In its daily efforts to promote and protect the auto hobby, SEMA continues to partner with lawmakers across the country through the State Automotive Leadership Caucus. Celebrating its five-year anniversary, the caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles. Supported by SEMA's Government Affairs office in Washington, D.C., the caucus serves to raise the motor-vehicle hobby's profile in the state legislatures and in the public's eyes. [Read more] 

	Many exhibitors have committed to returning to the 2010 SEMA Show after sitting out last year, mostly due to a poor economy.

With the economy seemingly on the rebound, albeit slowly, many exhibitors are returning to the 2010 SEMA Show after sitting out last year. The recession played an overwhelmingly large role in reasons why these companies were absent in 2009.

However, as the premier industry event, the SEMA Show offers so many different opportunities to sell to more than 50,000 buyers, network with industry professionals, showcase new products and identify emerging industry trends that it was difficult for them to stay away.

Among the high-profile exhibitors returning this year include: Rancho/Dynomax, Hella Inc., Brembo North America, Superlift Suspension Systems, Exedy Global Parts Corporation and PaceSetter Performance Products. We caught up with representatives from some of the returning companies and this is what they had to say about the value of exhibiting at the SEMA Show and why they are returning after sitting out in 2009:

Our reason for sitting out of the 2009 SEMA Show was purely economical. The 2010 Show will be our 20th anniversary, and SEMA has been a great Show for Auburn Gear. It gives us the opportunity to display new products, network within the industry, meet new potential warehouse distributors and visit with a number of distributors that have supported Auburn Gear for many years.
 
We are seeing a slow turnaround in our aftermarket sales. The industry we all serve is one that is very resilient; our customers have always found a way to buy products for their cars and trucks.

Ralph Traycoff
Sales Manager
Auburn Gear Inc.
Auburn, Indiana

Last year, both Tokico and Hitachi Automotive experienced business hardships due to the economic climate. This year, we are returning to the Show just to stay in the game. Although we’re not out of the woods just yet, our booth will be scaled back a bit, but without limiting our products on display.

Sam van den Berg
Senior Manager of Information Technology and Trade Show Committee
HITACHI Automotive Products Inc. (USA)
Torrance, California

Last year we supported other areas of our business where sales were going pretty well and, with the slowdown of the industry, it was an ideal year to direct our investment to new divisions within our company. Also, last year we did not have a large number of new items to introduce and we were, of course, not expecting a big return from the market for obvious reasons.

This year, we are glad to be back. The market is starting to show more activity with better figures versus last year. We will introduce several new items with the usual technology that distinguishes Hella from others. At the same time, we are confident the industry will return, slowly, closer to levels from two years ago.

Within the past 12 months, we have been busy developing new products and working with the rest of the divisions within our company. The results have been positive, and we are prepared for new challenges. We know that the market will demand better products and we are not the only brand out there, so we are working to make our offerings better and more attractive to consumers, installers and customers.

Our confidence has not wavered as evidenced by our 20’x30’ booth, which is the same size as in past years. All the space will be dedicated to new products, technologies and services. We look forward to meeting visitors from different countries and specialized shops and designers who are always in search of the most innovative products.

Alfredo de la Vega
Product Development & Marketing Manager
Hella Inc.
Peachtree City, Georgia

Our thought process in regards to attending the SEMA Show has always been weighted more toward the benefit from attending, rather than the economic conditions. I think that regardless of the state of the economy, the SEMA Show is the best avenue to show new products, meet with existing customers, find prospective customers and learn more about your competitors.
 
Our goal at the 2010 SEMA Show is to showcase new products, which is why we are attending. The additional benefit this year is that we see business is on an upturn, so we feel attendance will be great and attitudes will be positive.
 


Randy Malowski
Director of Sales & Marketing
Fia Inc.
Winnipeg, Canada

Last year and the prior year, business was off and falling so much that it was hard to determine where the bottom was going to be or if we were going to be able to stay in business. We were watching our expenses and began our lean manufacturing.

The seating industry has been declining for the past six years due to the major auto manufacturers using high-quality seating in their vehicles. There used to be a demand for converted upscale vehicles that either is no longer being done or the manufacturers are doing it themselves. That part of the industry is simply gone. Also, the consumer has no problem in getting leather upgrades right from the showroom or off the sales lot.

