TALK TO THE HAND

After a lightning strike took out the timing system at Knoll Gas Motorsports Park in Martin, Mich., ADRL president Kenny Nowling decided to do things the old fashioned way for the final day of competition at the Pizza Hut Summer Drags. Although its timing system over the eighth-mile course remained intact, Nowling made the decision to hand start the remaining pairings. They raced for bragging rights only, though, as the race purse and points were split equally among those remaining in each class.

The Agent suggests that Nowling bring a flag and a pair of white pants to the next ADRL race June 20-21 at Tulsa, just in case. (photo courtesy ADRL Communications) [6/9/2008]

BELLEMEUR TO DRIVE FOR CANADIAN TAFC TEAM

The Edmonton, Alberta-based SynOil Racing Top Alcohol Funny Car team led by owner Geoff Goodwin along with crew chiefs Wally and Ryan Protz has tapped Sean Bellemeur to drive their 2007 SynOil Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The SynOil team will make their debut with their new driver this weekend at the 20th annual Fathers Day Funny Car Classic at Race City in Calgary.

Bellemeur, 26, from Tustin, CA has been idle for most of the season and is excited to be back behind the wheel.  “To say I missed driving is the ultimate understatement.  I was like a caged animal.  I’m very happy and feel very fortunate to be involved with a team with the caliber of guys like Geoff and the father/son tag team of Wally and Ryan Protz.  Not to mention the major sponsor from SynOil and support from its President John Edwards.  I can’t wait to get started,” said Sean.

Following this weekend’s race in Calgary the SynOil team will head to Seattle for the NHRA Division 6 race in Seattle. [6/9/2008]

‘BUNNY’ BURKETT TO BE HONORED AT MIR

Carol “Bunny” Burkett, one of drag racing’s most accomplished Funny Car pilots who just happens to include a World Championship in her credentials, will be honored when Maryland International Raceway unveils its $1 million facelift prior to the 2008 IHRA President's Cup Nationals. Burkett calls MIR, which is near her home in Fredericksburg, Va., her home track.

Burkett has donated her Chrysler Lazer Funny Car that she drove to her World Championship to the track and it will be displayed atop the new "Hot Rodz" concession area at MIR. The facility has upgraded pit paving as well as improvement on the starting line and new, modernized restrooms. Burkett will be honored with the unveiling of a plaque June 12 at 4 p.m., prior to the IHRA President's Cup Nationals. [6/9/2008]

A CLUTCH PLAYER

Racer Ted Taylor Jr. shows his feelings about how to drag race at the Pro Stick event at Pennsylvania’s Beaver Springs Dragway. For a look at the cars and results see our Race Coverage.  (Todd Dziadosz photo)