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February 26, 2010

Sheikh Beats All for Arabian Drag Racing Championship

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 26, 2010) – In one of the most remarkable rookie seasons ever for a professional race car driver, Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar has won the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-’10 Pro Extreme championship.

Driving a 3,000-horsepower, supercharged 1968 Camaro tuned by legendary American drag racer Frank “Ace” Manzo, Al-Thani, 23, qualified first four times and won three of seven events on his way to securing the series title.

Alex Hossler (near lane) left .195 too early to turn on the red bulb in the left lane, negating a solid 3.74-seconds pass at 203.71 mph, while Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani had a sharp .024 reaction time, but soon encountered traction problems and won the race and the Arabian Pro Extreme championship  with an off-the-pace 5.18 at 94.95 mph over the QRC eighth mile in his Tim McAmis-built ‘68 Camaro.

Still, entering Round 7 this weekend at the Qatar Racing Club, Al-Thani was joined by defending series champion Von Smith and fellow American Alex Hossler as drivers with a mathematical shot at winning the championship.

When Hossler ousted Smith from the semi-finals, it left Al-Thani facing Bader Ahli of the United Arab Emirates in perhaps the pivotal match-up of his young driving career. The Sheikh didn’t disappoint, running low time and top speed of the event with a 3.71-seconds blast at 207.27 miles per hour over the eighth-mile distance to advance and secure the 2009-’10 Arabian Pro Extreme Championship.

“We were well aware of the different possible outcomes of the points race,” Al-Thani said later. “But we knew the best approach to situations such as these is to rely only on our capabilities and not the actions of others. Winning the race would mean winning the championship, so that was our goal from the start of the event.”

Al-Thani capped the accomplishment with the race win over Hossler, who was disqualified for leaving too soon in the final round.

In victory lane Sheikh Khalid (with trophy) celebrated with his Al-Anabi teammates and received the Arabian Drag Racing League’s Driver of the Year award, with his crew chief, Frank “Ace” Manzo (third from left), being named Crew Chief of the Year after tuning Al-Thani to world-record elapsed times and speeds while picking up three event wins on their way to the Pro Extreme championship.

In victory lane, Al-Thani also received the Arabian Drag Racing League Driver of the Year award and Manzo, a 12-time Top Alcohol Funny Car world champion and 101 national event winner, was named Crew Chief of the Year.

“I couldn’t be happier for him,” Al-Thani said of Manzo. “It was great to see his big smile after we got back to the pits and see the excitement on everyone’s face. It was a big moment, and I believe it is only the beginning for this Al-Anabi Racing team.”

Joining Al-Thani as an Arabian Drag Racing League champion was his Al-Anabi Racing teammate, Khalid Al-Balooshi, who backed up his 2009 American Drag Racing League Pro Nitrous championship after taking the win in the Qatar Pro Nitrous final over New Yorker Mike Castellana.

Also featured in the Arabian Drag Racing League is the Extreme 10.5 class, named for the relatively narrow rear slicks mandated for the cars, in which Dan Millen (right, near lane) of Dearborn, Michigan, qualified number one and advanced to face championship rival Mahana Al-Naimi in the final round.

With the race win and the championship still in play, Millen left nothing on the table, leaving with a stellar .005 reaction time, then steering his turbocharged 2004 Mustang past the finish line in 4.27 seconds at 177.72 mph.

“This has been a tremendous season for the Arabian Drag Racing League, one that stands out for its record-setting performances and growth as a series,” Kenny Nowling, president and CEO for both the American and Arabian Drag Racing Leagues, said. “I congratulate all the race winners and champions and thank them for providing us with memories to last a lifetime.”

Al-Anabi Racing teammates Khalid Al-Balooshi (near lane) and Mike Castellana squared off in the Pro Nitrous final for Round 7 of the 2009-10 Arabian Drag Racing League season, with Al-Balooshi overcoming a holeshot to win the race and the championship, giving him simultaneous Pro Nitrous titles in the American and Arabian Drag Racing Leagues.

Among those packing the Qatar Racing Club grandstands to capacity this weekend were several dignitaries, including more than 400 U.S. service men and women, U.S. Embassy First Secretary of Press, Education and Cultural Affairs Joey Hood; Mahvash Siddiqui, Cultural Attache, Public Affairs Section for the Embassy of the United States of America, several members of the Kuwaiti royal family and Dominic Reilly, head of marketing for the Williams Formula 1 racing team.

(ADRL/Richards photos)

February 26, 2010

Wind Halts Arabian Championship Event

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 26, 2010)—Severe wind and sand storms interrupted proceedings today for the championship-deciding Round 7 of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 season, prompting race officials to cancel a scheduled fourth and final round of qualifying at the Qatar Race Club. Dust in the air was reportedly creating an almost whiteout condition with blown sand settling on the track.

Three rounds of qualifying were completed yesterday, however, leaving Al-Anabi Racing’s Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani on top of the Pro Extreme list with a 3.73-seconds pass at 204.05-mph over the eighth-mile course and his teammate and current American Drag Racing League Pro Nitrous World Champion Khalid Al-Balooshi in first place for Pro Nitrous after a 3.91 at 194.55-mph effort.

Elimination rounds for all classes remain scheduled for 6 p.m. local time (10 a.m. Eastern), weather permitting.

(ADRL/Richards photos)

February 26, 2010

Three Seats Left in M/T 3-Second Club

STOW, OH (Feb. 26, 2010)—The Mickey Thompson (M/T) Three-Second Club was introduced in February 2009 to reward and recognize American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Extreme 10.5 racers who are able to achieve elapsed times in the three-second range.
 
Chuck Ulsch (near lane) posted a record-breaking 3.98-second elapsed time last August along with new Flowmaster Extreme 10.5 World Champion Spiro Pappas (far lane) who posted a 3.99-second elapsed time, both on the new Mickey Thompson Pro-5 double bead lock wheels and ET Drag #3169W tires. Both racers are consistently found in the winner’s circle in the Extreme 10.5 Class, and were officially inducted into the Mickey Thompson Three-Second Club during the ADRL World Finals “Battle for the Belts” in a special ceremony.  
 
“These racers have consistently achieved elapsed times in the three-second range on our tire and wheel products, and it means a lot to us to share in their success,” said Carl Robinson, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. “We have three seats left in the Three-Second Club, and we are eager to see who will be the next to earn their place in this prestigious group of fierce competitors.”  
 