Beginning this year, we found the bottom and knew we could not withstand another year away from SEMA because too many customers think that you are no longer in business if they do not see you there. We have been in the automotive aftermarket for more than 38 years and a member of SEMA for some 35 years, and our customer base are SEMA attendees.

While we have diversified our sales markets outside SEMA to survive, we feel that being a part of SEMA is foremost to our long-term plan of being the last custom seat manufacturer standing.

Sam Orsak
President/CEO
Qualitex Seating & Mfg. LP
Kaufman, Texas

We sat out last year for a few different reasons: 1) we had a pessimistic view of the market, 2) we were developing new products but they were not ready yet, and 3) we were focused on other projects.

We decided to come back this year because we were pleased to see the high level of participants. We do see economic progress going forward this year.

PJ Harvey
President
PJH Brands
Scottsdale, Arizona

We decided to participate in the SEMA Show this year because we believe there will be a significant economic improvement worldwide in the coming years, especially in the automotive industry, and people will start to spend their money again more freely.

Rungarun Bunvitaya

CS Section Manager
Maxliner
Samutprakarn, Thailand

Last year Eastwood did not attend the SEMA Show simply because the economy was down and we were looking for ways to reduce expenses and also thought Show attendance would be down. This year, Eastwood will attend the Show because business has been picking up and we are looking to expand our business-to-business sales. There has been a lot of interest by other retailers looking to expand their product lines. The Show gives us exposure and an opportunity to meet with retailers, both domestic and international, who are looking to add new products to their existing lines. 
 


Steve Hurter

Inside Sales Manager
Eastwood Company

Pottstown, Pennsylvania

The SEMA Show really seems to draw more of the buyers, WDs and bigger jobbers. Coming up on our second quarter, we are seeing an increase in sales to WDs and jobbers. It appears consumers are starting to feel better about the economy, which leads them to invest more in the care of their vehicles.

Merrick Browne
CEO
Forever Car Care Products
Moraga, California

So far, more than 1,400 companies have reserved a space for the 2010 SEMA Show, more than 200 of them are first-time exhibitors. At the 2009 SEMA Show, 87% of buyers made or influenced buying decisions within their businesses, and 73% said that they purchased more products from SEMA Show exhibitors than from non-exhibiting companies.

The 2010 SEMA Show is set for November 2–5, in Las Vegas. It’s not too late to reserve your booth space. Space selections will take place from June 2–23, 2010, and exhibitors who have signed up for priority booth space will receive their space selection dates and times on May 25.

The Exhibit Space Rental Agreement is available here.

	Many exhibitors have committed to returning to the 2010 SEMA Show after sitting out last year, mostly due to a poor economy.

With the economy seemingly on the rebound, albeit slowly, many exhibitors are returning to the 2010 SEMA Show after sitting out last year. The recession played an overwhelmingly large role in reasons why these companies were absent in 2009.

However, as the premier industry event, the SEMA Show offers so many different opportunities to sell to more than 50,000 buyers, network with industry professionals, showcase new products and identify emerging industry trends that it was difficult for them to stay away.

Among the high-profile exhibitors returning this year include: Rancho/Dynomax, Hella Inc., Brembo North America, Superlift Suspension Systems, Exedy Global Parts Corporation and PaceSetter Performance Products. We caught up with representatives from some of the returning companies and this is what they had to say about the value of exhibiting at the SEMA Show and why they are returning after sitting out in 2009:

Our reason for sitting out of the 2009 SEMA Show was purely economical. The 2010 Show will be our 20th anniversary, and SEMA has been a great Show for Auburn Gear. It gives us the opportunity to display new products, network within the industry, meet new potential warehouse distributors and visit with a number of distributors that have supported Auburn Gear for many years.
 
We are seeing a slow turnaround in our aftermarket sales. The industry we all serve is one that is very resilient; our customers have always found a way to buy products for their cars and trucks.

Ralph Traycoff
Sales Manager
Auburn Gear Inc.
Auburn, Indiana

Last year, both Tokico and Hitachi Automotive experienced business hardships due to the economic climate. This year, we are returning to the Show just to stay in the game. Although we’re not out of the woods just yet, our booth will be scaled back a bit, but without limiting our products on display.

Sam van den Berg
Senior Manager of Information Technology and Trade Show Committee
HITACHI Automotive Products Inc. (USA)
Torrance, California

Last year we supported other areas of our business where sales were going pretty well and, with the slowdown of the industry, it was an ideal year to direct our investment to new divisions within our company. Also, last year we did not have a large number of new items to introduce and we were, of course, not expecting a big return from the market for obvious reasons.

