Wow! Rick Cowger's Grand Am sure looks nice on the FastDoorslammers.com home page. Who's going to be next? FastDoorslammers.com wants to feature TPSA club and individual racers press releases. We give you more exposure, you give us more content. You can send press releases to news@fastdoorslammers.com. Please enclose at least one photo or other image with each release and be sure to tell us your home town.. FastDoorslammers can be one more tool to use in your search for sponsors. Take advantage of it. :-) -- Nick, 11/20/09 5:53pm
found this on drag racing online site -- tpsa next year, 11/19/09 10:29am
New Pro Stocker bound for Texas?
Did you know that Texas has its own Pro Stock circuit? Sure does, and the newest car that we know of on the circuit is this brand new GXP built for Richard Otwell by long-time Don Ness employee D. Burnevik who has gone out on his own since the closing of the Don Ness race car business. His first effort looks good from here. [11/18/2009] http://www.dragracingonline.com/agent1320/2009/1320-xi_11-19.html
The schedule page has been updated to show three dates @ the "Concrete Palace" aka Dallas Raceway. Mark your calendars:
April 24
June 26
July 24
Kenny, Sammy, & the gang at Dallas Raceway are considering an event on May 29th which is Memorial Day weekend. Please give me some feedback on this date ASAP either by posting here, email (click on my initials above), or call me. Your input is needed by the end of this week in order for us to get a feel for how many teams could/would participate on that date. We are shooting for a fourth event @ Dallas but the available dates are very limited...
Our thanks to the "Concrete Palace" for allowing the TPSA to be part of their 2010 program!
Fantastic! -- WINSCOTT/CONRAD, 11/19/09 7:44am
Thanks to David H. and the folks at Dallas Raceway.It will be an absolute pleasure to race three times at this fantastic facility. We will make a point to make all three races (If the creek don't rise).Gary
Attn. TPSA And TPSA Racers: FastDoorslammers.com wants to feature TPSA club and individual racers press releases. We give you more exposure, you give us more content. You can send press releases to news@fastdoorslammers.com. Please enclose at least one photo or other image with each release. FastDoorslammers can be one more tool to use in your search for sponsors. Take advantage of it. :-) -- Nick, 11/18/09 5:57pm
ATTENTION IN THE PITS!! -- RickH, 11/17/09 12:04pm
Rick Hanson's '08 /'09 572 BBC is available. I have the complete engine minus the crank and the belt drive. CFE heads,GRP rods, World block, Bullet cam, Jessel rocker asmy, Trend pushrods and the Frankenstein manifold. We built a 565 and have no more use for this stuff. Best ET with this combo was 4.82 in good air @ 2460#'s. Call Rick Hanson at 281 450 9670 for more info. I will make you an incedible deal!!
Ford Guys -- Guy Liberman, 10/25/09 10:57am
Does anyone know where the Ford Guys are? I have been to the last couple of races and no one seems to know anything.
Maybe a new bullitt? Ford Lover
Today is Veterans Day, and this is a perfect time for us all to reflect on those truly responsible for our freedom, especially those of you viewing this who fought for it. Thank you. -- DH, 11/11/09 11:59am
-- ., 11/ 4/09 10:29pm Saturday dawned bright, clear, and sunny just as advertised. Most of the TPSA teams had rolled in Friday nite and were in the midst of their pre race preparations when Sammy, the track manager, came around and told us the track would be ready for some hits about 3:30 if anyone wanted an early hit or two. All of the drivers were itchin' to get a lap under their belt before official qualifying and most got at least two in this "extra session". The track hooked like a bandit and was lazer smooth. Back in the pits, the teams all adjusted their setups to take advantage of the stellar conditions for the qualifiers. After the two qualifiers, Joe Pigford lead all comers with a 4.567@153.02, which reset the TPSA record that he had set at the previous race @ HMP. This would be indicative of what was to come...
1st Round...Roy Pigford had drawn Eddie Conrad driving the Winscott family GTO. The Winscott/Conrad crew has been working on a new bullet for the past several weeks, and after a last minute thrash that lasted into Saturday morning, they left Houston and headed North. They were rewarded for all of their hard work with a personal best 4.724 @ 146.73 during the 2nd qualifying session. Unfortunately, in the shut down area after that lap, the new bullet lost oil pressure, and they would be a no show for 1st round. Very promising outing for their first time out with this combo and watch for more from them next year. As a result, Roy Pigford was the recipient of a competition bye and eased into round 2. Like clockwork, Joe Pigford rolled into the water box beside Richard Otwell. Seems like these two have run each other first round at every race this year...of course they haven't but it sure seemed like deja vu all over again. Joe bettered his new record with a 4.564 that trailered Otwell's 4.642 @ 151.27. Otwell ended up in 5th place in the Championship chase for 2009 in just nine events. Next up was the West Texas Flash, Lance Abbott, squaring up with DH. "Quickdraw" was out first and ran a personal best 4.725 @ 146.64 to end Hubbard's 2009 season in 6th place. In the beams next was the new Champ, Larry Pearce, takin' on the "Boxman" Donald Hughes. Pearce's roll continued as he pulled the trigger first and moved into the next round with a 4.63 @151.48. Donald finishes this year at #7. The final pair was Rick Cowger in the C-W Racing entry who need to reach the semi-finals to finish in the top 5, and Clint Crownover. C3 hasn't been able to run a full schedule this year and a round win would guarantee him a spot in the top 10. When the smoke cleared, Cowger moved on and Crownover would end up finishing #10 for the year.
2nd Round...Pearce lined up with the S-10 of the Abbott's. Lance's father, Kenneth, has burned the midnite oil this year as well and the truck has responded by getting quicker and faster. Both would slow from their 1st round times but Larry's 4.673 would advance over Lance's 4.734. Lance is another competitor that wasn't able to made the full tour this year, but his win at Houston propelled him into the #9 spot. Next pair would empty the "Pig Pen" and the brothers would face each other. Joe was out first and never looked back as he ran his second .56 of eliminations, this time with a 9 to send Roy back to the pits. Roy only made nine races this year but would finish just behind brother Joe in the #3 slot. Cowger drew the bye which guaranteed him a #4 finish for the year with a spot in the semi's.
Semi's..Pigford would use yet another .56, this time with a new mph record, 153.20, to end the C-W team's 2009 attack. The Cowger/Wood team finished with their best showing ever in the year end standings @ #4. Meanwhile, Pearce drew the bye which promised the fans an exciting final round of the year with J Pig. The outgoing Champ, and current record holder Pigford, against the new 2009 Champ, Larry Pearce...Reher-Morrison vs. NRC/Slick Rick, Texas vs. A&M(that's another story...LOL), mano a mano, no holds barred, for all of the braggin' rights of the last win of '09 to hold 'em over 'till the 2010 season begins.
Finals...Pearce had been killin' the tree all day and his .007 looked sizeable against the "Pig's" .455 when the tree came down. With an amazing 1.018, Joe had nearly made up the deficit by the 60' cone! Pearce made a good clean run @ 4.641 151.78, but the win lite was already on in Pigford's lane. The scoreboard flashed another new record for the Pigford camp...4.546! The mph record he set in the semi's would stand at 153.20. Pig won the battle but lost the war this year, and the #1 will be replaced by #2 for next year. He and Pearce went back and forth all year and it was awesome to watch.
Thanks to all of the teams for an outstanding year and congratulations to all of the top ten for their accomplishments. Thanks again to the Kenny & Sandy Barnes, Sammy & Cindy Lattner, Joel the starter, and the entire crew of Dallas Raceway...the facility is very impressive! Can't forget all the youngsters that came out to Trick or Treat and all of the fans that came out. Hope to see ya'll next year!
McKenzie took some time out from Trick or Treating to help us out with the round pairings...
Madison & Payton made the TPSA trailer their "Haunt" long enough to draw pairings...
Amy was havin' a good time but we talked her into drawing one round...
Larry Pearce's 2009 Championship winning crew...
The Champ's NRC/Slick Rick bullet...
This is one bad hotrod...Joe Pigford & Crew's record setting GXP with Reher Morrison power.
Spoke with John Mandabach @ HMP this afternoon and the sun was shining with 90* temp and clear skies. He said it didn't rain Wednesday or today, and the water table isn't high enough to cause a problem even if a shower was to come Friday. While the forecast isn't perfect, we all know how unpredictable the weather can be in the Houston area. Bottom line, John said we're racin', the Abbott's are leaving in the am, the Hill Country Boyz plan to be on the road around 7pm, so load on up, come out Friday nite, hang out, bench race, or just catch some R&R....should be a really nice day Saturday afternoon and nite. -- ., 10/ 8/09 10:48pm
On a different note, Charlie Robinson (new member Charles Robinson's son) was good naturedly givin' ol DH the business @ Evadale. Seems young Charlie is convinced a member of his generation surely could wear out an ol grey beard like DH on the tree. While admittedly DH ain't as quick on the draw as he once was, he still considers himself average or so....so the issue of a practice tree throwdown was approached. Charlie said it shouldn't be much of a contest, a member of the video game brigade against someone older than black pepper...no offense of course. Anyway, rumor has it that the practice tree was the first thing packed in the 'Home and sometime this weekend the showdown is happenin'. Boxman, Quickdraw, and I'm sure some other hitters will want the winner...Stay Tuned!
**Final Point Standings, and the race result sheet from Dallas Raceway have been posted. Congratulations to Larry Pearce, NRC & Slick Rick for their 1st Championship!** -- race report coming soon..., 11/ 3/09 12:06am
Would anyone be interested in forming an Automatic Pro Mod class? If so, here is the link for discussion. http://voy.com/221828/ -- Randy, 11/ 2/09 3:37pm
You know how it is....a group of racers get together and after the bench racin's done, the talk turns to "if" the time and resources were available here's how the perfect race car would be built, or how the perfect transporter for the team would be acquired, and the classic topic "if I built a racetrack" is always good for some spirited discussion. Of course this ultimate track would have a premier racing surface, plenty of paved parking, easy access, good food, clean restrooms for the wife & kids, friendly & experienced staff, passionate management & owners. -- ., 11/ 2/09 1:04pm
I don't know if Dallas Raceway owners, Kenny & Sandy Barnes, attended any such sessions, but it's obvious they spent many hours planning, researching, designing, and building their dream track. Let's check the punch list..Premier racing surface?..1/4 mile with a ton of shutdown area, concrete from starting line to the last turnoff, full length concrete barriers, smooth as a baby's bottom, and "hook" that redefines the word. Add great lighting, drive on scales with an LED readout pointed at the racecar, and wide concrete return roads to complete the package. Ample Parking?..how about 15 acres of concrete pit area with excellent lighting & huge staging lanes. Easy Access?..12 miles south of I-20 on 175, and the exit leads to the pit gate. Good food?..the immaculate concession stand is overseen by Sandy and the food's great. Clean restrooms?..that's an understatement! The pictures you'll see below were taken Sunday morning after the race before they were cleaned! Oh, and just for good measure, hot & cold water, two showers with keypad locks that are wheelchair accessible, a/c and heat. The lights and exhaust fans in the shower are activated when you open the door. Friendly & experienced staff?..manager Sammy Lattner has many years in the drag racing game...well over a decade with NHRA, and many years with other facilities. Sammy's wife, Cindy, works in the tower controlling the timing system duties and her experience mirrors Sammy's as they have worked most of the same gigs together. Passionate owners?..Kenny & Sandy battled several challenges along the way but in the end, after five years of construction, the 112 acres that is Dallas Raceway, became a reality and the Concrete Palace was born in May of this year.
