Palm Beach International hosts sold out Nitro Jam

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Saturday's final results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway. The race is the first of 10 in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

Top Fuel Dragster -- Bobby Lagana Jr., 6.339 seconds, 136.52 mph def. Del Cox Jr., 10.158 seconds, 80.78 mph.

Prostalgia Funny Car -- Steve Nichols, Chevy Camaro, 6.217, 226.70 def. Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.235, 228.73.

Pro Fuel Dragster -- Bill Evans, 5.498, 263.26 def. Michael Manners, 9.445, 95.79.

Elite 8 Top Sportsman -- John Benoit, Chevy Camaro, 6.512, 212.49 def. Matthew Buck, Pontiac Firebird, 7.148, 167.22.

Elite 8 Top Dragster -- Sheldon Bissessar, Dragster, 5.820, 233.56 def. Edward Careccia, Dragster, broke.

Top Dragster -- Mark Brown, Dragster, 6.996, 183.77 def. Charlie Cullotto, Dragster, 6.912, 199.88.

Top Sportsman -- Keith Russell, Chevy Camaro, 7.571, 181.81 def. Wayne King, Pontiac Firebird, foul.

Quick Rod -- David Bledsoe, Dragster, 15.037, 156.46 def. Deborah Bogle, Dragster, 8.891, 160.79.

Super Rod -- Steve Furr, Chevy Camaro, 9.917, 160.38 def. Steve Corker, Chevy Cavalier, 9.916, 159.12.

Hot Rod -- R.L. Koontz, Chevy Beretta, 10.904, 141.40 def. Rick Nowlan, Chevy Vega, 10.857, 130.27.

Super Stock -- Scott Richardson, Oldsmobile Achieva, 9.531, 134.60 def. Anthony Bertozzi, Pontiac Grand Am, 9.104, 145.52.

Stock Eliminator -- Michael Beard, Plymouth Volare, 11.205, 114.55 def. JJ Carnero, Pontiac Firebird, 11.970, 109.93.

ET Bracket -- Bobby Taylor Jr., Chevy Camaro, 10.272, 128.11 def. Mike Lago, Dragster, 7.133, 188.73.

Top ET -- Mike Lago, Dragster, 7.172, 186.54 def. Kenny Underwood, Chevy Camaro 9.459, 139.93.

Mod ET -- Bobby Taylor Jr., Chevy Camaro, 10.295, 125.95 def. Adam Holmes, Chevy S-10, 10.067, 132.74.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Final round-by-round results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway, the first of 10 events in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

TOP FUEL DRAGSTER DAY 2:
ROUND ONE -- Del Cox Jr., 12.708, 70.87 def. Bruce Litton, broke; Bobby Lagana Jr., 4.635, 312.78 def. Spencer Massey, 5.170, 216.27;
CONSOLATION -- Litton, 6.623, 132.22 def. S. Massey, 8.776, 95.10;
FINAL -- Lagana Jr., 6.339, 136.52 def. Cox Jr., 10.158, 80.78.

PRO FUEL DRAGSTER:
ROUND ONE -- Bill Evans, Spitzer, 6.373, 246.53 def. Robin Samsel, Canode, 6.473, 247.75; Michael Manners, Spitzer, 7.452, 150.43 def. Jeff Hamelink, Dragster, 14.172, 80.65;
CONSOLATION -- R. Samsel, 5.454, 257.04 def. J. Hamelink, broke;
FINAL -- B. Evans, 5.498, 263.26 def. M. Manners, 9.445, 95.79

PROSTALGIA FUNNY CAR:
ROUND ONE -- Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.217, 229.82 def. Mike McIntire, Chevy Camaro, 6.638, 224.92; John Dunn, Plymouth Duster, 6.430, 216.86 def. Rick Krafft, Chevy Corvette, 8.496, 103.78; Aaron 'Army' Armstrong, Camaro, 6.995, 152.62 was unopposed; Steve Nichols, Camaro, 6.425, 218.05 def. Peter Gallen, Chevy Vega, 7.214, 138.91;
CONSOLATION -- J. Dunn, 7.426, 140.68 def. M. McIntire, 10.404, 82.32; P. Gallen, 6.262, 238.43 def. A. Armstrong, 6.884, 175.55;
FINAL -- S. Nichols, 6.217, 226.70 def. G. Jacobsmeyer, 6.235, 228.73.

ELITE 8 TOP SPORTSMAN:
ROUND ONE -- Wayne King, Firebird, 7.576, 177.79 def. Scott Davis, Cutlass, 8.399, 143.43; John Benoit, Camaro, 7.079, 211.13 def. Gary Bingham, Grand Am, 19.890, 38.85; Matthew Buck, Firebird, 7.152, 189.52 def. Keith Russell, Camaro, 7.518, 182.35;
SEMIFINALS -- Buck, 7.029, 196.70 def. King, 7.636, 177.65; Benoit, 7.146, 210.90 was unopposed;
FINAL -- Benoit, 6.512, 212.49 def. Buck, 7.148, 167.22.