This year, we are glad to be back. The market is starting to show more activity with better figures versus last year. We will introduce several new items with the usual technology that distinguishes Hella from others. At the same time, we are confident the industry will return, slowly, closer to levels from two years ago.

Within the past 12 months, we have been busy developing new products and working with the rest of the divisions within our company. The results have been positive, and we are prepared for new challenges. We know that the market will demand better products and we are not the only brand out there, so we are working to make our offerings better and more attractive to consumers, installers and customers.

Our confidence has not wavered as evidenced by our 20’x30’ booth, which is the same size as in past years. All the space will be dedicated to new products, technologies and services. We look forward to meeting visitors from different countries and specialized shops and designers who are always in search of the most innovative products.

Alfredo de la Vega
Product Development & Marketing Manager
Hella Inc.
Peachtree City, Georgia

Our thought process in regards to attending the SEMA Show has always been weighted more toward the benefit from attending, rather than the economic conditions. I think that regardless of the state of the economy, the SEMA Show is the best avenue to show new products, meet with existing customers, find prospective customers and learn more about your competitors.
 
Our goal at the 2010 SEMA Show is to showcase new products, which is why we are attending. The additional benefit this year is that we see business is on an upturn, so we feel attendance will be great and attitudes will be positive.
 


Randy Malowski
Director of Sales & Marketing
Fia Inc.
Winnipeg, Canada

Last year and the prior year, business was off and falling so much that it was hard to determine where the bottom was going to be or if we were going to be able to stay in business. We were watching our expenses and began our lean manufacturing.

The seating industry has been declining for the past six years due to the major auto manufacturers using high-quality seating in their vehicles. There used to be a demand for converted upscale vehicles that either is no longer being done or the manufacturers are doing it themselves. That part of the industry is simply gone. Also, the consumer has no problem in getting leather upgrades right from the showroom or off the sales lot.

Beginning this year, we found the bottom and knew we could not withstand another year away from SEMA because too many customers think that you are no longer in business if they do not see you there. We have been in the automotive aftermarket for more than 38 years and a member of SEMA for some 35 years, and our customer base are SEMA attendees.

While we have diversified our sales markets outside SEMA to survive, we feel that being a part of SEMA is foremost to our long-term plan of being the last custom seat manufacturer standing.

Sam Orsak
President/CEO
Qualitex Seating & Mfg. LP
Kaufman, Texas

We sat out last year for a few different reasons: 1) we had a pessimistic view of the market, 2) we were developing new products but they were not ready yet, and 3) we were focused on other projects.

We decided to come back this year because we were pleased to see the high level of participants. We do see economic progress going forward this year.

PJ Harvey
President
PJH Brands
Scottsdale, Arizona

We decided to participate in the SEMA Show this year because we believe there will be a significant economic improvement worldwide in the coming years, especially in the automotive industry, and people will start to spend their money again more freely.

Rungarun Bunvitaya

CS Section Manager
Maxliner
Samutprakarn, Thailand

Last year Eastwood did not attend the SEMA Show simply because the economy was down and we were looking for ways to reduce expenses and also thought Show attendance would be down. This year, Eastwood will attend the Show because business has been picking up and we are looking to expand our business-to-business sales. There has been a lot of interest by other retailers looking to expand their product lines. The Show gives us exposure and an opportunity to meet with retailers, both domestic and international, who are looking to add new products to their existing lines. 
 


Steve Hurter

Inside Sales Manager
Eastwood Company

Pottstown, Pennsylvania

The SEMA Show really seems to draw more of the buyers, WDs and bigger jobbers. Coming up on our second quarter, we are seeing an increase in sales to WDs and jobbers. It appears consumers are starting to feel better about the economy, which leads them to invest more in the care of their vehicles.

Merrick Browne
CEO
Forever Car Care Products
Moraga, California

So far, more than 1,400 companies have reserved a space for the 2010 SEMA Show, more than 200 of them are first-time exhibitors. At the 2009 SEMA Show, 87% of buyers made or influenced buying decisions within their businesses, and 73% said that they purchased more products from SEMA Show exhibitors than from non-exhibiting companies.

The 2010 SEMA Show is set for November 2–5, in Las Vegas. It’s not too late to reserve your booth space. Space selections will take place from June 2–23, 2010, and exhibitors who have signed up for priority booth space will receive their space selection dates and times on May 25.