Everywhere you look the effort is visible. The trash drums are weighted so they don't blow around if its windy. Take it from someone that was awakened one nite by an an empty trash drum that had blown into the side of the motorhome during a rainstorm...it's a small detail but just another example of the total effort that went into this facility.
If you haven't been to Dallas Raceway "the Concrete Palace" you owe it to yourself to get there soon. Whether you're a spectator or racer, you'll be dazzled by the facility and the attention to every detail.
Pit Gate and staging lanes..
Tower with maintenance building in background
Grandstands, concession & restroom building
part of the huge concrete pit area
Another shot of the building that houses the restrooms, & concession stand.
It also has a gameroom and an ATM is available!
Pic's of the ladies restroom taken Sunday after the races, before the cleanup!
one of the showers..
Thanks again to Kenny & Sandy Barnes, Sammy & Cindy Lattner, Joel (the starter), and the entire crew @ Dallas Raceway. Our first visit was outstanding, and we hope to see you in 2010!
Joe Pigford serves up a special Halloween treat... new TPSA record <<< 4.546 153.20 >>> WINS EVENT!
It's no trick... 2009 TPSA CHAMPION...Larry Pearce! RUNNER UP
--
, 11/ 1/09 10:03pm
The TPSA made it's inaugural appearance at Dallas Raceway's 1st Annual Halloween Monster Drags and as soon as we rolled in the gate and took a quick look around, it was obvious the "Palace" would have no trouble living up to it's name. The attention to detail to the entire venue has to be seen to be fully appreciated. There will be a complete report with pic's (hopefully tomorrow), but the story is way too big to be tackled tonite. We extend our thanks to the fans & all the Halloween kids that came out, the Barnes family, Sammy Lattner, Cindy, and the entire crew @ Dallas Raceway.
Back to the race action....there were plenty of ghosts, goblins, witches, and all types of costumes roaming the pits as everyone was in the Halloween spirit. But at the end of the nite, newly crowned 2009 Champ, Larry Pearce would face the outgoing Champ, Joe Pigford for the event title and braggin' rights. En route to the final, Pigford had broken the TPSA et record (which he already owned) with a string of 4.56's and bracket like consistency. In the final he laid down a pass that will "haunt" the troops over the winter...a 4.546! He reset the mph record earlier in the semi's with @ 153.20. Pearce's .007rt 4.641 @ 151.78 couldn't stop the flyin' "Pig", and the party was on in the "Pig Pen". The Cowger/Wood team finished as the semi-finalist. Congratulations to them and all of the teams and crewmembers that recorded simply outstanding performances... and most recorded personal bests @ the "Palace"! More of that story later.
The complete race report will be combined with a 2009 Season re-cap and it too will be lengthy. Watch here for all of the details and plenty of pics after the track story is posted. Look for the final points standings and the race result page to be posted by mid afternoon tomorrow.
Thanks to maxcacklephotos.com for the pics and to see more check out his website!
Pig Pen runs wild -- Team "O", 11/ 1/09 2:44pm
Just parked the rig and wanted to be the first to congratulate the Pigford camp on their stellar performance for the past few races. Ya'll have definitelt set the bar high and given us a nice big target to shoot for. The final pass was simply bad to the bone. For those that don't know joe's incrementals were (recalling from memory here) 1.018 60' - 2.93 330' - 4.546 @ 153.? All we can say is thats haulin the mail and I guess we have to get the sticker remover out for the trailer. Big thanks to NRC, Slick Rick, Larry Pearce, C&W racing - and all those that helped this year - we'll be back. Anyone wanna test tonight?? HMP is open - LOL!
My oh my, if you're a drag racer it doesn't get any better than this! It's Halloween and perfect weather for the TPSA debut @ Dallas Raceway, "the concrete palace". Now you all know I'm not a bettin' man...but I'd lose a Whataburger and a shake if somebody doesn't bring home a brand new TPSA record after Saturday. Rumor is when Otwell saw the weather forecast he changed his plans so he could be there to take advantage of what is likely to be the best conditions of the year. Will it be Team Pig with their record holding Reher-Morrison power, or how 'bout Team NRC/Slick Rick with the new Champ Pearce, with Otwell and Cowger riding shotgun? Conrad's been burning the midnite oil on a new bullet and the West Texas Flash, Lance Abbott, says hold on, I won the last race! Will it be the last ride in the 'Bird for Crownover, or Hughes in the Baretta....rumor has it they could both be in a different car in 2010. Get there early for the best seats...it's the 2009 Season Finale...you don't want to miss this one!
Ok floks I saved the best for last...The Rest of the Story......Hubbard's Fashion Statement....Hubbard is gonna fire me after this one...lol see y'all Saturday at Dallas Raceway "The Concrete Palace" -- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 10/28/09 2:36am
Congrat,s to Lance&Ken Abbott on there win at the Houston race.It just goe,s to show money can,t buy everything especially in racing.Although I was laid up in the hospital with a staff infection in my big toe we were monitoring every round via cell phone.With all the heavy hitter,s there this is still what attract,s me to TPSA.When all is said and done we all go home having learned something to come back another day and be a better racer.This is what makes this assoc.great and attract's new people every year. -- Eddie Conrad, 10/17/09 12:34pm
Track rental at HMP tomorrow Friday Oct 16th!!! 9am to 5pm.... $200 a car -- Jason, 10/15/09 9:55am
We still need 3 or 4 more car for the track rental at HMP tomorrow. The track will be prepped and ready at 9am and we will have it till 5 pm. The cost is $200 a car and the weather looks perfect. High 80 low 60 and no rain. Please contact Jason at 713-299-4112 or Chad at 281-414-6770
They say a picture is worth 1000 words so here goes....simply an unbelievable event, no rain, near perfect atmospheric conditions, and great track prep yielded great results and personal best runs for several teams. It all starts with the Baker family, John Mandabach, and the staff @ HMP. Our sincere thanks for your efforts and your continuing support!
Dean Baker mans the waterbox
The Abbott's ran a personal best et en route to the win
Roy Pigford was in his 4th final in 8 races
Semi's...Larry Pearce fought chassis isues (notice the "tractor marks") but clinched the '09 Championship
-- ., 10/13/09 1:56am
Two time and defending Champion, Joe Pigford, tuner Billy Stocklin, Merv, Vernon, Mike, and all of the "Pig Pen" took full advantage of his Reher-Morrison power and the rare combination of air/track conditions and reset the record...4.5782 @ 152.59! He had run a 4.5955 @ 151.82 earlier...right out of the box! This pic is of Joe at the scales which were operated by Gary Lidiak & his sons, John Michael & Clayton of Lidiak Motorsports. Gary verified Joe's weight and signed the tech sheet. A fuel sample from the Pigford's record setting GXP was tested for specific gravity, color, and odor. The results revealed the fuel was VP C-25...the spec fuel for TPSA.
Team NRC/Slick Rick had a bitter sweet day. All three team cars, Otwell (driven @ HMP by Jeff Naiser), the Cowger/Wood entry, and new Champ, Pearce were set on "kill" trying to take full advantage of the conditions, be first in the '50's", and get the record. All struggled with chassis issues, but in his 1st round match up with "Pig", Pearce made his only clean run of the event. This pass clinched the Larry's and NRC/Slick Rick's first Championship.
The Talley/Nickens team has made big strides lately, and they too ran a personal best @ HMP.
A.D. Rigmaiden made his first TPSA outing with his new ride. Car looks awesome and sounds good but chassis man, David Bowie, wants to check a few things out before they turn 'er loose. A.D. had his sons Aaron & Addleton to keep him straight...LOL.
Donald "the Boxman" Hughes, HR, and Dyno made the tow. Hughes couldn't get by Roy Pigford 1st round, but was layin' the tree over...as usual.
Clint Crownover has all of the hay in the barn (for now) so he & wife Laurie, his Mom, and Lonnie were on hand. Rumor has some new HP in the works for C3 next year. C3 may be tellin' DH his time is limited in the Cavalier!
Aaron Hubbard was on hand, but couldn't talk DH out of the chair. His daughter, Alana, celebrated her 5th birthday earlier in the week and served as the "official" chip drawer for 1st round.
Interesting self portrait of Joe Golden of Hot Rod Gossip fame. Joe's always around HMP promoting events or just shootin' some pics of the action. You'll see some of Joe's work here....thanks Joe!
Mike Morgan, the founder of the TPSA was on hand to check out how his brainstorm was fairing. He gave favorable marks and we enjoyed having him around. Also, Randy Elliott & Austin came out to lend Boxman a hand, and Todd Bailey was on hand as well. Old friends Steve & Sharon Dallas were checkin' us out....maybe a TPSA car in their future?
Congratulations to the new Champ Larry Pearce, the new record holder Joe Pigford, and all of the teams for another outstanding event. Thanks also to Gary, John Michael, & Clayton Lidiak for the thankless job of running the scales. This is a tough job that no one wants yet all of the teams ask for it. Our thanks to everyone @ HMP & especially the fans for another great season and we're looking forward to 2010!
***Friday nites program @ HMP is rained out!*** The good news is the forecast for Saturday is only a 10% chance of the "R" word beginning @ 10am, with temps in the mid 70's to mid 60's. Bring your "good air" tune-up! The Abbotts left at 10 this morning, the Hill Country Boyz are rollin' out around 7pm, and the Robinson/Wilkerson team plans to roll tonite as well. Wipe 'er down, charge the battery, load the trailer and come on out. Next to the last race of the year...don't miss it! -- See ya in the lanes..., 10/ 9/09 3:24pm
"FRIDAY NITE SCOOP -TEAM O (posted on HRG) -- ., 10/ 3/09 12:03pm
I GOT A BIG SCOOP TONITE... RICHARD OTWELL AKA "TEAM O" HAS A NEW DON NESS CAR ABOUT READY, TENTATIVE PLANS ARE TO RUN IT IN THE ADRL PRO STOCK CLASS.
