnson. "Naturally, the weather conditions were conducive to that type of performance, but considering we ran quicker and faster than anyone in the history of Pro Stock, I'd say our GM Performance Parts Grand Am is going in the right direction. Given the right weather conditions, I believe we'll be seeing Pro Stock cars going in the 6.60s this year at over 205 miles per hour."
"Our objective for this year is quite simple - we are looking for one of our two cars to win the championship. We feel we are the only team with the R&D program and the personnel to not only maintain this performance level that we have, but also extend it even further. It's just up to us to apply it to the track on race day."
Facts on Warren Johnson and the GM Performance Parts Racing Team entering the Winternationals:
* The Professor at Pomona: Throughout his career, WJ has recorded nine wins in fifteen final round appearances at Pomona Raceway, including four victories in eight Winternationals final rounds. Warren's most recent win at this event came in 1997.
* One year ago: WJ qualified seventh at Pomona with an elapsed time of 6.840 seconds and a top speed of 202.82 mph. In final eliminations, he advanced to the quarterfinals. Warren's 203.12 mph top speed in the second round of eliminations was not only the top speed of the event, but was also a new Pomona Raceway track record.
* Pomona Raceway record holder: Warren holds the Pomona Raceway Pro Stock elapsed time track record at 6.797 seconds, which he recorded in qualifying for last November's Auto Club of Southern California Finals.
* Top qualifier: Warren has been the No. 1 qualifier in Pomona twelve times, accomplishing the feat five times at the Winternationals. In fact, WJ was the only Pro Stock competitor to capture the top qualifying position at Pomona Raceway from 1993 through 1996.
* POWERade Points standings: Warren finished fourth in the 2002 POWERade season's points standings, his twenty-first consecutive Top Five finish.
* No. 1 in National event wins: WJ's 88 national event victories are the most ever in the history of the Pro Stock division and place him 2nd on the all-time NHRA win list. His most recent win came at the 2002 Mac Tools Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol, TN.
* Career best elapsed time: 6.779 seconds, Reading 2001
* Career best top speed: 203.77 mph, Englishtown 2002 (2nd fastest Pro Stock run recorded during the 2002 season and fifth fastest in NHRA Pro Stock history.)
Event schedule:
Qualifying:
Thursday & Friday, February 6 -7: Single sessions at 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 8: Two sessions at 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.
Eliminations:
Sunday, February 9:
Pre-race ceremonies & driver introductions begin at 10 a.m., followed by the first round
of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
TV Schedule:
Qualifying Highlights:
Saturday, February, 8: 10:00 p.m. - Midnight (ESPN2)
Final Eliminations Coverage:
Sunday, February 9: 6:30 - 9 p.m. (ESPN2)
NHRA2Day:
Sunday, February 9: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
Kurt Johnson Press Release
Posted Thursday, February 6, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Wed, 5 Feb 2003, 07:05 PM
KJ Aims to Make His New Look a Winner in Pomona
Courtesy of Jon G. Knapp, TMG Sports Marketing
ACDelco Cavalier to Debut Dynamic New Sam Bass Paint Scheme at Season-opening
POMONA, Calif. -- Winternationals The 2003 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season gets underway on February 6 with the Winternationals at Pomona Raceway. In the days leading up to the event, competitors have been searching for a combination that will give them an edge and allow them to take that crucial first step towards a potential championship.
Pro Stock standout Kurt Johnson recognizes the importance of getting off to a strong start, and arrives in California well prepared. Not only is he armed with a three-year contract extension from primary sponsor ACDelco, but his sleek Chevrolet Cavalier will also debut a radically new look in Pomona, penned by renowned motorsports artist Sam Bass.
"Even though we haven't officially started racing, my year is already off to a great start," declared Johnson. "I've been honored to represent the ACDelco brand and their many outstanding distributors for the last seven years. Ours is a partnership where both sides work very hard to ensure their combined success, so I'm looking forward to being a member of the ACDelco family for at least another three years.
"I'm also excited by the new look of my ACDelco Cavalier. I think it will become a favorite with the fans because it looks fast sitting still, and I know it will look even better when we put it in the winner's circle."
The ACDelco brand has been a fixture on the younger Johnson's Pro Stocker since 1996, debuting with the Delco Battery colors before changing to the familiar red, white, and blue livery one year later. In that time, "KJ" has captured eighteen national event wins, including the prestigious U.S. Nationals in 1996 and 1997, eighteen number one qualifying positions and extended his string of consecutive Top Ten points finishes to ten.