Mickey Thompson Three-Second Club racers earn a number of very special prizes including a custom Mickey Thompson Three-Second Club leather jacket, a signature Three-Second Club gold and diamond ring, and a bonus check for $3,000. In addition, M/T Three-Second Club racers will be featured in a special section of the official ADRL web site at www.ADRL.us.

(ADRL/Richards file photo)

February 25, 2010

Sheikh Khalid Takes PX Qualifying Lead into Final Day

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 25, 2010)—After three rounds of qualifying on Day One of the two-day, championship-deciding Round 7 of the 2009-10 Arabian Drag Racing League season, Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani leads the Pro Extreme field and Khalid Al-Balooshi is on top of the Pro Nitrous list at the Qatar Race Club. Both will have one more opportunity to improve their times on Friday before elimination rounds begin.

Sheikh Khalid stepped up in his third qualifying effort of the day with a 3.73-seconds pass at 204.05-mph in his Frank Manzo-tuned, Al-Anabi Racing ’68 Camaro. The Sheikh has qualified number one at three of the six previous events.

In second place is Alex Hossler of Canton, Ilinois, who also made his best pass of 3.75 at 203.58 in the third attempt with his Chris Duncan-tuned and –built ’70 Camaro, followed by defending series champ Von Smith from Oak Ridge, Tennessee, with a 3.79-seconds run at 203.95 mph in his Barwa Racing ’68 Camaro that also came in the third session.

Local racers Bader Ahli and Ali Aryan round out the Pro Extreme field with Ahli improving to 3.85 at 202.48 in the same ’06 Mustang that his crew chief, Todd Tutterow, drove to the ’09 American Drag Racing League Pro Extreme championship. Aryan was the only Pro Extreme driver not to go quicker in the final qualifying session with his 3.98/191.54 lap of record coming in the second go round.

Al-Balooshi (left), the 2009 American Drag Racing League Pro Nitrous world champion, ran 3.91 at 194.55 mph in his second attempt on Thursday to take the qualifying lead, followed by Al-Anabi teammate Mike Castellana, who improved to 3.95 at 188.60 in his third qualifying pass and Khalil Al-Ansari, who also improved in his last shot of the day, although to a still-underperforming 4.33 at 167.59 mph.

In Extreme 10.5, Dearborn, Michigan’s Dan Millen (right) leads qualifying with a 4.24-seconds pass over the QRC eighth mile at 177.89 mph in his turbocharged ‘04 Mustang. Qatar’s Mahaini Al-Naimi is second, followed by Washington, Georgia’s Mike Hill, Saud Alzabin of Kuwait and a third U.S. driver, Chad Morgan.

One more qualifying session at 3 p.m. local time (7 a.m. Eastern), will open Friday’s action at the Qatar Race Club, with eliminations to follow.

(ADRL/Richards photos)

February 24, 2010

‘Fun’ for Smith to Defend Arabian PX Championship

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 24, 2010)—Rolling into the seventh and final round of the 2009-10 Arabian Drag Racing League series at the Qatar Race Club, Von Smith and his Barwa Racing Pro Extreme ’68 Chevy Camaro have earned the number-one spot in the Pro Extreme championship points standings by way of two wins and five-straight final round appearances.

Their margin over Al-Anabi Racing teammate Sheikh Khalid Al Thani in second place, though, amounts to less than one competition round win.

In the two-year history of the Qatar Race Club, this will be the second straight Pro Extreme championship that may come down to the final round of the final race, and while the pressure mounts, veteran driver Smith (far left) and legendary crew chief Howard Moon know this stressful situation all too well.

“We’ve been here before,” says Smith, the defending series champion, representing the Barwa Real Estate Company in the State of Qatar.

“The key, at least in my eyes, is to treat Round 7 just like we would any other. We can’t let the championship chase change the way we would act going into any race, and our goal needs to be simply qualifying well and winning every race we’re in. Winning the race is how we’re going to win this championship, so we’ve got to take it one step at a time.

“I think that is a very attainable goal for this team,” he continues. “It’s hard to even describe how hard this team has been working since the last race. It’s been a round-the-clock effort from the guys, making sure I’ve got a car that is consistent and fast.”

After a successful day of testing earlier this week, Smith and his Barwa teammates are all smiles going into today’s qualifying rounds.

“I think we’re back,” he says. “Like I said, we’ve got to go out here and do what we know we can do, qualify at the top of the sheets and take it round by round, but having a car that will run the number—that makes a lot of difference in our confidence. So, I’m excited. We’ve got an incredible opportunity here to win a first championship for Barwa Real Estate and a second for Al-Anabi Racing.

“I can’t deny that it’d be nice to go into the last race of the season with the championship already locked up,” he adds with a laugh, “but what fun would that be?”

(ADRL/Al Anabi/Grooms file photos)

February 24, 2010

Arabian PX Championship Within Sheikh’s Reach

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 24, 2010)— In the running for his first world-title, Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani (KH) is ready for his shot at drag racing glory this week at the Qatar Race Club during the seventh and final round of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 season.

KH, who is in the midst of a season-long Pro Extreme (PX) points battle with teammate Von Smith, goes into the final event of the season less than one round win out of the lead.

“Frank [Manzo, crew chief] and the Al-Anabi Racing team have been working hard to make sure we have the best car possible going into this most important final round,” the PX rookie says. “With drag racing, though, there are no guarantees. It’s going to come down to who makes the best decisions on race day and me doing my job as a driver.”

Currently holding both ends of the Arabian Drag Racing League world records in the ultra-competitive Pro Extreme category, KH has dipped into the 3.6-second zone on a number of occasions and continues to encroach on the 210-mph mark. While the conditions during the winter months in the Arabian Gulf Region differ dramatically from those in the Western world—with temperatures expected to reach 90 degrees on race day—Manzo will have the Al-Anabi Racing Pro Extreme ’68 Camaro tuned up this week, as another record-setting performance may be what it takes to earn the world championship.

“We go into this last race focused on one thing—winning the championship,” KH declares. “We want to win the race and the championship for all the Al-Anabi Racing fans here in Qatar, but we are also excited that our teammate, Von Smith in the Barwa Camaro, is one of the teams in title contention.”

