Race of the clones?

Regarding the proposed new nitro series, the first rule states "Identical roadster bodies & wing design."

Sounds like they're going to be belly button cars, which isn't such a great idea even with nitro. And if it isn't a big percentage, even worse (think SCS Nitro Coupes).

Couldn't you just get existing vintage looking AA/FAs like Rat Trap, Nanook, Winged Express, Pure Heaven, Pure Hell and build a few more like them to fill out the field? After all, you'd have some true heroes to tout.

If I wanted to watch cars that all looked the same I'd still be going to big show events. That said, I'll give it a shot.

Scott Frymoyer
Wyomissing, Pennsylvania

Should have seen it coming

I've always been a fan of Prudhomme and Bernstein. We'll miss them, but they did it to themselves. Both members of PRO and never said anything significant about skyrocketing costs. NHRA obviously has their head in the sand when it comes to running the cars, safety, generating sponsors for racers, etc.

Boy, is Lee Beard going to be pissed when there's fourteen cars for sixteen spots and seven of the teams are wearing jeans and tee shirts to the starting line... just like the ‘60s again.

I LOVE IT!

Charlie Undershirts
Dallas, Texas

Hemi Challenge in pink?

I am really wondering why the NHRA doesn't make a big deal out the HEMI Challenge at the Nationals. They are scheduled to run with the normal sportsman elimination in Stock and Super Stock etc. Not to belittle the other stock classes but the Challenge and how well these guys run is worthy of some publicity. It would help not only the MOPAR HEMI racers, but hopefully the entire Sportsman class. Maybe NHRA needs to consult with Rich Christensen. I'm sure he'd have a plan since he relies on input from the racers on his staff and the fans and competitors as well.

Jerry Ferris
San Angelo, Texas

Take a handful of spinach and call us in the morning

That's all I can stands... ‘cause I can't stands no more. How long does NHRA expect fans to watch this multicar team BS? This weekend’s show wasn't the first or last time we will see strange events take place. As long as the teams are allowed multiple entries in the same class, the problems will continue. On the other hand, if they don't let these teams bring two, three, or four cars, we won't see full fields.

I saw some of the best racing this weekend at my local dragstrip (Brainerd Optimist Dragstrip, Chatt. Tn.). Racing at its best. I don't have to make a choice between the Sat. bracket and heads up racing or the politics of the big show. NHRA has made the choice simple. The local bracket and nostalgia races win by a mile.

I feel much better now, thanks. 

Doug Thompson
Murphy, North Carolina