NEWS NUGGETS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS SET TO KICK OFF THE SWING: The traditional three-week NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Western Swing kicks off at Bandimere Speedway with the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals, July 20–22. The 13th of 23 events in the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series marks the middle of the season and the deal breaker to qualify for the Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA’s playoffs. Drivers in all four categories—Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle—will race to the top of the mountain. The Full Throttle teams travel high and deep into the Rocky Mountains to more than 5,800 ft., where the altitude affects everything from engine tune-ups to aerodynamics, to begin the Western Swing. Crews must make changes to established power-making combinations and battle lack of downforce to tackle the environs. The event is a testament to the skill and adaptability of the racers.

In addition to the racing action, a host of activities will be held in celebration of the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals. On Thursday, July 19, fans are invited to attend the Mopar Block Party in downtown Golden, Colorado, from 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., featuring a live band, car displays and a driver autograph session. On Saturday before racing, the Go Red for Women Track Walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. to bring awareness to heart disease (www.goredforwomen.org). This experience gives fans the chance to walk the same track where NHRA drivers compete at speeds of 300 mph and be joined by NHRA racers. The event is free for all Saturday ticket holders. For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

GOODYEAR GIVES BACK, JOINS FORCES WITH THE NHRA TO SUPPORT THE TROOPS: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.—exclusive tire supplier of NHRA’s Top Fuel and Funny Car classes—is honoring and supporting U.S. armed forces with the launch of the Goodyear Gives Back campaign—a fundraising effort designed to generate support for the U.S. armed forces and their families who make sacrifices to protect Americans’ freedom. A number of initiatives are part of this year’s program, including at-track activities and the launch of Goodyear.com/GivesBack. To kick off this year’s program, Goodyear is leading the way with its own donation to the Support Our Troops organization.

During the Goodyear Gives Back event from July 1 through August 31, Goodyear will donate $1 per select Goodyear tire sold to Support Our Troops. In the past two years, contributions generated through the Goodyear effort have amounted to nearly $400,000 in cash and product and have benefited U.S. servicemen and servicewomen directly and through the programs operated by Support Our Troops. This nonprofit nationwide organization works to bolster the morale and well-being of America’s troops and their families by delivering more than $20 million per year in care packs and requested items to the front lines, providing positive support at home and kids’ camp assistance and more. Consumers and race fans can get involved in this year’s Goodyear Gives Back campaign by logging on to Goodyear.com/GivesBack and bidding on authentic, race-used Goodyear NHRA and NASCAR tires autographed by drivers who used them in races as well as other unique items, including authentic motorsports experiences and memorabilia. All proceeds will go directly to Support Our Troops.

ERIC MEDLEN NITRO NIGHT PLANNED FOR SONOMA: Infineon Raceway will honor the memory of the late Eric Medlen during the fifth annual AutoTrader.com Eric Medlen Nitro Night Charity Dinner at Stone Tree Golf Club, Thursday, July 28. Medlen, a native of Oakdale, California, in the San Joaquin Valley, won the Funny Car title at Infineon Raceway—his home track—in 2006. He succumbed in March 2007 to injuries sustained from a testing accident. Medlen was a member of John Force Racing. Funny Car drivers Jack Beckman (Aaron’s/Valvoline Dodge), Ron Capps (NAPA Auto Parts Dodge) and Melanie Troxel (ProCare Rx Toyota) will attend, as will Top Fuel drivers Morgan Lucas (GEICO/Lucas Oil dragster) and Shawn Langdon (Lucas Oil/Speedco dragster). The event will be hosted for the second consecutive year at Stone Tree Golf Club, which is less than five miles from Infineon Raceway in Novato, providing easy access for fans and race teams. Nitro Night also serves as a kickoff to the FRAM/Autolite NHRA Nationals at Infineon Raceway July 29–31. This year’s event marks the series’ 24th annual visit to the Sonoma Valley and will feature professional competition in the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes. To reserve your seat for the dinner, contact Denise Silver, 707-933-3950 or dsilver@infineonraceway.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS, BANDIMERE SPEEDWAY, July 20–22: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 13th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners are Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Karen Stoffer (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS, SONOMA, July 27–29: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 14th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the San Francisco Bay area of Northern California, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or log on to RaceSonoma.com.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA NORTHWEST NATIONALS, PACIFIC RACEWAYS, August 3–5: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 15th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the Northwest, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car) and Jason Line (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

	Shawn Langdon in 1997.