The Al-Anabi Racing Pro Extreme team will kick off the opening rounds of qualifying for Round 7 of the Arabian Drag Racing League series at the Qatar Race Club this week, with the first round slated for 7 p.m. local time (AST) on Thursday, Feb. 25, with a second round scheduled for 9 p.m. A third and final round of qualifying will take place at 5 p.m. AST on Feb. 26, with eliminations getting underway two hours later.

(Photos courtesy Al-Anabi Racing)

February 24, 2010

ADRL Offering Printable Tickets Online

O’FALLON, MO (Feb. 24, 2010) – Beginning today, the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is providing race fans the ability to print tickets to its national events from the comfort and convenience of their own computer.

“This new online service will ensure that anyone with a computer and printer will be able to obtain tickets to our events. We have thousands of fans who travel to see each of our events and they don’t want to wait until they get near the track to pick up their tickets. It will also be easier for teams and sponsors to get tickets without having to track them down in-market,” Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune explained.

“Basically, this program is being offered as a convenience for our fans and track partners and we’re confident it will make things easier for everyone involved.”

To print tickets, ADRL fans will simply visit the official ADRL Web site (www.ADRL.us) where they will be able to order and print up to 10 personalized, bar-coded tickets. In addition to being prominently featured on the official ADRL site, links to the printable ticket program will appear on several official ADRL sponsor sites.

All printed tickets will also have the option of upgrading to reserved seating status and pre-purchasing premium parking at a discounted rate.

“This is another service our fans have been clamoring for,” Fortune stated. “With our new reserved seating option they won’t have to worry about losing their seats or not having a seat and advance premium parking will make it easier and faster to get in and out of each venue.

“ADRL is all about grass roots racing and grass roots marketing,” he continued. “We are now taking it to the next level by using the Internet to provide easy access for our fans, teams and sponsors. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to comfortably enjoy the ADRL and the fantastic show our racers put on at every event.”

The ADRL’s new online ticket service arrives just in time for the 2010 season-opening ADRL Universal Technical Institute Dragpalooza VI presented by Safety-Kleen Mar. 19-20, at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.

February 22, 2010

Speedtech Recruits Scruggs for New Venture

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 22, 2010) – Having established itself over the course of the last six years as a dominant force in nitrous-oxide technology, most recently helping Khalid Al-Balooshi win the 2009 American Drag Racing League Pro Nitrous championship, Speedtech looks to widen its footprint on the high-performance industry by partnering this year with legendary two-time ADRL Pro Extreme World Champion Jason Scruggs.

As the trend-setting company’s multi-stage nitrous systems and accessories have already become a choice of champions far and wide, Speedtech will now offer the same cutting-edge technology and precision machining capabilities to racers of all kinds.

“It is our goal with this partnership to introduce Speedtech not only as racer’s nitrous oxide solution, but also as a world leader in high-performance machining and fabrication,” Speedtech owner Sheikh Khalid Al Thani said.

“As the need grows for one-off, custom fabricated parts, not only in the ultra-competitive ADRL Pro Extreme and Pro Nitrous ranks, but the aftermarket high-performance industry as a whole, we want to move forward in offering Speedtech’s abilities to anyone looking for more power.”

Leading the charge for Speedtech’s new endeavor will be Scruggs, driver of the quickest-and-fastest doorslammer on the planet.

“We’re excited to introduce Speedtech to the drag racing community as more than just a nitrous company” says Scruggs, a native of Satilla, Mississippi. “Along with all the great companies that have offered their support to us for years—Brad Anderson Engineering, Simpson, and Hoosier—we hope to make a run at a third ADRL world championship this season with Speedtech.”

For more information on Speedtech Innovative Nitrous Solutions, visit them online at www.SPEEDTECHnitrous.com.

February 18, 2010

ADRL and House of Hot Rods Present ‘Eye Candy’ at Dallas Show

O’FALLON, MO (Feb. 18, 2010)—The House of Hot Rods “Eye Candy” display at this weekend’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Autorama Car Show in downtown Dallas, Texas, will feature sweet rides and sweet treats, courtesy of the American Drag Racing League (ADRL), which will be providing complimentary candy to Dallas Autorama fans. 

“The street rods and muscle cars that the House of Hot Rods creates have to be seen to be believed; each one is a true piece of automotive art,” ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling said. “We’ve been fortunate enough to have their cars on display at a few of our races and they’re always real attention getters, so when Mark (Eddins, owner of House of Hot Rods) called to tell me about the Eye Candy show, I knew we had to get involved.” 

Eddins, who also co-owns LenMar Motorsports with ADRL Pro Extreme competitor Gaylen Smith, will have his brand-new, House of Hot Rods-built ‘55 Chevy street machine, “Disturbed,” on display at the show, as well as the “Anger Management” Fuel Altered he’ll be racing at drag strips across Texas this year. 

Smith also has a new street ride recently completed by House of Hot Rods in the Autorama show, a 1969 Camaro dubbed “Black Diamond” that features an LS6 Corvette engine pumped up to 750 horsepower by a Magnacharger supercharger under its hood.

Smith’s LenMar Motorsports Pro Extreme ’57 Chevy will also be on the show floor, along with the 1970 Cuda he previously raced with the ADRL. The LenMar Motorsports Pro Mod drag boat and outlaw dirt car will complete the Eye Candy roster.   

“We’re all looking forward to this show,” said John Paynter, general manager at the House of Hot Rods compound in Mansfield, Texas.

“It gives us a chance to show off what we do to all our friends and families in the Dallas area and really offers a showcase for the talents of Chad ‘Critter’ Mahone, who does all the design work for House of Hot Rods.” 

House of Hot Rods Eye Candy at the Dallas Autorama runs Feb. 19-21, at Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75207.

Surrounded by thousands of pieces of ADRL candy, the “Hellfish” Cuda and ‘57 “Hel-Air” of ADRL Pro Extreme racer Gaylen Smith are among the seven vehicles featured in the House of Hot Rods Eye Candy display at the Dallas Autorama Feb. 19-21, at Dallas Market Hall. 

(Photos courtesy House of Hot Rods)

February 17, 2010

Universal Technical Institute Named Title Sponsor for ADRL Season Opener

O’FALLON, MO (Feb. 17, 2010) – The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) is pleased to announce Universal Technical Institute (UTI) as the title rights sponsor for its Mar. 19-20, UTI Dragpalooza VI presented by Safety-Kleen at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.