The Exhibit Space Rental Agreement is available here.

NEWS NUGGETS

DIXON GRABS 52ND TOP FUEL WIN; COUGHLIN EARNS 50TH PRO STOCK WIN IN ATLANTA: Larry Dixon powered his Al-Anabi Racing dragster past the likes of Steve Torrence, T.J. Zizzo, Tony Schumacher and Brandon Bernstein to pick up his 52nd career win in the Top Fuel category and fourth win of the season at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Dixon’s historic win tied him with NHRA Legend Joe Amato for the second most wins in the Top Fuel category. Defending world champion Tony Schumacher currently holds the most wins all-time in the category with 63.

“I feel the same way (about tying Amato) as I do against the other people I grew up looking up to: Unworthy,” said Dixon. “Those were the guys growing up, and to be able to reach a number that he got…well, I’m a few championships behind him still. The guys I looked up to didn’t get 23 chances a year to win.”

The win also helped Dixon strengthen his points lead over the competition, giving him a 112-point lead over second-place driver Cory McClenathan.

Former Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin also made history in Atlanta. Coughlin drove his JEGS.com Chevy Cobalt past third-year sensation Rickie Jones to pick up his 50th career Pro Stock win, a goal only accomplished by three other Pro Stock drivers in the history of NHRA Drag Racing.

“I was fortunate to eclipse the 50-win mark—including my Lucas Oil (Drag Racing Series) wins—a few years ago and thought I was done with 50 but was reminded here lately of the next plateau,” said Coughlin. “To celebrate it here, in JEGS’ 50th anniversary year, I’m very happy.”

It was also Coughlin’s second win of the season in three final-round appearances. For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

HIGHT RACES TO SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN; HINES PICKS UP SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ATLANTA: Defending Funny Car world champion Robert Hight held off fellow teammate Ashley Force Hood in the final round of competition to pick up his second consecutive win of the season Sunday at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was Hight’s 16th career win and second at Atlanta Dragway. Hight also jumped from sixth to third place in the point standings with the win.

“No matter what, we couldn’t lose; it was going to be a Force win,” said Hight. “But to leave here 1-2-3 in points is pretty big right now, especially this early in the season. We were real happy with the way we finished last season and were looking forward to this year, but like last year, we struggled again. We didn’t get it turned around until Sunday morning in Madison when Jimmy Prock made a wholesale change to the car, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Former three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Hector Arana, to grab his second win of the season. The win also propelled Hines from fifth to third in the point standings.

“I had to push it in the final,” said Hines. “I knew Hector was strong. He had been running good all weekend, and he qualified No. 1, so I held onto the clutch lever with just the lightest amount of pressure that I could, and I was .006. That was a little closer than I wanted it, but I’ll take it.”

For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

MOPAR HEMI CHALLENGE SERIES RETURNS IN 2010: Mopar has renewed its agreement with NHRA to support the Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series, an extremely popular three-day event schedule of races that showcases the world’s fastest Super Stock race cars. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series will open at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 18–20, before heading to the marquee 56th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis, September 1–6.

The Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas that are most associated with the series will compete for the lucrative $10,000 winner’s purse at the world’s most prestigious drag race Labor Day weekend. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Series will conclude at the JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals, Sept. 24–26, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio. The winner at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion and JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals will earn $5,000 a piece. All three Mopar Hemi Challenge races will be stand-alone events.

For more on this story, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SUMMER NATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 21–23: Drivers of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series head to the Heartland of America for the ninth event of the season. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Allen Johnson (Pro Stock).

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago Metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

THE CLOCK IS TICKING…: Top Fuel pilot Brandon Bernstein on this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka:

“We are at the halfway point of the regular season before we enter the Countdown to 1, and we need to continue to work our way up the point ladder. We are currently sixth. The points are reset for the six-race Countdown finale, so the closer you are to the top of the point standings the more cushion you have for the Countdown. Counting this Topeka event, we have nine events before the Countdown starts.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

4: The number of active Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series that have won at Heartland Park Topeka. That means that the chance of having a first-time Topeka winner at this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals is very high. Below is the list of current Funny Car drivers that have won in Topeka:

• John Force (2008, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1996#, 1994#, 1993#)
• Cruz Pedregon (1995, 1995#, 1994, 1992)
• Ron Capps (2009, 2006, 1998)
• Tony Pedregon (2003, 2002, 2001)

# signifies discontinued Western Auto Nationals

DID YOU KNOW…

…that at NHRA Unleashed events scheduled in 2010, the Disruptive Studios team will conduct auditions for individuals who have always dreamed of becoming a race car driver.

