Jeff Olsen - A True Champion

It is that time of the year where Champion Spark Plug puts on their "Search For A Champion" Contest. Each year Champion awards racing entrants $125,000.00 in sponsorship money who showcase themselves through their own video creation. They are judged by Inspirational Quality (34%), Relevance to Theme/Best Depiction of a Champion (33%), and Number of Votes from the public (33%). This year, there are 392 entries, and there will be only 15 winners. Fourteen $5,000 winners and One $50,000 winner. Getting the votes out is the first step in the process.

By the time Jeff Olsen and I realized the contest was going on, we had just a few days to get a video put together.

Jeff decided he really wanted to race this year after attending a few NHRA races as guests of Terry McMillen Racing and the Amalie Store. He attended Norwalk, OH, and Indianapolis, IN. He also helped Tom Nowicki during the year in his 1956 Chevy Big Block Nostalgia Car.

Tom Nowicki has been struggling with health related problems with his eyes, and was forced into an early retirement. He had sold his car and trailer with the intentions of not being around the track that often anymore. Jeff Olsen talked with Tom and they both agreed that Jeff would now take over the driving duties in 2014. Tom would be there as the crew chief and adviser for Jeff. Jeff bought a 1952 Willy's Aero Lark, and is now a member of the Great Lake Gassers. They race and put on some great nostalgia shows throughout Indiana, Michigan and Illinois.

So with just a few days left to get a video made, we did not have any footage of Jeff's car going down the track yet. We did have footage of Tom's car, and pictures of the car. We set out and did a few interviews in the show and around the new car. We did not have much to go on, and only had one day to shoot the footage. My son John Amorosano helped tremendously with what footage and pictures we had. He did such an awesome job on putting it all together. When we first saw the finished result of the video, I believe tears came from our eyes. It was and still is AMAZING.

We are asking that you help in getting Jeff votes in the "Search For A Champion" contest. You can register and vote daily until February 2, 2014. We believe we have what it takes to be a Great Champion... Please click on the links below to register and vote.

Register Here: Search for a Champion Contest

Vote for Jeff Olsen Here

Follow Jeff Olsen on Social Media:

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2013 In Review

I would have to say that 2013 was a very good year. It was a very busy year, and I do apologize for my lack of blogging. Hopefully I will be able to write more blogs in 2014.

We started out 2013 hitting the 1st 4 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Events in a row, and that was very exciting. While in Gainesville, Florida, during the NHRA Amalie Oil GatorNationals, Jeni and I took a little vacation and went down to Universal Orlando - Harry Potter Islands of Adventure.

We had a very good time in Florida as Jeni also helped Terry McMillen Racing and Amalie Oil with their first sponsored NHRA Drag Racing Event. Here she is as she checked for your credentials to enter.

After attending the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Nationals in Las Vegas, Jeni and I packed up and moved to Elkhart, Indiana. It was very hard leaving family, heading into uncharted territory, but so far, it has been a great decision. I took on a job as the General Manager of the Amalie Store, and I am really enjoying all it has to offer. I have met some good people, enjoying our new home, and now enjoying a white Christmas. We do miss our family, but they are so spread out, that we could not be with them all anyways. So we are right in the middle, and it is just a short commute to see each and everyone of them. Jeni has taken on a good job with great benefits, and has also met some great friends along the way.

I have found that living in Elkhart is close to a lot of NHRA tracks. Either a days drive or less to these tracks. Joliet, Norwalk, St Louis, Thunder Valley, Englishtown, Brainerd, and ZMax Dragway. Also, most places now are just a non stop flight in either direction.

Norwalk

Chicago

Englishtown

Bristol

A big highlight was attending the NHRA Finals in Pomona in November and having my family there. Having my sister, Downtown Tim, my son and his family there was so heart warming.

One of the new additions in 2013 was the birth of Cameron McMillen. Terry and Cori have been so blessed.

I also had the opportunity to meet one of Terry McMillen's good sponsors, Mark Adelizzi, with Flatout Gaskets. He has a great sense of humor, and really a great guy.

So all in all, 2013 was a great year, filled with changes, hopes, and great friends. We have been so blessed with our careers, family and friends throughout the years.

2014 is looking up to be another fantastic year. Besides attending some of the NHRA events with Terry McMillen Racing, we have some great plans for the Amalie Store. Also, I'll be helping out one of my good friends Jeff in his new venture in the Nostalgia Gassers Group. They will be racing and show casing in a lot of events throughout the year. I'll be attending a lot of the local tracks during the 2014 season. Jeff will be taking over for Tom Nowicki in 2014. Stay tuned for more information in the near future.

Also in 2014, I'll be attending some Mud Bogging Tracks to support my friend John in his journey competing in NMRO Mud Racing. You can check out his video here: John Creech Video

Thank you all for the great memories who we have encountered during the 2013 season. May 2014 be a great year for all. Happy New Year.

Strange Happenings Around The NHRA...

