MARCH 9, 2023, AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The excitement of the opening round of the 2023 National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Camping World Drag Racing Series hits a 11,000-horsepower pitch this weekend (March 9-12) at the legendary Gainesville Raceway in Florida as Dodge//SRT and Mopar competitors are staged to kick off the new season with another winning performance in the 54th annual NHRA Amalie Motor Oil Gatornationals.

Led by the Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) nitro team, Dodge//SRT and Mopar racers Leah Pruett (Top Fuel) and Matt Hagan (Funny Car) bring their strong Direct Connection entries to the 2023 season opening event, the first of 21 rounds for the coveted NHRA Camping World World Championships.

The Dodge//SRT and Mopar duo enter their second campaign under the TSR banner, and Hagan returns as the event’s defending Funny Car champion with his nitro-burning Direct Connection Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. The 2022 Gatornationals Funny Car triumph for Hagan was the first win for the TSR squad. Hagan recorded three additional NHRA national event victories in the team’s initial season.

Pruett also scored a 2022 NHRA Top Fuel title for TSR at the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA Mile High Nationals last July in Morrison, Colorado.

“After an outstanding opening season with Tony Stewart Racing, we are excited for the 2023 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series as Leah and Matt are primed to put the Dodge Power Brokers and Direct Connection machines back in the winner’s circle,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand CEO – Stellantis. “Our Dodge//SRT performance enthusiasts also have the opportunity to get a close-up view of Direct Connection factory-backed performance products at our Manufacturers Midway display. It should be a spectacular season opener for the Dodge//SRT programs at Gainesville this weekend.”

The Direct Connection performance parts brand – only available through the Dodge Power Brokers dealer network – is the exclusive source of the Dodge brand’s factory-backed performance parts and straight-from-the-manufacturer technical information. Complete information on Direct Connection is available at DCPerformance.com.

For the first time in the 54 years of the NHRA Amalie Motor Oil Gatornationals, the Florida event will serve as the season-opening race on the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series schedule after many decades beginning with the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, California. The on-track action begins Friday, March 10, with two qualifying sessions for the professional divisions, followed by two nitro sessions on Saturday with final eliminations set for Sunday at 10 a.m. EST. In addition, the Top Fuel ranks will feature the Pep Boy’s All-Star Top Fuel Callout on Saturday.

TSR team owner Tony Stewart, whose nitro operation recorded five NHRA national event wins in 2022, brings added enthusiasm for the Gainesville opener, as well as the upcoming 2023 season.

“We’re looking forward to getting the NHRA season started in Gainesville,” said Stewart, who’ll drive an Alcohol dragster for the full 2023 tour. “It’s a special track because it’s where Leah (Pruett) and I had our first date, and it’s where we got our first TSR team win last year with Matt Hagan. We retained all our team members, so I know we’re going to continue to build off last year’s success. The crews mesh very well together and are extremely talented. Both teams were able to test during the off-season to dial-in their setups and get ready for competition. We can’t thank Dodge enough for their support and continued partnership.”

Hagan, a three-time (2011, 2014, 2020) NHRA Funny Car World Champion, comes to Gainesville after a strong finish where he placed third in the 2022 Funny Car points with his Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and ran his career-win total to 43. The Virginia driver has produced top-three national point finishes nine times during his legendary career.

Still working with famed crew chief Dickie Venables, Hagan quickly gave the new TSR organization immediate respect with the 2022 Gatornationals Funny Car in the Dodge Power Brokers and Direct Connection livery. While he successfully began the new chapter in his career with his new team and Direct Connection as his primary livery, Hagan is set for another strong Gatornationals performance after a stellar pre-season testing.

“I’m pumped to be returning to Gainesville as the defending champion,” said Hagan. “Knowing we’re starting the season at the Gatornationals, and it was the track we got TSR’s first win last year is special. It was also my first win at Gainesville too. I can’t wait to climb into this Sublime Green Dodge Direct Connection Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car. Let’s light the pipes and get another win!

Pruett, a former Nostalgia Funny Car World Champion and NHRA SAMTech Factory Stock Showdown Champion, will campaign in her 11th year in drag racing’s ultimate division, Top Fuel, and again work with crew chief Neal Strausbaugh and the TSR crew at the NHRA Gatornationals this weekend. The 34-year-old California native begins the 2023 NHRA campaign with one of the best NHRA elapsed time in series history at 3.631 seconds.

“I can’t remember a time I’ve ever looked more forward to the Gatornationals than this race in our Sublime Green Dodge Direct Connection Top Fuel Dragster,” said Pruett. “It’s the overall season opener, not just on the East Coast. Teams also got extensive testing at this track in the last month, which means the competition is going to be ultra-thick. I believe the fans are in for a memorable event.”

Also entered at Gainesville Raceway for the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat nitro-burning contingent will be two-time world champion Cruz Pedregon in his Snap-On Tools Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car and young Alex Laughlin in the Havoline Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car for Jim Dunn.

Pedregon brings his Cruz Pedregon Racing team to Gainesville after a 2022 season-ending Funny Car victory at the NHRA Finals last November and seeks to add to his 38-career Funny Car win total this weekend, while Laughlin moves into the Funny Car division this year after stints in Pro Stock and Top Fuel. Team owner Dunn is a legendary figure in NHRA drag racing dating back to his Funny Car driving in the early 1970s.

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Drag racing’s best descend upon Route 66 Raceway near Chicago to compete in a multi-series battle this weekend.

JOLIET, Ill. (May 30, 2018) – Whether you are a longtime fan of drag racing, have been meaning to check it out for the first time, or a hot rod enthusiast looking for excitement this weekend—the JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals and Allstar Race, May 31-June 3, is sure to satisfy. JEGS Automotive, Inc. (JEGS), one of the largest e-commerce and mail order high-performance auto parts retailers worldwide, and title-rights sponsor of the race, along with the NHRA and Route 66 Raceway, offer a Mello Yello Drag Racing Series national race event and a Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series “clash of the titans” in one action-packed drag racing weekend. The event will also give fans a chance to see their favorite racing legends, including JEGS Founder, Hall of Fame Drag Racer and Grand Marshall of the Race, Jeg Coughlin Sr.