RICHARD IS THE OWNER OF THE DON NESS CAR JEFF "NASIERNATOR" NAISER RUNS IN XTF, OTWELL DONATED THE CAR, JEFF SUPPLIED THE DRIVE TRAIN AND RUNS THE ADRL XTF CIRCUIT.
I LIKE THE TEXAS PROUD PAINT SCHEME!--Joe Golden"
Wow...see they used the new Texas Pro Stock logo for the paint scheme!
Expect to see a couple of new rides out this Saturday @ HMP. A.D. Rigmaiden has been working on this ride for the past few months and took it out for some shakedown hits a couple of weeks ago. A.D. originally planned to build a GTO, but he really likes the Firebird body and thinks it makes a classic race car. He definitely has one of the nicest around now. Also, Charles Robinson and Jr Wilkerson plan to have their new TPSA ride, also a very nice Firebird, @ HMP for their first event. Charles, Jr, & Charlie came to Evadale to hangout & meet some of the guys and they're alot of fun to have around. Charlie Robinson, Charles son, says he has a little something for DH...more on that later. Kenneth & Lance Abbott are planning to make the tow from beautiful downtown Crane, Texas and all of the usual suspects plan to be there. Cross your finger and hopefully the weather will cooperate! -- ., 10/ 7/09 12:59pm
WOW...As a proud Sponsor of the "Texas Pro Stock Association" we would like to publicly thank Team "O" for representing our racing organization. Having a beautiful Don Ness car painted in the "Texas Pro Stock Association" logo will help us spread the word around the country. Now we actually have a car painted to match the official logo on all of our advertising and t-shirts as well as a showpiece for the "Texas Pro Stock Association". Thanks again Team "O", go get em in ADRL Pro Stock for 2010.
They are doing a fundraiser for Stanley, the starter at Temple for over 35 years, he's in bad shape.... -- Mitch, 09/30/09 7:42pm
You can read the details here:
The TPSA teams that arrived Friday nite awoke to a cloudy, and somewhat cool Saturday morning. The forecast still predicted a good chance of the "r" word interfering with the last race of '09 @ Evadale. The cooler conditions would be welcome, but the moisture was another issue. Fred came rollin' up in the golfcart, lit his pipe, looked skyward and said "it ain't gonna rain!" Sure 'nuff, just like the last event here, around 11 am the clouds burned off, the temperature skyrocketed, and the humidity was not far behind. Looked like we'd be racin' in very familiar conditions....hot, and humid.
With several of the teams still down, and C3 trying to take advantage of a break in the weather to get maybe the last hay of the season in the barn, the turnout was down a bit. But what they lacked in numbers was offset by some spectacular qualifying numbers and awesome side by side action.
After both rounds of qualifying were complete, the Billy Stocklin tuned, Reher-Morrison powered entry of defending champ Joe Pigford stood atop the heap with a 4.650 @ 151.01. The Naiser Nation was represented with Richard Otwell's 4.678 @ 149.45, which was good for the #2 spot. Roy Pigford came in at #3, 4.688 @ 149.06. Pearce, the current points leader, was in the #4 spot @ 4.708 @ 149.15. The Cowger/Wood team, Talley/Nickens, and DH rounded out the field.
1st round...Hot,and even more humid, if that's possible. One of those "square" weather days where the temp and humidity are the same number. It was obvious from the qualifying numbers that Fred & the crew had the track in unbelievable condition considering the weather conditions. First pair out had Joe Pigford vs. Rick Cowger. Joe improved on his qualifying hit to record a winning 4.647 @ 150.65 to advance into the semi's. Next up was the current points leader Larry Pearce facing off with Buddy Nickens in the Talley/Nickens ride. Even Buddy's telepathic .402rt couldn't stop the momentum of the Pearce Express, and he rolled into the next round with a 4.700 @ 149.06. #2 qualifier Otwell, drew DH. Hubbard's only shot for a "w" was to get a perfect rt and maybe a little mistake in the other lane. Neither would happen as he pushed the tree too hard, came up red, .3961, and watched RO drive around him with a 4.677 @ 149.85. Roy Pigford drew the bye, and he too improved from qualifying with his Reher-Morrison power, to a 4.676 @ 149.30.
Semi's...It was gettin' good now as the Naiser Nation cars of Pearce and Otwell would face the brothers Pig. The two favorites to win the Championship, Larry Pearce and Joe Pigford would be first up. Burnouts complete and Pig was the first to stage. Motors went on the chip, the tree came down, and Pearce was out first. Pig was on a pass but wouldn't catch Pearce on this day. The scorecard read Pearce 4.691 @ 149.35 defeated Pig's low et of the event 4.621 via the holeshot. Hat's off to Fred & his staff for the track prep and to the Pigford team for an incredible pass considering the atmospheric conditions!
Rollin' under the stands came Roy Pigford. Where was Richard Otwell? The Naiser Nation crew members were swarming over RO's ride back in the lanes....it refused to fire! Roy rolled into the water and waited, eventually shutting it off to give Richard every opportunity to make the call. Finally, the RO crew threw in the towel and Pigford soled into the final with a 4.679 @ 149.25. Back in the pits, RO's crew diagnosed the problem as a defective battery charger. Tough luck for Richard as this was the last TPSA race of the season where he would be in the chair and his car was running extremely hard this weekend.
Final...Would it be another victory for Pearce and the Naiser Nation, or would the younger Pig stand victorious at the end of the nite...and avenge his loss to Pearce at this very track back in May? The drivers suited up, both cars lit and rolled into the water box. Pearce's crew had found a similar problem to Otwell's back in the pits between rounds but it looked like everything was OK. Billy, Merv, Vernon, Joe, and the entire Pig crew had double checked Roy's ride to make sure it was perfect. Long burnouts and you could feel the tension mounting as the staging process began. Both cars stage without incident, both drivers are uncharactoristically late, but the cars left together and stayed glued together racin' for the stripe. Win lite comes on in Roy Pigford's lane, 4.698 @ 148.91 to send him to his 2nd winner's circle of the year. Larry Pearce's 4.711 @ 148.96 lap in the finals moved him one step closer to the '09 Championship. Congratulations to both teams and to all of the TPSA teams that provided a great show!
Our thanks to the Bruce family, Fred, and the entire staff at Ben Bruce Memorial for including the TPSA in their '09 program. It was another outstanding year at the little track in the woods. Our sincere appreciation to all of the fans that come out and support the TPSA and Evadale raceway...you guys are great! Hope to see ya'll there in 2010!
IT'S RACE TIME! Forecast for Saturday looks good & the Evadale fans are ready for some TPSA action. Only three races remain in the '09 season and every round is huge....hope to see ya there! Overnite camping is available for TPSA members and some of us wll be there late tonite so come on out and get some r&r.
Gates open @ 1pm Open TT's @ 3pm TPSA TT's @ 5pm & 6pm TPSA 1st round @ 7pm
Fred's gonna be running a tight ship on the schedule to finish the program before midnite. If you need an extra time trial, you need to be in the lanes during the open session.
Just talked to Fred @ Evadale. He said it's a beautiful day at the track today and the local weather station forecast has the front passing through today with continued drying through Saturday. The chance of rain Saturday afternoon is minimal at this time. We're gonna look at the weather again in the morning and hopefully it will be an easy decision. Watch for a post here about 1pm tomorrow.
Here's the local forecast:
Quote from the local TV station (kdfm.com):" Drier air should return Friday evening into Saturday with no rain expected by Saturday afternoon." -- DH, 09/24/09 1:00pm
A make up date for the rain out @ Edinburg is not available. How many teams could make an event on October 24th or the 31st.? The points chase is extremely tight and we're talking to a couple of tracks trying to complete the full 12 race schedule. Post up what you think and details will be posted here when available. Thanks -- DH, 09/11/09 12:54pm
Only 3 races remain in the final push for the 2009 TPSA Championship! Larry Pearce is the current points leader, but 2 time, and defending champ, Joe Pigford, is within striking distance. The Bruce family, Fred, & the staff at Evadale say the "r" word ain't gonna happen and they will have the track in championship form! This will be Evadale's final TPSA race of the '09 season so be sure to get there early! -- ., 09/23/09 12:36am
weather forecast looks familiar... -- weather looker upper, 09/22/09 8:37am
Sure wanting to race but forcast looks like better suited for boat racing. LP must be doin rain dances! LOL!
Ok guys, I got another email from Meagan regarding their fundraiser @ Evadale.
"I have had some trouble getting people to respond from the website. could you email me the email addresses or phone numbers of the texas pro stock teams. I need to get these shirts ordered by friday.
Thanks,
Meagan Wells"
***Please take a moment and email Meagan @ mkeilyw@gmail.com with the number of crew you plan to have at Evadale so she can order shirts today, Friday. Let's help the ZTA girls have another successful fundraiser!
With the forecast for rain still @ 50%, the TPSA race scheduled @ Edinburg for this Saturday the 12th has been cancelled. This is always a tough decision, but Isaac and Julio are to be commended for making a decision early enough for us all to change our plans.
For you bracket racers out there...the bracket race is still scheduled (weather permitting) for those drivers looking for a last minute shot at making the bracket finals. Contact the track for more info... -- DH, 09/10/09 12:03pm
-- DH, 09/ 9/09 10:27pm
Isaac from Edinburg just called and, like the rest of us, has been keeping one eye on the weather forecast for the weekend. MSN and Wunderground both have a 60% chance of rain for Saturday, and Weather.com has it at 40%. Isaac is very aware of the tow that we all make and he will make a decision after watching the weather and the forecast tomorrow. He intends to make his decision by 10pm tomorrow nite (Thursday) and it will be posted here immediately thereafter. I know the Abbott's and Worley need as much lead time as possible because of the distances involved. If you have any questions, give me a call. You can call anytime until midnite, or if you would like me to give you a call as soon as I hear, just let me know. You can reply here or call. Thanks...
Ms. Wells emailed me the following regarding the upcoming race at Evadale 9/26. The ZTA is doing another fundraiser there and the TPSA is proud to be involved with such a worthy cause. The email read:
"This is Meagan Wells I got in contact with the track in Evadale and they got back with me saying that the fundraiser sounds like a great idea. I was wondering if you would post on the Texas Pro Stock message board a question about how many cars and crew members will be attending (Evadale 9/26). This way I can get the decals and order the shirts. If you could post my email address mkeilyw@gmail.com so they could let me know so i can get this stuff going. We are all super excited to come out again and support breast cancer!!