I know it has been a while since I have written a blog about anything, but I thought it was time I put down some key strokes. As you all may know, I have moved to Elkhart, Indiana to take over operations at the Amalie Store. I have the best bosses one could ever ask for in Terry McMillen and Jim Walczak. So with my part in the Amalie Store, I still assist Terry McMillen Racing in securing hotel accommodations during the tour, and assisting in Social Media. Also, I work on The Fun Times Guide To RVing website and Facebook pages. As you see, I am very busy and just not enough time in the day at times to write on my blog.

I have been thinking alot about all that has been happening around the NHRA and let me say, it worries me a bit. Take Erica Enders-Stevens. She was in the top 10 in Pro Stock, and loses her sponsorship for lack of funding from Cagnazzi Racing!!! Say What? Don't they have this figured out? I believe she could have won it all the way she was driving. Now Erica is running a Pro Mod Car for Keith Haney Racing this weekend. I admire her persistence in keeping her driving skills sharpened. Here is the link to that story. Erica Returns to An ADRL Ride.

Next we have Larry Dixon. He has a job with Rapisarda Racing with Lee Beard taking over as Crew Chief, then Lee Beard leaves and goes to Steve Torrence operation, and then Larry leaves. Now Rapisarda hires Tommy Johnson Jr for the remainder of the year, and he runs a nice 3.78 in Sonoma. Awesome. This NHRA Merry-Go-Round is making me dizzy. I can't keep up with all these changes. And boy have things changed, and still big changes are on it's way. Here is this story: Rapisarda Signs Johnson

Bob Tasca has been getting some help from DSR, and have you noticed how well he has been running. I won't go any further or comment on what transpired there, but that leads up to FORD is leaving the NHRA and John Force after all these years. If I was John Force, I'd probably have them lock me in a padded room, and be on 24 hour watch LOL. I am sure that John will prosper, and keep his Dynasty alive and strong. Elon Werner is one of the greatest PR Guys out there, and with that, John Force Racing has nothing to worry about. I think maybe JFR might be into a little more of Top Fuel Dragster in the near future. Just not sure on what make of vehicle is in his future. Here is the link to the Ford Story: Ford NHRA Departure Also, here is the Story on: Jimmy Prock To Top Fuel

Now that you can see with all the disarray going on in the NHRA, we really don't know what to count on or what is going to be happening tomorrow. We just have to hope for the best and hope that the NHRA can turn this thing around. That statement makes me think of this song by Tracy Chapman: Give Me One Reason.

This just in. Ray Murphy, the clutch master for Terry McMillen has broken his leg in a few places and will not be in Seattle this weekend. This happened at Lake Berryessa in Northern California where Terry takes the team usually between Sonoma and Seattle for some R & R and exciting fun. I am not sure how the team is going to address this, but I know they will have their work cut out for them in Seattle. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ray Murphy for a speedy recovery.

One more thought as I finish this blog. Our Good Friends Cori Wickler and Terry McMillen are expecting a baby boy this coming September and I wanted to wish them the VERY BEST EVER. Terry and Cori are two of the best people I have ever had the pleasure to be associated with and I would like to thank them for believing in me and give me the opportunities that they have. Many Blessing to you you all.

Doug Herbert - B.R.A.K.E.S. "Take it to the Track"

Here it is March 2013 and already we have two NHRA events in the books. Pomona and Arizona. The 5th NHRA event on the tour, the one event I really enjoy and love attending, is the NHRA Dollar General 4Wide Nationals in Charlotte, NC. This years NHRA event, April 19-21, will be just as exciting as all the ones zMax Dragway has always offered. The roar of 32,000 horsepower, 4 Nitro Top Fuel Dragsters or Nitro Funny Cars, screaming down the track the same time in 3.79 seconds or less. If you have not attended a 4 Wide Event, I would add this one to your "Bucket List." The track, the feeling, the hospitality and the great NHRA drivers make this event one you don't want to miss.



Prior to the NHRA 4 Wide Event. Doug Herbert and B.R.A.K.E.S. sponsor a great Golf Charity to help benefit B.R.A.K.E.S. and Speedway Children's Charities. On April 18, 2013, NHRA Drivers, NASCAR Drivers, Crews, Media, and Fans are entered to help these great charities. If you have the time and want to have a lot of fun mingling with these great people on the course, and help these great charities, then please follow the links below to sign up. I hope to see you all there.

Learn more about B.R.A.K.E.S., Doug Herbert and the Take it to the Track Golf Tournament on the links below.

Sign up for "Take it to the Track" Golf Tournament.

Put On The B.R.A.K.E.S.

Doug Herbert Performance

Doug Herbert on Twitter

Put On The Brakes on Twitter

B.R.A.K.E.S. on Facebook

Doug Herbert on Facebook

NHRA Glossary

I am sure while listening to the NHRA announcers or wandering around the pits at an NHRA event you have heard terms that have you scratching your head. Well here are the terms and their meanings to help you better understand.

