QUALIFYING

Some racers struggled to qualify and then had a hard time getting hold of the track after they did make the field. Bowen looked to have the car to challenge Romine at this event. The family team has completely rebuilt the car for this year with new paint and a brand new Chrysler Hemi engine replacing the Arias/Chevy they used last year. Bowen broke his five-second maiden in the second round of qualifying.

Because of some tech issues he was only able to make one lap, which was in the second of two sessions. He ran his personal best of 5.984/239.31 that not only put him second in the field behind Romine but got him a $1,000 bonus for Low ET. Doc Halladay also got into the field using just one qualifying pass. His 6.026/238.72 was not only his best speed since returning to a Fuel Coupe but it was good enough to put him solidly in the field.

Other racers that got into the field on just one lap included defending event champion Greg “Jake” Jacobsmeyer from St. Louis, and Indiana racer Kevin Lennon.