“Adding Universal Technical Institute as an event title sponsor is a real honor for us and I can’t thank UTI enough for their commitment to our future together,” ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling said. “We look forward to this partnership providing mutual benefits for years to come.”

As the country’s leading provider of technical education training for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians, UTI offers undergraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs at 10 campuses nationwide, including Houston, which is hosting informational open houses Mar. 6 and Mar. 27, just one week after the nearby ADRL national event.

“Everyone at Universal Technical Institute is very excited about the opportunity to sponsor the ADRL’s event at Houston Raceway Park. We’ve watched the ADRL grow tremendously over the last few years and view this as an ideal opportunity to reach thousands of ADRL fans as potential UTI students,” UTI Director of Marketing, Strategic Communications and Campaigns Karen Seymour stated. “UTI is proud to be bringing the drama and excitement of the ADRL to Houston and to show prospective students the kinds of careers in professional racing that can be made possible with UTI training.”   

The Universal Technical Institute Dragpalooza VI presented by Safety-Kleen will be the first of nine scheduled eighth-mile drag racing events this year for the ADRL, which typically averages 70,000 fans per weekend.

“UTI is confident the partnership with the ADRL will be very well received by our staff and students, who appreciate the effort and expertise required to build and maintain high-performance machines like the ADRL will bring to Houston Raceway Park next month,” Seymour said.

(Photo courtesy www.UTI.edu)

February 16, 2010

Snap-on Enters ADRL Arena with Vial

HAYES, VA (Feb. 16, 2010) — After growing up working in his dad’s auto repair shop, then spending 38 years as a professional yacht technician, Ellis Vial Jr. likes to joke he’s spent his life with a Snap-on wrench in one hand and a payment book in the other.

This year, his life-long dedication to the brand is being rewarded with major sponsorship from Snap-on Franchised Dealers for an all-out assault on the American Drag Racing League’s (ADRL’s) Pro Extreme class.

“This is it, I’m showing all my cards this year; I’m all in,” Ellis declared from his Hayes, Virginia, race shop as he watched Billy Smith of Auto Ink Designs applying the bright red-and-black Snap-on wrap to his brand-new K&K Precision-built ’68 Firebird. “I’m not coming out to the races just to qualify; I’ll be there to win.

“And that’s not being cocky,” Vial insists. “I’m just confident, and a lot of that has to do with Snap-on being behind us this year.”

Vial’s new car will be riding on Mickey Thompson tires with Penske shock absorbers helping to smooth out the bumps on 3.7-second passes at over 200 mph down the ADRL eighth mile. The CAM’s Racing Engines 526-cubic-inch Hemi up front will be burning Renegade Racing Fuels with a PSI screw-type supercharger providing the boost on top of a Wilson Manifolds intake.

“Without all those names on the side of the car I couldn’t even think of doing this and I want to thank all of them for their support as well as the folks at Boninfante Performance Clutch, Victory 1, Titanium Joe, Braille Battery, PAC Springs, REM Chemical and DJ Safety,” Vial says. “I plan on making all of them proud to be associated with us this year.”

Vial will also take an experimental route toward adding even more power via the injection of nitrous oxide into the fuel mix this season.

“Scott Filkins is my crew chief and we’ve been working with the guys at Motec and Steve Johnson at Induction Solutions to make that work,” Vial says, though he declines to say just how much nitrous he’ll be spraying. “All I can say is, it’ll be a lot!”

Vial plans to make his debut with the new Snap-on Pro Extreme team at the ADRL Hardee’s Georgia Drags VI on Apr. 23-24, at South Georgia Motorsports Park.

“We’ll be testing the wheels off the car in these next few weeks,” Vial says. “When we get to Georgia I want to come out swinging!”

Billy Smith of Auto Ink Designs in Yorktown, Virginia, visited Ellis Vial’s shop to apply the Snap-on Franchised Dealers wrap to Vial’s new Pro Extreme ‘68 Firebird. Ellis’ race rig and golf cart will be receiving the full Snap-on wrap treatment, too.

(Photos courtesy Ellis Vial Racing)

February 13, 2010

Smith Vows to Defend Arabian PX Title

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 13, 2010)— With two wins under their belts in the 2009-10 Arabian Drag Racing League season and five-straight final-round appearances, Von Smith and his Barwa Racing Pro Extreme teammates will roll into the final event of the seven-race series in two weeks with their points lead intact after a semi-final finish this weekend at the Qatar Race Club.

“From the very start of the season, we’ve had a great race car. Howard (Moon, crew chief - right, with Smith) and this Barwa team have done a great job,” said Smith, the defending series champion. “Obviously, we would like to have done better here in Round 6, but at the same time we’re glad to head into the final race of the season with the points lead.”

After qualifying third among the best race teams the Arabian Gulf region has to offer with a 3.77-seconds effort at 205.13 mph, Smith and his supercharged ’68 Camaro, tuned by Moon, rolled into competition knowing they were in for a fight from start to finish.

Given a bye-run in the opening round, Smith and Moon opted for the right lane, using the solo lap as a free test session in preparation for a surefire meeting with serious competition in the semis.

The gatekeeper to the final round, though, was a game Alex Hossler, a fellow American and current American Drag Racing League Pro Extreme points leader.

Giving up lane choice to Hossler, the Barwa Racing ’68 Camaro rolled into the left lane for the semi-final match; however, Smith almost immediately encountered violent tire shake, forcing the veteran from Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to lift on the throttle and hand the victory to Hossler, who posted an impressive 3.77 at 205.63 mph to take the win in his Duncan Race Cars ‘70 Camaro.

Hossler went on to secure his second Arabian Drag Racing League event of the season with a holeshot win over Sheikh Khalid Al Thani in the final round, vaulting him into a three-way battle for the championship with Smith and Al Thani at the seventh and last event of the season.

“More than anything, we just wanted to put this Barwa Racing Camaro in the winner’s circle and try to clinch the championship for everyone at Barwa Real Estate,” an obviously disappointed Smith said later. “We’ve been here before; we know what it takes to win; but we just weren’t able to get the job done today.”

After a semi-final finish that prevented him from clinching this year’s Arabian Drag Racing League title early, Tennessee’s Von Smith promised to pull out all the stops in the series’ final race Feb. 25-26, at the Qatar Race Club. “We’ll be back here in a few weeks at the QRC and you can be sure that we’ll roll out onto the track with a vengeance, with every intention of sealing the deal on this ADRL Pro Extreme world championship for Barwa and Al-Anabi Racing,” he said.