ELITE 8 TOP DRAGSTER:
ROUND ONE -- Edward Careccia, Horton, 6.196, 229.35 def. Charlie Cullotto, Tube Carz, foul; Sheldon Bissessar, Sipple, 5.868, 230.25 def. Daniel Seidel, Stevens, 6.955, 161.25; Dean Brazell, Miller, 6.805, 196.19 def. Stanley Albritton, Miller, 6.899, 197.33; Ron Raymond, Bos, 6.768, 198.17 def. Al Miller, Miller, 6.898, 194.88;
SEMIFINALS -- Careccia, 6.204, 230.06 def. Raymond, 7.340, 183.72; Bissessar, 5.819, 230.80 def. Brazell, 12.579, 67.17;
FINAL -- Bissessar, 5.820, 233.56 def. Careccia, foul.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (January 30, 2010) – All eyes were on Palm Beach International Raceway Friday and Saturday night as the Nitro Jam series opened its season with the first major motorsports event of 2010.

With Friday in the books as the largest opening night crowd in decades, Saturday produced even bigger results with a sold out event resulting in the largest crowd in Palm Beach International Raceway history and one of the biggest debut weekends for the IHRA at Palm Beach Nitro Jam.

"We are obviously pleased with the results this weekend. We came in here with a plan to put on an incredible show for the fans and we feel we did just that," said IHRA President Aaron Polburn. "This being a first time event we expected to have a big weekend, but this event exceeded our expectations in every way."

Traffic backed up for miles on the Beeline Highway and shuttles were brought in to transport the thousands of fans that packed PBIR Saturday night to see the nitro thrill show.

"It was a thrill to see the stands packed with thousands of excited fans enjoying this wonderful sport," said Polburn. "With results like these we could have run into problems, but Jason Rittenberry and his staff did a tremendous job making sure there were no issues and that everything flowed smoothly.

"What a tremendous way to open the year for IHRA Nitro Jam and Palm Beach International Raceway."

On the track a pair of repeat winners were crowned in Top Fuel and Pro Fuel while a new driver graced victory lane in Prostalgia Nitro Funny Car.

Longtime IHRA veteran Bobby Lagana Jr. (Scarsdale, N.Y.) swept Top Fuel with his second victory of the weekend, joining newcomer Bill Evans (Hialeah, Fla.) who doubled the feat in Pro Fuel. Steve Nichols (Newark, Del.) joined the club of first time Nitro Jam winners with the win in Prostalgia Nitro Funny Car.

Other winners from Saturday's Nitro Jam included Elite 8 champions John Benoit (Montpelier, Vt.) in Top Sportsman and Sheldon Bissessar (Marabella, Trinidad) in Top Dragster.

Sportsman winners from Saturday's IHRA Tournament of Champions qualifier included Mark Brown (Lake Worth, Fla.) in Top Dragster, Keith Russell (Jupiter, Fla.) in Top Sportsman, Scott Richardson (Barbousville, Ky.) in Super Stock, Michael Beard (Seagrove, N.C.) in Stock, David Bledsoe (Pembroke Pines, Fla.) in Quick Rod, Steve Furr (Harrisburg, N.C.) in Super Rod and R.L. Koontz (Sarasota, Fla.) in Hot Rod.

Saturday's race was a hit with the fans who had a chance to see racing throughout the day followed by an incredible show put on by the new stars of the IHRA.

And topping that list is Lagana.

Lagana, aptly dubbed the People's Champion, faced one of the toughest Top Fuel fields in years this weekend with the past three champions on hand battling it out for Top Fuel gold. Going against a trio of past champions Lagana defied all odds with back-to-back wins giving Lagana one of his most memorable moments in his decade long Top Fuel career.

"The number one reason why we race is that we love that race car and we love what gravitates to that car including the fans," said Lagana. "While we love this sport with or without a crowd, to see the stands packed like that was unbelievable. I can't explain how nervous I was. I haven't felt like that in years."

Lagana defeated 2009 champion Del Cox in the final despite having some trouble on his run. Lagana, who fired off three straight 300 mph passes and consistent elapsed times over the weekend, crossed the line with a 6.339, 136.52. Cox also had problems on his run.

While Lagana was clearly disappointed that he couldn't close the weekend with another solid run, he did enjoy the opportunity to put on a show under the new format.

"IHRA took a big chance on doing this and I am glad that they did. Kenneth Feld is an awesome man and I really appreciate the respect he has shown to the IHRA, to the racers and the fans," said Lagana. "He wanted to see something that works for everyone and it worked. I have to thank Mr. Feld for this opportunity."

Lagana reached the final with a first round win over Spencer Massey. Lagana ran a 4.635, 312.78 to Massey's 5.170, 216.27. Cox reached the final with a bye over Bruce Litton who broke on the starting line.

In the consolation round Litton got things worked out and took down Massey who finished without a round win on the weekend.

"We could not ask for a better weekend. I hope the fans are satisfied with the show they saw. We want them back twice fold next year," said Lagana. "This is incredible. If we don't win another thing the rest of the year, to win these first two races is unbelievable."