Thanks,
Meagan Wells"
Take a moment to contact Meagan so she can take care of the details....Thanks
Calculate their age by how many times a week they work on their racecar! -- DH, 09/ 5/09 12:33pm
It's Labor Day Weekend and you've decided to stay home, avoid the crowds, and get some R&R. When there's nothing on the tube and you're bored, try the brain teaser below on your friends or use your own numbers...
How many times a week do they (you) work on your racecar? (any number between 1-9)
Multiply that number by 2
Add 5 to the result
Multiply that result by 50
Add 1759 for a subtotal
Subtract your 4 digit birthyear (ex. 1951) from the sub total. The result will be a three digit number. The first digit will be how many times you work on your car (the 1st number you entered), and the next two digits will be your age on your birthday this year.
Example:
Work on car 1 time per week...1x2=2
Add 5...2+5=7
Multiply by 50...7x50=350
Add 1759...350+1759=2109
Subtract their (your) birthyear 2109-1951(birthyear)=158
1=# of workdays you entered, 58 is their (your) age on your birthday in '09...Check it out using your numbers...
TEAM 2010 Update -- Southern Division, 08/18/09 10:18pm
In the relentless pursuit of ET and MPH Team 2010 wanted to share this photo a little early. It's just too purty to keep a secret any longer! NRC power will be under the hood soon!Team 2010 will begin a rigorous testing schedule after the last 2009 race, possibly using LP's white cavalier and the dyno motor RO has. Talk of a 4th driver coming on board too - heard Slick wants to try the driving thing so he can get that seat of the pants feel on the intake designs and how they perform.
OK guys and gals, I'm just about finished with post production of the video footage shot at HMP Aug 8th. Here is a sample. Oh yeah...I'm saving the friendly smack talk / rumor type stuff about David Hubbard's fashionable attire (Flip Flops) for last...enjoy -- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 08/22/09 12:32pm
Click the arrow in middle video to play
Thanks to my friend Kevin Maurer (NitroVid) out of Houston for second camera footage.
Introduction -- Junior Wilkerson, 08/10/09 1:09pm
My family and I really enjoyed meeting everyone last Saturday night. Everyone made us feel right at home and we look forward to racing with all you guy's. Hopefully Charles and I can get things together and at least make the last race at HMP. Thanks David for allowing Katlyn to participate in the drawing, that really made her day.
As promised, it's August 15th and the rule revisions for next year, 2010, are ready. You can click on the blue link below to check 'em out. Thanks to the efforts of the committee and everyone that was involved in this process during the last few months, the goal to get them posted early was realized. The purpose was to provide as much time as possible for the teams to get prepared for next season. Thanks to all of the members, engine builders, head porters, manufacturers, tuners, crew chiefs, sponsors, and other organizations for your valuable input. ***Updates are effective January 1, 2010.***
Three races remain in the '09 season and the points race is the tightest ever. There's a couple of weeks break before the next event @ Edinburg (September 12th) and Pearce & Pigford get back at it. Stay Tuned! -- DH, 08/16/09 12:18am
HMP -- Mark Bramhall, 08/16/09 6:44pm
Well, it looks like someone needs to put a lock on the pig pen. lol Really guys, I want to congratulate you on your win @ HMP. I also want to congratulate Larry on his runner finish. Again, it looks like all you guys put on one hell of a show. Sorry I missed it!
David, I don't think anyone could replace you in the "news" area. Keep up the good work. Hope to see you guys soon. Mark B.
"Sammy and Bob Show" -- Lidiak, 08/14/09 9:37pm
This Saturday morning (August 15th) from 10AM to Noon all of you that can in Houston tune into the "Sammy and Bob" show on 97.5 FM The "Ticket". Bryan Arriola AKA the "Tin Man" will be on the show with Bob Mungle. They will be discussing all aspects of Drag Racing as well as the "TPSA". You can also tune in online. This should be good.
As always, our crack team of sleuths is working nonstop, around the globe, to bring you the very latest in TPSA news. They were able to snap off a couple of quick shots of the Charles Robinson/Junior Wilkerson ride before security got there. The pic of the Steve Schmidt bullet was shot on the way out. Junior and his family were @ HMP and most of the members got to meet him and welcome him into our merry band. Charles & Junior are trying to make the last race @ HMP this year and plan on running the full slate in 2010. Welcome aboard guys! -- agent 660, 08/13/09 12:47pm
It’s early Wednesday morning and the race report from Houston Motorsports Park has yet to be written. Truth is, the TPSA action has become closer and more exciting, with more to report as the ’09 season has progressed. A writer with the skill and command of the language such as Hemingway or the classic style of Mark Twain is needed but you have only me, your humble servant to bring this narrative to life.
All of the heavy hitters were present early Friday at HMP…Otwell, Pearce, J Pigford, R Pigford, Cowger/Wood, the West Texas Flash aka “quickdraw” Lance Abbott were all poised to make a lap or two in preparation for the battle to take place on Saturday. If these runs were any indication of what was to come tomorrow it would be a classic.
Saturday dawns hot, humid, and showers dot the immediate area although not a drop falls on the HMP facility. The Zeta Tau Alpha girls are out in full force for their breast cancer awareness/fundraiser activity and all of the TPSA teams and crew get pink ribbons and decals for the cars. After two qualifying rounds, Joe Pigford sits atop the leader board of the 11 teams with a 4.685 @ 150.35….clearly a testament to the track prep of Dean Baker and his crew.
Time for eliminations and the place is packed. Over in the pits Gary Lidiak is presiding over the scales and selling T shirts; Randy Elliott, Jeff Rytter, Donnie Williams are spotted and new member Junior Wilkerson has brought the family out for a close look at the TPSA. First pair out has NRC teammates Larry Pearce and the Cowger/Wood team hooked up. Larry’s 4.689 had just missed being the #1 qualifier and Cowger’s 4.718 effort nearly put him in the exclusive ‘60’s club. Larry’s driving has steadily improved this year and he was out first with a winning 4.68 @ 148.96 (.040rt) to a nice 4.71 @ 146.77 (.083rt) by the Cowger/Wood Team. Dan Wells, a crew member on the C/W team was the driving force behind the fundraiser for the ZTA’s and has two daughters in the sorority. Out of the water next rolled the “Kid” Lance Abbott. In the other lane David Hubbard completed his burnout and lit the pre-stage bulb. Both drivers took a few seconds to collect their thoughts then DH staged. Lance followed him in, the tree came down green, and a little over 4 seconds later the win lite came on for DH. The numbers were DH 4.825 @ 144.51 (.008rt) to Abbott’s 4.818 @ 144.42 (.041rt). The Abbott’s win the long distance tow award once again and had tons of family and friends in their pits. The pickup has made some real improvements in performance over the past few races. 3rd pair featured Roy Pigford against Buddy Nickens behind the wheel of the James Talley owned Camaro. Roy improved to a 4.675 @ 149.90 to move into round 2. Nickens posted a 4.83 @ 132.94, the mph indicating that it wasn’t a full pass. The 4th pair had Joe Pigford draw Aaron Hubbard. Aaron was filling in for Clint Crownover who was unable to attend this event. #1 qualifier J Pig could not duplicate his brother’s pass but was oh so close with a 4.676 @ 147.49…again the mph indicates he might have stepped off just a tad early. Aaron’s .010rt, 4.899 @ 135.79 went back to the trailer. Two veterans of the class, Eddie the “Dude” Conrad drew Donald the “Boxman” Hughes. Conrad in the Winscott Family GTO, Hughes in his familiar Baretta. Boxman lives up to his billing with a .010rt with the Dude’s .025 right behind. Win lite for the Winscott/Conrad team with a 4.867 @ 142.72 and Donald’s slip read 4.89 @ 144.14… a good ol’ drag race there! Richard Otwell had drawn the bye and shut off early to a 5.42 @ 90.91. He had qualified with a 4.685 @ 149.30.
2nd round…Richard Otwell squared off with DH and advanced easily with a 4.68 @ 149.50 (.049rt) to a losing 4.81 @ 144.79 (.010rt). Current points leader Pearce used a 4.69 @ 149.60 to end the Winscott/Conrad Team’s day. This was the first event that the Dude has been able to make both qualifying sessions without some sort of gremlin. The team made some steady progress this weekend and watch for them to improve more before the end of the season. Has the random draw been mentioned yet? Yep, it struck again as it would be brother vs brother mano a mano, or is it “Pig” vs “Pig”. However you style it should be a great race but…would team orders be in place? They’ve raced each other hard in previous pairings this year but the season’s winding down and with Joe chasing Pearce for the Championship…well who knows? Burnouts complete, look like it’s gonna be a race, tree comes down…it’s green, they both make good clean passes. How good? How about a winning 4.67 @ 150.60 for J Pig to R Pig’s very competitive 4.68 @ 148.81. Hat’s off to the “Pigpen” for giving the fans an awesome race.
Semi’s..It would be NRC teammates Pearce & Otwell fighting to see who would face J Pig in the final. But wait a minute, teammates, points leader, only three races left, would they race like the Pigford’s, or would something strange happen? At the hit you knew it was gonna be a dogfight as Pearce’s .0006rt showed how much he wanted it. Otwell’s .051 was consistent with his earlier rt’s but his 4.69 @ 149.20 would not turn on the win lite against Larry’s 4.67 @149.80. J Pig sat back in the water box taking it all it. Would he make a 60’ hit, half track, early shutoff, ez lap? Nope, not the elder Pig’s style and he laid down a 4.68 @ 150.65 (top mph of the event) to give the fans a glimpse of what was to come in the final.
Final..#1 and #2 in the points, defending 2x Champ, Pigford vs current points leader Pearce, NRC vs Reher Morrison power, this round is huge! Pearce has Jeff Naiser, Ricky McConathy, and Jeff Owen as corner men, Pigford counters with brother Roy, Billy Stocklin and Merv Davis, but it all comes down to the men behind the wheel. Long burnouts, no one in the crowd is seated, the ZTA girls, other TPSA drivers and crewmembers are 3 deep on the fence. The crewmembers complete their duties and step away, no games as the drivers stage, tree flashes green in both lanes. Both cars run hard and straight…win lite Pigford, 4.69 @ 150.50 (.033rt). Pearce runs low et of the event, a 4.67 @ 150.00 (.061rt) but cannot get around the holeshot of Pig. Margin of victory…did the math for you…..0074! Absolutely incredible!