(ADRL file photos)

February 12, 2010

Hossler Beats Sheikh With Holeshot

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 12, 2010)—Just as he did in his first Arabian Drag Racing League appearance, Alex Hossler (left) employed a holeshot in the Pro Extreme final to win Round 6 of the Arabian 2009-10 season over Sheikh Khalid Al Thani in the right lane at the Qatar Race Club.

Despite learning to drive the unpredictable, supercharged Pro Extreme cars just a few months ago, Al Thani already has earned a reputation as a great “leaver” and he posted another solid .036 reaction time against Hossler, but an unreal .004 reaction in the Illinois racer’s lane spelled victory 3.72 seconds later at 206.32 mph as he nipped the quicker and faster 3.70 at 209.30 put together by the Sheikh.

“Man did we ever earn that one,” an excited Hossler stated later. “I have the best bunch of people surrounding me on this team. It’s all about the perseverance. We tore up a lot of parts during the last race here, but to get it all back together and run like we did says everything.”

Hossler then took care to thank everyone involved in helping him reach the winner’s circle.  

“Chris and Len Duncan, first of all, without these guys I’m just a guy with a dream. Mike Stawicki from MSR Performance for the horsepower, Jon Salemi from DMPE for the tune-up advice and supercharger work, and all of the employees at the Art Hossler Auto Group. All of these people are instrumental in our success,” he said.

After qualifying his Chris Duncan-built and -tuned ‘70 Camaro in second place behind Al Thani, Hossler made a nice, solo 3.74 pass at 205.41 mph in the opening round of eliminations and followed it up with another 3.74 at 205.63 to easily defeat defending Arabian series champ Von Smith, who made a tire-shaking 6.31 run at just over 72 mph in his Barwa-backed ‘68 Camaro. 

“I just kept picking away at the tune up today,” Duncan (far right behind car) said. “It is a happy race car and Alex really drives the wheels off of this thing. I’m looking forward to coming back in two weeks to try to make it three wins over here in Doha.”

The Sheikh also enjoyed a bye to begin eliminations and ran 3.97 at just 189.02 mph in his ‘68 Camaro, but in round two he and crew chief Frank Manzo stepped up against Bader Ali, going 3.66 at 209.46 mph to set a new Arabian elapsed time record and a new worldwide speed record for door cars in the eighth mile.

“I guess Alex and I are even now,” Sheikh Khalid laughed after the final. “You’re bound to be on the losing end of a hole shot every now and then if you’re racing at this level, and we’re just happy to have an Al-Anabi Racing hot rod in the final round again for all the fans here in Qatar.”

Now locked into a three-way battle for the Arabian Drag Racing League Pro Extreme world championship, Sheikh Khalid heads into the seventh and final event just one round win behind teammate Von Smith, with Hossler only two rounds behind him.

“Even in our debut season, I was confident that we would be in the thick of the championship battle with Frank [Manzo, crew chief] and Tim McAmis calling the shots,” Al Thani said. “It’s going to come down to the wire, though, with Von, Alex and myself in the hunt, and I’m excited—I don’t know that I’d want it any other way.”

Al Thani’s Al-Anabi Racing teammate Mike Castellana went up against Khalil Al Ansari in an off-the-pace Pro Nitrous final, with the local taking the win in 4.38 seconds at 164.19 mph over Castellana’s early shutdown 4.41/126.55 run.

The Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 season will resume for the final time Feb. 25-26, again at the Qatar Race Club.

February 12, 2010

Sheikh Khalid Qualifies On Top for Arabian Round 6

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 12, 2010)—A brilliant 3.68-seconds pass at a near-record 209.17 mph in the final qualifying session cemented Sheikh Khalid Al Thani’s (left) position on top of the Pro Extreme list heading into eliminations at Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 season at Qatar Race Club. Only Von Smith’s 209.43-mph blast at the previous event eclipses the Sheikh’s speed.

Alex Hossler of Canton, Illinois, placed second with a 3.76/204.88 pass, with Oak Ridge, Tennessee’s Smith third at 3.77 and 205.13 mph. Rounding out the five-car Pro Extreme field were local drivers Bader Ahli with a 3.81 at 204.88 and Ali Aryan with a 3.84 and early shut off 189.04-mph pass.

Only Sheik Khalid in his Tim McAmis-built, Frank Manzo-tuned ‘68 Camaro managed a competitive lap in today’s lone Pro Extreme qualifying round.

In Pro Nitrous, the 3.89 at 194.88 laid down by Westbury, NY’s Mike Castellana yesterday held up for the number-one slot, followed by current American Drag Racing League PN World Champion Khalid Al Balooshi, who improved to a 3.94 at 193.68 today, and Khalil Al Ansari with an off-the-pace 4.45 at 157.15-mph efort.

(Photos courtesy Al-Anabi Racing)

February 11, 2010

Sheik Khalid Leads Qualifying at Qatar Round 6

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 11, 2010) – With a 3.72-seconds blast at 206.83 mph straight off the trailer in the opening round of Pro Extreme qualifying, Sheik Khalid Al-Thani seized the provisional number-one position today for Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 season.

Unfortunately, mechanical woes in his supercharged 1968 Camaro prevented the Sheikh from participating in two additional qualifying rounds at the Qatar Race Club, but he’ll get one more shot at the clocks in Friday’s fourth and final session before eliminations begin later in the day.

Alex Hossler of Canton, Ilinois, currently sits second in his 1970 Camaro with a 3.76 at 204.88-mph effort that came in his second attempt, with defending series champion Von Smith third at 3.77 and 205.13 mph in his Barwa-backed ’68 Camaro.

Local racers Bader Ahli, tuned by reigning American Drag Racing League Pro Extreme World Champion Todd Tutterow, and Ali Aryan round out the top five qualifiers.

New Yorker Mike Castellana (right) and his 1970 Camaro sit atop the Pro Nitrous class with a 3.89-seconds pass at 194.88 mph that came in the afternoon’s final session, followed by his Al-Anabi Racing teammate and current American Drag Racing League Pro Nitrous World Champion Khalid Al-Balooshi at 4.25 and 183.67 mph, with Khalil Al-Ansari third at 4.45 and 157.15 mph.

The final round of qualifying is set for 3 p.m. local time (7 a.m. Eastern), with eliminations to follow.

