Georgia Drag Racing News

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 .

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

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

ONDA EARNS FIRST ATLANTA DRAGWAY WIN

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

By: Amy Glover

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pro Mod Test at SGMP

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

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

Marvin T. Smith Photos

Summit Series event at SGMP, June 7, 2009

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

by Marvin T. Smith

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

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

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

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

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

by Marvin T. Smith

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

Summit ET event at Atlanta Dragway

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

MASTER ABNEY SCHOOLS GRASSHOPPER BURFORD
By: Amy Glover

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS!!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LABOR DAY CLASSIC 500
Sunday, September 6

Degree V12 300
Saturday, September 5

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

Memorial Day Observance

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

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

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

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

Article and photos by Marvin T. Smith

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

2009 Old Drag Racers Reunion Info

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

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

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

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

by Marvin T. Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blast From the Past Photos from Jerry Coley's Collection

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks again for sharing your photos, Jerry!

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marcy Scott
Matthew Simmons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2009 Thursday Thunder Promotional Schedule

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

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

June 18 – Mascot Mania Night

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

July 2 – Double Feature Night featuring Independence Day Fireworks Show

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

July 16 – Fastor Pastor Race Night

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

July 30 – Classic Car Night featuring the Classic Car Cruise

Aug. 6 – Championship Night

2009 Friday Night Drags Promotional Schedule

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

May 29 – OFF WEEK

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

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

June 19 – Backwards Drag Racing and Modern Tuner Show Class

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

July 3 – FIREWORKS! and Harley-Davidson Show Class

July 10 – Double Points Night and Ford Owners Rally

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

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

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

Aug. 7 – OFF WEEK

Aug. 14 – Double Points Night and Truck Show Class

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

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

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

Sept. 11 – Championship Night with Final Ladders

Outlaw Radial Tire Championship event at SGMP

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

By Marvin T. Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photos

2009 AMS Friday Night Drags Division Rules

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

From Ted Austad
Event Promotions Coordinator
Atlanta Motor Speedway

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

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

Thank you!

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

2009 Friday Night Drags Division Rules

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Amy Glover

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SGMP Drag Radial Photos by Marvin T. Smith

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

More Photos

Summit Series event at South Georgia Motorsports Park

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

April 25-26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marvin T. Smith

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

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

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

More Southern National Photos from Fred Simmons!

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

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