JEGS’ sponsorship is the latest in a decades-long tradition of investing and participating in drag racing; from primary sponsorships in the NHRA’s Pro Stock, Pro Mod and Top Dragster vehicles, being a 12-year title sponsor for the JEGS SPORTSNationals, to becoming the title sponsor of the JEGS Route 66 NRHA Nationals and Allstar Race—to name a few. Over the year, JEGS’ investment into motorsports has grown outside of drag racing, to include sponsorships for the Champion Racing Association (CRA) series, and the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

“JEGS has deep roots in drag racing that have existed since our founder, Jeg Coughlin Sr. was speeding down the strip,” said JEGS CEO, Jeffrey R. Hennion. “Our business aligns with the needs and interests of racing teams and fans, so we are proud to partner with the NHRA and Route 66 Raceway to bring multiple series together and showcase the highest level of drag racing competition.”

In addition to its founding legacy, JEGS has remained family-owned for more than fifty years, maintaining the authentic tie between JEGS, as a business, and drag racing. The Coughlin family has competed, or actively competes in multiple motorsports formats, and is one of drag racing’s most winningest families.

The JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals

 The JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals is the ninth of 24 events on the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series and is the first of four consecutive events that will prove critical for NHRA teams with title aspirations. Route 66 Raceway features the first true stadium of drag racing and has witnessed impressive performances by the top racers in the sport. Fans watching from home can catch the action on FS1.

Team JEGS will be well represented at the JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals, including six-time world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr., his brother, Mike Coughlin, nephew, Troy Coughlin Jr. and niece, Paige Coughlin. Jeg Jr. will be racing in Pro Stock as a member of the Elite Motorsports team. Mike is one of the leading contenders in Top Dragster. Troy Jr. is racing in Top Alcohol Dragster. In addition, Samantha Coughlin, wife of Jeg Jr., will join Paige in the Super Comp class.

The 2018 JEGS Allstars

This race-within-a-race will pit the top points earners from NHRA’s seven geographic divisions of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and four Top Alcohol regions against each other in the culmination of a yearlong points battle.

Competitors in Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Comp Eliminator, Top Sportsman, Top Dragster, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Stock, and Super Street will compete for team and individual honors as well as a share of the $124,000 purse.

“I consider this one of the biggest events on the year, outside of the World Championship. We do a lot of tuning and studying to prepare, and I am hoping for a big win in my third year participating in the race,” said Jeff Strickland, Super Stock and Top Dragster Competitor. “JEGS steps-up for drag racing and sportsman, so I am proud to be a part of the action.”

Local favorite Bruno Massel Jr., announcer for NHRAonFOX and past NHRA Champion, who will be racing in Comp Eliminator this weekend.

 “I have known the Coughlin family since I was a kid, and although we are competitors, we are also friends. I am a huge fan of JEGS—the company and the race team,” said Bruno. “The JEGS Allstar Race is the second biggest race, after the U.S. nationals. My dad won the JEGS Allstar Race in 1989 when it was held Columbus, Ohio. Now, with the race running out of Chicago, my home track, I am proud to have won the race three times and would sure like to win number four.”

For race event and ticket information, visit https://www.NHRA.com

For venue and seating information, visit http://www.Route66Raceway.com/NHRA/NHRA-Route-66-Nationals.aspx

To learn more about JEGS Automotive, Inc., call (800) 345-4545 or visit us at www.JEGS.com.

Follow JEGS on social media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/JEGSPerformance, Twitter: www.twitter.com/JEGSPerformance, Instagram: www.instagram.com/JEGSPerformance, YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/JEGSHighPerformance

Meet Team JEGS, follow the Team JEGS race schedule and results, and learn more about racing by visiting www.TeamJEGS.com.

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JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals

The entitlement builds upon the involvement by the organization as the JEGS Allstars specialty race will take place on Saturday, June 2. This race-within-a-race will pit the top points earners from NHRA’s seven geographic divisions of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and four Top Alcohol regions against each other in the culmination of a yearlong points battle. Competitors in Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Comp Eliminator, Top Sportsman, Top Dragster, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Stock, and Super Street will compete for team and individual honors as well as a share of the $124,000 purse.

“JEGS has been involved with the sport of NHRA drag racing for decades and we are excited to have them on board as this iconic event celebrates its 20th year,” said Brad Gerber, NHRA vice president and chief development officer. “JEGS supports NHRA in a number of ways including the long-standing sponsorship of several drivers in both professional and sportsman categories.”

“At JEGS, our history and tradition in motorsports, especially with the NHRA, goes back to our founding over 50 years ago,” said chief executive officer of JEGS Automotive, Inc., Jeffrey R. Hennion. “We are excited to announce this broader partnership with the NHRA both at the JEGS Rt. 66 NHRA Nationals and with a broader, enhanced media relationship supporting NHRA national events throughout the year. We look forward to helping to make the JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals a memorable experience for all race fans, including all those competing in the JEGS All-Stars.”

The JEGS Route 66 NHRA Nationals is the ninth of 24 events on the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. It will be televised on FS1 and is the first of four consecutive events, which could prove critical for NHRA teams chasing title aspirations. Route 66 Raceway features the first true stadium of drag racing and has witnessed impressive performances by the top racers in the sport.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. – April 24, 2018 – Six-time world champion drag racer Jeg Coughlin Jr. leads a strong contingent of talented JEGS-sponsored racers into this weekend’s ninth annual NGK Spark Plugs NHRA Four-Wide Nationals that will vie for wins in Pro Stock, Top Alcohol Dragster, Super Gas and Super Comp.

More importantly, the driver of the JEGS.com Elite Performance Pro Stock Camaro will be racing with his family as his teammates, including his wife Samantha, nephew Troy Jr., and niece Paige. Jeg Jr.’s brother Troy, the father of Troy Jr. and Paige, will also be on hand to offer support. The Coughlin Family will also be rooting for 13-year-old Clay, who will be racing his Junior Dragster in Columbus, Ohio with his dad Mike, the brother of Jeg Jr. and Troy.