Thanks to Dean & Graham Baker, John Mandabach, and the staff @ HMP for the outstanding track prep, the hospitality, and for hosting the ZTA fundraiser, all of the fans that came out and made this race special, and the TPSA owners, drivers, and crewmembers. All of you folks really outdid yourselves this time….it will be very difficult to top this event. It’s 4:10am....
Recently Dan Wells contacted the TPSA about hosting a charitable event at one of our races. Dan is a crew member on the Cowger/Wood Team and has two daughters that attend Lamar University in Beaumont. As members of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority, their philanthropy is the Susan B Koman Foundation for Breast Cancer Awareness. Each year the Sorority conducts fundraisers/awareness campaigns at various events and locations. Due to his involvement with the TPSA, Dan suggested a TPSA race would be a great venue to host an event. Graham & Dean Baker, and John Mandabach of HMP agreed it was a great cause and encouraged the group's activities. ZTA provided all of the TPSA crews and drivers with pink shirt ribbons to wear, removable pink ribbon decals for the race cars, and placed some signage around the pit area. The girls kept busy by selling raffle tickets, accepting donations, walking through the pits learning about race cars, and visiting with spectators, drivers, and crew members.
Richard Otwell heard of the fundraiser and became involved by donating some of the raffle prizes. At the conclusion of the event, Joe Pigford, Larry Pearce, & Richard Otwell each donated their winnings to the cause. Others may have donated prize money as well, and if you did, don't be shy...post it up! Thanks to all of the TPSA teams for supporting the ZTA's effort by buying raffle tickets and donations.
It was a great race...coverage to follow soon, but more importantly, we had a big time and hopefully helped raise some $$$ for the Sorority and a very worthwhile cause. A second ZTA fundraiser is being planned for the TPSA event @ Evadale on September 26th.
Yes folks you are seeing that Mr Hubbard actually knows how to do a little work for a change. I snapped this pic of him helping to push the car....lol and of course Hubbard always does it in style...wearing his Flip Flpps of course -- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 08/ 9/09 11:03pm
David shoot me an email so I'll have your email address. I want to send you the pics of the ZTA group. Had fun hanging out with you folks as always.
-- ., 08/ 7/09 12:04am
The weather forecast is looking good and Dean and the crew will have the track ready for everything you can throw at it. Only four races remain in the '09 Championship and the strongest team down the stretch will be celebrating in January. All the teams say they're ready and the Abbott's are making the tow from West Texas (maybe another steak dinner bet with the Dude?) Current points leader Larry Pearce, defending Champ Joe Pigford, Richard Otwell and more are planning to make some test hits Friday nite so come on out early for the bench racing or to get in some laps of your own. Gates open Saturday @ 4pm with qualifying slated to begin @ 6pm. If you need more info on the race schedule or the HMP homepage click on the flyer & schedule links above.
Gary Lidiak did receive the new batch of official TPSA T Shirts and he will have them on hand Saturday. He'll probably be near DH's rig manning the scales so be sure to stop by and pick up a couple before your size & color are gone! See ya in the lanes...
Mike Brink's Brink Racecraft, located in Irving, Tx, has joined the TPSA sponsor list for the remainder of '09 and into 2010. Mike's involvement with NHRA Championship drag racing dates back to 1975 and the ultra-competitive ranks of Modified Production classes. His passion for working on and building cars evolved into a full-time business in 1985. Mike says "Building and driving your own race car teaches you things that you can't learn from the grandstands."
Although Mike's shop is heavily involved with the Outlaw Top Sportsman group, and other sponsorships throughout drag racing, he was drawn to the TPSA because it reminds him of his early days in Modified Production.
Welcome aboard to Mike and the crew at Brink Racecraft.
Press Release -- TEAM 2010, 08/ 3/09 7:15pm
In reviewing the forth coming rules changes for 2010, NRC customers have pooled their lunch money and commisioned "Slick" Rick Cylinder heads and NRC to initiate manifold R&D for the upcoming season. This first batch will experiment with several different manufacturers castings. Since the current method to port an intake now requires twice the time, the group felt it prudent to get started early. Team "O" has donated the use of a motor which will now live on the NRC dyno. Consideration is being given to getting another dyno for exclusive Texas Pro Stock testing.
We look forward to the 2010 season and the addition of another NRC car soon! C ya at the races!
***Another batch of T Shirts are supposed to be ready by HMP***
More will be available than we had @ Denton and there will be a limited number of BLACK and GRAY shirts in addition to WHITE. These shirts are Jersee brand w/printed tags. Member prices are $15 for white, $16.50 for the Black or Gray. If you did not receive your free White member T Shirt @ Denton be sure to let us know. **Non Member prices are $20 for white, $21.50 for black or gray.
To reserve your size & color, or to order shirts contact me at glidiak@lidiakmotorsports.com or just click on my name above.
Heard from a couple of members today that are planning a return to some TPSA action next season. Billie Peters and Jeff Rytter are looking for the economy and the oil patch to pick up a little and they're both excited about the rules revisions for 2010. Also heard from Charles Robinson (owner) of Village Mills, Texas and his driver, Junior Wilkerson of New Caney. They have an '02 Firebird and are awaiting delivery of a brand new Steve Schmidt bullet for the TPSA wars. Charles said they might make it out for an event late this year....depending on how testing goes. Hope to see all you guys out soon. -- DH, 07/30/09 11:47pm
Texas Pro Stock July 18th First Round Qualifying.....5 minute sample -- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 07/31/09 1:38pm
This is sample web version of the DVD. The actual movie is of higher quality. You can see also a better quality web version by going to http://nitroart.com/tps
Click the arrow in middle of video to watch......see yall next week at HMP
***Attention members...*** The latest revisions to the 2010 rules update can be viewed at the link you were previously emailed... -- DH, 07/27/09 5:33pm
Friday nite @ Denton and most of the TPSA field is already present. Abbott, Otwell, Pearce, Conrad, DH, Hughes, Crownover, Cowger/Wood were on hand early and some of them made some test hits. Saturday came and J Pigford, R Pigford, and the Talley/Nickens crew came through the gate. As a bonus, super sponsors Gary Lidiak of Lidiak Motorsports, Bryan Arriola of TinMan Race Cars, and Tim Murphy (& family) of The Fab Shop, and all the way from Indiana, came to check it out and lend a hand to anyone that needed it.
Saturday qualifying was set to begin about 7:15pm and it wasn’t as cool as the forecast had predicted, but for July in Texas, in wasn’t bad either. Qualifying was completed around 9pm under partly cloudy skies, 90+ temps, and humidity in the 40% range. Joe Pigford led all comers with a 4.688 at a booming 150.05 (event best) and was the only car in the .60’s. Larry Pearce, 4.722 @ 148.81, Richard Otwell, 4.730 @ 147.49, and Buddy Nickens, 4.774 @ 145.07 rounded out the top four. Roy Pigford, 4.780, Rick Cowger 4.788, David Hubbard 4.807, Lance Abbott 4.815, Clint Crownover 4.892, and Donald Hughes 4.901 completed a tight, all 4 second field. The Winscott/Conrad team did not complete a qualifying lap.
1st Round…Love it or Hate it, the random draw is just that! First pair to roll into the water was Pearce vs Crownover. The current points leader Pearce had missed the last event due to family commitments and Crownover was making just his 4th event of the season. The Hay business has been consuming most of C3’s spare time recently. They roll ‘em into the beams, and no “rust” is apparent on either driver. Crownover out first with a .003 rt, but Pearce’s .427 rt was close behind and his 4.79 would cross in front of Clint’s 4.88. The next pair up would feature DH against the youngest “Pig” in the pen, Roy Pigford. During the burnouts the GXP of Pigford was experiencing some problems but he managed to get it staged. At the hit, Roy’s mount refused to cooperate and DH moved into the next round with a 4.815. Roy limped downtrack and the early diagnosis back in the pits was a transmission failure. Third pair out and remember the “random” part? Richard Otwell had conducted the drawing and drew Joe Pigford as his dance partner for this round. Richard drew first, a .417 to .435 rt and got the “w” with a 4.70 @ 148.22. J Pigford was off his qualifying pace with a 4.743 @ “only”147.98. The data recorder showed the current Champ’s ride didn’t shift, and by the time Joe got ‘er into gear, it was too late. This would be the first event all year that both “Pig” cars were out in the opening stanza. The Cowger/Wood team drew the Winscott/Conrad team and brought ‘em to the lanes. One of the best races of the nite as Rick’s .447 lite was bested by the “Dude’s” .439, but Cowger drove around him on the big end and took the win, 4.815, to Eddie’s 4.847. Conrad and the crew didn’t make a clean pass in qualifying and the 4.84 shows they’re moving in the right direction. Lance “Quickdraw” Abbott and his Dad, Kenneth made the tow from the sprawling metropolis of Crane, Texas. Their opponent would be the new Liberty Hill resident, Donald the “Boxman” Hughes. Both of these racers gained their “nicks” from their prowess on the tree but you couldn’t prove it on this lap….LOL! Lance out first with a .445 to .480rt and got there first via a 4.810 to 4.88 hit. Buddy Nickens in the Talley/Nickens entry drew the bye and eased on to round #2. Buddy had provided some drama and excitement during qualifying with an awesome display of driving when the ‘Bird got crossed up downtrack. He showed both sides of the car to the folks on the starting line, and was inches from both guardrails before he got ‘er back in line, and never touched nuthin’. There’s a couple of pics here and a link to more down the page.
2nd. Round…Pearce would face fellow NRC/Slick Rick powered Cowger. Good clean pass by both with the win going to Larry’s 4.728 over Rick’s 4.781. Richard Otwell had also missed the prior event but you couldn’t tell by his driving. So far, this had been his most consistent outing of ’09. This trend would continue as his .418 rt made Lance Abbott’s .419 second best this time. Otwell posted a 4.687 to take the low et away from J Pigford. The Abbott’s posted a 4.812 and their work over the past few weeks has resulted in improved performance. Earlier in the week, in a friendly bet with longtime friend Eddie Conrad, Kenneth Abbott had bet a steak dinner to the quickest et between the two during this event. No word on if he’s collected yet, but that steak sure will taste good! Last pair of this round had Buddy Nickens and DH coming around the corner. These guys seem gravitated to each other and normally are paired early on. The crews expected a great race as the performance levels were close and neither will give an inch on the starting line. Burnouts done, they approach the beams, the tree comes down, and win lite for Buddy’s 4.816 to David’s 4.812. The scoreboard didn’t tell all of the story though, as back at the line DH had left the “red’ hangin’. The time ticket read .0010 red. Buddy had redlit against Hubbard at the last event so they’re all even again.
