ADRL.us sponsored by Flowmaster

September 30, 2009

BTG: Jim Oddy’s Austin

Something a little different this time. Your Agent invites you to go Beyond the Guardwall with a blast from the past, the 1948 Austin that National Guard ADRL Pro Extreme crew chief Jim Oddy used to campaign in the late-‘60s to early-‘70s throughout the Northeast.

The car’s restoration is nearing completion at the hands of John Cassiol and friends and hopefully will make it out to a couple of National Guard ADRL events next summer.

Your Agent is already looking forward to it.   

(Photos courtesy John Cassiol)

September 30, 2009

National Guard ADRL Adventures by ‘Pit Pet’

Your Agent recommends a quick trip over to CompetitionPlus.com where you’ll find not only a new look for the site, but a new column featuring the trackside adventures of Lisa “Pit Pet” Richards, darling daughter of National Guard ADRL senior photographer Roger Richards.

Make sure to check out her video clip, too, depicting a brilliant driving job at Flowmaster Dragstock VI by Pro Extreme star Brian Daniels. Hairy stuff!  

September 29, 2009

Adrenaline Zone Online Open for Business

Great, just when your Agent finally paid off his credit card bill after that latest Pokemon buying spree, along comes the new Adrenaline Zone Online store to complement the popular Adrenaline Zone store (above) that’s a “must-visit” destination at all National Guard ADRL events.

You know your Agent loves cool clothes and they don’t come any cooler than the t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats he can now order online from the comfort of his own lair.

Drop by the Adrenaline Zone Online and see for yourself. (But please, don’t tell Mrs. Agent if you see your Agent in line with card in hand.)

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 29, 2009

Bankston Boyz Buy ‘Black Ice’ Camaro

A very well-placed operative just revealed to your Agent that team owner Michael Bankston of the three-car Bankston Boyz Pro Nitrous team has already accepted a deposit on the purchase of his ‘68 Camaro (left) that Tim Savell has been driving the last couple of seasons, as well as sold a couple of engines and a brand-new ‘63 Corvette that Jerry Haas had been building for driver Stan Allen.

All this monetary maneuvreing happened in preparation for the purchase of the David Janes-built ‘68 Camaro (right) that Shannon “Iceman” Jenkins has been piloting the last couple of seasons. Your Agent was told Speedtech Nitrous will remain on the car as a sponsor for Allen’s Bankston effort, so expect to see it as is in the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at Ennis, TX, next month, save for a name change on the doors.

So for those keeping score at home, Allen, who also has been driving a Bankston ‘68 Camaro, will be in Jenkins’ former “Black Ice” ride for the Speedtech Battle for the Belts, scheduled for Friday night in Texas, and Jenkins will have a brand-new, yet-to-be-revealed car for his own Speedtech Battle for the Belts world championship challenge.

(ADRL/Richards file photos)

September 28, 2009

First Look: New PN Camaro for Pierce

No sooner had your Agent posted the below item when lo and behold, look what wafts in through his open window.

According to this exclusive spy photo, it looks like Rickie Smith’s old Al-Anabi ride now resides in Claremore, OK, at the racing home of Dave Pierce and his Purple Gorillas.

It’s a Jerry Bickel car and according to your Agent’s operative, is using the same drivetrain and R-M 800 c.i., 5.2-borespace powerplant with four stages of Steve Johnson’s Induction Solutions nitrous that the Vette had in it. Apparently Pierce also was able to drop at least 175 pounds in making the car swap, so it’s one svelte Gorilla transporter. 

Mystery solved!

September 28, 2009

Not-so-Purple Gorillas Go Into the 3s!

Well, your Agent only has pictures of the “old” car, but he received a message late last night saying that Dave Pierce and his “Purple Gorillas” made their first three-second pass in their “new” car.

Apparently, during testing on Friday at Tulsa Raceway Park, Pierce laid down a .987 60-foot time that led to a 3.979 pass at 187.52 mph in the new Reher-Morrison-powered ride.

And get this—the new car isn’t purple!

Looks like we all have something to look for in Pro Nitrous at Ennis next month.

(ADRL/Richards file photo)

September 27, 2009

Don’t Miss Dragstock VI on Versus

Just another quick reminder from your Agent to tune in at 3 p.m. tomorrow (Sep. 27) to the Versus television network for coverage of the record-setting National Guard ADRL Flowmaster Dragstock VI.

You’ll get to see the quickest fields the National Guard ADRL has ever produced in three of its five professional classes (and narrowly missing a fourth), including the first all-three-second Pro Nitrous qualifying list.