LANGDON READY FOR DENVER, SITE OF SUCCESS SINCE BEING A JR. DRAG RACER: Shawn Langdon is still looking for that elusive first win in Top Fuel, and he really is hoping that it comes at the next NHRA event—the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, as the NHRA returns to Bandimere Speedway, where Langdon and his family have had a lot of success.

“I’m always excited to go Denver because I won my first NHRA national championship there in the Jr. Dragster class in 1997, so for me, going back to Bandimere Speedway always gives me a special feeling because of all the good memories I have there. Plus, the Bandimere family always puts on a great show; they have a great track, and it’s always an exciting event for me. I was also there when my dad won the Super Gas title in 1985, so it’s just one of those tracks where you just get that special feeling when you roll into the gate.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

5: JUST FIVE RACES BEFORE COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP: With only five races remaining in the NHRA regular season, it is crunch time for those wanting to make the Countdown, especially those on the outside looking in, including reigning Funny Car world champ Matt Hagan, rookie Alexis DeJoria and veteran Tim Wilkerson in Funny Car; Clay Millican and Bob Vandergriff, who are tied for 10th in Top Fuel, and Terry McMillen, who is right behind them; four-time Pro Stock world champ Jeg Coughlin Jr. is in 11th in that category, just four points out of 10th; and rookie Pro Stock Motorcycle rider John Hall and veteran Steve Johnson are looking to earn a berth to the Countdown in the final stretch of the regular season.

DID YOU KNOW…

ONE SPOT LEFT IN TOP FUEL NHRA TRAXXAS NITRO SHOOTOUT: The first six different NHRA winners in both Top Fuel and Funny Car are guaranteed starting spots in the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootouts, but the seventh winner also has a good shot at qualifying for the $100,000 bonus race at Indy, presuming that the points leader after Brainerd has won an event, which is likely, although not guaranteed, at this point in the season. With one position left in Top Fuel and only four races remaining, it begs the question of who will be the potential seventh qualifier for the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootout. Qualified drivers in Top Fuel are Spencer Massey, Antron Brown, Steve Torrence, Morgan Lucas, Tony Schumacher and David Grubnic. Qualified drivers in Funny Car are John Force, Robert Hight, Mike Neff, Jack Beckman, Ron Capps and Johnny Gray. The seventh winner in Funny Car is Jeff Arend. The eighth and final position in both Top Fuel and Funny Car will be chosen by a fan vote that goes live August 20, followed by a weighted lottery August 29.

NEWS NUGGETS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS SET TO KICK OFF THE SWING: The traditional three-week NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Western Swing kicks off at Bandimere Speedway with the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals, July 20–22. The 13th of 23 events in the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series marks the middle of the season and the deal breaker to qualify for the Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA’s playoffs. Drivers in all four categories—Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle—will race to the top of the mountain. The Full Throttle teams travel high and deep into the Rocky Mountains to more than 5,800 ft., where the altitude affects everything from engine tune-ups to aerodynamics, to begin the Western Swing. Crews must make changes to established power-making combinations and battle lack of downforce to tackle the environs. The event is a testament to the skill and adaptability of the racers.

In addition to the racing action, a host of activities will be held in celebration of the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals. On Thursday, July 19, fans are invited to attend the Mopar Block Party in downtown Golden, Colorado, from 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., featuring a live band, car displays and a driver autograph session. On Saturday before racing, the Go Red for Women Track Walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. to bring awareness to heart disease (www.goredforwomen.org). This experience gives fans the chance to walk the same track where NHRA drivers compete at speeds of 300 mph and be joined by NHRA racers. The event is free for all Saturday ticket holders. For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

GOODYEAR GIVES BACK, JOINS FORCES WITH THE NHRA TO SUPPORT THE TROOPS: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.—exclusive tire supplier of NHRA’s Top Fuel and Funny Car classes—is honoring and supporting U.S. armed forces with the launch of the Goodyear Gives Back campaign—a fundraising effort designed to generate support for the U.S. armed forces and their families who make sacrifices to protect Americans’ freedom. A number of initiatives are part of this year’s program, including at-track activities and the launch of Goodyear.com/GivesBack. To kick off this year’s program, Goodyear is leading the way with its own donation to the Support Our Troops organization.

During the Goodyear Gives Back event from July 1 through August 31, Goodyear will donate $1 per select Goodyear tire sold to Support Our Troops. In the past two years, contributions generated through the Goodyear effort have amounted to nearly $400,000 in cash and product and have benefited U.S. servicemen and servicewomen directly and through the programs operated by Support Our Troops. This nonprofit nationwide organization works to bolster the morale and well-being of America’s troops and their families by delivering more than $20 million per year in care packs and requested items to the front lines, providing positive support at home and kids’ camp assistance and more. Consumers and race fans can get involved in this year’s Goodyear Gives Back campaign by logging on to Goodyear.com/GivesBack and bidding on authentic, race-used Goodyear NHRA and NASCAR tires autographed by drivers who used them in races as well as other unique items, including authentic motorsports experiences and memorabilia. All proceeds will go directly to Support Our Troops.