Troy Coughlin, Jr. – Top Alcohol

Paige Coughlin – Pro Mod

Samantha Coughlin – Super Gas

Jeg Coughlin, Jr. – Pro Stock

There are many fast-moving parts to the Coughlin clan, and they wouldn’t want it any other way.

“Racing has always been a family affair for us,” said Jeg Jr. “My three brothers and I grew up following dad (Jeg Sr.) around the Midwest when he was competing. That got all of us interested in the sport, and many of our kids enjoy racing these days.”

“It’s also a huge part of our business,” Jeg Jr. adds. “JEGS Automotive was born out a need my father discovered in his youth—people wanted high performance parts to improve the cars they were racing. It’s all grown together hand-in-hand since then.”

Jeg Jr. could be in for a big weekend in Charlotte as his racing fortunes took a massive upturn in Houston, where he qualified No. 2 and raced to his best finish of the year after switching to a new car.

“We’ve been chasing it all year and it was very satisfying and rewarding to seemingly have it all come together for us this past weekend in Texas,” said Jeg Jr. “We’re hungry for a victory and doing it together with family around would make it very special.”

“Charlotte will be my wife’s first race of the year. We are both excited about that. Troy Jr. made some laps in her car in Richmond a week or so ago and it went really, really well, so I am excited to see her compete in Super Gas and Troy Jr. to race again in his Top Alcohol Dragster. That car is very fast. Plus, it’s Paige’s first national event so it’ll be quite a memorable affair all the way around.”

“It’s another weekend of racing with my family so I’m super happy. That’s how we like it.”
Piloting the JEGS.com Top Alcohol Dragster out of the McPhillips Racing camp, Troy Jr. says racing as a family is all he really knows.

“It’s interesting because the McPhillips are just like us — they’ve always raced together, so that’s probably why I’m so happy and comfortable over here,” said Troy Jr. “I can’t recall but there are maybe a handful of races over my career where I haven’t had at least one family member in the pits with me, and usually its more, like this weekend.”

“I feel very lucky to live the life I live and to race the way we race. If we weren’t doing this together I doubt I’d be out here. That’s how strongly I feel about racing as a family. And this weekend we’re bringing my little sister Paige to her first national event and it’s pretty awesome for me to be there with her because that’s a big deal.”

Coming off a No. 1 qualifying effort at a divisional event in Virginia, Super Comp driver Paige revels in the support of her three-time championship-winning father Troy, her brother Troy Jr., her Aunt Samantha, and a large extended “family” of supporters.

“I couldn’t race without my family,” Paige said. “And that includes my crew guys, Justin Beaver and Tony Collier, who have really shaped me and given me the ability to go rounds. It’s also important to note the support of the 400-strong and completely amazing associates at JEGS headquarters.”

“Of course, my mom and dad have been so supportive of everything and T.J. is the best big brother ever. He’s raced so much and has done everything so he’s great to talk to when I have a question. Plus, he helps get the car set up and tests for me when I’m in school. That’s another big bonus of racing as a family; all the help you get.”

As they have done on many occasions, the entire Coughlin family will be keeping up with each other via the Internet and text messages.

“My son Clay is racing his 7.90 electric Junior Dragster at National Trail Raceway this weekend—his first race of the year, and I’ll be there helping him,” said two-time D3 champion, Mike Coughlin. “We’ll definitely stay in constant contact with everyone at Charlotte, finding out what’s happening there and letting them know how we’re doing.”

“For me personally, I’ve gotten so much joy and satisfaction watching my family members do well. Seeing Jeg Jr.’s incredible successes over the years, watching Troy win his Pro Mod championships, and now being a part of all the kids coming up and doing their thing, it’s just been a wonderful ride so far. Hopefully it continues for many years.”

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• World’s best drag racers begin their quest for history when the NHRA Countdown to the Championship kicks off at the Bellagio of drag strips, zMAX Dragway

• Three-day passes start at just $99, with children 13 and under admitted free when accompanied by an adult; tickets available at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267)

CONCORD, N.C. (Aug. 30, 2017) – With world championship titles on the line, fans can expect edge-of-their-seat excitement and action-packed drama as drivers in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series roll into zMAX Dragway for the ninth annual NHRA Carolina Nationals, Sept. 15-17.

The 11,000 horsepower, ground-pounding action NHRA drag racing fans love will once again be showcased at the state-of-the-art facility that has hosted the opening round of the six-race Countdown to the Championship playoff since 2008.

This year’s edition of the famed event will feature intense side-by-side racing as drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle compete for Mello Yello Series points and a coveted Wally trophy. Last year, fans witnessed the thrilling action as Antron Brown (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Chip Ellis (Pro Stock Motorcycle) bested the competition and claimed playoff wins. Brown and Line rode their winning momentum to 2016 world titles in their respective categories.

Heading into the final race of the regular season at Indianapolis, Brown, driver of the Matco Tools dragster for Don Schumacher Racing, holds the Top Fuel points lead. A three-time NHRA Carolina Nationals winner and two-time and defending series champion, he will certainly have a target on his back this year. Rounding out the top five in Top Fuel points, competitors like Steve Torrence, Leah Pritchett, Tony Schumacher and Brittany Force, have all secured spots in the Countdown and will aim to knock Brown down.

Coming off of his first Funny Car championship in 2016, Ron Capps has continued his dream year through 2017, powering his Don Schumacher Racing NAPA Auto Parts Funny Car to a career-best six wins on the season. A two-time winner at zMAX Dragway, including a victory earlier this season at the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, Capps will have his hands full with the likes of Robert Hight, Matt Hagan, Tommy Johnson Jr. and Jack Beckman, among others, battling for crucial playoff points during the fall Charlotte showdown.

Bo Butner has only earned three Pro Stock Wallys in his career, but his consistency on the track has kept him atop the Pro Stock point standings for most of the season. The 43-year-old Indiana native will have to power his Jim Butner Auto Chevy past rookie sensation Tanner Gray (a four-time winner already this year), hometown racers Greg Anderson and Jason Line, and fellow Indiana wheelman Drew Skillman, among others, if he hopes to carry his consistent season all the way to a championship at year’s end.