Backpedal - When a driver lets off the throttle to regain traction or to avoid or stop tire shake.

Breakout - Used only in handicap racing. Refers to a vehicle running quicker then the racer has predicted, or "dialed."
The racer who breaks out loses unless his or her opponent breaks out by more or commits a more serious foul,
such as leaving too soon (See "Foul Start") or crossing the centerline.

Bump - The bottom spot in the field, usually the number 16 qualifying position. Also called the "Bubble"

Bumped - When a racer is moved from a higher qualifying position to a lower one after another competitor improves.

Burnout - Spinning the tires in water before a run to heat and clean them and put rubber on the track for better traction.

Christmas Tree - Also called the Tree, the electronic starting device between the lanes on the starting line.

Chute - Short for parachute, this device helps slow the car at the end of a run.

Deep Stage - To roll a few inches further into the stage beam, indicated by the pre-staged lights on the Christmas Tree turning off.
In that position, a racer is closer to the finish line and also closer to a foul start (red-light)

Dial-Under - Used in Super Stock and Stock, when a driver selects, or dials, an elapsed time quicker than the national index.
Drivers select a dial-under, or e.t., that they think their car will run based on previous performance.

Digger - Another word for Dragster.

DNQ - Did not qualify.

Dropped Cylinder or Hole Out - When a spark plug fails to ignite, decreasing total power output by the engine. A dropped
cylinder is often distinguishable by raw fuel spewing from an exhaust header.

Elapsed Time (E.T.) - The time it takes a vehicle to travel from the starting line to the finish line.

Eliminations - The portion of an event that determines a race winner, usually Sunday. Vehicles are raced two at a time ( Exception 4Wide
Nationals), resulting in one winner and one loser. Winners continue to race in a tournament-style competition
until only one remains.

Flopper - Another word for Funny Car.

Foul Start - Also known as a Red-Light. When a vehicle leaves the starting line before the green light, indicated by the red light on the tree.
When a foul start occurs in eliminations, the racer is eliminated from further competition at the event
(unless his or her opponent commits a worse infraction). A Red_Light in qualifying has no impact on the racers attempt:
his or her time still counts toward qualifying at the event.

Full Tree - Used in Comp, Super Stock, Stock, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman for which a handicap starting system equalizes competition.
The tree amber lights flash consecutively five-tenths of a second apart, followed five-tenths later by the green light.

Groove - Path of traction laid down by other vehicles that have gone down the racetrack, for example "In the Groove."

Handicap - The head start given to the slower car in a race featuring two vehicles of varying performance potentials.
Used in Comp, Super Stock, Stock, Top Dragster, and Top Sportsman.

Hide - Tire; for example, " He was Smoking the Hides."

Holeshot Win - When a racer with an e.t. slower than that of his or her opponent wins an elimination round because he or she had a
better reaction time, or left the starting line first.

Index - An e.t. assigned by the NHRA as a predictor of performance for vehicles in that class. Indexes allow various classes
of cars in the same eliminator to race competitively.

Interval Timers - Elapsed time clocks at 60, 330, 660 and 1000 feet that record the e.t. from the starting line to those intervals.

Loose - When a car gets out of the groove, for example, "he got loose at about 60 feet."

Loud Pedal - Gas Pedal or Throttle.

Methanol - Pure Methyl alcohol produced by synthesis; used in some Top Alcohol Dragsters and Top Alcohol Funny Cars.

Nitromethane - Known as "Nitro," CH3NO2 is the result of a chemical reaction between nitric acid and propane. Primary fuel
for Top Fuel Dragster, Funny Cars, and injected nitro dragsters in Top Alcohol Dragster.

Oildown - When a race car deposits oil from the engine onto the racing surface, causing a delay.

On the Trailer - Where a race car is put after losing or not qualifying; for example, "He was on the trailer after round one."

Pre-Staged - When a racer is approximately 7 inches behind the starting line and the top half of the circle of small blue lights
atop his or her side of the Christmas Tree is illuminated.

Pro Tree - Used in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, Pro Stock Motorcycles, Top Alcohol Dragster/Funny Car, Super Comp, Super Gas,
Super Street, and Pro Mod, all of which feature heads-up (no handicap) competition. The three large amber lights
flash simultaneously, followed four-tenths of a second later by the green light.

Rail - Another word for dragster.

Reaction Time - The time it takes for the vehicles front tires to clear the staging beam after the green light comes on; measured in
fractions of a second. A perfect reaction time is .000.

Red Light - See Foul-Start.

Safety Safari - A team of men and women responsible for transporting racing equipment from race to race, preparing and maintaining
the racing surface, and providing support in an emergency. The NHRA Safety Safari is presented by the AAA.

Sand Trap - Located beyond the shutdown area; used to help stop errant race cars.

Shoe - Driver

Shutdown Area - Area past the finish line where race vehicles come to a stop and racers are picked up by their own crew.

Sixty-Foot Time - The time it takes a vehicle to cover the first 60 feet of the racetrack. It is the most accurate measure
of the launch from the starting line and is the interval most critical to a quick e.t.