ERIC MEDLEN NITRO NIGHT PLANNED FOR SONOMA: Infineon Raceway will honor the memory of the late Eric Medlen during the fifth annual AutoTrader.com Eric Medlen Nitro Night Charity Dinner at Stone Tree Golf Club, Thursday, July 28. Medlen, a native of Oakdale, California, in the San Joaquin Valley, won the Funny Car title at Infineon Raceway—his home track—in 2006. He succumbed in March 2007 to injuries sustained from a testing accident. Medlen was a member of John Force Racing. Funny Car drivers Jack Beckman (Aaron’s/Valvoline Dodge), Ron Capps (NAPA Auto Parts Dodge) and Melanie Troxel (ProCare Rx Toyota) will attend, as will Top Fuel drivers Morgan Lucas (GEICO/Lucas Oil dragster) and Shawn Langdon (Lucas Oil/Speedco dragster). The event will be hosted for the second consecutive year at Stone Tree Golf Club, which is less than five miles from Infineon Raceway in Novato, providing easy access for fans and race teams. Nitro Night also serves as a kickoff to the FRAM/Autolite NHRA Nationals at Infineon Raceway July 29–31. This year’s event marks the series’ 24th annual visit to the Sonoma Valley and will feature professional competition in the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes. To reserve your seat for the dinner, contact Denise Silver, 707-933-3950 or dsilver@infineonraceway.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS, BANDIMERE SPEEDWAY, July 20–22: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 13th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners are Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Karen Stoffer (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS, SONOMA, July 27–29: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 14th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the San Francisco Bay area of Northern California, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or log on to RaceSonoma.com.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA NORTHWEST NATIONALS, PACIFIC RACEWAYS, August 3–5: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 15th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the Northwest, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car) and Jason Line (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

	Shawn Langdon in 1997.

LANGDON READY FOR DENVER, SITE OF SUCCESS SINCE BEING A JR. DRAG RACER: Shawn Langdon is still looking for that elusive first win in Top Fuel, and he really is hoping that it comes at the next NHRA event—the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, as the NHRA returns to Bandimere Speedway, where Langdon and his family have had a lot of success.

“I’m always excited to go Denver because I won my first NHRA national championship there in the Jr. Dragster class in 1997, so for me, going back to Bandimere Speedway always gives me a special feeling because of all the good memories I have there. Plus, the Bandimere family always puts on a great show; they have a great track, and it’s always an exciting event for me. I was also there when my dad won the Super Gas title in 1985, so it’s just one of those tracks where you just get that special feeling when you roll into the gate.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

5: JUST FIVE RACES BEFORE COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP: With only five races remaining in the NHRA regular season, it is crunch time for those wanting to make the Countdown, especially those on the outside looking in, including reigning Funny Car world champ Matt Hagan, rookie Alexis DeJoria and veteran Tim Wilkerson in Funny Car; Clay Millican and Bob Vandergriff, who are tied for 10th in Top Fuel, and Terry McMillen, who is right behind them; four-time Pro Stock world champ Jeg Coughlin Jr. is in 11th in that category, just four points out of 10th; and rookie Pro Stock Motorcycle rider John Hall and veteran Steve Johnson are looking to earn a berth to the Countdown in the final stretch of the regular season.

DID YOU KNOW…

ONE SPOT LEFT IN TOP FUEL NHRA TRAXXAS NITRO SHOOTOUT: The first six different NHRA winners in both Top Fuel and Funny Car are guaranteed starting spots in the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootouts, but the seventh winner also has a good shot at qualifying for the $100,000 bonus race at Indy, presuming that the points leader after Brainerd has won an event, which is likely, although not guaranteed, at this point in the season. With one position left in Top Fuel and only four races remaining, it begs the question of who will be the potential seventh qualifier for the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootout. Qualified drivers in Top Fuel are Spencer Massey, Antron Brown, Steve Torrence, Morgan Lucas, Tony Schumacher and David Grubnic. Qualified drivers in Funny Car are John Force, Robert Hight, Mike Neff, Jack Beckman, Ron Capps and Johnny Gray. The seventh winner in Funny Car is Jeff Arend. The eighth and final position in both Top Fuel and Funny Car will be chosen by a fan vote that goes live August 20, followed by a weighted lottery August 29.