In Pro Stock Motorcycles, LE Tonglet holds a 184-point advantage over a bevy of veteran racers heading into the season finale at Indianapolis this weekend. Tonglet returns to zMAX Dragway with a healthy dose of confidence after claiming the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals title earlier this season, his second win at the Bellagio of drag strips. But he faces a wave of veteran riders, including teammates Andrew Hines and Eddie Krawiec, who have won eight of the last 15 Pro Stock Motorcycle races at the world-class drag strip, two-time world champion Matt Smith and Hector Arana Jr., a Countdown contender in all seven seasons on the circuit.

MORE INFO:

As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers as they’re granted an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. This unique opportunity in motorsports gives fans direct access to the teams, allowing them to see firsthand how the highly-skilled mechanics service their hot rods between rounds, and get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers.

Fans also will want to visit NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create a carnival atmosphere, with interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

Mello Yello Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds (2:45 and 5:15 p.m.) on Friday, Sept. 15, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 12:45 and 3:15 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for noon on Sunday, Sept. 17.

Click here for the full weekend schedule.

TICKETS:

Don’t miss a minute of the action with three-day passes starting at just $99. Kids 13 and under are free with a paid adult. To purchase tickets, call 800-455-FANS (3267) or visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

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• Antron Brown captured his second consecutive NHRA Carolina Nationals Top Fuel victory Sunday at zMAX Dragway in the first race of the six-race Countdown to the Championship; Brown won last year en route to winning the title
•  John Force claimed his 146th career Funny Car win; Mooresville, North Carolina-based Jason Line won in Pro Stock and Chip Ellis prevailed in Pro Stock Motorcycle
• Fans can buy tickets to any upcoming Charlotte Motor Speedway, zMAX Dragway or The Dirt Track event by shopping online or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267)

CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 18, 2016) – Antron Brown kicked off his NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Top Fuel title defense in spectacular fashion in Sunday’s NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, as the Don Schumacher Racing driver won the Countdown to the Championship opener for the second year in a row after a breathtaking battle with No. 1 qualifier Doug Kalitta.

Brown’s victory was one of several memorable highlights in an unforgettable afternoon at the Bellagio of drag strips. Sixteen-time Funny Car champion John Force prevailed for the 146th time in his illustrious career, while Jason Line claimed the win in Pro Stock and Chip Ellis pulled off a spectacular upset in Pro Stock Motorcycle.

In Top Fuel, Brown held off Clay Milligan in the first round, Brittany Force — by one thousandth of a second — in the quarterfinal, underdog Pat Dakin in the semifinal and Kalitta in the final with a 3.763-second, 319.29-mph pass to pad his points lead.

“I’m dreaming right now. Somebody needs to come pinch me,” Brown said. “When you come here, this is how you want to start the Countdown off … We just kept digging. That was the key. Just keep digging. The track got to be the hottest it’s been all year long (132 degrees). We had to navigate it and we had to face some of the toughest matchups we’ve had all year … We put the work in today and we were fortunate enough to win.”

Force’s road to victory was equally as challenging. He topped No. 1 qualifier Tommy Johnson Jr. in the final with a 3.946-second, 324.06-mph pass that topped Johnson by .041 seconds for his first NHRA Carolina Nationals win.

“It’s stadiums like (zMAX Dragway) that really create the magic in your heart and (make) you want to race,” said Force, whose victory meant he has won every race on the schedule at least once. “We had a good day … I’ve got a race car now that I can race with. I’m not great but I’m good. When I’m on my game, I can win.”

Line prevailed over KB Racing teammate Greg Anderson in the Pro Stock final with a 6.621-second, 209.39-mph run to win by .018 seconds.

“It was a great day for us,” Line said. “If you want to win the championship you’ve just got to come out smoking. To race Greg in the final is a great thing. It’s good, but it’s bad because he’s the last guy you want to see over there in the final. He gets the best of me most of the time, but today was my day.”

Ellis captured his seventh career Pro Stock Motorcycle win when his 6.879-second, 194.88-mph pass held off Andrew Hines for the trophy — his first since 2008.

“This is the most important win of my career, just for (team owner Junior) Pittman,” Ellis said of his seventh career triumph. “I’m really proud to be a part of his team. It’s an amazing deal. We work really hard, putting in a lot of hours … Our bike is amazing. Our guys are doing a great job on the bike and it showed this weekend.”

TICKETS:
To purchase tickets to any upcoming Charlotte Motor Speedway event, including the Oct. 8 NASCAR Bank of America 500, shop online or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267).

KEEP TRACK:
Connect with zMAX Dragway and stay up to speed with all the happenings at the Bellagio of drag strips on Facebook, Twitter or on Charlotte Motor Speedway’s mobile app.

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS:

TOP FUEL:

ROUND ONE — Leah Pritchett, 3.840, 310.20 def. Richie Crampton, 7.051, 97.33; Antron Brown, 3.762, 318.99 def. Clay Millican, 5.606, 117.33; Brittany Force, 3.759, 321.81 def. Chris Karamesines, Broke; Doug Kalitta, 3.768, 324.20 def. Ike Maier, 5.535, 128.37; Cameron Ferre, 4.138, 226.73 def. Tony Schumacher, 6.860, 99.72; Steve Torrence, 4.416, 240.47 def. Scott Palmer, 4.849, 152.16; Wayne Newby, 3.982, 246.71 def. Shawn Langdon, 4.121, 263.36; Pat Dakin, 3.811, 319.90 def. J.R. Todd, 4.667, 173.85;

QUARTERFINALS — Newby, 3.849, 316.90 def. Torrence, 3.843, 280.25; Dakin, 5.327, 127.65 def. Ferre, Broke – No Show; Kalitta, 3.817, 320.20 def. Pritchett, 3.836, 320.13; Brown, 3.796, 319.60 def. Force, 3.797, 320.97;

SEMIFINALS — Kalitta, 3.879, 311.13 def. Newby, 4.096, 225.41; Brown, 3.870, 311.85 def. Dakin, 6.090, 101.73;

FINAL — Brown, 3.763, 319.29 def. Kalitta, 3.811, 320.28.