In the Prostalgia Nitro Funny Car IHRA debut Nichols became the first repeat winner with a victory over Friday winner Greg Jacobsmeyer.

"It feels great. It is this team, they get all the credit," said Nichols. "We knew to be successful we needed a great team and we have that. Hopefully we can keep this going."

Nichols ran a 6.217, 226.70 in the final to defeat Jacobsmeyer who ran a 6.235, 228.73.

"I was absolutely blown away at the crowd both nights. We have never been to an event like this," said Nichols. "I was amazed at the first timers. I sat there and signed autographs for a lot of children and a lot of them it was there first time.

"I have to thank IHRA for taking a chance with this and giving us a shot."

Nichols reached the final with a first round win over Peter Gallen with the second lowest E.T. of the round at 6.425, 218.05. Jacobsmeyer produced the lowest time at 6.217, 229.82 in a win over Mike McIntire.

In the consolation rounds John Dunn defeated McIntire and Gallen defeated Army Armstrong. First round winners included Jacobsmeyer, Dunn, Armstrong and Nichols.

In Pro Fuel Evans continued his undefeated streak at Palm Beach International with a win over Michael Manners to win the first two Pro Fuel races in IHRA history.

"It is great. One thing about it we will always be the ones that won the very first Pro Fuel race – and we won two of them," said Evans. "My guys are ecstatic. This is actually the first race I have had this crew so it is like taking four rookies and going and winning the Super Bowl."

Evans ran a solid 5.498, 263.26 to defeat Manners who struggled off the line.

In the consolation round Robin Samsel defeated Jeff Hamelink with a super 5.454, 257.04.

In the first ever Elite 8 showdown Benoit and Bissessar walked away winners.

Benoit won the Top Sportsman edition of the Quick 8 shootout with a victory over Matthew Buck, while Bissessar, the IHRA's fastest sportsman, won the Top Dragster shootout over Edward Careccia.

Benoit defeated Buck with a 6.512, 212.49. He reached the final with a victory over Gary Bingham and a bye run.

Top Dragster champion Bissessar defeated Careccia with a blistering 5.820, 233.56. He also claimed wins over Dean Brazell and Daniel Seidel.

With the first Nitro Jam of the season in the books the series moves to Baton Rouge for the Mardi Gras Nitro Jam March 6-7.

SATURDAY'S NITRO JAM RESULTS

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Saturday's final results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway. The race is the first of 10 in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

Top Fuel Dragster -- Bobby Lagana Jr., 6.339 seconds, 136.52 mph  def. Del Cox Jr., 10.158 seconds, 80.78 mph.

Prostalgia Funny Car -- Steve Nichols, Chevy Camaro, 6.217, 226.70  def. Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.235, 228.73.

Pro Fuel Dragster -- Bill Evans, 5.498, 263.26  def. Michael Manners, 9.445, 95.79.

Elite 8 Top Sportsman -- John Benoit, Chevy Camaro, 6.512, 212.49  def. Matthew Buck, Pontiac Firebird, 7.148, 167.22.

Elite 8 Top Dragster -- Sheldon Bissessar, Dragster, 5.820, 233.56  def. Edward Careccia, Dragster, broke.

Top Dragster -- Mark Brown, Dragster, 6.996, 183.77  def. Charlie Cullotto, Dragster, 6.912, 199.88.

Top Sportsman -- Keith Russell, Chevy Camaro, 7.571, 181.81  def. Wayne King, Pontiac Firebird, foul.

Quick Rod -- David Bledsoe, Dragster, 15.037, 156.46  def. Deborah Bogle, Dragster, 8.891, 160.79.

Super Rod -- Steve Furr, Chevy Camaro, 9.917, 160.38  def. Steve Corker, Chevy Cavalier, 9.916, 159.12.

Hot Rod -- R.L. Koontz, Chevy Beretta, 10.904, 141.40  def. Rick Nowlan, Chevy Vega, 10.857, 130.27.

Super Stock -- Scott Richardson, Oldsmobile Achieva, 9.531, 134.60  def. Anthony Bertozzi, Pontiac Grand Am, 9.104, 145.52.

Stock Eliminator -- Michael Beard, Plymouth Volare, 11.205, 114.55  def. JJ Carnero, Pontiac Firebird, 11.970, 109.93.

ET Bracket -- Bobby Taylor Jr., Chevy Camaro, 10.272, 128.11  def. Mike Lago, Dragster, 7.133, 188.73.

Top ET -- Mike Lago, Dragster, 7.172, 186.54  def. Kenny Underwood, Chevy Camaro 9.459, 139.93.

Mod ET -- Bobby Taylor Jr., Chevy Camaro, 10.295, 125.95  def. Adam Holmes, Chevy S-10, 10.067, 132.74.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Final round-by-round results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway, the first of 10 events in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

TOP FUEL DRAGSTER DAY 2:
ROUND ONE -- Del Cox Jr., 12.708, 70.87 def. Bruce Litton, broke; Bobby Lagana Jr., 4.635, 312.78 def. Spencer Massey, 5.170, 216.27;
CONSOLATION -- Litton, 6.623, 132.22 def. S. Massey, 8.776, 95.10;
FINAL -- Lagana Jr., 6.339, 136.52 def. Cox Jr., 10.158, 80.78.