NEWS NUGGETS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS SET TO KICK OFF THE SWING: The traditional three-week NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Western Swing kicks off at Bandimere Speedway with the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals, July 20–22. The 13th of 23 events in the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series marks the middle of the season and the deal breaker to qualify for the Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA’s playoffs. Drivers in all four categories—Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle—will race to the top of the mountain. The Full Throttle teams travel high and deep into the Rocky Mountains to more than 5,800 ft., where the altitude affects everything from engine tune-ups to aerodynamics, to begin the Western Swing. Crews must make changes to established power-making combinations and battle lack of downforce to tackle the environs. The event is a testament to the skill and adaptability of the racers.

In addition to the racing action, a host of activities will be held in celebration of the 33rd annual Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals. On Thursday, July 19, fans are invited to attend the Mopar Block Party in downtown Golden, Colorado, from 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., featuring a live band, car displays and a driver autograph session. On Saturday before racing, the Go Red for Women Track Walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. to bring awareness to heart disease (www.goredforwomen.org). This experience gives fans the chance to walk the same track where NHRA drivers compete at speeds of 300 mph and be joined by NHRA racers. The event is free for all Saturday ticket holders. For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

GOODYEAR GIVES BACK, JOINS FORCES WITH THE NHRA TO SUPPORT THE TROOPS: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.—exclusive tire supplier of NHRA’s Top Fuel and Funny Car classes—is honoring and supporting U.S. armed forces with the launch of the Goodyear Gives Back campaign—a fundraising effort designed to generate support for the U.S. armed forces and their families who make sacrifices to protect Americans’ freedom. A number of initiatives are part of this year’s program, including at-track activities and the launch of Goodyear.com/GivesBack. To kick off this year’s program, Goodyear is leading the way with its own donation to the Support Our Troops organization.

During the Goodyear Gives Back event from July 1 through August 31, Goodyear will donate $1 per select Goodyear tire sold to Support Our Troops. In the past two years, contributions generated through the Goodyear effort have amounted to nearly $400,000 in cash and product and have benefited U.S. servicemen and servicewomen directly and through the programs operated by Support Our Troops. This nonprofit nationwide organization works to bolster the morale and well-being of America’s troops and their families by delivering more than $20 million per year in care packs and requested items to the front lines, providing positive support at home and kids’ camp assistance and more. Consumers and race fans can get involved in this year’s Goodyear Gives Back campaign by logging on to Goodyear.com/GivesBack and bidding on authentic, race-used Goodyear NHRA and NASCAR tires autographed by drivers who used them in races as well as other unique items, including authentic motorsports experiences and memorabilia. All proceeds will go directly to Support Our Troops.

ERIC MEDLEN NITRO NIGHT PLANNED FOR SONOMA: Infineon Raceway will honor the memory of the late Eric Medlen during the fifth annual AutoTrader.com Eric Medlen Nitro Night Charity Dinner at Stone Tree Golf Club, Thursday, July 28. Medlen, a native of Oakdale, California, in the San Joaquin Valley, won the Funny Car title at Infineon Raceway—his home track—in 2006. He succumbed in March 2007 to injuries sustained from a testing accident. Medlen was a member of John Force Racing. Funny Car drivers Jack Beckman (Aaron’s/Valvoline Dodge), Ron Capps (NAPA Auto Parts Dodge) and Melanie Troxel (ProCare Rx Toyota) will attend, as will Top Fuel drivers Morgan Lucas (GEICO/Lucas Oil dragster) and Shawn Langdon (Lucas Oil/Speedco dragster). The event will be hosted for the second consecutive year at Stone Tree Golf Club, which is less than five miles from Infineon Raceway in Novato, providing easy access for fans and race teams. Nitro Night also serves as a kickoff to the FRAM/Autolite NHRA Nationals at Infineon Raceway July 29–31. This year’s event marks the series’ 24th annual visit to the Sonoma Valley and will feature professional competition in the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes. To reserve your seat for the dinner, contact Denise Silver, 707-933-3950 or dsilver@infineonraceway.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS, BANDIMERE SPEEDWAY, July 20–22: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 13th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners are Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Karen Stoffer (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-664-UWIN (8946) or log on to Bandimere.com.

NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS, SONOMA, July 27–29: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 14th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the San Francisco Bay area of Northern California, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or log on to RaceSonoma.com.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA NORTHWEST NATIONALS, PACIFIC RACEWAYS, August 3–5: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 15th stop of 23 events in the 2012 season in the Northwest, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car) and Jason Line (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

	Shawn Langdon in 1997.