FUNNY CAR:

ROUND ONE — Tommy Johnson Jr., Dodge Charger, 5.330, 132.70 def. Bob Gilbertson, Chevy Monte Carlo, Broke; Ron Capps, Charger, 3.972, 318.99 def. John Hale, Charger, 26.289, 23.60; John Force, Chevy Camaro, 3.965, 324.75 def. Dave Richards, Ford Mustang, 4.295, 271.19; John Bojec, Toyota Solara, 4.059, 308.78 def. Alexis DeJoria, Toyota Camry, Foul – Centerline; Del Worsham, Camry, 3.976, 321.12 def. Jack Beckman, Charger, 4.275, 220.37; Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 4.029, 312.28 def. Chad Head, Camry, 4.172, 253.99; Robert Hight, Camaro, 3.916, 327.51 def. Cruz Pedregon, Camry, 4.828, 175.25; Matt Hagan, Charger, 3.975, 323.89 def. Courtney Force, Camaro, 4.024, 308.85;

QUARTERFINALS — J. Force, 4.013, 319.90 def. Wilkerson, 7.401, 103.50; Capps, 3.983, 314.31 def. Hight, 4.008, 320.51; Worsham, 4.045, 317.34 def. Bojec, Foul – Red Light; Johnson Jr., 3.970, 320.74 def. Hagan, 3.992, 322.11;

SEMIFINALS — Johnson Jr., 3.949, 321.19 def. Worsham, 3.990, 322.27; J. Force, 3.957, 323.27 def. Capps, 4.003, 317.57;

FINAL — J. Force, 3.946, 324.05 def. Johnson Jr., 3.987, 315.71.

PRO STOCK:

ROUND ONE — Chris McGaha, Chevy Camaro, 6.689, 207.72 def. Drew Skillman, Camaro, 6.718, 208.52; Bo Butner, Camaro, 6.649, 208.97 def. Matt Hartford, Camaro, 6.708, 207.75; Jeg Coughlin, Dodge Dart, 6.687, 206.76 def. Allen Johnson, Dart, 6.703, 207.98; Alex Laughlin, Camaro, 6.658, 208.36 def. Kenny Delco, Camaro, 6.714, 207.40; Shane Gray, Camaro, 6.624, 209.17 def. John Gaydosh Jr, Chevrolet Camaro, 6.736, 205.94; Jason Line, Camaro, 6.639, 208.94 def. Shane Tucker, Camaro, 6.715, 207.46; Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.642, 209.23 def. Alan Prusiensky, Dart, 6.762, 205.35; Vincent Nobile, Camaro, 6.637, 208.49 def. Curt Steinbach, Camaro, 6.700, 206.07;

QUARTERFINALS — Anderson, 6.663, 208.39 def. McGaha, 6.690, 208.10; Line, 6.642, 209.01 def. Butner, 6.672, 209.75; Nobile, 6.660, 207.94 def. Coughlin, 6.705, 206.61; Laughlin, 6.681, 208.78 def. Gray, 6.952, 209.01;

SEMIFINALS — Anderson, 6.673, 208.59 def. Laughlin, 6.674, 209.36; Line, 6.630, 209.20 def. Nobile, 6.646, 209.30;

FINAL — Line, 6.621, 209.39 def. Anderson, 6.639, 209.20.

PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE:

ROUND ONE — Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 6.924, 193.29 def. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.895, 194.21; Jim Underdahl, Suzuki, 6.920, 193.07 def. Matt Smith, 6.915, 192.03; Chip Ellis, Buell, 6.875, 194.74 def. Shawn Gann, Buell, 6.959, 191.92; Angelle Sampey, Buell, 10.044, 97.19 def. Mark Paquette, Buell, Foul – Red Light; Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 6.971, 190.16 def. Melissa Surber, Buell, 7.073, 188.15; LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 6.884, 195.25 def. Cory Reed, Buell, 6.997, 192.30; Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 6.932, 194.18 def. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 6.948, 193.74; Hector Arana Jr, Buell, 6.901, 194.86 def. Hector Arana, Buell, Broke;

QUARTERFINALS — Underdahl, 6.956, 192.49 def. Stoffer, 7.011, 193.32; Sampey, 6.896, 194.02 def. Arana Jr, 6.954, 193.74; Ellis, 6.905, 194.24 def. Tonglet, 7.125, 174.93; Hines, 6.921, 193.29 def. Johnson, 6.926, 192.74;

SEMIFINALS — Hines, 6.955, 191.40 def. Underdahl, 6.972, 194.44; Ellis, 6.890, 194.16 def. Sampey, 10.377, 77.18;

FINAL — Ellis, 6.879, 194.88 def. Hines, 6.908, 193.49.

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• The second day of NHRA Carolina Nationals qualifying at zMAX Dragway saw Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Tommy Johnson Jr. (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) post the top times for Sunday’s opening round of the Countdown to the Championship
• Fans can buy tickets to Sunday’s eventful eliminations by shopping online or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267); Kids 13 and under get in FREE with purchase of an adult ticket; Every ticket is a pit pass that gives fans unmatched access to the drivers and cars

CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 17, 2016) – The electrifying sound of nitro-fueled NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series action thrilled a rocking crowd on Saturday at zMAX Dragway, as the final day of NHRA Carolina Nationals time trials saw Doug Kalitta in Top Fuel, Tommy Johnson Jr., (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) emerge with No. 1 qualifying spots ahead of Sunday’s action-packed Countdown to the Championship opener.

With track temperatures exceeding 130 degrees on a sun-drenched afternoon, Kalitta’s 3.721-second, 325.77-mph run on Friday remained the best of the Top Fuel competitors.

“This morning there was quite a bit of cloud cover but by the first session it burned off and it slowed down the effort out there,” said Kalitta, whose fourth pole of the year was the 47th of his career. “It was pretty hot. We slid down it twice, but the car’s pretty good. It’s good that it was warm like this so we can go into tomorrow with pretty much the same setup. It’s going to be an intetesting day for sure.”