Plus, this race set the final stage for next month’s Speedtech Battle for the Belts, to be held Friday night during qualifying for the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at the Texas Motorplex.

Your Agent will be tuned in—just not at home since he’s a DirecTV subscriber, but that’s another story!

September 25, 2009

Beyond the Guardwall: Steve Earwood

Your Agent suggests going Beyond the Guardwall today with longtime race promoter Steve Earwood, owner and operator of Rockingham Dragway.

Earwood has some interesting comments about the recent Flowmaster Dragstock VI at his track and makes a suggestion about what it will take for the National Guard ADRL to reach the proverbial “next level.”

Check it out here.

September 25, 2009

Pro Nitrous Racer in the Making

Your Agent was forwarded these photos of nine-year-old Payton Wood, a die-hard National Guard ADRL fan and Speedtech Nitrous supporter, with his custom-painted Pinewood Derby car.

Payton finished runner-up in his Cub Scout Pack 96 Pinewood Derby Drags earlier this year at Athens, GA, and hopes to someday graduate to a Pro Jr. Dragster on the National Guard ADRL circuit.

His father, Andy, is good friends with shop manager Wayne Davis over at Speedtech, and says young Payton idolizes Speedtech lead driver Shannon Jenkins. In fact, that’s one of “The Iceman’s” autographed slicks serving as a display stand for Andy’s car.

“I have known Wayne for about 30 years and Payton talks to him about racing, spark plugs, parachutes and nitrous,” Andy told your Agent. “He is a very imaginative and innovative little boy. He wants to help drag racing become safer and thinks he can do so by adding a third parachute or coming up with an arresting cable like the one that stops jets on an aircraft carrier. He’s a pretty smart kid and always thinking.”

Hmmmmm, maybe Shannon should give Payton a call for a little advice on next month’s Speedtech Battle for the Belts. The kid’s obviously got winning ways. 

September 23, 2009

Pilcher Goes 3.85—Maybe; Maybe Not

Well, your Agent contacted Pro Nitrous star Johnny Pilcher this afternoon after the Internet was set abuzz with news he went 3.85 at 190 mph in testing Drexel Stewart’s ‘68 Camaro. That E.T. would be the quickest ever for the nitrous-boosted class.

But not so fast, said the man from Chancellor, AL.

“I don’t know where that came from; I haven’t even driven that car in three or four months,” Pilcher told your Agent. “I have no doubt the car is capable of going those kind of numbers, but that’s all I can say.”

He’ll find out for sure what it can really do, though, in a test session planned for next week at South Georgia Motorsports Park.

After seriously damaging the engine in his ‘63 Corvette at Phenix City, AL, a couple of weekends back, Pilcher said Stewart is being kind enough to lend him the Camaro and its Sonny Leonard “Chemi” powerplant for the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V next month at Ennis, TX, in which Pilcher is seeded fifth for the Oct. 23, Speedtech Battle for the Belts.

When asked point blank if he had ever run 3.85 in the Haas-built Camaro, Pilcher simply answered, “No.”

That’s good enough for your Agent.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 23, 2009

Bennett/Haynes Team Up for Texas?

Looks like Pat Bennett (left) and Randall Haynes may be pairing up as at least temporary teammates for the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals in Texas next month. Brian Shaw of OTG Racing also told your Agent he’s close to signing a sponsor to help him get Haynes to the Oct. 23-24 event at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, TX.

“We are learning more about this light weight, big power racing each time we go out. We went 4.08 at “The Rock,” the problem is the only time we have to test is at a race. So, if all goes well ,we will show up in Texas and find our 3.90,” Shaw said. “(Of course) with our luck, it will be a 3.80 bump!”

Shaw said he’s currently negotiating with Bennett to share data at the Dallas-area event.

“Maybe this way we can get these cars in the show or on the site without spectacular crashes or nitrous explosions,” he said with a laugh, referring to Bennett’s recent mishaps at the last couple of races. “Just pokin’ fun at Pat, (but) we think both teams can benefit from this.”

Your Agent also suggests checking out the OTG Racing Web site for some very cool and creative perspectives of National Guard ADRL racing. Make sure to watch the front page video that includes some interesting time-lapse photography from the NATIONALGUARD.com U.S. Drags II in Virginia, as well as clicking on the “Virtual Tools” button in the top navigation bar.

(ADRL/Davis/Schiltz file photos)

September 23, 2009

‘Tricky Rickie’ Racing at Ennis?

That’s what your Agent hears.

Word has it that “Tricky Rickie” Smith will enter the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals Oct. 23-24, at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, TX.