LANGDON READY FOR DENVER, SITE OF SUCCESS SINCE BEING A JR. DRAG RACER: Shawn Langdon is still looking for that elusive first win in Top Fuel, and he really is hoping that it comes at the next NHRA event—the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, as the NHRA returns to Bandimere Speedway, where Langdon and his family have had a lot of success.

“I’m always excited to go Denver because I won my first NHRA national championship there in the Jr. Dragster class in 1997, so for me, going back to Bandimere Speedway always gives me a special feeling because of all the good memories I have there. Plus, the Bandimere family always puts on a great show; they have a great track, and it’s always an exciting event for me. I was also there when my dad won the Super Gas title in 1985, so it’s just one of those tracks where you just get that special feeling when you roll into the gate.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

5: JUST FIVE RACES BEFORE COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP: With only five races remaining in the NHRA regular season, it is crunch time for those wanting to make the Countdown, especially those on the outside looking in, including reigning Funny Car world champ Matt Hagan, rookie Alexis DeJoria and veteran Tim Wilkerson in Funny Car; Clay Millican and Bob Vandergriff, who are tied for 10th in Top Fuel, and Terry McMillen, who is right behind them; four-time Pro Stock world champ Jeg Coughlin Jr. is in 11th in that category, just four points out of 10th; and rookie Pro Stock Motorcycle rider John Hall and veteran Steve Johnson are looking to earn a berth to the Countdown in the final stretch of the regular season.

DID YOU KNOW…

ONE SPOT LEFT IN TOP FUEL NHRA TRAXXAS NITRO SHOOTOUT: The first six different NHRA winners in both Top Fuel and Funny Car are guaranteed starting spots in the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootouts, but the seventh winner also has a good shot at qualifying for the $100,000 bonus race at Indy, presuming that the points leader after Brainerd has won an event, which is likely, although not guaranteed, at this point in the season. With one position left in Top Fuel and only four races remaining, it begs the question of who will be the potential seventh qualifier for the NHRA Traxxas Nitro Shootout. Qualified drivers in Top Fuel are Spencer Massey, Antron Brown, Steve Torrence, Morgan Lucas, Tony Schumacher and David Grubnic. Qualified drivers in Funny Car are John Force, Robert Hight, Mike Neff, Jack Beckman, Ron Capps and Johnny Gray. The seventh winner in Funny Car is Jeff Arend. The eighth and final position in both Top Fuel and Funny Car will be chosen by a fan vote that goes live August 20, followed by a weighted lottery August 29.

	The goal of the SEMA Data Co-op is to enable any manufacturer to take control of their product data, maintain its compliance to standards and provide a seamless means to distribute that data to approved data receivers of their choice in the most affordable way possible.

Receivers in the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) are asking for your product data by name to grow their sales! Join now and get started for free, including on-boarding and validation of your data files to industry standards.  

Join the more than 90 companies that are already engaged in the free SEMA Data Co-op beta phase and get started on the path to data independence!

The SDC is a technology and service initiative created for the benefit of SEMA-member companies, with the mission of encouraging and enabling the development, safe storage and universal export of industry product data.

The SDC has doubled its capacity for the beta phase running through September and now has spots available for suppliers and receivers interested in getting a head start in providing or receiving data through the Co-op.

Through the development and operation of key business tools and processes, the SDC will enable any manufacturer to take control of their product data, maintain its compliance to standards and provide a seamless means to distribute that data to approved data receivers of their choice.

Participating suppliers receive free help-desk support, data validation, secure storage and data exports to receivers of their choice through the beta phase, and are first in line to "go live" with the production system later this year. Receivers get a free custom requirements study and unlimited data exports designed especially for their specific needs.

Join the industry leaders who have already started the beta process and help make the SEMA Data Co-op the central source for SEMA market product data!

	The goal of the SEMA Data Co-op is to enable any manufacturer to take control of their product data, maintain its compliance to standards and provide a seamless means to distribute that data to approved data receivers of their choice in the most affordable way possible.

Receivers in the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) are asking for your product data by name to grow their sales! Join now and get started for free, including on-boarding and validation of your data files to industry standards.  

Join the more than 90 companies that are already engaged in the free SEMA Data Co-op beta phase and get started on the path to data independence!

The SDC is a technology and service initiative created for the benefit of SEMA-member companies, with the mission of encouraging and enabling the development, safe storage and universal export of industry product data.