Johnson’s Funny Car track-record, 3.876-second pass on Friday held up on Saturday. Johnson bested points leader Ron Capps by .002 seconds for the top seed in Sunday’s elminations.

“Whenever you run a good run on Friday night, it allows you to play and experiment on Saturday,” Johnson said. “We had a mechanical issue on our third run but the car still ran really well. We were confident it would be fine for the fourth and it was. Tomorrow, lane choice might be a big deal. I don’t know that it’s really big but I think in the heat of the day it’s going to pay more dividends on the starting line.”

Anderson bumped KB Racing teammate Jason Line from the No. 1 spot in Pro Stock with a 6.578-second, 210.5-mph run for his sixth pole of the season and the 86th of his career.

“I feel pretty good about the work that we’ve put in but it’s going to be tough to win,” Anderson said. “The way the class is shaped up now you’re really going to have to get up on the wheel. We don’t want to have a magical year like we’ve had so far go up in smoke. You can’t win the Countdown in the first race but you can lose it. You’ve got to have a great day the first time out. You’ve got to peak at the right time of the year and I think we’re peaking.”

Sampey topped Jerry Savoie, Friday’s Pro Stock Motorcycle leader, for her third consecutive No. 1 qualifying spot.

“It’s perfect timing,” Sampey said. “We definitely want to be the best we can on every run … I want to be the best on Friday, the best on Saturday and the best on Sunday. I think we’re in the groove now.”

Pre-race ceremonies start at 11 a.m. on Sunday. Final eliminations begin at noon.

TICKETS:
To purchase tickets and camping to Sunday’s NHRA Carolina Nationals, visit www.zmaxdragway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 13 and under get in FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. Every ticket is a pit pass, so fans can walk through the pits and see their favorite drivers and teams as they prepare to take to the track.

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS:
Top Fuel — 1. Doug Kalitta, 3.721 seconds, 327.11 mph vs. 16. Ike Maier, 3.988, 291.63; 2. Brittany Force, 3.729, 324.67 vs. 15. Chris Karamesines, 3.985, 297.29; 3. Tony Schumacher, 3.730, 325.14 vs. 14. Cameron Ferre, 3.932, 313.37; 4. Steve Torrence, 3.732, 323.27 vs. 13. Scott Palmer, 3.929, 315.78; 5. Shawn Langdon, 3.741, 328.14 vs. 12. Wayne Newby, 3.802, 322.04; 6. J.R. Todd, 3.741, 325.37 vs. 11. Pat Dakin, 3.791, 320.89; 7. Antron Brown, 3.742, 320.89 vs. 10. Clay Millican, 3.767, 319.82; 8. Richie Crampton, 3.744, 320.51 vs. 9. Leah Pritchett, 3.765, 323.74.

Did Not Qualify: 17. Terry McMillen, 3.994, 267.59; 18. Paul Noakes, 4.403, 210.57.

Funny Car — 1. Tommy Johnson Jr., Dodge Charger, 3.876, 323.43 vs. 16. Bob Gilbertson, Chevy Monte Carlo, 6.592, 104.19; 2. Ron Capps, Charger, 3.878, 324.20 vs. 15. John Hale, Charger, 6.010, 194.30; 3. John Force, Chevy Camaro, 3.881, 331.04 vs. 14. Dave Richards, Ford Mustang, 4.115, 309.56; 4. Alexis DeJoria, Toyota Camry, 3.887, 324.67 vs. 13. John Bojec, Toyota Solara, 4.016, 292.58; 5. Jack Beckman, Charger, 3.904, 327.82 vs. 12. Del Worsham, Camry, 3.963, 318.99; 6. Tim Wilkerson, Mustang, 3.911, 323.97 vs. 11. Chad Head, Camry, 3.956, 320.05; 7. Robert Hight, Camaro, 3.912, 323.66 vs. 10. Cruz Pedregon, Camry, 3.940, 318.54; 8. Courtney Force, Camaro, 3.934, 322.81 vs. 9. Matt Hagan, Charger, 3.940, 323.81.

Pro Stock — 1. Greg Anderson, Chevy Camaro, 6.578, 210.50 vs. 16. Alan Prusiensky, Dodge Dart, 6.751, 204.88; 2. Jason Line, Camaro, 6.581, 210.44 vs. 15. Shane Tucker, Camaro, 6.732, 207.30; 3. Vincent Nobile, Camaro, 6.593, 210.28 vs. 14. Curt Steinbach, Camaro, 6.723, 206.04; 4. Shane Gray, Camaro, 6.595, 210.37 vs. 13. John Gaydosh Jr, Chevrolet Camaro, 6.699, 206.83; 5. Alex Laughlin, Camaro, 6.597, 210.47 vs. 12. Kenny Delco, Camaro, 6.657, 208.42; 6. Allen Johnson, Dart, 6.603, 209.04 vs. 11. Jeg Coughlin, Dart, 6.651, 208.17; 7. Bo Butner, Camaro, 6.606, 210.11 vs. 10. Matt Hartford, Camaro, 6.641, 208.36; 8. Drew Skillman, Camaro, 6.614, 209.79 vs. 9. Chris McGaha, Camaro, 6.641, 209.10.

Did Not Qualify: 17. Erica Enders, 14.169, 207.56.

Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Angelle Sampey, Buell, 6.815, 196.02 vs. 16. Mark Paquette, Buell, 6.993, 191.13; 2. Eddie Krawiec, Harley-Davidson, 6.843, 194.60 vs. 15. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki, 6.973, 193.57; 3. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.850, 195.39 vs. 14. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 6.968, 192.49; 4. Chip Ellis, Buell, 6.855, 195.03 vs. 13. Shawn Gann, Buell, 6.967, 192.08; 5. LE Tonglet, Suzuki, 6.867, 195.96 vs. 12. Cory Reed, Buell, 6.913, 192.66; 6. Andrew Hines, Harley-Davidson, 6.869, 194.02 vs. 11. Melissa Surber, Buell, 6.905, 192.58; 7. Jim Underdahl, Suzuki, 6.871, 195.65 vs. 10. Matt Smith, Victory, 6.878, 194.21; 8. Hector Arana Jr, Buell, 6.876, 194.86 vs. 9. Hector Arana, Buell, 6.877, 195.73.