PRO FUEL DRAGSTER:
ROUND ONE -- Bill Evans, Spitzer, 6.373, 246.53 def. Robin Samsel, Canode, 6.473, 247.75; Michael Manners, Spitzer, 7.452, 150.43 def. Jeff Hamelink, Dragster, 14.172, 80.65;
CONSOLATION -- R. Samsel, 5.454, 257.04 def. J. Hamelink, broke;
FINAL -- B. Evans, 5.498, 263.26 def. M. Manners, 9.445, 95.79

PROSTALGIA FUNNY CAR:
ROUND ONE -- Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.217, 229.82 def. Mike McIntire, Chevy Camaro, 6.638, 224.92; John Dunn, Plymouth Duster, 6.430, 216.86 def. Rick Krafft, Chevy Corvette, 8.496, 103.78; Aaron 'Army' Armstrong, Camaro, 6.995, 152.62 was unopposed; Steve Nichols, Camaro, 6.425, 218.05 def. Peter Gallen, Chevy Vega, 7.214, 138.91;
CONSOLATION -- J. Dunn, 7.426, 140.68 def. M. McIntire, 10.404, 82.32; P. Gallen, 6.262, 238.43 def. A. Armstrong, 6.884, 175.55;
FINAL -- S. Nichols, 6.217, 226.70 def. G. Jacobsmeyer, 6.235, 228.73.

ELITE 8 TOP SPORTSMAN:
ROUND ONE -- Wayne King, Firebird, 7.576, 177.79 def. Scott Davis, Cutlass, 8.399, 143.43; John Benoit, Camaro, 7.079, 211.13 def. Gary Bingham, Grand Am, 19.890, 38.85; Matthew Buck, Firebird, 7.152, 189.52 def. Keith Russell, Camaro, 7.518, 182.35;
SEMIFINALS -- Buck, 7.029, 196.70 def. King, 7.636, 177.65; Benoit, 7.146, 210.90 was unopposed;
FINAL -- Benoit, 6.512, 212.49 def. Buck, 7.148, 167.22.

ELITE 8 TOP DRAGSTER:
ROUND ONE -- Edward Careccia, Horton, 6.196, 229.35 def. Charlie Cullotto, Tube Carz, foul; Sheldon Bissessar, Sipple, 5.868, 230.25 def. Daniel Seidel, Stevens, 6.955, 161.25; Dean Brazell, Miller, 6.805, 196.19 def. Stanley Albritton, Miller, 6.899, 197.33; Ron Raymond, Bos, 6.768, 198.17 def. Al Miller, Miller, 6.898, 194.88;
SEMIFINALS -- Careccia, 6.204, 230.06 def. Raymond, 7.340, 183.72; Bissessar, 5.819, 230.80 def. Brazell, 12.579, 67.17;
FINAL -- Bissessar, 5.820, 233.56 def. Careccia, foul.

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New Nitro Jam format draws largest Friday crowd in IHRA history

Lagana, Jacobsmeyer and Evans claim first Nitro Jam victories

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (January 29, 2010) – Welcome to the new age in professional drag racing.

Despite the doubts of some, the voices of many echoed loud and clear Friday night as the debut of the new IHRA Nitro Jam series packed the house at Palm Beach International Raceway resulting in the largest opening night turnout in IHRA history.

"I think we made one heck of a statement here tonight. What we proved tonight is that if you believe in what you are doing and put the fans and drivers first you will succeed in a big way," said IHRA President Aaron Polburn. "We knew what we are doing was going to work, we just didn't know how quickly it would take off.

 "I think we can officially say mission accomplished."

While Saturday events have typically been the biggest draw at IHRA events, Nitro Jam's new format gave way to a new look that drew thousands to the West Palm Beach track.

Spectators lined the Beeline Highway Friday night for a chance to see the debut of the new Nitro Jam series and nearly two dozen nitro-burning vehicles race two rounds and plenty of extras including jet vehicles, the Cool Bus wheelstanding school bus, Top Dragster and Top Sportsman action and plenty of pyrotechnics.

When the smoke finally settled on the biggest night in IHRA drag racing history three drivers stood at the summit as the first three winners under the new format were crowned in Top Fuel, Pro Fuel and Prostalgia Nitro Funny Car.

Those winners were Bobby Lagana Jr. (Top Fuel), Bill Evans (Pro Fuel) and Greg Jacobsmeyer (Prostalgia NFC).

"We are absolutely thrilled to have a packed house on the first night of Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway," said Jason Rittenberry, president and CEO of Palm Beach International Raceway. "Not only did we have a great turn out, but the fans were treated to a tremendous show put on by the IHRA racers. I'm really excited to see what Saturday brings."

Along with the new classes fans also saw only the second ever side-by-side jet truck drag race and the debut of Fan Fest.

