CLASS RACER FORUM - Alan Johnson to crew for Ron Ortiz

In a shocking statement from Alan Johnson Racing, they have announced their intent to enter into the sportsman ranks of drag racing and support the efforts of Ron Ortiz's U/SA Plymouth. The decision was made to alert the sanctioning bodies of the need to support the sportsman racers. Citing the escalating costs of the professional ranks, the quick turn around time between rounds and the need to have fun at the races directed their attention to Stock Eliminator, in particular to Ron Ortiz.

Said Johnson, "When we reviewed the continuing costs of professional racing along with the pressure packed situations of trying to set up for the upcoming rounds in a small amount of time, we realized we were physically and mentally draining ourselves into repetitive internal destruction. We saw the sportsman racers enjoying the leisure time in the pits while waiting for their opportunity to compete and realized that this was a much more relaxed atmosphere. They were having fun while racing, something that was missing at the higher levels".

When asked why Stock and why such a lower class such as U/SA, Johnson responded with, "Costs, just look at the costs of other categories, it goes right along with the level of competition, is not Comp higher to operate than Super Stock, well that is when we looked at Stock. I know that some of the new cars in Stock are extremely costly also, but the lower ranks are just about right. We thought about some of the Super categories but the throttle stop concept was much like lifting for tire shake and is not appealing to us at this time.

So, why did you choose Ron Ortiz? "Well, if you look at the original fuel motors they were a Chrysler design, so we wanted to stay along this path for familiarity. The 273 Chrysler design is about as basic as you can get so naturally it was a perfect fit for us, especially with our technology and experience with Chrysler power plants. There were several people out there competing with this motor who are extremely talented and have held records, so we had to narrow it down to who we would choose. After reviewing all candidates we chose Ron, not for his mechanical skills, but for the fun factor. And, as a side note, we heard he can also cook". But, why U/SA, not T or O or R. " Because it translates to the good ole USA" quickly responded Johnson.

"With AJR coming aboard we can expect a little more fun into our pit area" said Ortiz, "We know of his mechanical abilities and expect that we can probably pick up a tenth or so, and that will get us out of the bottom of the ladder. And that is not counting what he can do for "The Imperial Palace". A lot of people out there have wanted to visit with us at the races, but were hesitant not knowing us personally or just fearful of possible mayhem, but with Alan here now, we just may get some of them to let loose and have some fun by joining us"

Word spread quickly through the fuel pits of this announcement and there have been several rumored teams looking at Stock also now. A DSR representative and JFR reps who wish to remain anonymous have said that they were always interested in SS and Stock, but were a little afraid of the true tightness of the races.

So now, can we expect more transitions, only time will tell.

This announcement was first featured in the National Inquisitive.