Smith’s return to National Guard ADRL Pro Nitrous action as a driver instead of just crew chief, as he served most of the year with the powerhouse Al-Anabi team, is a welcome development as far as your Agent is concerned.

Smith is one of the best, bar none, on both sides of the driver’s door and your Agent can’t wait to see him eventually line up against one of his old teammates.

Can you say, “Rivalry in the making?” Your Agent can.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 23, 2009

Flowmaster Dragstock VI on Versus this Sunday

Your Agent reminds you to tune in to the Versus network this Sunday, Sep. 27 at 3 p.m., for the broadcast of the recently completed National Guard ADRL Flowmaster Dragstock VI from Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina.

This event featured several record-setting individual performances, as well as the quickest fields ever in three of the five National Guard ADRL pro classes, including the first all three-second field in Pro Nitrous.

If you’re unsure where Versus might be on your local channel listing, check out the handy Versus locator here at ADRL.us. Just click on the “Watch ADRL on VERSUS” button near the top left of the homepage, then insert your zip code into the appropriate box. A list of service providers and channels specific to your area will pop up. It’s that simple.

If you miss any of the National Guard ADRL airings on Versus, you also can visit the new ADRL Videos On Demand player. It will provide online versions of all National Guard ADRL TV shows in their entirety, plus exclusive interviews and bonus features, such as a video from each class that depicts every elimination run so far this season.

September 22, 2009

Speedtech Battle for the Belts Report

For a quick synopsis of the upcoming Speedtech Battle for the Belts in PX, PN, XTF and XPS at the Texas Motorplex next month, take a look over at StreetLegalTV.com.

Also, take a look at all five Speedtech Battle for the Belts ladders here.

September 21, 2009

Bischoff Calls it Quits

Unfortunately, it looks like veteran racer Tony Bischoff has pulled the plug on driving in the National Guard ADRL—or anwhere else, for that matter.

Your Agent came across the news over at StreetLegalTV.com and it apparently stems from Bischoff’s scary rollover crash during the National Guard ADRL Hardee’s Gateway Drags II in August.

Your Agent actually spoke with a visibly dismayed Bishoff after the accident at Gateway International Raceway essentially destroyed his Extreme 10.5 2002 Cougar.

“I think I can do more good just calling the shots as crew chief,” Bishoff said at the time. “I like the driving, but I’m just not confident in what I can do out there, so maybe it’s time to get out of the seat.”

Apparently, the decision has been reached.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 21, 2009

Attention in the PXM Pits: Fire Suppression

Your Agent was asked by National Guard ADRL Executive VP of Competition Bert “Bubba” Corzine to remind all Pro Extreme Motorcycle (PXM) teams that onboard fire suppression systems are mandatory for them to compete next month in the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals at Ennis, TX. This rule applies to all Speedtech Battle for the Belts competitors, too.

“This is not just a recommendation to the Pro Extreme Motorcycle guys; it is a requirement to race,” Corzine stated. “Anyone not carrying a fully charged and ready-to-use onboard fire suppression system will not be allowed to make a lap, no exceptions.”

So no excuses, PXMers, make sure your bike is properly equipped to meet the new rule.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 19, 2009

BRAKES Fundraiser a Success

Your Agent sends kudos to the organizers and attendees of the BRAKES (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe) fundraiser at Pro Extreme star Todd Tutterow’s pit on Thursday night before Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

Apparently, $2,500 was raised for the charity initiated by Top Fuel racer Doug Herbert to promote safe teen driving after his two young sons died in a traffic accident earlier this year.

The night’s festivities included a free pork barbeque, karaoke and a great opportunity to relax and mingle amongst the National Guard ADRL family of racers. 

And a good time was had by all.

(ADRL/Richards file photo)

September 18, 2009

Rules? We Don’t Need No Stinkin’ Rules!

Sometimes it pays to stay a little late.

Long after most of the National Guard ADRL staff had gone home this afternoon for a well-deserved weekend respite, your Agent, unbeknownst to the Competition department, remained behind with his trusty water glass pressed firmly between their wall and his ear.

It was hard to hear at times through all the acrimony, but at issue was the well-debated proposal to introduce minimum weights and ban traction control devices from ADRL competition.

Well, your Agent can report with 99.9-percent certainty that no minimum weights will be forthcoming and traction control will remain an option for all National Guard ADRL teams, except for those in Extreme Pro Stock, which retain the rules that mandate a minimum weight (2,425 lbs w/driver) and specify the use of traction control is not allowed.

From what your Agent can tell, a formal press release announcing the same could be issued as soon as Monday.

So rest easy, outlaw doorslammers, and tell Chicken Little it’s safe to go outside again.

