CHICAGO (May 30) -- Top Fuel driver Morgan Lucas has spent the time since the last NHRA drag race enjoying the festivities surrounding the Indy 500, which is taking place in his hometown of Indianapolis. The hoopla has lifted his spirits considerably, and has motivated him and his GEICO Powersports/Lucas Oil race team to attack the upcoming 13th annual United Association Route 66 NHRA Nationals at Route 66 Raceway.
"This could be a breakthrough race for us," Lucas said. "The car's been getting better and better over the last month, month and a half, and we're confident we've found the right combination for us. We know we can run the numbers we need to run to be competitive and we know we can get the car down the track every time, which is crucial, especially in the summer months.
"The Indy 500 has been great because it's reminded all of us why we love motorsports so much. We're so lucky to do what we do for a living. We're so lucky to have the fans we have. We're so lucky to have sponsors like GEICO Powersports, Lucas Oil, MavTV, Speedco Truck Lube, Toyota, and all the others.
"I'm totally fired up to get back to racing and to start winning races again."
To help Lucas shift his focus from Circle City to the Windy City, the sport's youngest nitro professional will arrive in town early for a special Toyota-conducted tour of the city's top pizza restaurants. The 26-year-old then plans to take in a Chicago White Sox game.
"It's shaping up to be a very fun weekend," Lucas said. "At least we know it's going to be a lot of fun at the start. I love Chicago. There's so much to do there and it's a city where I feel very comfortable.
"This particular race is one I've attended since it started and I like the racetrack a lot."
As a team owner -- Lucas fields his car and the Lucas Oil/Speedco dragster of teammate Shawn Langdon -- he's also keeping an eye on the Full Throttle points.
"I'm always worried about the points and where we are," Lucas said. "Both cars are comfortably in the top 10 right now and the way the Countdown (playoffs) work the points will reset later in the year and everyone in the top 10 will have a shot at winning the title. The main thing is we need to make sure we're up to speed by then."
Top Fuel qualifying begins with two sessions at 4 and 7 p.m. CDT Friday. Qualifying highlights will air Saturday evening on ESPN2.