With sportsman racers running throughout the day, racing was stopped in the early evening hours for a two-hour fan spectacular that included autograph sessions, family activities and the most exciting few minutes in motorsports – Thunder in the Pits.

As Fan Fest came to a close spectators were invited to stand in the pits and experience the sights, sounds and smells as every nitro-burning vehicle on the property warmed up at the same time.

"From Fan Fest to the on-track action we are very pleased with our first outing and things are looking even better for Saturday," said Polburn. "I do realize that this is just one night at one event and you can't forecast the future based on just one event, but what a start this has been."

On the track fans were treated to some immediate excitement with a pair of first-round upsets in Top Fuel that set up an unlikely matchup in the finals.

In the final Bobby Lagana Jr. defeated Bruce Litton after the pair defeated the last two IHRA Top Fuel champions. Lagana ran a 4.700, 305.63 as Litton had some trouble just after hitting the throttle.

"What a win. We came out here with the goal of coming away with a win and we accomplished that goal," said Lagana. "It has been a while for us, but we will take it however we can get it."

Even more interesting, Litton's victory comes on the same night he debuted a new writable body used in Fan Fest. Hundreds of fans signed Lagana's car moments before he made back-to-back 300 mile-per-hour passes on his way to picking up the win.

"It was great to be a part of Fan Fest and to have all those people sign the car and then to go out and win it is just great," said Lagana. "I don't know that we will take this wrap off for a while after tonight."

With the last two IHRA world champions back together for the first time in two years many thought that the tandem of Spencer Massey and Del Cox would make up the final Friday night at PBIR, but two others had something to say about that.

Bruce Litton, who finished runner-up in the championship standings the past two seasons behind Massey and Cox, finally got the better of the two Friday as he defeated Cox with a blistering 4.615 pass at 321.73 miles per hour under the pristine Florida conditions.

Litton's opponent in the final, fan favorite Bobby Lagana, pulled off the other upset with a victory over 2009 NHRA Rookie of the Year Massey. Lagana ran a 4.744 at 302.75 while Massey lit the tires.

In the consolation round Cox defeated teammate Massey.

In the highly anticipated Prostalgia Nitro Funny Car debut Greg Jacobsmeyer claimed the first ever win in the class over Jeff Diehl with a 6.209 elapsed time at 227.57 mph. Diehl took the place of Mike McIntire who broke prior to the final.

"What a way to start the year. With a new format and us being new out here it is great to walk away from here with the first ever win," said Jacobsmeyer.

Diehl reached the final with a victory over Army Armstrong while Jacobsmeyer eliminated Steve Nichols. McIntire originally held the spot in the final with the low E.T. of the round in a victory over John Dunn, but he could not make the call.

Other first round winners in Prostalgia NFC included Jeff Diehl and Rick Kraft. In the consolation rounds Dunn defeated Armstrong and Peter Gallen, running one of the fastest Nostalgia passes ever, defeated Nichols with a 5.82, 247.

In Pro Fuel Bill Evans kept his win streak at Palm Beach International alive with a victory over Jeff Hammelink. Evans, who has won several exhibition races at the track, ran a 5.469, 267.43 to Hammelink's 5.538, 238.64 to claim the first ever victory in the new IHRA class.

"We are thrilled to be out here and to pick up the win is just great. Now we have a chance to do it all again tomorrow," Evans said.

Evans defeated Mike Manners in the opening round while Hammelink got by Robin Samsel. In the consolation round Samsel defeated Manners.

All three professional classes and all of the exhibitions will be back in action on Saturday at Palm Beach International Raceway.

FRIDAY'S PALM BEACH NITRO JAM RESULTS

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Friday's final results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway. The race is the first of 10 in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

Top Fuel Dragster Day 1 -- Bobby Lagana Jr., 4.700 seconds, 305.63 mph  def. Bruce Litton, 12.244 seconds, 84.60 mph.

Prostalgia Funny Car Day 1 -- Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.209, 227.57  def. Jeff Diehl, Chevy Corvette, broke.

Pro Fuel Dragster Day 1 -- Bill Evans, Spitzer, 5.469, 267.43  def. Jeff Hamelink, Dragster, 5.538, 238.64.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Final round-by-round results from the IHRA Palm Beach Nitro Jam at Palm Beach International Raceway, the first of 10 events in the 2010 Nitro Jam Series:

TOP FUEL DRAGSTER DAY 1:
ROUND ONE -- Bobby Lagana Jr., 4.744, 302.75 def. Spencer Massey, 7.912, 107.15; Bruce Litton, 4.615, 321.73 def. Del Cox Jr., 15.743, 43.00;
CONSOLATION -- Cox Jr., 7.102, 111.29 def. Massey, 10.479, 70.90;
FINAL -- Lagana Jr., 4.700, 305.63 def. Litton, 12.244, 84.60.