(ADRL/Richards file photo)

September 17, 2009

Nowling Named ‘Man of the Year’

It seems a little early in the calendar year to your Agent, but National Guard ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling has been named “Drag Racing Man of the Year” by Internet site www.13B.us.

Mitch Sonntag of 13B.us attended both the Richmond and Columbus National Guard ADRL events and apparently came away so impressed with our fearless leader that there was no need to wait.

Your Agent can’t argue with that. 

Check out the story here.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 17, 2009

BTG: Gary Rowe

Here’s something a little different. Go Beyond the Guardwall with photographer Gary Rowe of Raceworks.com to see a unique collection of pictures he shot of the recent ADRL event at Rockingham Dragway.

Believe your Agent here, you want to see this.

Check out the latest addition to Dragstock lore here.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo.

September 16, 2009

PXM’s Grothus Named ‘Person of the Week’

Your Agent noticed that Pro Extreme Motorcycle racer Brunson Grothus is featured as “Person of the Week” over at Dragbike.com.

Great to see one of the National Guard ADRL’s rising young stars get a little recognition.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 14, 2009

Flowmaster Dragstock VI Coverage Online

Your Agent was doing a little post-Flowmaster Dragstock VI Web surfing and came across several early online reports of interest.

For unique perspectives on the action from Rockingham Dragway, check out East Coast Drag News photographer John Mason’s blog and then swing by the Titan Motorsports blog for an insider’s look at their weekend.

There’s also a story and pics over at DragRacingOnline.com and make sure to drop by CompetitionPlus.com to read the voluminous output of your Agent’s old pal Bobby Bennett.

There’s more to come, too, and your Agent will pass along the links when he sees them.

(John Mason photo, courtesy Johnedwinmason.typepad.com)

September 13, 2009

Speedtech Battle for the Belts Fields Set

Though still subject to official confirmation, with the conclusion of Flowmaster Dragstock VI, the fields for the 2009 Speedtech Battle for the Belts have been established.

The top eight points earners in each National Guard ADRL professional class will face off against each other in championship-deciding shootouts Oct. 23, on day one of the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, TX.

Congratulations to all 40 teams that qualified as contenders for the Speedtech Battle for the Belts (leaders shown for each class).

PRO EXTREME

1. Jason Scruggs 2. Quain Stott 3. Joshua Hernandez 4. Mike Janis 5. Todd Tutterow 6. Cody Barklage 7. Jason Hamstra 8. Bubba Stanton

PRO NITROUS

1. Jim Halsey 2. Shannon Jenkins 3. Mike Castellana 4. Khalid Al-Balooshi 5. Johnny Pilcher 6. Burton Auxier 7. Stan Allen 8. Steve Vick

EXTREME 10.5

1. Billy Glidden 2. Gary White 3. Jeff Naiser 4. Chuck Ulsch 5. Todd Moyer 6. Jeff Paulk 7. Jake Carlton 8. Spiro Pappas

PRO EXTREME MOTORCYCLE

1. Scott Gray 2. Ashley Owens 3. Eric McKinney 4. Travis Davis 5. Matt Prophit 6. Ron Procopio 7. Charlie Prophit 8. Lance Hines

EXTREME PRO STOCK

1. Brian Gahm 2. Doug Kirk 3. Matt Hartford 4. Elijah Morton 5. John Montecalvo 6. Jason Collins 7. Dean Goforth 8. Robert Patrick Jr.

(ADRL Bunsold/Richards file photos)

September 12, 2009

Smith Out; Perley In at Al-Anabi Racing

Your Agent didn’t see this one coming and details are still forthcoming, but he can confirm that Al-Anabi Racing has severed all ties with Rickie Smith (far left), who was serving as crew chief on Khalid Al-Balooshi’s Pro Nitrous entry in the National Guard ADRL.

Rumored to be replacing Smith in the Al-Anabi camp is Jeff Perley, former crew chief for Greg Anderson’s multi-championship-winning Pro Stock team and more recently co-crew chief on Alan Johnson’s Pro Stock entry.

You can bet your Agent will pay attention to this one.

UPDATE (9/12/09): The Al-Anabi camp released the following statement this afternoon:

“We simply parted company,” said Mike Castellana of Al-Anabi Racing. “There are no hard feelings and we appreciate the assistance he provided while working with us.”

Shannon “The Iceman” Jenkins, who oversees the Al-Anabi Racing Pro Nitrous team was nothing but positive about the situation: “We’re moving forward, and so will Rickie [Smith]. Like Mike said, we’ve no hard feelings towards him, we’re just making the best moves for this team.”

