NHRA's Response - Summernationals

[Ken Miele]

Below is a email I received from NHRA. I don't usually repost emails, but since this email went out to all competitors at the Summernationals I figured it would be okay. I thought everyone would like to see NHRA's reason for the schedule and poor track conditions for the sportsmen.

It looks as we have made an impression with NHRA, and I would think David Barton was a big part of that. Hopefully they will see fit to wave the fine, given David's legitimate frustration over the track conditions.

"Dear Toyota NHRA Summernationals Competitors,

The NHRA would like to thank you for your participation in the Toyota NHRA Summernationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park.

Based on racer input the schedule was structured so competitors were not required to wait all day to complete their qualifying sessions or time trials. Competitors in Stock Eliminator and Super Gas ran in the morning while Super Comp and Super Stock ran in the afternoon. Unfortunately the outcome of this schedule modification did not produce the intended results. The running of like-type vehicles back-to-back created unrepairable bald spots despite our best efforts to repair the starting line damage.

In addition the schedule was structured so all Lucas Oil Drag Racing categories were eliminated down to the semi-finals going into Sunday. Our intentions were to provide sufficient time so we could parade and interview each winner on the return road. Completing all Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series finals prior to the finals of the Mello Yello and Pro Mod Drag Racing Series allowed us to complete winners circle in a timely manner and provide each of you an opportunity to arrive home at a reasonable time. This schedule adjustment appeared to be favorable to most racers and therefore plan on continuing this format at the upcoming National Events.

Again, thank you for your participation and support of NHRA Championship Drag Racing. We look forward to seeing you at your next NHRA event."

[Mike Graham]

Not being at E-Town I can't comment on that race, but in general I like the attempt to get us more track time and less sitting. If they can work the bugs out with regards to track prep this is progress.

[Chad Rhodes]

In light of that response, NHRA should rescind the fine against David Barton, he obviously had a legitimate gripe.

[Dave Ribeiro]

Chad,


I agree , let's hope they show some understanding on David Barton's part !!!

[ALMACK]

Originally Posted by Chad Rhodes

In light of that response, NHRA should rescind the fine against David Barton, he obviously had a legitimate gripe.

Agree.

I'm glad to see NHRA acknowledge the cause of the problem.

"The running of like-type vehicles back-to-back created unrepairable bald spots despite our best efforts to repair the starting line damage. "

[Jack Matyas]

'74 Summernationals -and we brought our own cool .And we all hooked .Thats Stan Welsh in my 'pool' ........It sure was a different time .

[Dennis P Chapman]

Originally Posted by Jack Matyas

'74 Summernationals -and we brought our own cool .And we all hooked .Thats Stan Welsh in my 'pool' ........It sure was a different time .

Jack how were you so lucky to get the shade lol.

[Tom Goldman]

While I like the run format for Eliminations, The qualifing /TT schedule sucked for everyone.
The only plus side is SG got all their runs for a change !
There is a big hole in NHRA's arguement of running like wheelbase cars cars in succession , The Stockers were out first ,and the track was bad for many of them right from the start.
There was definately more wrong with the track than run order and track temp.
If the concrete wont hold the rubber,it's time to grind or replace.
Many of us have been to Budds Creek ,MD in the dead of Summer ,with track temps over 140, and the track wants to rip the rear out of the car !
At National events the track is prepped for the 70 or so Pro cars who can adjust power level, clutch, ect, at the expense of 300 plus Sportsman competitors , Especially those on a limited tire .

[RJDUDEK]

Originally Posted by Jack Matyas

'74 Summernationals -and we brought our own cool .And we all hooked .Thats Stan Welsh in my 'pool' ........It sure was a different time .

!------------------------------I can feel the Humidity ..was there all three days..as a 24 YO and his friends would do.We had a 24 ft Ford straight job from my Trucking Co. and we slept and lived in the box..cooked on a makeship grill and had a 55 gal drum filled with and ice and adults refreshments for the not so adult guys.-------------------------------------!

.Remembering...Butch Leals winning Ply-SSB pulling the wheels on every shift..>Popular with the fans..and Larry(with the Grump) Lombardo beating (Wayne) Gapp and Roush. Maverick 4dr Taxi...Jungle Jim's (R.I.P.) wild wheel-stand in the FC final ..against winner Al Segrini.

Those WERE the days.