LOTS OF EXCITEMENT AT COLUMBUS

Photos by Chris Haverly

It was a little bit weird at the NHRA Pontiac Excitement Nationals at Columbus, Ohio.

Crew chiefs really had their work cut out for them trying to keep the right set-up for the changing track conditions. The cool weather of Friday and Saturday qualifying changed to hot and humid on race day. The 30-degree track temperature difference made for some old-fashioned racing by the drivers with smoke and "pedaling" aplenty.

Shirley Muldowney eliminated Kenny Bernstein from the competition, but trashed her engine and could not make the call for the next round against Doug Herbert. The Pro Stocks weren't having any luck at all in the right lane, which was bringing up moisture, but the Top Fuelers didn't seem to have any problem with it.

Angelle Savoie and Antron Brown red-lighted themselves out of the Pro Stock Bike competition. Matt Hines accused Savoie of secretly using nitrous oxide to enhance her Suzuki's performance. Said Angelle, "I am obviously in his head and we are winning."

Shawn Gann set the track record with a speed of 191.27mph.

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