U.S.-based crew chief Frank “Ace” Manzo has Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani tuned up for Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s 2009-10 series at Qatar Race Club. Al-Thani currently holds the provisional pole for the race with a 3.72-seconds pass at 206.83 mph in his Tim McAmis-built ‘68 Camaro.

(Photos courtesy Al-Anabi Racing)

February 10, 2010

Barwa’s Smith Seeks Arabian PX Championship Repeat

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 10, 2010)— Just one day prior to the first qualifying round for Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League’s seven-race 2009-10 series, Von Smith (left) and the Barwa Racing Pro Extreme Team are reminded of the situation they were in last season, taking the championship battle down to the final round of the final race.

This year, given the opportunity to do things slightly differently, Smith and company are hoping to widen the gap and take a step towards clinching their second Arabian Pro Extreme world championship with an event win this week at the Qatar Race Club.

“Winning last year’s championship here in Qatar for Sheikh Khalid and Al-Anabi Racing was a crowning achievement for both (crew chief) Howard (Moon, behind car, right)) and I,” Smith said from the team’s on-site QRC shop. “We’re excited to have an opportunity to earn another championship this year for Barwa, and that’s our only focus going into these late rounds.”

The veteran driver from Oak Ridge, Tennessee, praised his entire team’s effort toward securing the prize in an even tougher field than last season. He and Al-Anabi Racing teammate Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani are locked in a tight points battle for the lead, making it a round-by-round shootout to determine the 2009-10 season champion.

“They’ve done a great job here this year with the Arabian Drag Racing League and as far as the competition is concerned, we know we’re going to have our hands full, but Howard, Mac, Bryan, Terry and Jarom have been working around the clock to give me the best car possible on race day,” Smith said. 

“Considering the way Howard had this Barwa Racing Pro Extreme Camaro running in Round 5, I’m confident we can put her in the winner’s circle on Friday.”

(Photos courtesy Barwa Racing)

February 10, 2010

Sheikh Khalid Refreshed and Ready for Arabian Round 6

DOHA, QATAR (Feb. 10, 2010)—After an intense three-race stretch that saw the stars and cars of the Arabian Drag Racing League doing battle on the Qatar Race Club’s eighth-mile drag strip for three weekends straight, Sheikh Khalid Al Thani (left) and his entire Al-Anabi Racing operation greatly deserved a break from competition.

But anxious to build on their success in Round 5, where Al Thani earned a second career Pro Extreme victory in the world’s first ever 3.6-second drag race, Al-Anabi Racing’s team owner and driver can hardly wait to get back to business behind the wheel of his Pro Extreme ’68 Camaro.

“It’s game time,” Sheikh Khalid said from his office in downtown Doha. “The team has had a chance to take a rest and get ready for these final rounds of the Arabian Drag Racing League series. It’s going to come down to these last two races to determine the world champion, and there is no denying that we have our eye on the prize.”

During the brief period of downtime, Al-Anabi Racing crew chief Frank “Ace” Manzo has been busy prepping Al Thani’s Pro Extreme Camaro for the 3.6-second, nearly 210-mph performances that will be necessary to clinch the rookie driver’s first championship. 

“We are also excited to unveil our Qatar Race Club merchandise kiosk this week and give the loyal Qatar drag racing fans the opportunity to pick up some apparel from their favorite teams and drivers,” Sheikh Khalid added.

The Al-Anabi Racing Pro Extreme team will begin qualifying for Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League series at the Qatar Race Club at 7 p.m. local time (11 a.m. Eastern) on Thursday, Feb. 11, with a second round scheduled for 9 p.m. A final round of qualifying will take place at 5 p.m. local Feb. 12, with eliminations getting underway at 7 p.m.

(Photos courtesy Al-Anabi Racing)

February 8, 2010

Berner Flying Summit Colors in Motor City

CRETE, IL (Feb. 8, 2010)—The Detroit Autorama is a hotbed for every custom machine you can dream of and this year ADRL Extreme Pro Stock team owner and driver Pete Berner will take advantage of this jewel in the Summit Racing Equipment Show Car Series to debut his new Summit XPS paint scheme.

From February 26-28, the Summit Racing display will be the central gathering point at the largest indoor custom car show in the country. Over the course of three days, more than 150,000 spectators will be treated to seeing Berner’s Summit Racing Equipment Pontiac GXP and a host of other race cars, both new and old, classic automobiles and activities for the entire family.

“This is going to be a neat event,” Berner said. “We are really looking forward to getting out there and meeting some of the Detroit fans. It’s a great opportunity to talk to fans without the time constraints and other duties we have at the track. Plus, I’m looking forward to seeing some of the cars and special exhibitions myself! Summit really puts on a neat deal here that is a must-see for any car fanatic.”

Berner also will participate as a guest speaker on Friday during Student Career Day, joining fellow Summit driver Greg Anderson, custom-car designers Chip Foose and Troy Trepanier, Bob Medved from State Farm Insurance and Mark Heaton from Baker College.

“I always enjoy talking to young folks about cars,” Berner continued. “It’s a great way to get their attention and allow them to see new opportunities for their future. Many students don’t realize that they can take their love of cars and put it to good use in an industry. We also get to show them how hard work and diligence pay off.

“It’s really cool to see how well they respond to us as drivers and to be able to inspire them to work hard in school and continue on with that after graduation. I’m really looking forward to this and I’m grateful Summit asked me to be a part of it.”

February 8, 2010

Hedman Husler Joins Winters PX Effort

KERNERSVILLE, NC (Feb. 8, 2010)—Doug Winters and Winters Racing announced today that Hedman Husler Hedders, an industry leader with over 50 years of experience in the automotive exhaust aftermarket and official header company of the ADRL, will be joining the team as an associate sponsor on the Winters Racing ’57 Chevy Pro Extreme entry for the 2010 ADRL season.

“We are definitely thrilled to have formed a partnership with Hedman Husler Hedders,” Winters said. “It is an honor for us and for the entire team to have the backing of a company of their caliber and we are looking forward to a great season. The team has always been impressed with their products, and we have been running Hedman Husler Hedders on our drag cars ever since we have been in drag racing.”

As part of the new partnership, Winters said his team will represent and market Hedman Husler Hedders at each ADRL race they attend. “Adding Hedman Husler to our team is a big plus. So stop by the pits and take a look at the quality and workmanship of their headers on our ’57 Chevy Pro Extreme. We will also have information available on all Hedman products.”