As for the rumored addition to the Al-Anabi Racing team of Jeff Perley, current co-crew chief for Alan Johnson’s NHRA Pro Stock car and former crew chief for multi-time NHRA Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson, Jenkins confirmed that it was nothing more than hearsay at this point in time. “Jeff [Perley] is here this weekend, feeling things out, but there is no contract signed, no agreement made. Anything that is said otherwise is just a rumor at this point.”

As always, Jenkins will be calling the shots on Mike Castellana’s ‘70.5 Camaro, but will also assume the crew chief role on K.A. Balooshi’s ‘68 Chevy Camaro for the remainder of the weekend.

(ADRL/Bunsold photo) 

September 12, 2009

Tucci and Olson on CompPlus.com

Check out the feature story on National Guard ADRL announcing team Al Tucci and Brian Olson over at CompetitionPlus.com.

September 11, 2009

Sign of the Times

Is the ADRL getting into the track sanctioning business?

Certainly nothing official, but that’s what it looks like to your Agent here at Rockingham Dragway.

That’s series prez and CEO Kenny Nowling and Executive Veep Jessica Alcoke with National Guard Pro Extreme driver Joshua Hernandez admiring the sign painter’s progress on the latest addition to “The Rock’s” skyline.

(ADRL/Tocher photos) 

September 11, 2009

World’s Largest Nitrous Bottle?

A common maxim in the Pro Nitrous pits suggests, “Bigger is better,” at least as far as engine size goes, but Speedtech Nitrous is taking things to the next level with its latest marketing tool, set to debut this weekend at Rockingham Dragway.

The World’s Largest Nitrous Bottle will be front and center at Flowmaster Dragstock VI, where National Guard ADRL racers in all five pro classes will be going after last-chance points toward qualifying for the championship-deciding Speedtech Battle for the Belts in October at the Texas Motorplex.

Your Agent just wants to know if she blew that up all by herself.

September 10, 2009

It’s a Girl!

Your Agent is happy to report His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani has welcomed a new daughter to the Qatar royal family.

His wife, Miriam Al Thani, gave birth in the wee hours of Sept. 9, at 3:18 a.m. local time in London, England, a little later than expected, prompting the proud new dad to quip, “She was a little late on the tree, but with a little practice I think we can improve in the future.”

Little Nora Al Thani weighed a healthy 8 lbs 1oz at birth and your Agent is told both mother and daughter are doing well.

National Guard ADRL President and CEO was thrilled to hear the news. “Sheikh Khalid is a wonderful friend not only to me personally, but to the entire ADRL family. I want to congratulate both he and Miriam and wish them and Nora all the best,” he said.

Check back soon with your Agent for exclusive photos of the newest member of the Al Thani royal family.

September 10, 2009

Janis Tests in D’Aprile’s New Car

Your Agent sees the Mel Bush Motorsports team made a little detour on their way to Rockingham Dragway for this weekend’s National Guard ADRL Flowmaster Dragstock VI.

Apparently, the Bush boys hit Mooresville (NC) Dragway to put a few test laps on the Dan Page-built ‘70.5 Camaro they debuted three weeks ago in the National Guard ADRL event at Hebron, OH, but with driver Tommy D’Aprile unable to make the test session, teammate Mike Janis took the Chuck Yeager role as test pilot in D’Aprile’s car.

“It’s always weird stepping into someone else’s ride, but this car is very similar to my Firebird that Dan (Page) built for me. So, I felt pretty comfortable,” Janis said. “This car performed very well so far and I think she’s going to be very fast.”

D’Aprile’s crew chief, Kevin Peters, also feels they haven’t yet tapped the true potential of the new Camaro.

“We were pleased with the car’s first outing in Columbus, but there is always room for improvement. This car has all the advantages built into it we just have to utilize them. Right now we’re testing some new gear ratios in order to take advantage of the light weight of this car,” Peters said.

“There’s just so much potential here in so many areas that we need to slow down and take them on one at a time. It won’t be hard to tell when we’ve made gains. You’ll see it on the scoreboards.”

(ADRL/Rouweyha photo)

September 9, 2009

First Look: Balooshi’s Bickel-Built Camaro

Your Agent doesn’t have much more to go on beyond these couple of cell-phone pics, but an operative at Mooresville (NC) Dragway snapped the brand-new Jerry Bickel-built ‘68 Camaro of Pro Nitrous Rookie of the Year contender Khalid Al-Balooshi as it was readied for its maiden test runs.