"Kurt Johnson has been an outstanding representative for ACDelco both on and off the track, and we are proud to continue our association," stated Scott Mackie, General Manager for ACDelco. "Over the years, Kurt has provided us with many exciting moments, and we are sure he will reward us with many more in the future."
Although the design on Johnson's Cavalier is completely new, it is not unique to his race car. The striking red and white accents complementing the blue upper half bears a striking resemblance to the ACDelco-backed entries driven by Ron Hornaday in the NASCAR Busch Grand National Series and Harold Martin in the IHRA Drag Racing's Pro Mod division. As Mackie explains, it is a similarity that has been achieved completely by design.
"One of the hallmarks of the ACDelco brand is our ability to provide our customers with high-quality replacement parts no matter what the make and model of their vehicle may be," detailed Mackie. "Our main objective in creating this new look was to illustrate this 'All Makes, All-Models' strategy through our race teams. By having Kurt, Ron and Harold display one common paint scheme, we want to drive home that in every application, from the quarter-mile to the superspeedways to Main Street, ACDelco delivers."
There are other factors boosting Johnson's confidence entering the Winternationals, including the location of the traditional NHRA season-opener. Four of Kurt's national event wins have come at Pomona Raceway, including the NHRA's most recent visit in November. In addition, the ACDelco Cavalier has been outstanding in preseason testing, bettering the current NHRA records for elapsed time and top speed on several occasions.
However, despite the many positives in his favor, Johnson knows out that there is no room for error in the highly competitive Pro Stock division. To deliver on their pre-race potential, it will take a total effort from the ACDelco crew - a task the Lawrenceville, GA driver knows they are more than up to.
"We're coming into the season with a lot of momentum," explained Johnson. "We ended last year on a good note, qualifying No. 1 in Las Vegas and winning the Finals in Pomona. We then carried that strong performance through pre-season testing, and when you add in our contract extension and killer paint scheme, our confidence level couldn't be higher.
"But once qualifying starts on Thursday, the only thing that will matter is what we accomplish on the racetrack, and there will be forty other competitors standing in our way. Fortunately, we have all the right parts in place from a great crew to a very fast ACDelco Cavalier. The bottom line is that we are here to win the race, and we'll do whatever is necessary to accomplish our objective."
Facts on Kurt Johnson and the ACDelco Racing Team entering the Winternationals:
* KJ's new ride: Kurt and the ACDelco team will unveil his Cavalier's new ACDelco paint scheme at Pomona Raceway during Thursday's opening professional qualifying session.
* Happy Anniversary: This weekend's race marks KJ's tenth anniversary as a competitor in Pro Stock. At the 1993 Winternationals, Kurt qualified 15th, and defeated Don Beverly and Bob Glidden before falling to Scott Geoffrion in the semi-finals.
* KJ at Pomona: Throughout his career Kurt has recorded four wins in six final round appearances at Pomona Raceway, including a victory in the 2001 Winternationals.
* One year ago: Kurt qualified sixth with an elapsed time of 6.833 seconds with a top speed of 202.88 mph, and advanced to the semi-finals.
* POWERade Points standings: Kurt finished 6th in the 2002 POWERade season's points standings, his tenth consecutive Top Ten finish.
* National event wins: Kurt's 23 national event victories place him 17th on the all-time NHRA professional win list. Kurt's most recent win came at Pomona Raceway in last November's Auto Club of Southern California Finals.
* Career best elapsed time: 6.779 seconds, Reading 2001
* Career best top speed: 204.03 mph, Dallas 2002 (fastest Pro Stock run recorded during the 2002 season and second fastest in NHRA Pro Stock history.)
Event schedule:
Qualifying:
Thursday & Friday, February 6 -7: Single sessions at 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 8: Two sessions at 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.
Eliminations:
Sunday, February 9:
Pre-race ceremonies & driver introductions begin at 10 a.m.,
followed by the first round of eliminations at 11:00 a.m.
TV Schedule:
Qualifying Highlights:
Saturday, February, 8: 10:00 p.m. - midnight (ESPN2)
Final Eliminations Coverage:
Sunday, February 9: 6:30 - 9 p.m. (ESPN2)
NHRA2Day:
Sunday, February 9: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
GDR Website Updated
Posted Wednesday, February 5, 2003 by johndilbeck
The bookstore has been almost completely overhauled and offers more features and even easier and faster searching.
I'll be working on this section and adding more pages over the next week or so, but you can now access hundreds of thousands of products available from Amazon.com.
