TAO Pro Mods at Texas Motorplex

Getting a chance to shine in the Lone Star State

Words and photos by Joe McHugh

The Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas, played host to the Texas Automatic Pro Mod Association Friday, May 2, as a showcase eliminator in conjunction with the NHRA Division 4 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event.

The first two scheduled races of the 2014 TAO series were cancelled due to weather issues, so the teams were more than ready to get after the Texas super track. This was the first time the TAO series has run on a Friday and, being a featured part of the LODRS schedule, the Pro Mods would get three qualifying runs to set the eight-car ladder. In addition, this race paid double points toward the season championship.

Pro Mod Qualifying

The first qualifying session represented the first runs of the year for some entries.

Eddie Roach started things off laboring a 5.21 at 125.39 to the finish line.

H arry Crane wounded his new monster power plant in testing last month and came in with last year’s motor installed. Crane eased a 4.46 at 160.54 mph, which ended up fourth quickest for the first session.

Last year’s series champion, Chris Domino, laid down a nitrous-starved 4.34 at 160.40 to take the lead for the moment. Doug Morales rolled up next in his silver 1968 Camaro and ripped a 4.15 at 170.47 mph to take pole for session one.