No word on the performance, but your Agent hears the new car could debut as soon as this weekend’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

Also making its National Guard ADRL debut at Flowmaster Dragstock VI will be “Dr.” Howard Moon’s latest creation, the Barwa-backed, Tim McAmis-built ‘68 Camaro (bottom) driven by Von Smith in the Pro Extreme ranks.

Clearly, Al-Anabi Racing will be well represented at “The Rock.” 

September 9, 2009

First Look: LenMar ‘HelAir’

The Texas Bounty Hunter rides again!

Mark Eddins (left) and Gaylen Smith of LenMar Motorsports down in Mansfield, TX, show off their brand-spankin’-new, Tim McAmis-built ‘57 Chevy “HelAir,” recently painted in-house by House of Hot Rods master sprayer Chad “Critter” Mahone.

Smith will be behind the wheel this weekend in the car’s Pro Extreme debut at Rockingham Dragway for the National Guard ADRL’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI.

(Photo courtesy LenMar Motorsports)

September 9, 2009

Al-Anabi Racing Family Grows

No, the powerhouse Al-Anabi Racing Team isn’t adding a fifth Pro Nitrous entry (at least not yet, as far as your Agent knows); this time it’s team owner His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar (right, with National Guard ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling) who’s becoming a first-time father.

The Sheikh is currently at his new wife’s side in London, England, where she will give birth to a royal daughter any time now. After that, he plans to jet back over to the States in time to catch a little of this weekend’s National Guard ADRL Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

Whew! And your Agent thought he had a tough travel schedule!

(ADRL/Tocher file photo) 

September 9, 2009

New Fuel-Injected PN Entry On the Way

Your Agent doesn’t have much to go on, but here’s a look at Hector Estrada’s ‘63 Corvette that’s destined to make its National Guard ADRL Pro Nitrous debut Oct. 23-24, in the LenMar Motorsports ADRL World Finals V at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, TX.

The car was built by PMS Race Cars in Puerto Rico and most significantly will sport the first Pat Musi Performance 903 c.i. Edelbrock fuel-injected engine placed into service.

Your Agent has to admit, his curiousity is piqued. 

September 8, 2009

Pre-Race Party for a Good Cause

If you’re at Rockingham Dragway this Thursday, Sep. 10, make sure to join your Agent in supporting a great cause while attending the National Guard ADRL pre-race party for Flowmaster Dragstock VI that starts at 7 p.m. in Todd Tutterow’s Pro Extreme pit area.

Donations will be accepted to support the B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe) charity program established by Top Fuel racer Doug Herbert to promote safe teen driving after both of his young sons were killed in a traffic accident early this year.

The event will feature a free pig roast with complimentary soft drinks provided by the good folks at Cheerwine, and your Agent hears there’s supposed to be a DJ and karaoke machine there, too, though he’s been banned from participating in karaoke by Mrs. Agent ever since offering that rousing rendition of Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s the Night” at her mother’s 70th birthday party.

So drop on by Sep. 10, and join your Agent in proudly sporting the temporary tattoo you’ll receive for making a donation to B.R.A.K.E.S. 

September 8, 2009

Rester Chasing Dreams at ‘The Rock’

James Rester Jr., who last competed in a National Guard ADRL event in June 2007, will return to the Pro Extreme Motorcycle ranks this weekend at the National Guard ADRL’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

Rester, a former AMA Pro Star world champion, will be debuting an all-new ride put together by Dave Scaggs of D&G Chassis with a self-built 1570 Suzuki 4-valve featuring machine work by Jeff Reel between the frame rails. Rester also singled out Danny Cuzanato for wiring the bike and longtime friend Greg Williams for his invaluable help over the last couple of months in putting everything together.

A test session is set for Wednesday at Sunshine Dragway, near Rester’s Clearwater, FL, home, then he’ll be heading north to enter Flowmaster Dragstock VI.

“I’ve never gone to a racetrack before with such nice stuff, so I’m really looking forward to this,” Rester said. “If I can just figure out which way to turn the knobs, I think we can do it.”

After telling his seven-year-old son Jack to “Always chase your dreams,” Rester said that’s exactly what he’ll be doing this weekend with the National Guard ADRL at “The Rock.”

(Photos courtesy Rester Racing)

September 8, 2009

Happy 29th to the Smiths!

Your Agent learned this morning that National Guard ADRL Pro Extreme driver Gaylen Smith and his wife, Celeste, are celebrating 29 years of martrimony today.

Congratulations to the happy Texas couple from your Agent and everyone at National Guard ADRL worldwide headquarters.

Meanwhile, your Agent also heard that Smith’s new ‘57 Chevy “HelAir” is undergoing some last-minute wiring and final airbrush work today in order to conduct a very brief test session tomorrow—at a secret, unnamed facility—before heading east for its debut at the Sep. 11-12, Flowmaster Dragstock VI in Rockingham, NC. 