Did Not Qualify: 17. Mike Berry, 7.014, 191.10; 18. Angie Smith, 7.022, 189.07; 19. Chaz Kennedy, 7.069, 187.31; 20. David Hope, 7.170, 186.02; 21. Lance Bonham, 7.246, 182.11; 22. Brian Bognuda, 7.255, 182.26.

RacingNation Crew

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NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Funny Car title contender Robert Hight, the 2009 series champion, will chase his second crown when the six-race Countdown to the Championship begins Sept. 16-18 with the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway

Fans can buy tickets to the breathtaking NHRA Carolina Nationals by shopping online or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267)

CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 15, 2016) – Robert Hight hopes that six will be his lucky number when the NHRA Countdown to the Championship begins Sept. 16-18 with the unforgettable NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, a hotly contested race for the Funny Car title among 10 of the fastest racers in the world.

Hight, the 2009 champion, enters the six-race postseason ranked sixth in points – but if focus counts for anything, the accomplished John Force Racing veteran will be inside the top five once the smoke clears after Sunday’s full-throttle, 10,000-horsepower battle for supremacy.

“I started focusing on Charlotte and the rest of the Countdown as soon as the (Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals) in Indy was over,” said Hight, who has one victory this season. “I got together with my team and we have a plan to get some rest and get everything organized and ready to go for Charlotte. Right now the focus is on getting the last few bugs worked out of this new Auto Club Camaro SS Funny Car. We were just a couple of adjustments away in Indy and I think this race car might be better than the one we had before.”

Hight knows how to handle fast cars. The 47-year-old Californian has 37 career victories in 57 final-round appearances and he knows how to turn up the wick when the stakes are at their highest – particularly at zMAX Dragway. Hight won the NHRA Carolina Nationals in 2009 and rode the positive momentum all the way to the championship. With a strong opener to this year’s Countdown, the four-time zMAX Dragway winner believes Title No. 2 is within his grasp.

“The first race is important because you can make up ground on the drivers in front of you with a good start,” Hight said. “I think it gives you a lot of confidence to start Charlotte on a strong note. We have had a lot of success in Charlotte as a team.”

Qualifying for this weekend’s high-octane playoff opener at zMAX Dragway will feature two rounds at 3:15 and 5:30 p.m. on Friday and the final two rounds on Saturday at 12:45 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations begin at noon on Sunday.

TICKETS:
To purchase tickets and camping to the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, Sept. 16-18, visit www.zmaxdragway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Be a part of the action all weekend by purchasing a three-day pass for just $99. Kids 13 and under get in FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. Every ticket is a pit pass, so fans can walk through the pits and see their favorite drivers and teams as they prepare to take to the track.

KEEP TRACK:
Connect with zMAX Dragway and stay up to speed with all the happenings at the Bellagio of drag strips on Facebook, Twitter or on Charlotte Motor Speedway’s mobile app.

RacingNation Crew

The post Hight Carries High Hopes Into NHRA Carolina Nationals appeared first on RacingNation.com.

Addition of Cars and Equipment for Top Fuel Action
Three-time NHRA Top Fuel Champion Preparing to Hit the Track

BROWNSBURG, Ind. (Aug. 16, 2016) — Three-time NHRA Mello Yello Series Top Fuel champion Larry Dixon has announced the addition of race cars and necessary racing equipment to his Larry Dixon Racing stable at his team’s headquarters in Brownsburg, Ind.

Dixon, who returned to full-time racing in 2015, won the battle with throat cancer in 2015 and survived a punishing 109g crash at the NHRA Gatornationals which broke his T-4 and T-5 vertebrae. But the veteran Indianapolis driver kept competing and finished in fourth place in the final Top Fuel standings.

Dixon, the second winningest Top Fuel driver in NHRA history with 62 wins, lost his Top Fuel ride due to financial difficulties at the end of the 2015 season and began preparations to develop his own race organization and get back in the driver’s seat.

Dixon did return to action in June and scored a Top Fuel victory at Australia in the Rapisarda dragster on the quarter-mile at Willowbank Raceway in the City of Ipswich Australian Winternationals near Brisbane. Dixon, who already owns the National E.T Record in Australia, now owns the Speed Record as well.

“For the last year of my life, with cancer, a broken back and then losing my ride; everything that’s happened, winning races like we did in Australia makes all that pain go away,” explained Dixon.

Now, Dixon and a few associates have been collecting race cars, engines, blowers, parts, transporters and pit equipment to formulate the plan to begin his own Top Fuel operation.

And Dixon is anxious to find additional support to campaign again in a Top Fuel dragster.

“I’m finally 100 percent healthy now and I’m excited to go racing again,” Dixon said. “I’m so anxious to get in a car and get after it! We have put together the equipment which could be very competitive right out of the gate. There is a lot of excitement being generated in the drag racing world, especially in Top Fuel. With the great tv packages in place and sellout crowds, I don’t think the timing could be any better than now to show that right marketing partner what we can do on and off the track.”

Dixon grew up in Southern California where his father, Larry Sr., was a Top Fuel champion in NHRA Division 7. Larry Sr. won the 1970 NHRA Winternationals. Larry Jr. was a constant at the track helping on his parents’ family-owned dragster.

Dixon later became a mechanic for Larry Minor and Don “Snake” Prudhomme teams before beginning his Top Fuel driving career in 1995, driving for Prudhomme. Dixon was named “Rookie of the Year” that year and captured his first of four Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals titles.

“I’ve have spent my entire life in this sport and I’m not ready to walk away just yet,” admitted Dixon. “I feel like I’m just getting started!”

For more information on Larry Dixon, please see his website at www.larrydixonracing.com.

RacingNation Crew

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GALAX, Va. (August 12, 2016):  This is Furr Racing’s first season since 2011 running a competitive points schedule, but the team hasn’t skipped a beat. Two finals in NHRA Super Street, coupled with consistently going rounds at all events has led to a favorable points position for Michelle Furr.