PROSTALGIA FUNNY CAR DAY 1:
ROUND ONE -- Mike McIntire, Chevy Camaro, 6.149, 229.47 def. John Dunn, Plymouth Duster, 6.482, 217.98; Jeff Diehl, Chevy Corvette, 6.484, 193.05 def. Aaron 'Army' Armstrong, Camaro, 7.108, 151.49; Steve Nichols, Camaro, 6.156, 230.76 def. Greg Jacobsmeyer, Dodge Challenger, 6.254, 225.00; Rick Krafft, Corvette, 7.112, 140.36 def. Peter Gallen, Chevy Vega, 8.200, 111.93;
CONSOLATION -- Dunn, 6.244, 227.50 def. Armstrong, 7.114, 155.49; Gallen, 5.821, 246.62 def. Nichols, 6.327, 223.69;
FINAL -- Jacobsmeyer, 6.209, 227.57 def. Diehl, foul.

PRO FUEL DRAGSTER DAY 1:
ROUND ONE -- Bill Evans, Spitzer, 5.464, 259.26 def. Michael Manners, Spitzer, 8.260, 102.65; Jeff Hamelink, Dragster, 16.769, 58.89 def. Robin Samsel, Canode, broke;
CONSOLATION -- Samsel, 12.937, 59.32 def. Manners, 13.043, 84.11;
FINAL -- Evans, 5.469, 267.43 def. Hamelink, 5.538, 238.64.

2009 IHRA Palm Beach Friday Results

Drag Racing Results: 2009 IHRA Palm Beach Friday Results by IHRA. Day one results from the 2010 IHRA Nitro Jam event at West Palm Beach, Florida.

Absolutely AMAZING Model Cars

You have to see these fascinating model cars to believe them!

Big changes in 2010 for Wagg and Bell Top Sportsman Dodge Daytona team

Patio Passport providing primary sponsorship to Quick 32 Sportsman Series entry

WATERDOWN, ONTARIO (January 29, 2010) – With new major sponsorship involvement, the Top Sportsman team of Mike Wagg and Dave Bell should be a contender in this year’s Quick 32 Sportsman Series.

Thanks to funding from Patio Passport, the 1994 Dodge Daytona will be receiving big mechanical and cosmetic changes, according to Waterdown, Ontario’s Mike Wagg, who shares the driving chores with teammate Dave Bell of Grand Bend, Ontario.

“We’re getting rid of the red color on the car that everyone has seen for years,” said Wagg. “I don’t want to divulge the paint scheme yet, but we plan to debut the car at the Performance World Custom Car Show in Toronto in March.”

The Eddy Bryck chassis on the Daytona will be receiving a new KB block, which will be a lot lighter than the former 620-cubic inch Indy cylinder head engine.

A major change will be the tossing of the four-speed Lenco transmission for a state-of-the-art Powerglide automatic, something Bell will take some adjusting to.

“We had to get on the same playing field as the others,” explained Wagg about installing the Powerglide. “Now I’ve got to learn, but I’m not too concerned.”

Wagg added that he and Bell have been receiving a great deal of help and support from fellow door-slammer racer Kevin Wicke, who won the inaugural Quick 32 Sportsman Series Championship in 2009.

“We’re following Wicke’s lead,” Wagg said. “They have been showing us the chassis changes with the new transmission, and how to go about setting it up. We shouldn’t hopefully have a huge learning curve.”

Wagg said he will drive half of the six races for 2010, and Bell the remainder. Wagg will also continue his crew team involvement with the Pro Modified car of Al Hinds in the Pro Modified Racing Association.

For Paul Delicata of Patio Passport, his involvement comes as a progression from his drag racing days.

He started racing in 1983 with a Camaro Super Gas car, but said his interest started earlier: “I go way back,” he mentioned. “I go back to the days of John Rossiter, Alan Marsh, and the Vanni Brothers.”

After a stint in a Top Sportsman Trans-Am in the early 1990s, Delicata stopped racing, built street rods, and developed his firm Patio Passport, one of the largest retail and wholesale manufacturers of outdoor furniture.

But he kept his interest in drag racing, and decided to get back into the sport late last year.

“I was at Cayuga for the final Quick 32 race last September,” he said. “I have known Dave for years, and we worked out a deal. I’m really going to enjoy this coming season.”

Wagg mentioned that Delicata’s involvement in the sport is just what he needed.

“This is therapy, him going to races,” said Wagg. “He totally understands what we’re doing. He is so gung-ho.”

Along with major funding from Patio Passport, Wagg and Bell thanks sponsors Auto Clinic Of Flamborough, Pro Racing Fuels, Valvoline and NAPA (Waterdown Auto Parts). Crewing for the team will once again be Janet Ferguson, Bill Meehan and Paul Connolly.

Patio Passport on board with special cash awards for Quick 32 Sportsman Series

The Quick 32 Sportsman Series is pleased to welcome Patio Passport Awards to the winner and runner-up in the Championship Point Award Series

One of the largest retailers and wholesalers of outdoor furniture, Patio Passport provides high and medium-grade outdoor furniture across North America from its Woodbridge, Ontario base. Gazebos, cast aluminum, all-weather wicker, and a wide variety of accessories are available. Visit www.patiopassport.com to view the complete selection of stylish and affordable outdoor furniture and accessories.

