Bob Rahaim, Grosse Point, Mich., drove his Corvette to a 5.846/246.08 to get past a troubled Jim Whiteley in the first round. He then defeated Brazilian Sidnei Frigo 5.879/246.12 to 5.849/243.46 on a holeshot, but fell to Gray in the semi. (Adam Cranmer photo)

Jim Whiteley, Steven’s father. (Stee Gruenwald photo)

In the first round NHRA champion Rickie Smith, King, NC, ran 5.816/250.37 to oust the Mustang of Michael Biehle from North Vernon, Ind., which ran 5.863/253.47. Smith next had a troubled 7.775/123.46 against Steven Whiteley’s 5.773/250.78. (Adam Cranmer photo)

Michael Biehle (Adam Cranmer photo)