(ADRL/Richards file photo)

September 7, 2009

Prophit Primed for Dragstock

Walt Timblin, chassis builder and crew chief for Pro Extreme Motorcycle rider Charlie Prophit, snapped this shot of Prophit making a test hit Saturday evening at the new, all-concrete Dallas (TX) Raceway.

No numbers were forthcoming, but Timblin told your Agent, “Testing went great and Charlie is pumped and ready for the ADRL race at ‘The Rock.’”

That’s good, because your Agent is anxious to see Charlie and his brother/teammate, Matt, regain their early-season form at the Sep. 11-12, Flowmaster Dragstock VI after Matt missed a couple of races and Charlie suffered a couple of disappointing early exits at the last few events.

(Photo courtesy Walt Timblin)

September 7, 2009

Happy Birthday, Brian!

How fitting is it that one of the ADRL’s hardest-working guys has a birthday on Labor Day? 

Your Agent is a little late in the day getting to this, but wants to wish Brian Evans, director of business development for the National Guard ADRL, a very happy birthday.

No word on his length of time on this earth so far, but your Agent hears that Brian spent the weekend celebrating the annual event by taking in the sights and sounds of Branson, MO, with friends before gearing up for this coming weekend’s National Guard ADRL Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

Hope it was a happy one, Brian. Now get back to work!

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 5, 2009

Watch National Guard ADRL on Versus

Just a quick reminder to tune in to the Versus network tomorrow, Sunday, Sep.6 at 3 p.m., for the broadcast of the recently completed National Guard ADRL Summit Racing Equipment Ohio Drags III from National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio.

This race featured brand-new winners in all five National Guard ADRL pro classes, so it’s an exciting one all around.

If you’re unsure where Versus might be on your local channel listing, check out the handy, dandy Versus locator here at ADRL.us. Just click on the “Watch ADRL on VERSUS” button near the top left of the homepage, then insert your zip code into the appropriate box. A list of service providers and channels specific to your area will pop up. It’s that simple.

If you miss any of the National Guard ADRL airings on Versus, just visit the new ADRL Videos On Demand player. It provides online versions of all National Guard ADRL TV shows in their entirety, plus exclusive interviews and bonus features, such as a video from each class that depicts every elimination run so far this season.

September 4, 2009

New Addition to National Guard ADRL Family

Your Agent joins everyone at worldwide headquarters in welcoming Hannah Grace Peterson to the extended National Guard ADRL family.

Hannah arrived Sep. 2, to proud parents Stephanie and Jason Peterson, operators of U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, MI, and daughter and son-in-law to (if your Agent’s guess is correct), even prouder grampa, Rockingham Dragway owner Steve Earwood.

The little bundle of joy measured 21.5 inches and weighed in at 8 lbs, 10 ozs upon arrival.

Hearty congrats all around!

September 2, 2009

Sneak Peek: Gaylen Smith’s New ‘HelAir’

Well, you can’t get much more of a sneak peek than this, but as far as your Agent knows, this is the first published pic of LenMar Motorsports’ new Tim McAmis-built ‘57 Chevy, scheduled to make its debut Sep. 11-12, at Flowmaster Dragstock VI in Rockingham, NC.

This is just enough to suggest to your Agent that “Critter” is on top of things and they may need to start clearing some wall space down at the LenMar shop for a new “Best Appearing” plaque.

September 2, 2009

Part-Time PXMer Johnson Visits National Guard ADRL

While searching the staff kitchen for a fresh cruller to go with his double-mocha latte this afternoon, your Agent spotted an interesting visitor to National Guard ADRL worldwide headquarters in popular motorcycle drag racer Steve Johnson.

Johnson, shown here giving pointers to Pro Jr. Dragster driver K.J. Nowling, made a one-race appearance in the Pro Extreme Motorcycle class early this year at Valdosta, GA.

Could he be mounting a serious effort at putting together a full-time PXM program for 2010?

Your Agent wonders. 

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 2, 2009

Call to Action! DirecTV and Versus in Dispute

Your Agent was disturbed and disappointed to learn this morning that satellite program provider DirecTV and the Versus network that broadcasts National Guard ADRL events are currently locked up in negotiations and at this point Versus is not airing on DirecTV. However, the upside is that Versus has been added to all tiers for Dish Network subscribers. 

The standoff apparently stems from a dispute between DirecTV and Comcast, owners of Versus, over what constitutes “market value” for carrying the network.