Contenders are planned to be selected from the thousands of anticipated auditions at NHRA Unleashed events for the potential opportunity to compete for a life-changing prize: a one-year completely funded ride in an NHRA series.

For more, visit www.NHRA.com.

NEWS NUGGETS

DIXON GRABS 52ND TOP FUEL WIN; COUGHLIN EARNS 50TH PRO STOCK WIN IN ATLANTA: Larry Dixon powered his Al-Anabi Racing dragster past the likes of Steve Torrence, T.J. Zizzo, Tony Schumacher and Brandon Bernstein to pick up his 52nd career win in the Top Fuel category and fourth win of the season at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Dixon’s historic win tied him with NHRA Legend Joe Amato for the second most wins in the Top Fuel category. Defending world champion Tony Schumacher currently holds the most wins all-time in the category with 63.

“I feel the same way (about tying Amato) as I do against the other people I grew up looking up to: Unworthy,” said Dixon. “Those were the guys growing up, and to be able to reach a number that he got…well, I’m a few championships behind him still. The guys I looked up to didn’t get 23 chances a year to win.”

The win also helped Dixon strengthen his points lead over the competition, giving him a 112-point lead over second-place driver Cory McClenathan.

Former Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin also made history in Atlanta. Coughlin drove his JEGS.com Chevy Cobalt past third-year sensation Rickie Jones to pick up his 50th career Pro Stock win, a goal only accomplished by three other Pro Stock drivers in the history of NHRA Drag Racing.

“I was fortunate to eclipse the 50-win mark—including my Lucas Oil (Drag Racing Series) wins—a few years ago and thought I was done with 50 but was reminded here lately of the next plateau,” said Coughlin. “To celebrate it here, in JEGS’ 50th anniversary year, I’m very happy.”

It was also Coughlin’s second win of the season in three final-round appearances. For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

HIGHT RACES TO SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN; HINES PICKS UP SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ATLANTA: Defending Funny Car world champion Robert Hight held off fellow teammate Ashley Force Hood in the final round of competition to pick up his second consecutive win of the season Sunday at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was Hight’s 16th career win and second at Atlanta Dragway. Hight also jumped from sixth to third place in the point standings with the win.

“No matter what, we couldn’t lose; it was going to be a Force win,” said Hight. “But to leave here 1-2-3 in points is pretty big right now, especially this early in the season. We were real happy with the way we finished last season and were looking forward to this year, but like last year, we struggled again. We didn’t get it turned around until Sunday morning in Madison when Jimmy Prock made a wholesale change to the car, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Former three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Hector Arana, to grab his second win of the season. The win also propelled Hines from fifth to third in the point standings.

“I had to push it in the final,” said Hines. “I knew Hector was strong. He had been running good all weekend, and he qualified No. 1, so I held onto the clutch lever with just the lightest amount of pressure that I could, and I was .006. That was a little closer than I wanted it, but I’ll take it.”

For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

MOPAR HEMI CHALLENGE SERIES RETURNS IN 2010: Mopar has renewed its agreement with NHRA to support the Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series, an extremely popular three-day event schedule of races that showcases the world’s fastest Super Stock race cars. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series will open at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 18–20, before heading to the marquee 56th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis, September 1–6.

The Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas that are most associated with the series will compete for the lucrative $10,000 winner’s purse at the world’s most prestigious drag race Labor Day weekend. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Series will conclude at the JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals, Sept. 24–26, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio. The winner at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion and JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals will earn $5,000 a piece. All three Mopar Hemi Challenge races will be stand-alone events.

For more on this story, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SUMMER NATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 21–23: Drivers of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series head to the Heartland of America for the ninth event of the season. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Allen Johnson (Pro Stock).