Slick - Racing tire that does not have tread.

Smoked the Tires - When a car losses traction; also "blew the tires off" or "hazed the tires."

Speed Trap - The final 66 feet to the finish line where speed is calculated.

Staged - When the front wheel or wheels of the vehicle are on the starting line. Once the racer is staged, the calibrated
countdown of the amber lights leading to the green light may begin anytime.

Stripe - Slang term for finish line.

The Wally - Official NHRA Trophy.

Time Slip - Given to the racer or crew after a run, it lists the reaction time, interval times, elapsed time, and speed.

T-Mac - Terry McMillen

Tire Shake - A severe vibration that usually occurs at the beginning of a run and is the result of losing traction.

Treed - A racers whose reaction time is significantly slower then an opponent's is said to have been Treed.

Wally Parks - NHRA founder 91913-2007), for whom the Wally is named.

Terry McMillen News and Updates

I thought I would start this blog for 2013 on News and Updates on Terry McMillen. Some people are not able to read National Dragster stories, so I will keep those posted on what is going on. Terry will be featured in "Straight Talk" in Issue 5 of ND.

We are headed to Vegas this weekend Feb 8, 2013 to test Terry's Top Fuel Dragster. Terry, Cori, and Jim are in the motor home heading to Vegas, and are in Dallas trying to avoid and snow coming their way. Terry Now has 2 Rigs heading to Vegas and Pomona. Yes, McMillen now has 2 Semi Trucks during the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Series. The extra rig will carry and extra car and more spare parts to assist in running better to compete in the NHRA Countdown. Terry said, "This will make a big difference this year with having 2 rigs on the road."

Since the car was not completed in time to test in West Palm Beach during the Pro Warm Up in January, Terry is stopping in Vegas to test the newly designed Top Fuel dragster with the new aerodynamic cockpit, the fuel system, and 7 stage heads and blower program.

We will see you all in Pomona during the NHRA Winternationals February 14-17, 2013.

If you need rooms will in Pomona. The Holiday Inn Ontario Airport has offered Terry McMillen and NHRA Fans a special rate. Use Promo Code "TMR" when making your reservations. Just click on the link below to take you to the Holiday Inn Ontario Airport for reservations.

Holiday Inn Ontario Airport

This is the story written by Phil Burgess: "McMillen Heads to Testing with New Weapons"

Just finished a lengthy phone call with Top Fuel ace Terry McMillen, who will be featured in our popular Straight Talk personality profile in Issue 5. T-Mac is on the road to Las Vegas, traveling in a motorhome with girlfriend Cori Wickler and PR man Jim Walczak, for preseason testing this weekend before heading to Pomona for the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals presented by Super Start Batteries.

McMillen and company were pulled over just outside of Dallas plotting a new route to Vegas to bypass snowbound Scottsdale, Ariz. His twin Amalie rigs were on Highway 20 from crew chief Richard Hartman’s South Carolina base. Twin rigs, you say? What’s that all about?

Yep, McMillen will now be toting two tractor-trailers on the road to help carry the equipment — including a spare car — that he hopes will get him into his first Countdown to the Championship playoffs this season after narrow misses the last two years. He’s also looking forward to making a good showing for his longtime backer Amalie Oil at its event, the Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals, in March.

“It’s an extra expense to have two rigs, but with all of the back-to-back racing we’re going to be doing on the NHRA schedule this season, you just can’t carry enough parts in one truck,” he said. “We think this will make a big difference for us this year.”

McMillen wasn’t able to test with the rest of the fuel teams in South Florida last month because he was waiting on the new cockpit cowling he’ll be running this year. The new aero package changes the amount of air being rammed into the injector, which changes the fuel-system setup, so there was no use testing his new Stage 7 heads and blower program before he had it in place.

Don't miss out on any more updates and story's in National Dragster. Become an NHRA Member for Full Access click on the link

Become and NHRA Member

Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins "The Legend"

I get suggestions now and then to write blogs on NHRA icons, and I thought writing one on William Tyler Jenkins, his birth name, would be interesting.
Bill Jenkins, let me refer to him as Grumpy throughout the blog, was born on Dec 22, 1930. He was born in Philadelphia, PA but was raised in Malvern, PA. He got the nickname "Grumpy" for having a no-nonsense attitude at the races. As a young child, Grumpy started working on his neighbors tractor engine, and from there his passion for working and building engines began. Grumpy did a bit of drag racing before going off to college at Cornell University. Grumpy started his drag racing career by racing a 1955 Chevrolet Convertible at local tracks.

Grumpy left Cornell University during the 3rd year, and used his training and skill to start building engines. He became nationally known for building 30 cars that set national records. In the 1960, he was known in many circles as the engine builder for Dave Strickler. In 1965, Grumpy won his first event at the Winternationals in a Hemi-Powered Plymouth Belvedere named "Black Arrow". Then in 1966 he decided to run a Chevy independently by making his own Chevy Engine package. That is when the Chevy II "Grumpy's Toy" was born. It has a 350 cubic inch/350 horsepower Chevy engine that was beating 426 Hemi-powered/425 horsepower engines. Then in 1967, Grumpy was added to the Chevrolet Team. Between 1965 to 1975, he won thirteen NHRA events.