Versus sent the following to the National Guard ADRL, requesting its posting to ADRL.us: “We are hopeful that DirecTV will make the right decision for its customers and put Versus back on the air so sports fans can continue to enjoy all of the network’s marquee programming. In the meantime, we urge you to call 1-800-642-1923 to demand that DirecTV puts Versus back on or visit www.Versus.com for more information about how to switch to another video provider; all of which carry Versus.“

You can also go straight to a complaint form here.

Your Agent is a DirecTV subscriber and definitely will be making a switch if this is not ironed out pronto.

September 2, 2009

MBE Open House for National Guard ADRL Teams

Looking for an interesting side trip on your way to Rockingham Dragway for the Sep. 11-12, Flowmaster Dragstock VI?

Your Agent learned today of an open house event for National Guard ADRL team members being hosted Sep. 9-10, by MBE Cylinder Heads and Manifolds in Mooresville, NC.

MBE has worked recently with Pro Extreme racer Todd Tutterow, the Extreme Pro Stock teams of Elijah Morton and Steven Boone, and Tony Wilson in Extreme 10.5, among others.

“We’re a high-end shop for race teams of a high caliber and the ADRL guys certainly fit the bill,” MBE’s Dave Bieneman told your Agent. “We’d love to see as many ADRL teams as possible drop by to see what we do and what we can do for them.”

Interested parties are asked to RSVP by calling Matt Bieneman at (704) 662-7901 or e-mailing him at mbematt@windstream.net.

MBE Cylinder Heads and Manifolds is located at 1018-B Gateway Drive, Moorseville, NC, 28115.

September 2, 2009

Hill Helping Hendrick

Last your Agent heard, National Guard ADRL Pro Extreme team owner and Pro Jr. Dragster driving instructor Roy Hill was just getting out of the hospital after treatment for some undisclosed ailment.

So it was welcome news for your Agent to stumble across an article today about Hill helping out NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick last week as he learned how to drive a drag car.

Just goes to show, you never know where a National Guard ADRL personality is going to turn up next.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 1, 2009

Bennett Back in Time for Dragstock VI

Mark Ingle, owner of the Pat Bennett-driven Mark Ingle Motorsports Pro Nitrous 1963 Corvette, contacted your Agent to pass along that after taking a hit Aug. 22, during last-chance Pro Nitrous qualifying at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, OH, the car will be “good as new” Sep. 11-12, for the National Guard ADRL’s Flowmaster Dragstock VI at Rockingham Dragway.

“(We) wanted to let everyone know that we had been chasing an electrical problem prior to the crash in the last round of qualifing,” Ingle explained. “We had changed only one component prior to that round and found the problem. Unfortunately, the clutch was set up soft, still anticipating being down on power. The clutch locked up too fast, causing the car to hit the right wall before turning head on into the opposite wall.”

Your Agent understands the crew at Pat Bennett Race Cars up in Amherst, VA, is currently hard at work restoring the Vette to race-ready form.

“We appreciate all the phone calls, well wishers and offers of help, and especially the ADRL safety and track crews,” Ingle said. “See you at ‘The Rock!’”

(ADRL/Richards photo)

September 1, 2009

National Guard Teammates Going to Richmond High

Your Agent just learned that National Guard Pro Extreme teammates Joshua Hernandez and Travis Swearingen are going back to school Sep. 10, as they’ll visit with students at Richmond Senior High, just a few miles down Hwy. 1 from Rockingham Dragway, site of the Sep. 11-12, Flowmaster Dragstock VI, the National Guard ADRL’s oldest and most prestigious event.

The National Guard duo will be at the school from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday before gearing up for qualifying Friday at “The Rock.”

Your Agent knows that as a former Dragstock champion (2007), Hernandez would like nothing better than to become the event’s first PX repeat winner, and Swearingen will be looking for his chance at making Dragstock history.

(ADRL/Tocher file photo)

September 1, 2009

Kepner Hits Century Mark

No, not chronologically, that was covered by your Agent a few days ago.

Instead, National Guard ADRL TV reporter and fount of drag racing trivia Bret Kepner picked up the 100th eliminator win of his driving career Aug. 30, at the world’s oldest continuous drag racing event, the 56th annual World Series of Drag Racing at Cordova (IL) Dragway Park.

It was Kepner’s third victory at the prestigious event since 2005 and your Agent hears ol’ Kep was cutting down the tree with four “double-oh” reaction times—including a 0.001 in the final round! Of course, his three “dead-on” runs in nine rounds of eliminations—including one “with a zero” in the semis—didn’t hurt his cause any either.

Congrats, Bret! (BTW, is that driving suit SFI-certified?)