Georgia Drag Racing News

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!
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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 .

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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

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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

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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.
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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

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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

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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

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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
———————————————————————————————————————————————
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
———————————————————————————————————————————————
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
———————————————————————————————————————————————
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.