Semi’s…Buddy had already had a bye so the NRC teammates, Pearce & Otwell were guaranteed not to run each other until the final….if they could both get there. Otwell would draw Nickens and Buddy’s .431 was out on Richard’s .469. Around 500 ft, Buddy had his hands full again as the ‘Bird’s rear end washed out and Otwell’s 4.71 secured his place in the final. Nickens collected a cone and still ran a 4.82! Pearce put a .009rt on the board to show Richard he was ready, then clicked ‘er off about the 400’ mark.
Finals…teammates, friends, and traveling buddies. Pearce the current points leader could make even more ground on 2nd place J Pig by winning this event. Otwell’s already missed a couple of events and is a long shot for the Championship…would there be “team orders”? The same question was asked earlier this year when the Pigford brothers had to race each other and brother Roy won, ending any speculation. Just as the Pigford’s had done, the NRC teammates were gonna race. They had met twice previously in the money round and Pearce was 2-0. Otwell returned to his improved rt’s with a .422 vs Larry’s .431. Looked close downtrack,‘till Pearce started moving around, and then deciding that discretion was the better part of valor, lifted to save the car and race another day. Otwell saw the bulb come on in his lane with the low et of the meet, a 4.686, and prepared to go to his first winner’s circle of the year. Congrat’s to both teams and to all of the TPSA competitors.
A special thanks to Gary Lidiak and Bryan Arriola for driving up and takin' care of the scale duties...it's very much appreciated and a thankless job. Also, Gary had a limited supply of the all new TPSA T shirts that were so well received that he sold out before the gates officially opened! He will have plenty more very soon and it will be posted as soon as they're available. And last, but certainly not least, it was great to have the entire Murphy family "in the house". I know Tim didn't get to spend as much time as he would've liked with each of you, but if you have any questions about your header needs, don't hesitate to call 'im up @ the Fab Shop.
Thanks to Rich, Larry, Nick and the staff at North Star for allowing us to be part of your program twice this season. We also appreciate each and every fan that came out and hope to see ya next year.
Denton -- Mark Bramhall (Happy), 07/22/09 5:56am
Congrats Richard on your first "Win". I told you it was only a matter of time. " Looking Good " Keep up the good work. Congrats also go out to Larry for his runner up spot, and points lead. Wish I could have been there, but had to work. mb
***"Quickdraw" aka Lance Abbott is on his way to Denton. Says he's ready and something about a steak dinner bet with the "Dude"? The Hill Country Boyz are locked and loaded and at least 2 of 'em will be rollin' in tonite. Pearce was due in Houston Thursday, so he may already be there...LOL. Lookin' for a good turnout, all the regulars, plus the Nickens/Talley crew are scheduled to be back. Come on out early to get a good seat....only one point separates Joe Pigford and Larry Pearce and it's getting close to crunch time. There's plenty more scores to settle plus super sponsors, Gary Lidiak, Bryan Arriola, and all the way from Indiana, Mr. Tim Murphy will be on hand to answer any questions, bench race, or just hangout. Denton does have a Friday nite program and gates open @ 6pm both Friday and Saturday nite....See ya in the lanes -- DH, 07/17/09 4:27pm
Two TPSA sponsors will be in the house this weekend @ NorthStar Dragway in Denton. Tim Murphy of the Fab Shop is coming this weekend all the way from New Palestine, Indiana with a sample of his headers and to answer any header/exhaust tech questions you may have. He's heard about the performance level of the TPSA and is taking this opportunity to check it out for himself! With only 1 point separating Joe Pigford and Larry Pearce in the '09 Championship battle, the on track action should give Tim some great memories to take home. Roy Pigford, the Abbotts, Nickens/Talley, Otwell, Cowger/Wood, Hughes, DH, Winscott/Conrad, and Crownover all plan to make the trip and will be shootin' for that winner's circle themselves.
We'll be putting another friend and sponsor to work at this event. Gary Lidiak and Creigh will be back manning the scales, and they'll also be passing out the new TPSA t shirts to the members.
North Star does have a Friday nite program if you need a few laps for t-n-t...gates open @ 6pm and TPSA members can stay overnite. Saturday's program also begins with the gates opening @ 6pm. The forecast calls for some cooler temps and you know that Rich, Larry, Nick and the crew will have the track ready to rock! Click the link at the top of the page for North Star's homepage if you need more info or directions.
Been seeing an Amber Alert all week saying "Lost elderly gentleman" Then I saw Pigford out at the track late saturday night. So I called the cops and told them I found him -- LOL, 07/12/09 11:08pm
The Official TPSA T-Shirts are here! Finally after months of design, engineering, sweat, uhh meetings...and the fact that I finally got to it, they are here and will be at Denton for your wearing pleasure. Very limited supply but more will be available soon.
2009 TPSA members will receive one free shirt each. Additional shirts to members and their immediate family are available for $15 + tax.
All remaining shirts will be for sale at the track for $20.00 + tax.
Get 'em while you can! Very limited supply on this first batch...
TPSA now on RaceDrive.com Web Site -- Lidiak, 07/ 9/09 11:05am
Well guys the word is spreading. TPSA now has a link from the new RaceDrive.com website that is growing by leaps and bounds. We are found under the "Racing Associations" subtitle and the "Racing Series" subtitle. This allows more people in more places to find the action of the TPSA and follow our series. More to come shortly!
ADRL -- Mitchell, 07/ 5/09 7:43pm
Went to Topeka for the ADRL race Jeff looked Awsome in his 4.11 and went on to win the rained out Martin race held there. Congtrats to the boys at NRC!Billy Glidden did the deed on Saturday in 10.5
Most of the members have been around long enough to know Gene & Tommy Platt. They have donated hundreds of hours of their time to the TPSA and wouldn't take a nickel for it. Gene and his wife Sue, went on their dream vacation, a motorcyle trip that began in Washington State, through Canada, and into Alaska. Everything went smoothly until the return trip last Friday (June 5th) when, just south of the Alaskan/Canada border a car pulled out in front of them. Gene swerved to miss the car and his bike ended up in the ditch and threw Gene over the bars. The result of the accident was a broken pelvis that had to be pinned, but thankfully, no life threatening injuries. Sue escaped injury. Gene is in a Canadian Hospital but expects to return home in about a week. Please keep the Platt family in your thoughts & prayers.
Gene, if you're readin' this, get well soon ya ol' coot! -- DH, 06/ 9/09 5:05pm
looking for Jeff mitchill -- ricky, 07/ 1/09 3:31pm
looking for jeff mitchill, My name is Ricky call me at 956 459 5768 oe E-mail @ temexmoney@sbcglobal.net
The TPSA troupe started rollin' in to Edinburg International Racetrack early Friday evening. Yep, it was hot, but when the sun went down an amazing transformation occured, and it was actually comfortable outside. Mid 80's and as promised by the track manager, Isaac Ebrom, a nice breeze helped cool things off. We all hoped it would be the same for Saturday.
Team "Pigpen" was out in full force Friday nite and made 4 hits in the Grand Am, driven by Joe Pigford, and Roy made 2 hits in the GXP. The last pass in the GXP resulting in a broken stator support for Roy. Team NRC/Slick Rick arrived a bit later with their 3 cars (Pearce, Otwell, Cowger/Wood) and Jeff Naiser made a couple of hits in Larry Pearce's ride. Larry had other commitments and was unable to make this race so Naiser was there to represent. The Cavalier broke a planetary on it's last TT and that sent the Naiser Nation scramblin' for parts to be able to make Saturday's event.
Saturday's qualifying and all the broken cars were repaired. Team "Pig" installed a spare gearbox in Roy's entry, and in a philanthropic gesture, loaned their #1 rival, Team NRC, a planetary that would allow Jeff (in Pearce's car) to make eliminations. The Naiser team had one more gremlin as Jeff broke a rocker arm on the Cavalier in the first qualifying session, but the team had that quickly repaired before the next hit. When the smoke cleared, it was Joe Pigford's 4.740 @ a booming 149.26 (top mph of the event) at the top of the heap. Just behind was Jeff Naiser's 4.747 @ 147.22. The weather conditions had all of the teams checking their summer tuneups and the "super" tuners, Billy Stocklin of Team Pig, and Kenny Hubbard of Team NRC were workin' overtime.
1st round...The sun had set and the conditions were temp's in the mid 80's and 60% humidity...quite pleasant compared to what feels like a blast furnace in the mid afternoon in the Valley. First pair out was the Conrad/Winscott GTO vs. the Roy Pigford GXP. Eddie was just a tad too quick and redlit with a -.004 and Roy eased 'er down into round 2. Donald the "Boxman" Hughes and David Hubbard are Hill Country Boyz teammates, and often travel together, but the draw pitted them against each other in the opening stanza. As expected, the "Boxman" was out first, but DH had enough to move by and into the next round. The next pair saw Jeff Naiser in the Pearce Cavalier line up with Ben Worley in his Grand Am that is usually driven by Richard Otwell. Ben had flown in from the left coast to make his 2nd TPSA event of the year while Richard was celebrating his anniversary at the lake. When the tree came down, Naiser gave Ben the move and that would cost him, as his best pass of the event, a 4.726, crossed the stripe behind Ben's 4.82. The black 'Vette of the Hanson family, once again with Chad in the chair, came around the corner of the staging lanes. He had the unenviable chore of facing the #1 qualifying J. Pig. Pig showed the field the way to do it with his first 4.69(5) low et of the nite, that sent Chad back to the trailer.The Cowger/Wood team drew the bye and would move on.
2nd round...The luck of the draw, or lack of it... The "Pigpen" was empty as J Pig drew R Pig and they rolled up to stage. Roy won the last event @ HMP and had to go through Joe to do it. He would not be able to duplicate that result this time as Joe's 4.71 easily parked Roy's out of shape 4.94. The random draw continued and teammates Rick Cowger and Ben Worley brought 'em to the waterbox. Ben would use his best pass of the nite, a 4.75 to cover Rick's 4.79. DH drew the bye and moved into the semi's.