The SDC has doubled its capacity for the beta phase running through September and now has spots available for suppliers and receivers interested in getting a head start in providing or receiving data through the Co-op.

Through the development and operation of key business tools and processes, the SDC will enable any manufacturer to take control of their product data, maintain its compliance to standards and provide a seamless means to distribute that data to approved data receivers of their choice.

Participating suppliers receive free help-desk support, data validation, secure storage and data exports to receivers of their choice through the beta phase, and are first in line to "go live" with the production system later this year. Receivers get a free custom requirements study and unlimited data exports designed especially for their specific needs.

Join the industry leaders who have already started the beta process and help make the SEMA Data Co-op the central source for SEMA market product data!

	If you are looking for a booth vehicle for the 2012 SEMA Show, consider making an announcement in SEMA eNews.

If you’re looking for a vehicle for your booth, simplify your search by making an announcement in SEMA eNews. The publication is distributed to more than 100,000 industry professionals, including numerous vehicle builders and customizers.

Through an announcement in SEMA eNews, you will be able to define the type of vehicle you are looking for, helping you to reach a large number of vehicle owners and builders effectively. The vehicle builders and owners will be able to contact you directly.

To submit an announcement, you must be a 2012 SEMA Show exhibitor. Send your company's name, booth number, type of vehicle you are seeking and contact information to eNews@sema.org. Make sure to include "Seeking Project Vehicle" in the subject line of the e-mail.

More information on the SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com. Exhibitors: Access the Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com/esm. For more information on displaying a booth vehicle, visit www.SEMAShow.com/boothvehicles.

	If you are looking for a booth vehicle for the 2012 SEMA Show, consider making an announcement in SEMA eNews.

If you’re looking for a vehicle for your booth, simplify your search by making an announcement in SEMA eNews. The publication is distributed to more than 100,000 industry professionals, including numerous vehicle builders and customizers.

Through an announcement in SEMA eNews, you will be able to define the type of vehicle you are looking for, helping you to reach a large number of vehicle owners and builders effectively. The vehicle builders and owners will be able to contact you directly.

To submit an announcement, you must be a 2012 SEMA Show exhibitor. Send your company's name, booth number, type of vehicle you are seeking and contact information to eNews@sema.org. Make sure to include "Seeking Project Vehicle" in the subject line of the e-mail.

More information on the SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com. Exhibitors: Access the Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com/esm. For more information on displaying a booth vehicle, visit www.SEMAShow.com/boothvehicles.

	A manufacturers’ measuring session will be held for the new Nissan NV200 Cargo Van, August 23, 2012, in Novi, Michigan.

Nissan LCV Aftermarket Engineering will hold a manufacturers’ measuring session for the new NV200 Cargo Van, August 23, 2012, from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. in Novi, Michigan. Lunch will be provided.  

The number of attendees is limited, so if you are interested, please send an e-mail prior to August 14, 2012, to Lynn McNeill-Haugwitz at mcneill@nrd.nissan-usa.com. Include your company name plus the names, phone numbers and e-mail address for each person who will attend.  

If you have any questions, please contact Lynn McNeill-Haugwitz at 248-488-4861.

Jeep Jamboree USA will provide several historical international Jeeps for display in the Off-Road Success Center, including this ’47 CJ-2A Fire Truck.	This British ’44 Willys Special Air Services Jeep will also be displayed in the Off-Road Success Center. Photo Credit: Jeep Jamboree USA.

Calling all dealers, jobbers, installers and other specialty-equipment industry enthusiasts attending the 2012 SEMA Show. Located in booth #30147 in the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, where other truck, SUV and off-road equipment is showcased, the new Off-Road Success Center, presented by OMIX/Rugged Ridge, provides business owners and decision makers who want to be in the dynamic Jeep and off-road lifestyle market an area to exchange ideas, learn new concepts for success and network with other like-minded people.

Hosted by several third-party experts within the industry, as well as leaders from OMIX, the Off-Road Success Center will offer twice daily educational seminars where experts will discuss their first-hand experiences and formulas for success. Additionally, the Off-Road Success Center will include one-on-one consultations, demonstrations and free print materials (seminar dates and times to follow) on these business-impacting topics. A range of vehicles illustrating the rich history of the industry will also be on display, including vintage models provided by Jeep Jamboree USA and OMIX.

“We’re incredibly excited to sponsor this new area and help facilitate the knowledge of the benefits of growing a business that targets Jeep and off-road enthusiasts,” said OMIX President Al Azadi. “When I started my Jeep parts and accessories business 20 years ago, this knowledge was only available through the process of trial and error. Now we can finally share experts’ knowledge, and help other business owners and entrepreneurs be even more successful.”