Chris Vandergriff, general manager and director of racing for Hedman Husler Hedders, said the partnership with Winters will benefit the entire ADRL Pro Extreme class.

“Joining with Winters Racing on a research and development program and their ’57 Chevy Pro-Extreme race team is reflective of Hedman Husler’s new partnership as the official headers of the ADRL Drag Racing Series,” Vandergriff said. “Our engineers at Hedman Husler have designed a new Funny Car header for (Pro Mod-type) blower cars that should be more fitment friendly depending on engine location and height. We think we have achieved our goal.”

(Photos courtesy WintersRacing.com)

February 5, 2010

Aronson Onboard for 2010 XPS Season

CHILLICOTHE, MO (Feb. 5, 2010)—The brand-new, Jerry Haas-built Ford Racing 2010 Mustang of ADRL Extreme Pro Stock rookie Cale Aronson (left) may already look familiar to PRI show goers after making its debut as a display vehicle for Ford Motor Company last December just outside the main entrance to the annual motorsports trade show in Orlando, Florida.

It didn’t take long for the car’s Jon Kaase mountain motor to get its first taste of racing fuel, however, as upon conclusion of the show the Aronson Motorsports team headed a little farther south to West Palm Beach Raceway where Aronson, son of former AHRA Pro Stock World Champion Chuck Aronson, was able to make the inaugural test laps in his new ride.

First, though, came the no-small-task of completely wiring and plumbing the car, but Aronson and crew worked long hours over less than a week to get it ready. When the time came, it was more than capable of clicking off some impressive times.

“Jerry Haas built us the best car I have ever had the privilege to work with,” the second-generation driver stated. “Our first pass on the car was good enough to have qualified well at every event last year, so I was very pleased and can’t wait to get the updated engine in the car.”

Fresh off a recent trip to Qatar as a tuning consultant to an Arabian Drag Racing League Extreme 10.5 team, Aronson said he and his Aronson Motorsports teammates are now looking forward to taking on the stateside ADRL schedule and showcasing their new Ford Racing Mustang at every ADRL event. 

“We are getting ready to make our way over into the ADRL where there is some super stiff competition, and we have been working to upgrade our operation to a level we feel is more than capable of making a good performance on race day,” he said. “We are going to have a lot of great friends to run with, and ADRL Extreme Pro Stock is a quality show with extreme professionalism at every turn. I can’t wait to get on the track!”

“We would like to take this time to thank all of our supporters and sponsors, because without them I would not have the opportunity to do what we have done,” ADRL Extreme Pro Stock rookie Cale Aronson said. “Ford Racing has been a great partner in this project, and I would like to thank Jesse Kershaw, Brian Wolfe, Jamie Allison, Moes Nolan, and Wayne Geoffrey. Mark Walser is a long-time family friend and supporter and I want to thank him the most! Jon Kaase and Jerry Haas have given us the best equipment possible and a big thank you also goes to UPR Products, Mickey Thompson, Ram Clutches, Barry Grant, Arch Haslar (body man), DJ Safety, Orme Brothers, Innovators West, ProBell and many more!”

(Photos Richards/courtesy Aronson Motorsports)

February 4, 2010

PXM Engine Containment Systems Require ADRL Approval

O’FALLON, MO (Feb. 4, 2010)—It has come to the attention of the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Technical Department that some confusion may exist in the Pro Extreme Motorcycle (PXM) community over the recently mandated use of engine containment systems beginning at the ADRL 2010 season opener Mar. 19-20, at Houston Raceway Park.

“Every motorcycle, regardless of manufacturer or team, must have an ADRL-accepted engine containment device (blanket or “diaper”) in place before attempting to qualify at Houston,” ADRL Executive Vice President of Competition Bubba Corzine stated. “Every bike will be checked prior to making its first pass and there will be no exceptions made to this rule.

“The safety of our competitors is our number-one priority,” he continued. “Not only will the containment systems help protect riders in case of massive engine failure, but also from oil leaking from the clutch cover and getting under the rear tire. And of course we want to contain any leaks in order to avoid oildowns of the track and the resulting clean-up time.”

Corzine also reminded any manufacturers of PXM engine containment systems that they must submit a working sample of their product to the ADRL Technical department prior to receiving specific approval for its use in competition. He then suggested PXM team owners check with the Tech department for the ADRL-approved list before purchasing an engine containment system.

“Please call the ADRL Technical Department at (636) 272-2375. They know the procedure for gaining approval and will be able to help our Pro Extreme Motorcycle racers make the correct choices,” Corzine said. “I can’t stress enough how important this is; if an ADRL-approved engine containment system is not in place, that bike will not race at Houston.”

February 3, 2010

Houston ADRL Test Session Remains as Scheduled

BAYTOWN, TX (Feb. 3, 2010)—Despite the rescheduling of the season-opening ADRL Safety-Kleen Dragpalooza VI to Mar. 19-20 at Houston Raceway Park, track officials would like to clarify the DragRaceHose.com Warm Up presented by Goodridge Hoses & Fittings will remain on Mar. 5-7, the originally scheduled date.

Last year was the first for the event and featured more than 100 cars during the three-day test. More entries are expected this year.

“Many of the racers in the region and beyond are starting their racing year off at the DragRaceHose.com Warm Up,” Warm Up organizer Will Hanna said. “I really look forward to what the weekend will hold. Houston in March can be fast!”

Just two weeks before the ADRL season opener, the Houston test session provides a great opportunity to ADRL teams wanting to test on the same strip on which they’ll race.

All ADRL racers interested in attending are encouraged to pre-enter and save $50 on their weekend pass. The cost to test for ADRL Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Flowmaster Extreme 10.5, Pro Extreme Motorcycle and Extreme Pro Stock teams is $150 for those registering before Feb. 15 or $200 after the deadline. This fee includes car and driver plus two crewmen and is valid for entire weekend. The pre-entry deadline is Feb. 22.

The event will be open to spectators for $15 per day or a weekend pass for $25.

Houston Raceway Park is located off Interstate 10 in Baytown. Race teams and fans should take State Highway 99 (exit 799) and proceed south. Exit at FM 565, and turn right. Houston Raceway Park is located a quarter-mile mile down on your right.

For additional information visit HRP online at www.houstonraceway.com.