Semi's...Joe Pigford drew the bye so DH and Worley would be first up. DH pre-staged first and waited for Ben. Ben lit the pre-stage and neither could find low gear to finish staging...LOL. Word was DH's crew got tired of standing behind the car, flipped the data recorder on, and stepped away. The crowd was into it but finally DH rolled in, followed quickly by Ben. Great rt's by both, advantage DH, but Ben's 4.75 was too much for him to hold off. Back at the trailer, both racers were having a laugh about the staging battle and DH's racpak showed he sat there 26 seconds before staging...remember they sat there awhile before the crewman activated the recorder. It was a hoot for everyone involved. Meanwhile, back at the tree, the "Pigman" calmly lays down his second 4.69 of the event, this time with a "7" and waits for the crew to come pick him up.
Final...Reher-Morrison vs. NRC/Slick Rick power. Burnouts complete, both prestaged and.... would there be another "staging duel"? Nope, the "Pigman" says "I'm #1 qualifier come get ya sum" and rolls into the stage beam. Ben follows him in and when the tree comes down, J Pig is headed to the Winner's Circle on the basis of Ben's redlite. Ben was just .009 too early but Pig's 4.71 would have been a tough row to hoe. Another great outing for "Big" Ben and maybe we'll see him again before the end of the season. Congratulations to both Teams and to all of the TPSA competitors that made the trip.
Gracias to the Cantu family, Mr. Isaac Ebrom, the entire staff @ Edinburg, and especially the South Texas fans for their warm hospitality. The TPSA will be back @ Edinburg September 12...mark your calendars now.
PS...thanks to the Hanson family for their work @ the scales and also to Randy Elliott and his family for taking some time out of their trip to the beach to give us a hand!
Gene Platt -- Mark Bramhall (Happy), 06/23/09 7:29pm
Gene, I am so glad that you and Sue are alright. Well, baring the fact that you are in the hospital. Take care, and "Get Well Soon" mb
***Well, I see we're back***.......apparently the "voy forums" server has been down the last couple of days. Isaac said he ordered some cool breeze for Saturday so come on down to the Valley and show us what ya got! -- DH, 06/25/09 12:38pm
I got Robin's pictures posted up today stop by and check them out. If you want a full size copy of the file just email me the jpg number and I'll send it over. I didn't edit out the bad ones this time, just busy, so they are quite a few up -- Dave Donalson, 06/10/09 3:59pm
This event at HMP marks the mid-point of the 2009 Season and the beginning of the summer weather conditions that the teams will have to contend with for the next few months. The weather forecast was as good as we could hope for this time of year in Houston...temps in the mid 90's, humidity around 50%, low barometer, but no precipitation. As most of the TPSA troupe rolled in Friday nite the forecast appeared to be spot on. Saturday we were greeted with clear skies and it was hot & humid.
The track temp was 140* for the first time trial and cooled a bit for the second lap. When the qualifying sheet was posted, Joe Pigford was #1 with a 4.756 @148.71, Richard Otwell and Roy Pigford both ran .77's, the Cowger/Wood entry was in with a 4.782, and the Talley/Nickens team rounded out the top five @ 4.799. Pearce, DH, Donald Hughes, Eddie Conrad in the Winscott family GTO, Chad Hanson, and the "Ford Guys" Mitchell/Beck completed the field.
1st round...Richard Otwell used a 4.763 to advance over the "Budman's" 4.789 after nearly identical rt's, "Boxman" Hughes automatically went to round 2 when Conrad experienced a shifter malfunction and rolled the beams before the 'tree was activated, and once again the draw pitted #1 in the points chase, Larry Pearce vs #2, Joe Pigford. Larry has been gettin' by the "Pigman" here lately but tonite would be a different story. Joe's 4.707 (low et of the race) @ 149.15 was never headed by Larry's 4.763 @ 147.30, again after nearly identical rt's. Roy the "Rookie" Pigford was up next against "Ricky Bobby" in the Wood/Cowger entry. In arguably the best race of the event, the Rookie moves on after both cars run 4.75...Pigford with a 6, and Cowger with a 9...reaction time advantage to the "Rookie" by .0283..awesome race to watch! Chad Hanson rolled the family 'Vette into the water box to face DH in the Cavalier. Once again, the rt's were virtually identical but Hubbard was able to notch the win with a 4.82 @ 145.49. The most fun team on the tour (and the best cooks too!) the Ford Guys drew the bye and eased into round 2 after loosing a head gasket on the hit.
2nd round...The sunset brought cooler temps and the track temp reflected the change...it was almost pleasant outside! The reigning 2x defending Champ, J Pigford drew DH. Joe's 4.717 @ 147.54 got there first by a little over .02 after Hubbard's holeshot aided 4.805 @ 145.82, just couldn't hold him off. Another of the "Hill Country Boyz", Donald Hughes, faced off with the Ben Worley owned Grand AM (powered by RO's NRC/Slick Rick bullet), driven by Richard Otwell. Remember Otwell was #2 qualifier and the "Boxman" was #8. Well, (all together now..LOL) we don't race time slips or qualifying #'s and Donald's .0684 rt advantage held off Team 0's troubled 4.843 @ 146.82. Hughes slip read 4.898 @ 143.27. A transmission gremlin was the early report from the Team O pits. The youngest "Pig" drew the "Ford Guys" and proved he was ready with a solo 4.722 @ 147.88 when the Mitchell/Beck team couldn't make the call.
Semi's...It's mano a mano, brother against brother for a spot in the final and family braggin' rights. Burnouts complete and it was evident "Animal" Jack, Merv Davis, Billy Stocklin & the crew had both cars more than ready to rumble. Stage lites on cleanly with no drama's, and the GXP driven by Roy is out first by .0267, clearly no "Team Orders" here, but would it be enough to trailer brother Joe's #1 qualifying Grand Am? Both cars through the shift point and into high gear and motorin' with their Reher Morrison power...looks like Joe is pullin' him pretty hard but the win lite flashes for Roy's 4.726 @ 147.78. Joe's 4.709 @ 149.65 (top mph of the race) needed just a few more feet of racetrack. Great race by the "Pigpen" and a special tip of the cap to the team for displaying true sportsmanship and the spirit of the TPSA by running 'em all out. Hughes drew the bye and was headed for his first final of the year, after missing most of last year.
Final...Roy Pigford was definitely the favorite based on et but it was a full moon and strange things happen from time to time in TPSA action. After the burnouts both cars moved to pre stage. The crowd held their collective breath as Roy rolled into the stage bulb and it flickered....but stayed on, and the 'tree flashed green on both sides. The "Rookie" managed to do what few drivers do...leave on the "Boxman" but Roy's .413 (best rt of the event) did just that and started to pull away. Hughes clicked it early and watched Roy's 4.739 @ 148.17 propel him into the Winner's Circle for the first time in TPSA.
In the Colony One Consolation Race, which featured the Cowger/Wood team vs Chad Hanson, Lidiak Motorsports and Richard Otwell's, All in Motorsports, added some cash to the purse which Rick Cowger pocketed with the win.
In addition to the on track action we had some special guests in the crowd. Lee Staiger, AD Rigmaiden & family, AJ "Killer" Richnow, Tommy Costales, Richard Otwell's daughter and family, Randy the "Dandy" Elliott, Donny Williams, Miranda (the punkin' bread was awesome!) and others I'm sure I forgot(sorry!), all came out for some TPSA racin'. Come on back soon, ya'll.
A very special thanks to Gary Lidiak and his lovely bride Creigh, who volunteered for the unenviable task of running the scales. Gary, both personally, and through his company, Lidiak motorsports, continues to be one of the most staunch supporters of the TPSA. Thanks again guys!
By the way, having the scales at every event is the most requested addition to a TPSA event, but to date, no-one has stepped up with a solution or volunteered to take it on full time. Any takers out there?
Finally, our thanks to the Baker family, John Mandabach, the crew @ HMP, and the fans who came out in the Houston heat. See ya again on August 8th.
Roy "Rookie" Pigford roots up 1st win Donald "Boxman" Hughes runner-up Joe Pigford #1 Qualifier
-- ., 06/ 7/09 9:39pm
No, it's not a bad sequel to a Tim Allen movie....LOL, the headline refers to the Pigford brothers domination of the action @ HMP with Joe the #1 qualifier and a semi-final finish, and Roy the "Rookie" gathered his first TPSA win with some great driving. Donald and HR Hughes finished as the runner-up after a very long day filled with a generator failure among other things. Congratulations to them and all of the teams that endured the Gulf Coast weather.
Winner... Roy Pigford
Runner Up... Donald Hughes
It was hot, humid and the track temp was 140*, but Dean Baker and the crew had the track in very good shape. As the sun went down, the track tightened up considerably and probably fooled a few crew chiefs..including this reporter. Our thanks to the Baker family, the entire crew at HMP, and all of the fans that came out in the heat. Full race report and more pics to follow.
hotrodgossip.net has some really good pictures of this event so check 'em out.
***IMPORTANT NOTICE*** The TPSA message board is always "G" rated, the hotrodgossip.net board is more hardcore and would probably be rated "R". Please use discretion if you have young children or if you are offended by "adult" language and material.
***It's tomorrow, June 6th @ Houston Motorsports Park...Race #6 of the 2009 TPSA Season*** -- DH, 06/ 5/09 3:55pm
It's our first trip of the season to HMP and the weather forecast is what you'd expect for Houston in the summer...90's, clear, and most importantly, DRY. You know Dean Baker and the crew will have the track in primo condition and everyone is ready for some action. This race marks the mid point of the season...can anyone stop the Pearce Express? You know Cowger/Wood, Otwell, the "Pigpen" (Joe & Roy Pigford), and the "Budman" Nickens in the Talley entry all are lookin' for a trip to the Winner's Circle and to establish some momentum goin' into the last half of the season. Will the hot track & temperatures be an equalizer for the Winscott/Conrad team, fresh from testing, or DH, the "Boxman", C3, the Hanson's, and the Ford Guys (Mitchell/Beck)? Be there tomorrow, June 6th to see for yourself...Gates open @ 2pm. Click on the links above for schedule info and/or HMP's website.
Ok, so you want a set of custom headers to maximize the potential of your bullet but you don't want to load the car up and take a road trip or leave your ride somewhere while the headers are made? Well, Tim @ The Fab Shop has come up with a solution that allows your car to be perfectly fit with those new pipes without ever leaving your shop. The press release that follows has more info:
***Tim will be at our event July 18th @ Denton (all the way from Indiana) with a small display and to answer any questions you might have regarding exhaust systems. Thanks to Tim & the Fab Shop for their interest of the TPSA!*** -- DH (I love my Fab Shop pipes), 05/29/09 9:46pm
The Fab Shop provides solution with "Adjustable Headers"
5/29/2009
New Palestine, IN
The Fab Shop LLC has the solution for tube chassis/door car headers. We simply send you our new “adjustable header”. You bolt them on, adjust the height and angle of the lower half of the header to fit your car perfectly then lock them in place and ship them back to us. We'll then use them to create a custom set of headers that will fit your car as if they were built right on it. And the adjustable header can accommodate nearly all of the popular heads (even angle-milled), chassis, deck heights and bore spacings. This new system will eliminate the wasted time, effort and poor results that typically accompany an off-the-shelf header. Benefits include: perfect alignment of the collector in the collector box. No ground or floor clearance issues. No collectors dragging the ground when loading in the trailer. No loss of turning radius. Consumes only a fraction of the time and money normally associated with custom headers. And of course you get the unbeatable performance of a Fab Shop header. To speak with an expert, call 317 294 4323 or check out fabshopheaders.com.