Grumpy has been inducted in numerous Motorsports Hall of Fame for his engine building skills in the NHRA Pro Stock Division. His innovations include Pro Stock front end suspension, dry sump oiling systems, cool cans, drag racing's first kick out oil pans, electric water pump fans, gas port pistons, and slick-shift manual transmission. His continued search for improved performance left little time for idle chat with his racing colleagues. Among the Hall of Fame's where International Motorsports Hall of Fame 2008, Motorsports Hall of Fame of America 1996, and Don Garlits International Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 1993.

Grumpy retired as a driver in 1976 and he hired Larry Lombardo and Ken Dondero to drive his cars. Grumpy wanted to spend more of his time concentrating on research and development. Lombardo took over Grumpy's seat at the second race of the 1976 season and went on to win the NHRA Winston Pro Stock Division. Dondero won the AHRA title that year. Grumpy's main focus was building and improving performance in engines. Dave Connolly also powered a Jenkins engine in his Pro Stock Cobalt in 2005. It briefly put Connolly in the Powerade points lead.

You could always see Grumpy on the starting line throughout the years smoking his cigars. Every once in a while you would catch a glimpse of a smile. He loved drag racing and his passion for a better performing engine was always on his mind. Besides building engines for drag racing, he also worked on some NASCAR engines. He built the engine Donnie Allison used to take the pole position in the 1975 Daytona 500. He also built the engine for Mike Swaim that took him to the pole of the 1987 Busch Series race at Daytona.

William Tyler Jenkins passed away in March of 2012 of heart failure, but his legacy lives on. He has brought so much to the Motorsports World with his innovations and passion. He is survived by his daughter Susan Jenkins, from his first marriage to Alexandra Newman, and his son William and daughter Dani-El from his second marriage to Polly Wood.

If you would like to know more about Grumpy and his Toy's, there is a great book that captures a lot of his history. The book is called, "Grumpy's Toys" "The Authorized History of Grumpy Jenkins' Cars" You can check out this copy at Barnes and Noble.

"Grumpy's Toys" They Authorized History of Grumpy Jenkins' Cars

Rumors & Real NHRA Team Updates

With the 2012 NHRA season complete, it is time of the season for those silly rumors and actual team updates. Though some of the rumors that we call "Silly Rumors" end up coming to life, I have set up this blog to show both. I will be updating this constantly during this season, so we can all keep up with what is going on with all the teams.

Rumors:

TOMMY JOHNSON JR. RESIGNS FROM DSR?

"UPDATED: A GROUP OF BUSINESSMEN TO BRING BACK 3RD DSR DRAGSTER" Massey may be back with DSR??

"A DIXON AND BEARD COMBINATION?"

CLAY MILLICAN HEADED TO BOB VANDERGRIFF RACING?

BENZA, MARTINO ENGINE LEASE PROGRAM GROWING

CHANGES COMING TO JOHN FORCE RACING?

AT LEAST ONE SPONSOR CHANGING TEAMS

TJ TO TEST TOP FUELER?

BROGDON - KENT RACING MAKES KEY PERSONNEL ACQUISITIONS?

KRISHER’S OPERATION PURCHASED BY STEVENS?

Jim Dunn Racing Inks new major sponsor for 2013

PRO STOCK TEAMS PARKING?

Real Team Updates:

"SCHUMACHER ANNOUNCES THIRD DRAGSTER; MASSEY TO RETURN" Via Competition Plus

ENDERS PLANS 2013 ATTACK WITH NEW CAMARO AND POSSIBLE NEW SPONSOR Via Competition Plus

COUGHLIN SHINES IN FIRST TEST WITH JOHNSON Via Competition Plus

"Rapisarda teams with Dixon, Beard for 2013" Via NHRA

"JFR expands effort with Castrol Edge Top Fuel dragster" Via NHRA

PARTS PLUS & CLAY MILLICAN HEADED TO BOB VANDERGRIFF RACING FOR 2013 Via Competition Plus

LEAH PRUETT NAMED DOTE RACING’S 2013 TOP FUEL DRIVER Via Leah Pruett

LEAH PRUETT NAMED DRIVER OF DOTE RACING TOP FUELER Via Competition Plus

RICKIE JONES RETURNS TO NHRA PRO STOCK IN 2013 Via Competition Plus

MICHAEL RAY LEAVES MATT SMITH RACING; HEADED FOR BRYCE? Via Competition Plus

AREND IS THE NEW JIM DUNN RACING DRIVER Via Competition Plus

Confirmed - Rocky Footwear, brands join Hagan’s Funny Car team for 2013 and beyond