Patio Passport will post cash awards of $1000 to the Quick 32 Series Sportsman Series champion in 2010, and $750 for the runner-up entry.

ADRL on SPEED Channel

 

O’FALLON, MO (Jan. 29, 2010) — Tune in to the SPEED Channel this Saturday (Jan. 30), at 10:30 a.m. Eastern for Lucas Oil On the Edge, featuring the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL’s) 2009 Pro Extreme Speedtech Battle for the Belts.

Watch the top eight Pro Extreme points leaders from last season go head to head in a winner-take-all battle for ADRL supremacy filmed during the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at Ennis, Texas, last October by NeWave Video Productions, the same company that produces ADRL event broadcasts.

As the ADRL enters its sixth season, its 2010 schedule includes nine national events in eight states. The season opens Mar. 19-20, with the ADRL Safety-Kleen Dragpalooza VI at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.

Frank Pompilio to compete in PMRA Pro Modified Series for 2010

Team of popular twin-turbo Mustang stepping up effort for upcoming season

MAPLE, ONTARIO (January 29, 2010) – Ford fans are going to have something to cheer about when Frank Pompilio takes to the track for the upcoming Pro Modified Racing Association tour.

Campaigning a 1967 Ford Mustang, Pompilio has raced in the Outlaw 10.5 class with his immaculate silver Mustang, and for 2010, the team has decided to compete in the PMRA Pro Modified arena.

“The PMRA is a great show,” said Pompilio, who drives the twin-turbo-charged powered Mustang. “It has lots to offer.”

The Pompilio Mustang, owned by team patriarch and Frank’s father Ernie, also has lots to offer. The car has no problem getting down the quarter-mile in six seconds, even with the narrow 10.5-inch rear slicks. 

Sitting on the LE Chassis is the 550-cubic inch Ford powerplant, courtesy of Al Moody, and with a pair of Promod 88mm turbochargers, produces in the neighborhood of 2500 horsepower.

Coupled to the engine is a custom-built Powerglide two-speed transmission, the work of Toronto, Ontario’s Mike Yedgarian. Weldon Racing Pumps feed the fuel into the Ford, which debuted late in 2006.

Father Ernie started racing in the 1970s, and when he retired, Frank took over the driving duties. Ernie is the team’s crew chief, and others helping to make the Ford get down the track include Gil Zeneri, Vince Ogliaruso, and Angelo Pompilio. 

Sponsorship is courtesy of Malfar Mechanical Inc., New Age Medical Solutions Inc., Speedwire Systems, Torbear Contracting Inc. and KCB Auto Electric.

Pompilio plans to run in both the PMRA and the 10.5 series for 2010, and is hoping to do well in the Pro Modified class, a new venture for him. He realizes the team is cranking it up a level, and hopes to do well.

“We’ve been in the sixes with this car,” he continued. “We try to be as consistent as possible. We race to go rounds, and we’re going to try our best.”

For more information contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher at Bruce@PMRA.ca

About the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA):

The Pro Modified Racing Association, www.PMRA.ca, was organized late in 2004, started racing operations in 2005, and is entering its sixth year of operation in 2010. The PMRA is a self-governing organization with input from its teams, and adheres to the technical and safety rules as outlined by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) and the American Hot Rod Association (AHRA). 

In 2010 the PMRA will compete at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario and the South-western Ontario track of the Grand Bend Motorplex.

Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class is one of drag racing’s most exciting and colorful classes, offering a diverse group of race cars with 2,500-horsepower-plus engines in supercharged, nitrous-powered, or turbocharged format.

Combining classic body styles and modern equipment, constructors are permitted, within established rules and parameters, to modify and enhance the cars in both appearance and performance. The cars are fuelled by gasoline or methanol, propelling them down the quarter-mile in low six-second times at over 200 miles per hour. The PMRA provides drag race fans the opportunity to see, hear, and experience the popular Pro Modifieds, known as "the world's fastest door slammers".

Several of the PMRA events are run in conjunction with the Quick 32 Sportsman Series presented by NAPA Auto Parts, www.Quick32.ca, offering fans a great show of drag racing.

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Former Top Fuel champ Spencer Massey returns to IHRA at Palm Beach International

Palm Beach fans gear up for Battle of 300-mph Champions

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.(January 28, 2010) – Who is the best driver in Top Fuel racing today?

Find out this weekend at Palm Beach International Raceway.

With two of the last three IHRA Top Fuel World Champions already on hand for the inaugural Palm Beach Nitro Jam this weekend at PBIR a third champion – 2008 Top Fuel champ Spencer Massey – decided to join the mix on Wednesday giving race fans in south Florida a rare opportunity to see the last three IHRA world champions all in one place competing for the title of Top Fuel's top dog.

"Mitch (King) called me and we discussed it and here I am. It has been an interesting ride over the past few years, but I am glad to be here this weekend," said Massey. "I am glad to be back with IHRA. I am here to have fun, put on a good show for the fans and give these guys all that I've got.