Schedule

Thursday, Mar. 4: Credential sales and pit parking from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Friday, Mar. 5-Sunday, Mar. 7: Credential sales and tech inspection begin at 7 a.m.

Sportsman and E.T. time trials from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Professional action from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

February 1, 2010

An Open Letter from Sheikh Khalid Al Thani and Al-Anabi Racing

The following statement is provided on behalf of Sheikh Khalid Al Thani and Al Anabi Racing.  Please direct any questions to Puvanesan Kay, Aequitas Law LLP (U.K. Barrister ) or Chris Rodi ,Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP,  (U.S. legal counsel) at info@aequitaslaw.com.

It has come to my attention that my and Al Anabi Racing’s relationship with Mustafa Atat has recently been the subject of considerable discussion.  The comments centred on Mustafa’s involvement in a race in Detroit, Michigan, in 2001 which resulted in the tragic death of an innocent bystander.  As a driver of the other car in that race, I understand that Mustafa has been charged with several serious crimes in the United States. 

I did not come to know Mustafa until 2007 when he settled with his new family in Qatar.  I do not know exactly what happened in Detroit, and do not fully understand the details of American law.  In particular, I only recently learned that the murder conviction of the other driver in the Detroit race did not preclude Mustafa’s being found guilty of that same crime, an unfamiliar notion in my country.  As such, I do not think it is appropriate for me to attempt to respond to the many allegations that have been made about Mustafa.

There have also been allegations made about the integrity of our team and other members of the Al Thani family in Qatar.  These comments have been categorically untrue and unnecessary.  Some have even bordered on racist.  Luckily, I know that the overwhelming majority of race fans are above these types of ad hominem attacks.  I hope that, in the future, anyone who does not know me, my family or my team personally will attempt to do so before making baseless personal attacks.

Although I do not think my commenting on Mustafa’s situation is appropriate, I also recognize that this situation continues to effect many people.  Mustafa has been a talented and dedicated member of the Al Anabi Racing team.  However, out of respect for all involved in the tragedy in Detroit, including the family of the victim and the others injured, and also out of respect for the United States racing community which has warmly welcomed me and many of my team members, I have asked Mustafa to separate himself from Al Anabi Racing here in Qatar. I expressed my hope that he will take the necessary steps to resolve his personal legal issues.

I wish to express my heartfelt sorrow for the family of the victim and all those involved in the tragic accident in Detroit in 2001.  I hope that the rest of us can respect their privacy and return our focus to racing, where it belongs.

Very truly yours,

Sheikh Khalid Al Thani
Al Anabi Racing

February 1, 2010

Taylor Trailer Goes Astray

DICKINSON, TX (Feb. 1, 2010)—American Drag Racing League (ADRL) Pro Extreme star Frankie “Mad Man” Taylor (left) recounted today a harrowing tale of a wayward race trailer Friday morning along I-55, near Jackson, MS.

Seems Taylor, with his brother and crew chief, Paul, flew up to Indiana from their Dickinson, TX, home last Wednesday to retrieve their toterhome after having a shop up there add a second rear axle to help alleviate the stress of 40,000 miles or so of anuual towing, as well as install a few extra creature comforts to its interior. Total bill? About $24,000.

Upon departure from snowy Hoosier country, Taylor said they were immediately unimpressed with the seemingly excessive rough ride on their refurbished rig, but just chalked it up to things being different and pressed on to Jeffers Pro Cars in House Springs, MO, where they picked up their race trailer and recently repaired 2005 Corvette that Taylor raced in the ADRL series last year.

They then drove through heavy wind and rain and freezing temperatures until reaching Exit 85 in Mississippi at approximately 10:30 a.m., when a particularly hard bump in the road popped the trailer’s coupler off the truck’s hitch ball, broke the safety chains and sent the trailer on a scary, unguided path across the busy Interstate, bouncing off the center concrete divider and eventually ramming a Chevy pick-up from behind and sending it spinning into a ditch before finally grinding to a nearby halt itself, still upright between the highway and an access ramp. Remarkably, with the trailer empty except for the rolling chassis race car and the wind and rain hampering visibility, the Taylors weren’t immediately aware they’d lost their load until a nearby trucker managed to alert them to turn back.

“Fortunately, the guy was okay; he was shaken up quite a bit, but he walked away,” an obviously relieved Taylor said of the pick-up driver. “It turned out to be just a one-car accident, but it could’ve been a whole lot worse. If we had been just a couple miles farther down the road there would’ve been no middle barrier and I don’t even want to think about what could’ve happened it it had gone into the opposite lanes.”

No charges were laid and the Taylors quickly arranged to rent locally a small, 24-foot car hauler to continue their trip to Baudier Graphix in Jefferson, LA, where the fortunately undamaged Vette is now receiving a new wrap for the 2010 ADRL season.

“Even with that little trailer the truck was riding real rough and we could see it bouncing along back there, but still didn’t know anything was wrong,” Taylor admitted. “But we finally took a good look at it when we were heading back to Jackson to return the trailer and the refrigerator door fell off. I climbed under the back of (the toterhome) in the cold and the rain and I realized there was no air in the (suspension) bags back there. They were totally flat.”

Taylor said he believes that after installing the new axle the Indiana shop rerouted the truck’s air line to the rear bags, but failed to pump them up and even worse, neglected to splice in air service to the original air bags on the front, drive axle. That left very little downward pressure on the drive wheels, which should have about 70 psi in the air bags for that axle, Taylor said, while the free-wheeling rear axle’s bags should carry about 30-40 psi.

“So it was basically riding with no suspension back there and dropped the ball height at least four inches. Even sitting still the trailer was trying to lift itself off the ball. It’s amazing it even lasted 450 miles, but pulling up the way (the front of the trailer) was, it’s no wonder it eventually popped itself off,” he explained. “We were cruising down the road and just thought it was a rough road. We would’ve known a lot sooner if (my wife) Cindy had been with us because she’d have been riding back there and would’ve told us something was wrong, but sitting up front we just thought it was a rough road.”

Now dealing with three major insurance claims and as of noon today, still waiting to hear from the shop in question, Taylor said he really doesn’t need this kind of distraction just as the 2010 ADRL season is about to get underway.

“This really sucks,” he declared. “I mean, you have a professional shop do this kind of work for you, you just don’t expect something like this to happen.”

(ADRL/Richards photos)