TASCA TO UNVEIL NEW SCHEME DURING PBIR TEST Via Competition Plus

BROGDON – KENT STOCKPILE CREW CHIEF TALENT FOR NHRA TITLE RUN Via Competition Plus

BODE PLANS TO GIVE IT ANOTHER RUN IN 2013 Via Competition Plus

DSR, IUPUI RENEW PARTNERSHIP FOR 2013 Via Competition Plus

HEAD LEAVES AL-ANABI RACING FOR PARTNERSHIP IN HEAD INC. Via Competition Plus

MATCO TOOLS WILL ENTER 13TH SEASON AS MARKETING PARTNER WITH DON SCHUMACHER RACING AS BROWN’S PRIMARY SPONSOR Via DSR

TASCA REGROUPING TO PURSUE NHRA TITLE IN 2013 Via Competition Plus

MAJOR KALITTA RESTRUCTURE: AREND OUT, WORSHAM IN, DELAGO TUNING ALEXIS Via Competition Plus

DSR Confirms Spencer Massey Termination Via Competition Plus

PEDREGON RELEASES BEARD IN CHANGE OF DIRECTION MOVE Via Competition Plus

DSR Confirms More Changes: Delago Leaves Hagan's Team Via RPM2Night.com

Tis' the Season

The 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season has come to an end, and it proved to be another exciting finish. The Top Fuel Championship was decided on the last run of the season, crowning Antron Brown of DSR the 2012 Top Fuel World Champion. It was a great run, noted it was a hole shot, by Brandon Bernstein to take out Tony Schumacher in the final round at the Auto Club Finals in Pomona that helped Antron secure the win. In Funny Car, with Courtney Force beating Ron Caps in the Semi Finals, helped DSR Driver, Jack Beckman, win the Nitro Funny Car World Championship. The only other way Funny Car would have been better, if Capps faced Beckman in the Finals. Beckman won by just 2 points in the standings. What a great year for the Nitro Classes. Pro Stock World Champion Allen Johnson won his first Championship, and it was well deserved, and in Pro Stock Motorcycle, Eddie Krawiec captured the PSM World Championship.

Even though the the NHRA season is over, does not mean it is over for the NHRA Teams and their associates. Preparation continues throughout the off season for the teams to prepare for the 2013 season. Many changes will be filtering through along with the always popular, Rumor Mills, popping up through various social medias. Partnerships and Sponsors are always a continues venue for PR's to search and secure. It is not an easy task to accomplish. They put in a lot of hours of research, preparing their strategies, submitting and negotiations for the best offer's they can agree on. Most of the time the end results are very frustrating, but you just pick yourself up and get back on the tracks. Like in the movie "Field of Dreams", "If you Build it, They Will Come" is what it takes for an NHRA Team to build it's brand. A Strong Team that strives to work together, will benefit in the long run.

Also during the "Off Season" in which many believe teams are on a long vacation, they are not. Preparation for next seasons work is in full progress. Hotels, cars, appearances, transportation, and finding the best parts on which you have a budget for is an ongoing project. Not to mention finding the right crew members. So as you see, working for an NHRA Team is a full time, full year job.

Now as far as the Rumor Mill! I have already heard or read that Spencer Massey has been let go from DSR, pending an official statement from DSR. UPDATE: Spencer Massey has been let go by DSR. Here is the link: DSR Confirms release of Spencer Massey. Del Worsham will be driving a Funny Car for Connie Kalitta, and Tommy Delago will be tuning for Alexis Dejoria. I believe that DSR source said that Tommy still has another year on his contract with them. We will see how this all plays out.

I am sure we are saddened by Bob Frey retiring as the long time announcer for the NHRA! His voice has been heard in the NHRA every week since 1966. He is an Icon, a Legend, and the Best when it comes to announcing any NHRA Event. His knowledge and quick with will surely be missed my millions. His successor, which I believe will be Alan Reinhart will have some big shoes to fill, but I feel there is no better man to take on this feat. Looking forward to his announcing in 2013.

Last but not least. I'd like to wish everyone and their families, a very best Holiday Season. May you all enjoy your family, friends, and loved ones during the remaining time of the year, and throughout the new year. Let''s not forget about the men and women who all serve in the Armed Forces, and pray for them and their families through all they will endure to keep America Safe! May the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Series be fun and exciting as 2012. Hope to see you at an event next year.

"Crunch Time" Two NHRA Events Remain

With the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series coming to an end with just two more events left. Once again it looks to be an exciting finish. We have the NHRA Big O Nationals at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, Oct. 25-28, and the NHRA AAA Auto Club Finals in Pomona CA, Nov. 8-11. It may come down to the wire in all the classes, and that will be determined on what happens in Vegas. In this account, What happens in Vegas, won't stay in Vegas.

In Top Fuel we have Antron Brown leading the pack leading teammate Spencer Massey by 104 points. Tony Schumacher is in 3rd 136 points back, Shawn Langdon is 4th 144 points behind, and Brandon Bernstein takes up the 5th position 177 points back. With only 8 rounds left, these 5 drivers have the best chances of taking home the championship for 2012. Morgan Lucas who is 224 points back of Antron has a slim chance, but there would be a lot of determining factors for this to be accomplished, and highly unlikely.