Each seminar will be facilitated by OMIX personnel and led by industry specialists, who will share best practices, tips and tricks for maximizing sales and operational and marketing strategies within the off-road industry. Examples and case studies will also be presented. Planned seminars will include:

• Recession-Proof Your Truck Business – Lifestyle Sells!

Learn how to diversify your truck business and cash in on the passion of Jeep and off-road enthusiasts.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Engineering and OEM Sales Matt Stanesic and hosted by SEMA Market Research Manager Gavin Knapp.

• CA$H, the Fuel of Your Business – How to Effectively Create Cash From Your Operations.

Imagine having a surplus of cash to drive your business. Put this presentation on your SEMA schedule now because we will teach you how to create positive cash flow. You will also learn a new, simple and extremely effective growth model that will amplify cash creation.
Facilitated by OMIX Vice President Brandon Seadorf with key speakers, including a sales growth expert and logistics expert.

• Data is the Engine – How to Obtain, Understand and Simplify the Loading of Effective Product Data.

Are you frustrated with missing, inconsistent or ineffective product data? Imagine having a process that reduced the time spent cleaning and loading product information. Learn how to simplify your team's understanding of data, implement seamless load processes and grow your sales through clear product communications for your consumers.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Purchasing Gonzalo Manotas and led by SEMA Data Co-op CEO Jon Wyly.

• Dealerships Dealt A Winning Hand – How Jeep and Truck Dealerships Win Profit in the Aftermarket.

Imagine creating increased consumer pull onto your lot and converting a higher-profit sale. Learn how to use aftermarket accessories to ignite the enthusiast in your consumers, pulling them to your showroom and enjoying increased sales and profits.
Facilitated by OMIX Business Development Expert Ray Weaver with case study testimonials by a Jeep dealership who has successfully adopted this approach.

• Bricks vs. Clicks – How Do Brick-and-Mortar Stores Profitably Compete With Online Retailers?

Does your blood boil when your customer says, ‘But I can get it cheaper online?’ Learn tips and tools to successfully complete each sale without compromising margins while building customer loyalty. Learn to identify, effectively communicate and capitalize on the great value you offer that no website can. Personal relationships, trust and technical know-how still rule.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Sales Steve Trudeau with a key retail sales expert.

• Dare to Dream – Use Your Passion to Increase Sales in the Jeep and Off-Road Market.

Leveraging personal strengths, interests and passion is a formula for success, especially in the growing Jeep and off-road market. No matter how you approach the market, via online, mail-order/catalog, as an installer, storefront or dealership, success can be achieved. Hear OMIX Founder and President Al Azadi’s personal story and learn how you can leverage your own expertise to a higher degree from an expert management consultant.

• Social Media: Find, Connect and Engage Customers – Build Relevant Content and Consumer Advocates to Achieve Greater Success.

Social media is here to stay and it is changing the way we communicate and interact with consumers. Learn how to leverage a strategy and the tools effectively to become more successful and relevant in the market.
Facilitated by OMIX CMO Sue Otten, featuring the social media case study of legendary off-road enthusiast Dave Doetsch, builder of award-winning Jeepzilla and Black Widow, with a soon-to-be-confirmed social media expert.

“Off-road products and services are a significant and growing source of income for a lot of businesses,” said SEMA President and CEO Christopher J. Kersting. “We applaud OMIX-ADA for adding this innovative training program as part of their presence on the floor of the SEMA Show.”

Further information on the seminars, including confirmed experts, dates and times of each seminar, will be published in the coming weeks. The Off-Road Success Center, presented by OMIX/Rugged Ridge, is located in booth #30147 in the Truck, SUV and Off-Road section of the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. For additional information on the 2012 SEMA Show please visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Jeep Jamboree USA will provide several historical international Jeeps for display in the Off-Road Success Center, including this ’47 CJ-2A Fire Truck.	This British ’44 Willys Special Air Services Jeep will also be displayed in the Off-Road Success Center. Photo Credit: Jeep Jamboree USA.

Calling all dealers, jobbers, installers and other specialty-equipment industry enthusiasts attending the 2012 SEMA Show. Located in booth #30147 in the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, where other truck, SUV and off-road equipment is showcased, the new Off-Road Success Center, presented by OMIX/Rugged Ridge, provides business owners and decision makers who want to be in the dynamic Jeep and off-road lifestyle market an area to exchange ideas, learn new concepts for success and network with other like-minded people.