At the moment, Amazon.com is having trouble with their database feed that I use for this site, and you may see a title or reviews that don't go with the graphic (book cover, or other product image). If you encounter that, you can click on the buy button (it won't cost you anything), and in the resulting window, click on the "read more" link to go to Amazon.com and see the proper reviews.
They are aware of the problem and are working to resolve it as quickly as possible.
Many pages in the bookstore search results have suggested feature picks related to drag racing that may interest you.
Look for more to come in the near future in the bookstore.
Buddy Shanklin: Please Contact Me
Posted Monday, February 3, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
I received an email from Mr. Shanklin earlier, but the address will not work for a reply. If anyone knows how to get in touch with Buddy Shanklin, please contact me.
Savoie to Race for Team 23, Reaction Times Modified for 2003 NHRA Season, Other News
Posted Monday, February 3, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
NHRA
Mark Whisnant/RW Performance Press Release
Posted Monday, February 3, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
RW PERFORMANCE PRO STOCK CHEVY CAVALIER
MARK WHISNANT – DRIVER REID WHISNANT – OWNER
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 1, 2003
CONTACT: Patti Miles 336-751-3882
704-957-3940 (Mobile) pattie.miles@worldnet.att.net
Eleventh Hours Changes for Whisnant and Team RW
STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. – With only days until the start of the 2003 POWERade Drag Racing season, Mark Whisnant and Reid Whisnant announced major changes within their RW Performance Pro Stock team.
Two days before leaving for testing in Houston Texas, The Whisnants’ hired Markus Svensson and Gary Pearman as Co-Crew Chiefs on their RW Performance Chevrolet Cavalier.
"It all happened very fast," said Mark Whisnant, driver of the RW Performance machine. "Five days before we were supposed to leave for Houston to test we lost two key employees. Losing crewmembers so close to the start of the season is a tough situation to be placed in. It could have been a disaster, but we decided to turn a negative into a positive.
"Right away I got on the phone and stared making calls. I found out that both Markus (Svensson) and Gary (Pearman) where available, and wanted to come to work for us. Both of them have excellent credentials, years of Pro Stock experience, and individual talents to bring to the team.
"For years we have watched the fuel guys put together two crew chiefs, with talents that complement one another, and become very successful. Look at Force with Coil and Fedderly; they’re the best. So, instead of picking one guy over the other, My Dad and I decided to hire both of them as co-crew chiefs.
"It all came together over the weekend, which might scare some people, but I felt like it was good karma.
"We arrived in Houston on Wednesday for the Super Bowl Warm-up. We wanted to use this test session to see what we had in the car, and get a base line for Pomona. We were not trying to go out and set any records. We just wanted to make good solid runs, and get to know each other.
"Testing turn out better than I could have hoped. We ran as well as anyone there, and had better short times than we did all last season. It is still early, but I am impressed with the way Gary and Markus worked together, and with the rest of the crew. By the end of Saturday we had decided that we had done everything we could do there in Houston, and are ready to go to Pomona.
"In some peoples eyes coming into a big race like the WinterNationals with a new crew chief might make us underdogs. But to me, coming into Pomona with two new crew chiefs just makes this underdogs that bite twice as hard."
Qualifying at the 43rd annual K&N Filter WinterNationals in Pomona, Calif. is scheduled to start on Thurs. Feb. 6, and continue through Saturday Feb. 8. Eliminations will get underway on Sunday Feb.9 at 11:00 AM PST.
# # #
43rd annual K&N WinterNationals TV Schedule
Qualifying Highlights
Saturday Feb. 8 10:0 PM – Midnight EST (ESPN2)
Eliminations Coverage
Sunday Feb. 9 6:30 – 9:00 PM EST (ESPN2)
GDR Website Updated
Posted Monday, February 3, 2003 by johndilbeck
Several new photos have been added today (GDR-00311 through GDR-00321).
Thanks go out to Marvin T. Smith, Roger Swanson, Bogan Renfroe, Bud Breedlove, Wayne Kines, and Wayne Holland for opening their photo collections and sharing with us.
Southern Dragway Hosts Second “Heatwave” Pro Am Round, Feb. 8,9
Posted Sunday, February 2, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
Details
Mark Whisnant Qualifies #6 With a 6.774 203.34 at the 2003 Pre-season, 10th Annual Pontiac Excitement Pro Stock Superbowl
Posted Saturday, February 1, 2003 by DavidDilbeck
After posting two strong runs in the RW Performance Pro Stock Cavalier, Mark suffers tire shake and shuts off in the first round. Jim Yates has Low ET at 6.743, but Ron Krisher wins the event. Results
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