Many racers seem to have “lucky tracks” at which they perform well time after time. Michelle’s lucky track would be Charlotte’s zMAX Dragway. In 2011, she put both her Super Comp Dragster and the Super Street Camaro in the finals at the O’Reilly Auto Parts Nationals at zMax, with a win and runner up, respectively. So it was no surprise she took the Camaro to another runner up finish at the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Division 2 event at zMAX Dragway in April.

She would soon follow that up by winning the NHRA Super Street division at the JEGS SPORTSnationals in Bowling Green, Kentucky in May. For Furr, winning a Wally in Super Street was a bucket-list item that she and husband Rick had long desired to cross off. Although Michelle has multiple wins across different series, an NHRA National Event win in Super Street, with the car that gave Furr Racing its start, had alluded her and husband Rick until now.

“The Camaro is our baby,” Furr explained. “It’s the car we started with. It was really important to Rick. He said he can retire satisfied now.

“One of our favorite tracks to go to is Bowling Green, because of the Quick Fuel family,” Michelle continued. “Marvin and Ruth Benoit, their daughter Angela and her husband Tim and their daughter Mikayla – they’re like family. It’s neat [NHRA] brought the SPORTSnationals back to Bowling Green, because that’s one of our favorite tracks to go to every August for the division race. We were really excited to have another chance to go there and spend time with the Quick Fuel family. All the employees come out to the race. It’s a great chance to get together with everyone. It’s always nice to do well in front of your partners. I feel like Marvin motivates me to step up because I always do well there – whether it’s the Moser Shootout or divisionals.”

Michelle was certainly on top of her driving. Her worst light all day was .024. She took out Bethany Crick, Ray Todd, and Chris Runnels before an emotional match-up with good friend Bitsy Satterly, who has had a row of health concerns, in the quarter-finals. In the semi finals, John Kastner aborted his run early, giving Furr her one easy pass of the day, right into the finals where she met with Jim Bannister. In a double breakout decision, Furr let Bannister take the stripe, while she walked away with the win. Her driving feats on race day were perhaps even more impressive, considering the weekend had been stressful with a major parts breakage in the Super Comp dragster. “When we lost the converter in the dragster, Marco [Abruzzi, owner Abruzzi Racing Transmissions] gave us a converter and helped us get a transmission through Lynn Ellison. Marco really went above and beyond, making sure we could make the race,” thanked Furr.

“I thank God, first and foremost, and Rick, Madilyn and Adiayn,” she continued. “This has been an awesome year for us, spiritually. The kids were baptized on Mother’s Day. We joined our church. Life takes on a little different meaning when you have peace, spiritually. We really feel blessed to have this success and get to do what we do.”

Furr also appreciates the help of her partners, including Quick Fuel Technology, Ohio Crankshaft, Moser, GoodYear, K&N, Comp Cams, TurboStart, PowerMaster, Crossthreaded Customs, Wiseco, Jegs, Moroso, Smith Bros Pushrods, Shields Windscreens, RCI, MSD, Earl’s, Hooker Headers, Melling, Collector Tethers, SuperWinch, Maradyne, Total Seal, Hawk Performance, Digital Delay, Lucas Oil,  Staging Light Graphics, Number 1 Stop, Shields,  Smith Bros Pushrods, Jesel, Autometer, Red Eagle/Alto and Abruzzi. We have a group of partners we are welcoming to our family, Bill Mitchell Products, Suncoast Race Cars, Aerospace Components, Greg Russell Designs, Lokar, Simpson, DEI, RacePak, Trick Flow and Reid Racing.

A unique twist on Michelle’s three NHRA national event wins is that each of her coveted Wallys is a different color. “My first one was pewter because NHRA was doing a 60th anniversary edition that year. The second was the next spring at Charlotte and it’s a regular brass one. And the SPORTSnational one is copper,” she explained.

It’s already been a banner year for Furr with more good news on the horizon. On top of her on-track performances she was asked to contribute a racing family lifestyle column to Drag Racing Scene magazine. Her first column debuted in the 2016 summer issue.

Rick and Michelle have raised their two children at the race track and they followed in their mother’s and father’s footsteps in many ways, including piloting junior dragsters. As they get older, however, Madilyn and Adiayn are also exploring other interests, one of which took Michelle on an adventure she never expected. As part of the Junior ROTC program, Madilyn attended a week long boot camp. Michelle was asked to take on the experience with her daughter in the role of chaperone and now has an even greater appreciation for military.

“I made a decision to step back and observe from a distance,” Michelle said of her week at boot camp. “I got to see a side of Madi that made me proud. She excelled at the JCLC camp for leaders. She was chosen in the top 10 of over 300 cadets to go before the board by military commanders. I connected with over 40 girls in my charge and left with a t-shirt signed with love and facebook/Instagram addresses. I did butt heads with the other hardcore chaperones and showed them I could get these girls ready for lights out without standing with a stopwatch timing three minute showers. I am thankful Rick didn’t answer that quick text on the second day pleading with him to come get me like a kid away at camp for the first time. I would do it again.”

It’s been an incredibly busy season for Furr both on and off the track. She and Rick were nominated for USDA RD Manager & Maintenance Supervisor of the Year for the State of Virginia. For the first time ever, a husband and wife team won their respective categories in the same year.

Furr followed up her SPORTSnational win by going to the semi-finals in Super Comp at the Thunder Valley Nationals, June 17-19 and another semi-final finish in Super Street at the NHRA Division 3 event at National Trail Raceway. She will continue her competitive pursuits in both categories at NHRA Division 3 and Division 2 events, as well as select nationals. Madilyn and Adiayn will also continue competing in Junior Dragster events across the country.

Although the year has been full of much good news for the Furrs, the best is yet to come. For the first time ever, Michelle will be racing at the “Big Go”, the NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, Indiana, and along with it, will make one of the biggest announcements of her racing career! Stay tuned.

Follow Furr Racing on Facebook!

RacingNation Crew

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