Hosted by several third-party experts within the industry, as well as leaders from OMIX, the Off-Road Success Center will offer twice daily educational seminars where experts will discuss their first-hand experiences and formulas for success. Additionally, the Off-Road Success Center will include one-on-one consultations, demonstrations and free print materials (seminar dates and times to follow) on these business-impacting topics. A range of vehicles illustrating the rich history of the industry will also be on display, including vintage models provided by Jeep Jamboree USA and OMIX.

“We’re incredibly excited to sponsor this new area and help facilitate the knowledge of the benefits of growing a business that targets Jeep and off-road enthusiasts,” said OMIX President Al Azadi. “When I started my Jeep parts and accessories business 20 years ago, this knowledge was only available through the process of trial and error. Now we can finally share experts’ knowledge, and help other business owners and entrepreneurs be even more successful.”

Each seminar will be facilitated by OMIX personnel and led by industry specialists, who will share best practices, tips and tricks for maximizing sales and operational and marketing strategies within the off-road industry. Examples and case studies will also be presented. Planned seminars will include:

• Recession-Proof Your Truck Business – Lifestyle Sells!

Learn how to diversify your truck business and cash in on the passion of Jeep and off-road enthusiasts.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Engineering and OEM Sales Matt Stanesic and hosted by SEMA Market Research Manager Gavin Knapp.

• CA$H, the Fuel of Your Business – How to Effectively Create Cash From Your Operations.

Imagine having a surplus of cash to drive your business. Put this presentation on your SEMA schedule now because we will teach you how to create positive cash flow. You will also learn a new, simple and extremely effective growth model that will amplify cash creation.
Facilitated by OMIX Vice President Brandon Seadorf with key speakers, including a sales growth expert and logistics expert.

• Data is the Engine – How to Obtain, Understand and Simplify the Loading of Effective Product Data.

Are you frustrated with missing, inconsistent or ineffective product data? Imagine having a process that reduced the time spent cleaning and loading product information. Learn how to simplify your team's understanding of data, implement seamless load processes and grow your sales through clear product communications for your consumers.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Purchasing Gonzalo Manotas and led by SEMA Data Co-op CEO Jon Wyly.

• Dealerships Dealt A Winning Hand – How Jeep and Truck Dealerships Win Profit in the Aftermarket.

Imagine creating increased consumer pull onto your lot and converting a higher-profit sale. Learn how to use aftermarket accessories to ignite the enthusiast in your consumers, pulling them to your showroom and enjoying increased sales and profits.
Facilitated by OMIX Business Development Expert Ray Weaver with case study testimonials by a Jeep dealership who has successfully adopted this approach.

• Bricks vs. Clicks – How Do Brick-and-Mortar Stores Profitably Compete With Online Retailers?

Does your blood boil when your customer says, ‘But I can get it cheaper online?’ Learn tips and tools to successfully complete each sale without compromising margins while building customer loyalty. Learn to identify, effectively communicate and capitalize on the great value you offer that no website can. Personal relationships, trust and technical know-how still rule.
Facilitated by OMIX Director of Sales Steve Trudeau with a key retail sales expert.

• Dare to Dream – Use Your Passion to Increase Sales in the Jeep and Off-Road Market.

Leveraging personal strengths, interests and passion is a formula for success, especially in the growing Jeep and off-road market. No matter how you approach the market, via online, mail-order/catalog, as an installer, storefront or dealership, success can be achieved. Hear OMIX Founder and President Al Azadi’s personal story and learn how you can leverage your own expertise to a higher degree from an expert management consultant.

• Social Media: Find, Connect and Engage Customers – Build Relevant Content and Consumer Advocates to Achieve Greater Success.

Social media is here to stay and it is changing the way we communicate and interact with consumers. Learn how to leverage a strategy and the tools effectively to become more successful and relevant in the market.
Facilitated by OMIX CMO Sue Otten, featuring the social media case study of legendary off-road enthusiast Dave Doetsch, builder of award-winning Jeepzilla and Black Widow, with a soon-to-be-confirmed social media expert.

“Off-road products and services are a significant and growing source of income for a lot of businesses,” said SEMA President and CEO Christopher J. Kersting. “We applaud OMIX-ADA for adding this innovative training program as part of their presence on the floor of the SEMA Show.”

Further information on the seminars, including confirmed experts, dates and times of each seminar, will be published in the coming weeks. The Off-Road Success Center, presented by OMIX/Rugged Ridge, is located in booth #30147 in the Truck, SUV and Off-Road section of the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. For additional information on the 2012 SEMA Show please visit www.SEMAShow.com.