Massey returns to the quarter-miles of the IHRA – the only quarter-mile nitro sanctioning body in the country – after a one year stint with the NHRA. In 2009 Massey was named the NHRA Rookie of the Year with two wins and a sixth place finish in the final standings one year removed from claiming the 2008 IHRA Top Fuel title.

Before turning his attention to the NHRA Massey claimed four victories in 10 events in 2008 on his way to claiming the crown.

Upon his exit from IHRA racing Massey's good friend Del Cox Jr. was tapped to fill his seat in the Mitch King Motorsports backed ride and picked right up where Massey left off. In 2009 Cox won half of the races – five total including four straight over the second half of the season – on his way to claiming the Top Fuel title giving owner Mitch King two consecutive IHRA championships.

Overall Mitch King's dragsters have won nine of the last 20 IHRA national events.

King was originally slated to drive the second car this weekend at PBIR, but when King got word that Massey was flying to Florida with his racing suit in tow King stepped aside to set up one of the biggest races in IHRA history.

"Between Del and Spencer we have been nearly unbeatable over the past two years and to have both of them here this weekend competing it should make for one incredible event," said King.

And the man both Cox and Massey beat out to clinch their titles – 2007 Top Fuel champ Bruce Litton.

After winning the title in 2007 Litton has finished as runner-up the past two seasons despite impressive performances both years. Last season Litton held the points lead through a majority of the season before Cox came storming back to take the title.

While Cox and Massey have proven themselves as the hottest drivers over the past two seasons, Litton has the proven one of the greatest drivers in IHRA history with 16 career victories and 48 final round appearances. Litton is in the top five all-time in both categories.

The final piece to the Top Fuel puzzle is veteran racer Bobby Lagana Jr. While Lagana has never clinched a title in his decade long IHRA career, he has produced 12 career final rounds and four victories with a career best third place championship finish coming in 2006.

Despite having never won a title Lagana has to be considered a major threat to break up the party of the trio of champions.

"We may not have the championships, but we have always been competitive and I think we can really make some noise here this weekend. This is a great facility and I think we should be able to put up some big numbers and hopefully come away with the win," said Lagana.

Can Cox and Massey keep their hot streaks going? Can Litton finally get over the hump and take down the two young superstars? Can Lagana pull off one of the greatest upsets in drag racing history?

Find out this weekend at Palm Beach International Raceway.

NHRA EXTENDS K&N HORSEPOWER CHALLENGE CONTRACT

GLENDORA, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2010) – NHRA announced today it has signed a contract extension with K&N Engineering, Inc., locking in the company’s sponsorship of the popular K&N Horsepower Challenge, a lucrative bonus event for Pro Stock competitors, through the 2012 event.

The K&N Horsepower Challenge is a special race-within-a-race bonus program for the top Pro Stock drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series. The K&N Horsepower Challenge is contested during the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. The race features a special elimination pairing with eight Pro Stock drivers in the field, including seven who accumulate the most points in qualifying during the 23-race Challenge series, and one driver who is selected to the starting lineup for the event via a special fan vote.

As part of the K&N Horsepower Challenge, K&N will conduct a fan promotion during the running of the series and will present a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle to a lucky fan during the finals of the K&N Horsepower Challenge. In the promotion, eight lucky fans will receive a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park for the event, where one fan will be selected as the winner of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Each finalist will be paired with a K&N Horsepower Challenge driver during pre-race ceremonies and will be introduced on stage with the driver.

“We are pleased to extend the sponsorship of this important bonus event for Pro Stock racers with our friends at K&N Engineering,” said Gary Darcy, senior vice president of sales and marketing, NHRA. “The K&N Horsepower Challenge certainly brings an increased level of excitement to the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals.”

The winner of the K&N Horsepower Challenge will earn $50,000, and the runner-up will earn $10,000. The two semifinalists will earn $3,000 each, while the four first-round finishers will receive $2,500 each.

“K&N is committed to making the Horsepower Challenge the premier Pro Stock event at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park,” said Steve Williams, vice president, K&N Engineering. “This year we are paring up eight lucky fans with the top eight drivers for a chance to win a Harley-Davidson Street Bob motorcycle, all they have to do is go to KNfilters.com, vote for their favorite driver and register to win.”

The K&N Horsepower Challenge features an overall purse of $145,000. In addition to the $76,000 K&N Horsepower Challenge, K&N also will award $69,000 in qualifying bonuses to quick Pro Stock qualifiers throughout the K&N Horsepower Challenge series. Low qualifiers earn $3,000 at each of the 23 events in the Challenge series.

Last season Jeg Coughlin claimed his third title in the prestigious race-within-a-race bonus event. Other past winners of the K&N Horsepower Challenge include Greg Anderson, Dave Connolly, Kurt Johnson, Warren Johnson, Darrell Alderman, Larry Morgan, Jim Yates, Bruce Allen and Bob Glidden.

K&N Engineering has been a major NHRA contingency sponsor for many years and has been the title sponsor for several NHRA national events in the past.