Force’s car turned right into the guard wall and then bounced off several times as it moved down track.  (Chicago Jon Hoffman photos)

It was a wild ride for 16-time champion John Force during the final qualifying session on Saturday at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals. The winningest driver in NHRA history had a fiery run-in with the right guard wall while sharing the racetrack with daughter Courtney Force. Force exited the vehicle under his own power and was fired up for Sunday’s eliminations.

“I gave it a quick pedal and it just shot to the right,” explained John Force. “I kept trying to get it off the wall but it kept pulling me over. I think the body might have been on the front tire and that affected the steering. I got it stopped and got out. I am sore but I won’t let this race car beat me up. I have PEAK and Old World Industries out here. We are going to pull out the back-up car and get to work. I love all the fans out here and I have to thank them for all their support.”

The start of the 2018 season was tough with three explosions in the first three races for Force. The legendary drag racer has stayed focused on the problem and has continued to make changes to move forward. The results have been noticeable — he has a runner-up finish and has now qualified in the top half of the field four times in nine races of a 24-race NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing schedule.

“We had some things figured out and that run wasn’t anything like the start of the season. We are making progress with all three of the Chevrolet Camaros. Courtney’s hot rod is flying and I ran good yesterday. We are all trying to run fast. You have to, out here against this competition,” added Force.

The Agent must ask if there is any protocol NHRA has in place for checking for concussion as the NFL has. This make four boomers this season for the 16-time champion and we’re worried about him.   [06/04/18]

DMPE guru Darren Mayer had the magic touch when he served as crew chief on Scott Maclean’s Pro Slammer in the Australian Winter Warmups. On the first day Maclean turned in the quickest ever pass with a 5.572 run at 252 mph.  (Jon Van Daal file photo)    [06/04/18]