***Results from Race #5 Evadale...May 16th*** -- from the pits, 05/21/09 6:49pm
The weather forecast didn't paint a pretty picture for this event to happen on schedule. A phone call to "Sir Frederick", the Duke of Evadale (& the track manager) late Thursday nite confirmed that the East Texas fans, the Bruce family, and the staff @ Evadale was lookin' forward to some good ol' TPSA action and Fred said it "wasn't gonna rain". The Boxman, DH, and current points leader, Larry Pearce, rolled in after dark Friday nite, followed Saturday by "Quickdraw" Lance Abbott, the Cowger/Wood team, the Hanson's, Nickens/Talley, Joe & Roy Pigford, and fresh from the "left" coast, Mr. "Big" Ben Worley and wife, Donna.
It was overcast, hot, & humid for the first round of qualifying and looked like it would rain at any second. The first session was completed without incident but back to the North loomed the blackest cloud that's been seen in a long while. DH slid the Cavalier back in the "box", just in case, and Mr Bruce came by to tell him "it's not gonna rain us out!" Sure enough, a few minutes later, a brief shower cooled things off but Fred and the crew quickly had the track dry and we were ready for the second round of qualifying. The rain showers and resulting cooler temps netted some great times: Pearce @ 4.645, Worley, who hasn't been racing in over two years, #2 @4.668, Joe Pigford @ 4.680, Roy Pigford @4.712 to round out the top half of the field. Cowger, DH, and Nickens were bunched in the mid 70's, and Abbott, Hanson, and Hughes completed the ten car ladder. Randy the "Dandy" Elliott, the Conrad/Winscott team, and the "Ford Guys" would all miss this event due to their bullets not quite being ready to go, and Clint Crownover (C3) was literally "making hay while the sun shines".
1st round...Naiser/Slick Rick teammates Worley and Cowger roll into the waterbox. Ben raced regularly with the TPSA until a couple of years ago when a job in California offered more than he could refuse. Most fans may not know, but Worley owns the car that Richard Otwell has been driving this year and when RO was unavailable for Evadale, Big Ben took the opportunity to fly in and make some laps. In the other lane, the Cowger/Wood team is probably the most improved team for '09 in performance after purchasing a Naiser/Slick Rick combo over the winter. Burnouts complete, the cars stage and Big Ben looks like he's been racin' every weekend with a great .412 lite coupled with a 4.664 to send Rick Cowger's 4.709 to the Consi race. Next up Larry Pearce, the points leader and the most dominant car of '09 (so far) vs. the West Texas kid aka "Quickdraw" Lance Abbott from beautiful downtown Crane, Texas. Lance & his Dad, Kenneth would easily win a long distance tow award with a one way trip of 500 miles. The long tow musta' slowed the kid down some as his .455rt was far from his average but Pearce's 4.649 proved to be unbeatable and "Quickdraw" went to the Consi with a 4.807. Next pair and these guys just can't get away from each other. David Hubbard and Buddy "Budman" Nickens have drawn each other first round at two other races this season. Nickens qualified .02 better here and ran a 4.750 to a dead late DH's 4.744, but the Budman had left the redlite glowin' back on the tree and DH would advance. Joe Pigford and Chad Hanson were up next and Hanson's 4.898 would have advanced over "Pig's" troubled 5.464 but Chad had left the dreaded redlite on with a gut wrenching .3994! Back in the pits the Pigford team found a balky tranny that didn't shift into high gear. The final pair was to feature Roy Pigford against Donald Hughes. The Boxman had hurt a tranny himself in qualifying and was unable to make the call, giving R Pig a comp bye. Roy eased 'er on down with a 4.703.
2nd round...The classic showdown between #1 & #2 in the points, Pearce vs Pigford. Pearce has won 3 of the first 4 events this year and J Pig needed to stop the Naiser Nation momentum. Pig did his job on the tree, recording a solid .015rt advantage, but it was for naught as Pearce's 4.646 steamed by Pig's 4.697; headed for the semi's. In TPSA action it seems it's safe to expect the unusual and bizarre. In the next pair (Ben Worley vs Roy Pigford), both cars left the starting line before the Autostart sequence had started, resulting in no time slip, no win lite, and no data in the computer. In some organizations, and in sportsman racing, both cars would have been DQ'd, but TPSA uses the "Pro" rules which state if it can be determined that one car clearly left before the other, the last car to leave is the winner. Ben stepped up and said he left first and that was verified by the track starter and several competent bystanders; one of which was Jeff Naiser. Thanks to you all for your honesty and a special tip of the cap to both Ben and Jeff...as stated before the bullet in the Worley/Otwell ride is a Naiser piece and his honesty is appreciated. Meanwhile, back in the waterbox, DH was waiting to run his bye which would put him in the Semi's. DH made it down without incident with a 4.759.
Semi's...Pearce drew Hubbard (didja know DH is the only car to get a "w" against Pearce this year?) and Hubbard was hoping for a miracle. Not today....Larry would be in his 4th final of the year with a 4.658 to stop DH's 4.758. DH's .04rt advantage wasn't enough to derail the Pearce Express. Roy Pigford drew the bye and went to the final with a 4.691. Maybe he could stop Pearce with a holeshot.
Final...The burnouts were complete, the cars approached the tree, stage lites were on....and it was over just like that when R Pig's top lite went out, automatically sending Pearce to his 4th Winner's Circle of the Year. Larry's record is an amazing 15-1 for '09! Congrats to the Pearce's, Naiser/Slick Rick & "Naiser Nation", and the crew.
One other final oder of business was the running of the Consi race. Only 3 cars would contest this race as the "Boxman" was still buttonin' up the tranny swap. Cowger defeated Abbott, who was back on track with a .418 lite, with his best time of the event, a 4.687 to Lance's 4.81 and Hanson used a 4.895 on his bye run to secure a spot in the final. Team Cowger/Wood took the money home in the final with a 4.705 to Chad's 4.908. The final pair of cars went down the track around 11pm...even with the down time for the showers...
Both Fred and Mr Bruce had told us not to worry...it wasn't gonna rain this event out...and they were right. Wonder if they're available as weather consultants?? The track was in great condition and the cooler conditions that the showers brought were much appreciated. Thanks to the Bruce family, Fred and the staff @ Evadale, and the East Texas fans who always come and support us, no matter what the weather conditions or forecast. We hope to see the Worley's at another TPSA event before this season is done.
Steve Schmidt TPSA Motor for sale! -- Pro55, 05/20/09 6:50am
Steve Schmidt TPSA motor for sale! 1140 HP with 15 runs total. Best ET is 4.79 in the 1/8th. Don't need it, sold the car. Call Mike at 956-793-6092
TS/TD Points Race -- IsaacEbrom, 05/ 9/09 4:50pm
Edinburg International Racetrack will host a NHRA National Open event for Sunset Racecraft Top Sportsman (TS) and TCI/Comp Cams Top Dragster (TD) drivers on May 23 and 24. TS/TD drivers will compete for LODRS points, money, and a Wally. In addition to the TS/TD divisional points, all racers can earn NHRA grade points for National Event entry.
“The race down in Edinburg gives TS/TD drivers a total of 8 races they can claim within Division 4,” said Division Director Craig Hutchinson. “It offers the racers chasing points another option that may be closer for them.”
The race is currently the only 1/8th mile event for the TCI/Comp Cams Top Dragster and Sunset Racecraft Top Sportsman Series. The event will also have a Test & Tune session on Friday. Along with the TS/TD categories, the track will host their regular bracket program consisting of Super Pro, Sportsman, and Junior Dragsters. If a driver does not qualify in TS/TD…they may enter Super Pro at no extra charge.
“We are very excited about bringing an NHRA sanctioned event to South Texas,” proclaimed track manager Julio Cantu. “Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to take a trip to the Southern Tip of Texas.”
A bonus Quick Jackpot race will take place on Friday Night and a special Saturday Night Shootout is set for the fastest four qualifiers in both TS and TD. The heads-up shootout—which is free to enter—pays $500.00 to the winner and $200.00 to the runner up.
Edinburg International Racetrack is the only drag strip South of San Antonio, Texas. Located 3 hours South of San Antonio and 5 hours Southwest of Houston, the track serves the entire Rio Grande Valley, Corpus Christi, Laredo, and Northern Mexico. For more information visit www.edinburgracetrack.com or call (956) 318-0355.
Evadale -- Mark Bramhall, 05/18/09 4:16pm
Congrats to Larry on his 4th win. Great job. Also congrats to Roy on the runner up finish. You sure are getting used to your new ride. Keep up the good work. And, it looks like DH and team are fightin' for their first win. Keep up the good work David. Wish I had been there. All you guys are doing such a good job, and as a whole, the TPSA has been awesome. mb
If you were there Saturday you know we had a better chance of watchin' water come in like in the pic above than gettin' a pass in...much less the whole race. Although a couple of showers did pass through, Fred and the crew did an outstanding job and we got the race in.... and before midnite. Great job by Bruce family, Fred, and the crew @ Evadale. And for the record, if you weren't there (where were ya?...LOL) you missed a good one!
Winner...Larry(cuatro)Pearce
Runner up...Roy Pigford
Semi's...David Hubbard
Consi...Team Cowger/Wood
Complete race report, pics, and much more from Evadale coming soon..stay tuned.
Calculate their age by how many times a week they work on their racecar! -- DH, 09/ 5/09 12:33pm 
Introduction -- Junior Wilkerson, 08/10/09 1:09pm 
-- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 08/ 9/09 11:07pm 
-- Wes Strom-NitroArt.com, 08/ 9/09 11:03pm 
(NT)
-- 
(NT)
Good job "Bro". I needed some help after that pitiful light against Larry in the semi's. Later ! -- PIGMAN, 09/29/09 1:44pm 
Wanted,.Goodyears 33.5x17x16 -- 
(NT)