Funny Car is a little tighter in the points. With Jack Beckman grabbing Records in Reading, he has jumped up to the #1 position, 23 points ahead of teammate Ron Capps. Coming in 3rd is Mike Neff 54 points back of Beckman, and who won the race at MapleGrove in Reading. Now comes the big Gap with Johnny Gray in 4th 191 points back, then Cruz Pedregon 193 points back in 5th. John Force has that slight chance being in 6th place 220 points back. Let me Add that Courtney Force is 221 points back, and could pull it off, but very unlikely without records, and leaders DNQ or going out in the 1st Rounds?
I will blog on Pro Stock Cars and Motorcycles in my next blog!

Also I'd like to mention, now that I am with Hoosier Thunder Motorsports, Terry McMillen, that you can still help with Breast Cancer Awareness in donating through She4Life. There is still time to "Pay Tribute to a Loved One" on Terry McMillen's Top Fuel Dragster in Las Vegas. Click on the link below to donate get your loved one on Terry McMillen's car in Vegas. Together they are doing an awesome job in promoting Breast Cancer Awareness in helping support breast cancer victims and their families.

I would also like to congratulate all the NHRA Rookies in 2012 to The Road to the Future. Best of luck to you all. You have all done a great job in 2012 and you are all winners in my book. The eight rookie candidates are Khalid alBalooshi (Top Fuel), Blake Alexander (Funny Car), Alexis DeJoria (Funny Car), Courtney Force (Funny Car), John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle), Todd Lesenko (Funny Car), Chris McGaha (Pro Stock), and Scotty Pollacheck (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

Please click on the links below to get your NHRA Tickets and to Donate to She4Life

NHRA Tickets for the last two remaining events.

Donate to She4Life

Pay Tribute to a Loved One

As you already may know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. "Pink October" as some know it. Every Year Terry McMillen wraps his Top Fuel Dragster in Pink, and the whole crew wears Pink Jerseys to pay tribute to Breast Cancer through She4Life.

This year, Terry McMillen is helping those who want to help pay tribute to She4Life by offering fans to donate $50.00. The Donation Package will include: You will be able to pay tribute to a victim of Cancer, or yourself, by getting their name or yours on Terry's Top Fuel Dragster. You'll also receive an autographed driver handout, a She4Life gift, and you will also be entered in a drawing to win a Pink Crew Jersey. One contributor will win the Pink Crew Jersey.
The deadline to get your name or your loved ones name on Terry's car is Sept 29, 2012, but Terry said it will be extended for a bit. You can always continue to donate through October and throughout the year. Thank you in advance for your donations. Please click on this link to Donate:

She4Life

To learn all about She4Life and their mission, please click on the link:

She4Life Link

Click on the link below to Donate and enter the Drawing:

Donate to She4Life

Terry McMillen/She4Life Flyer

"NHRA U.S. Mac Tools Nationals Quotes Continued"

I recently posted a blog on Live Octane on the "DRIVER THOUGHTS: NHRA MAC TOOLS U.S. NATIONALS PRESENTED BY AUTO-PLUS" and a few quotes did not get posted. So I wanted to share those that did not get posted since these drivers went out of there way and took the time to give me their quotes. I am on the road driving to California so I don't have a lot of time to write an extensive blog at this time on my journey and time at the U.S Nationals in Indy that was rained out. I will be writing another blog on that experience and the Tweet Up as soon as I get settled in CA in a few days.

The question was to the drivers is:

"What are your thoughts when you hear the words "NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals"?

Ron Capps: Napa Auto Parts Dodge Charger Funny Car

"It is our frozen tundra,our yankee stadium,our Indy speedway...the racing spirits still roam that place and winning there means everything"





Clay Millican: Parts Plus Top Fuel Dragster

"As a racer I think Biggest Race of the year. The one you really want to win. Career Win. Career maker. I want to win in it.
As a team manager I think longest race of the year. More runs to make than any other all year. More hotel nights than any race all year. With all that said we at MPE Motorsports can't wait to get there."


Thank you Ron Capps and Clay Millican for helping out with these great quotes on the NHRA U.S. Mac Tools Nationals.

Nitro Twitter Group & Live Octane Join in Tweet Up!

It is that time of the year where the NHRA has it's Grand Daddy Race of the year in Indianapolis for the NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Auto-Plus. This year, is as exciting as it gets, which is the last race before the Countdown begins. There are still drivers and teams that are hoping for a great weekend to squeeze into the Top Ten. You can read all about who is in and who has a chance to be in the race to be the Champion in 2012 at my Live Octane Blog.

What I am here to tell you is that the Nitro Twitter Group and Live Octane have joined forces to a great opportunity to meet fellow NHRA Fans on twitter, and also meet NHRA drivers and crews during the U.S. Nationals.

