Vandergriff gets hot at Dallas

Words compiled by Kay Burk - Photos by Ron Lewis

Bob Vandergriff Jr. raced to his first win in his career, ending the longest streak of final round appearances before a win in NHRA history. It was his 14th final round appearance in 222 events since 1994.

Vandergriff powered his C&J Energy Services dragster to a 4.243 at 238.44 to hold of hometown favorite Spencer Massey in the final round at the AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals Sept. 25 at Texas Motorplex.

“We’ve lost finals every way, and you begin to question it,” said Vandergriff. “But I’ve got a great bunch of guys with me now, and I knew it was going to happen, I was just hoping it was this time. I don’t think I could take another speech where I say, ‘Well, it’s all right,’ because it’s not all right. But it’s great. I’m just a little overwhelmed right now.”

Against Vandergriff, Massey’s dragster could not cope with a very hot
track surface and as a result the race winner was able to slide by
despite having traction issues of his own.
“I have to get better at pedaling,” said Massey. “We’ll just continue to work on that. But, I’m very excited to be in the points lead. It’s the first time I’ve ever led the points in my brief professional career. And, we’re leading at the right time – in the Countdown. That’s the most important thing.”