This Tweet Up will take place on Saturday, September 1, 2012 at Terry McMillen's Hospitality after the last Nitro Qualifying Round of the evening. This should be somewhere around 8-8:30 pm. Terry has always been a strong supporter of the NTG, and is always there either for an appearance or to assist in our Tweet Ups. Terry did not hesitate to help when he was asked about having the get together at his hospitality.

We will have snacks and refreshments, and some special giveaways. Terry and his crew will be there along with TJ Zizzo, and if all works out in their schedules, Bob Tasca III, Larry Dixon, and Alexis Dejoria will be there to sign autographs and mingle with their fans. Please come by and say hi and we hope you enjoy your time at the races.

Put On the Brakes Up Coming Events

If you haven't had a chance to attend a Put On The Brakes Benefit Event, here is your chance. The opportunity to help those in need, help to get the word out, and hang with NHRA and NASCAR Drivers. Doug Herbert and B.R.A.K.E.S are sponsoring the "Take it to the Track" Golf Tournament & 5th Annual Benefit Dinner on Thursday, September 13, 2012 in Concord, NC. This will prior to the NHRA O'Reilly Auto Parts Nationals in Charlotte, NC 9/14 through 9/16 at zMax Dragway. Here is the information on the Event:

B.R.A.K.E.S WILL “GO ROUNDS” WITH NHRA STARS AT BENEFIT GOLF TOURNEY


Drag racers spend most of their time “going rounds” as they compete on the NHRA’s Full
Throttle national event schedule. But on Thursday, September 13th, prior to the running of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Nationals at zMax Dragway in Concord, NC, those same NHRA stars will be going rounds of a different kind as they join their fans on the beautiful Rocky River Golf Course adjacent to zMax for the B.R.A.K.E.S. Benefit Golf Tournament.

All NHRA fans and those looking to help support B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe, a 501c3 non-profit organization) are invited to take part in this upbeat fund-raising event, offering them the chance to play side-by-side with their favorite NHRA drivers.

“This is the kind of event that benefits everyone in some way,” says B.R.A.K.E.S. founder and Top Fuel veteran Doug Herbert. “The drivers get a chance to have some fun and get to know their fans a little better; the fans have a golden opportunity to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the proceeds will help B.R.A.K.E.S. continue its efforts to teach young drivers safer and more conscientious driving skills.”

Many of the NHRA’s brightest stars are expected to participate with awards planned for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-place finishers, while contests for Closest To the Pin, Hole In One, and Longest Drive will also be held. Lunch will be provided and shuttle buses will be in service from the Embassy Suites Hotel and zMax Dragway to Rocky River Golf Course.

The event will conclude that evening with the 5th Annual B.R.A.K.E.S. Dinner held at the Embassy Suites Hotel. Details will be coming soon.

The Golf Tournament entry fee for a single player is $100, $400 per team with foursomes available. Professional drivers will enjoy complimentary registration.

“I hope everyone will set aside that date and come out for a great game of golf on a truly outstanding course,” adds Herbert. “We’d like to see a big turnout and find out if these racers can swing a club as well as they can get down a racetrack.”

For more information on the tournament, inquire about sponsorship opportunities, or to make a donation to B.R.A.K.E.S., call 704-720-3806 or log onto www.putonthebrakes.com

Here are some details:

Golf Tee off is at 9am, Captain Choice play.

Lunch will be served around 1pm

Dinner starts at 7pm, cocktails at 6pm

Rudy. From the movie "Rudy" Notre Dame football story will the speaker

Live silent auction with a short program.

Follow Doug Herbert:

Doug Herbert on Twitter

Doug Herbert on Facebook

Put On The Brakes

My Hiatus From NHRA Events

A lot of you are wondering why I won't be attending anymore races for the rest of 2012 season. It all hit me this weekend while attending Englishtown. So let me fill you in.

The main reason is that my son and his wife are having a baby girl this July. They are struggling right now because my son was let go at his job. With my son & wife having 2 children already, and a third on the way, I need to put aside my passion to help my family. They are my life, and my grandchildren mean the world to me. It just wouldn't feel right, if I was flying here or flying there to attend races while my kids are struggling. I will be back next year in hopes that everything works our well for my son and his family and they get back on their feet. I love you all for all caring and reaching out for my concerns. I really appreciate you all.


A Diaper Cake This was made from my Best Friend, John Wrights wife, Faith. They are putting on a baby shower for my Daughter In Law. They mean the world to me.



Secondly, I had hoped, as a dream to get into the NHRA in some sort of fashion, because I love to Promote, Market, and assist all that drag racing has to offer. I know it takes time and perseverance, but it is time I put it on the back burner for now, and do what I must do. So that is why I created another twitter account because I won't be able to do as much of what I have done in the past. This way no one will expect me to tweet a lot of what is going on within the NHRA.

God Bless you all, and I thank you for all the great memories and understanding. I hope to see you all next year and a track near you.