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago Metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

THE CLOCK IS TICKING…: Top Fuel pilot Brandon Bernstein on this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka:

“We are at the halfway point of the regular season before we enter the Countdown to 1, and we need to continue to work our way up the point ladder. We are currently sixth. The points are reset for the six-race Countdown finale, so the closer you are to the top of the point standings the more cushion you have for the Countdown. Counting this Topeka event, we have nine events before the Countdown starts.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

4: The number of active Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series that have won at Heartland Park Topeka. That means that the chance of having a first-time Topeka winner at this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals is very high. Below is the list of current Funny Car drivers that have won in Topeka:

• John Force (2008, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1996#, 1994#, 1993#)
• Cruz Pedregon (1995, 1995#, 1994, 1992)
• Ron Capps (2009, 2006, 1998)
• Tony Pedregon (2003, 2002, 2001)

# signifies discontinued Western Auto Nationals

DID YOU KNOW…

…that at NHRA Unleashed events scheduled in 2010, the Disruptive Studios team will conduct auditions for individuals who have always dreamed of becoming a race car driver.

Contenders are planned to be selected from the thousands of anticipated auditions at NHRA Unleashed events for the potential opportunity to compete for a life-changing prize: a one-year completely funded ride in an NHRA series.

For more, visit www.NHRA.com.

NEWS NUGGETS

DIXON GRABS 52ND TOP FUEL WIN; COUGHLIN EARNS 50TH PRO STOCK WIN IN ATLANTA: Larry Dixon powered his Al-Anabi Racing dragster past the likes of Steve Torrence, T.J. Zizzo, Tony Schumacher and Brandon Bernstein to pick up his 52nd career win in the Top Fuel category and fourth win of the season at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Dixon’s historic win tied him with NHRA Legend Joe Amato for the second most wins in the Top Fuel category. Defending world champion Tony Schumacher currently holds the most wins all-time in the category with 63.

“I feel the same way (about tying Amato) as I do against the other people I grew up looking up to: Unworthy,” said Dixon. “Those were the guys growing up, and to be able to reach a number that he got…well, I’m a few championships behind him still. The guys I looked up to didn’t get 23 chances a year to win.”

The win also helped Dixon strengthen his points lead over the competition, giving him a 112-point lead over second-place driver Cory McClenathan.

Former Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin also made history in Atlanta. Coughlin drove his JEGS.com Chevy Cobalt past third-year sensation Rickie Jones to pick up his 50th career Pro Stock win, a goal only accomplished by three other Pro Stock drivers in the history of NHRA Drag Racing.

“I was fortunate to eclipse the 50-win mark—including my Lucas Oil (Drag Racing Series) wins—a few years ago and thought I was done with 50 but was reminded here lately of the next plateau,” said Coughlin. “To celebrate it here, in JEGS’ 50th anniversary year, I’m very happy.”

It was also Coughlin’s second win of the season in three final-round appearances. For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

HIGHT RACES TO SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN; HINES PICKS UP SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ATLANTA: Defending Funny Car world champion Robert Hight held off fellow teammate Ashley Force Hood in the final round of competition to pick up his second consecutive win of the season Sunday at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was Hight’s 16th career win and second at Atlanta Dragway. Hight also jumped from sixth to third place in the point standings with the win.

“No matter what, we couldn’t lose; it was going to be a Force win,” said Hight. “But to leave here 1-2-3 in points is pretty big right now, especially this early in the season. We were real happy with the way we finished last season and were looking forward to this year, but like last year, we struggled again. We didn’t get it turned around until Sunday morning in Madison when Jimmy Prock made a wholesale change to the car, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Former three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Hector Arana, to grab his second win of the season. The win also propelled Hines from fifth to third in the point standings.

“I had to push it in the final,” said Hines. “I knew Hector was strong. He had been running good all weekend, and he qualified No. 1, so I held onto the clutch lever with just the lightest amount of pressure that I could, and I was .006. That was a little closer than I wanted it, but I’ll take it.”

For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

MOPAR HEMI CHALLENGE SERIES RETURNS IN 2010: Mopar has renewed its agreement with NHRA to support the Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series, an extremely popular three-day event schedule of races that showcases the world’s fastest Super Stock race cars. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series will open at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 18–20, before heading to the marquee 56th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis, September 1–6.

The Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas that are most associated with the series will compete for the lucrative $10,000 winner’s purse at the world’s most prestigious drag race Labor Day weekend. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Series will conclude at the JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals, Sept. 24–26, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio. The winner at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion and JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals will earn $5,000 a piece. All three Mopar Hemi Challenge races will be stand-alone events.

For more on this story, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SUMMER NATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 21–23: Drivers of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series head to the Heartland of America for the ninth event of the season. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Allen Johnson (Pro Stock).

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago Metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

THE CLOCK IS TICKING…: Top Fuel pilot Brandon Bernstein on this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka:

“We are at the halfway point of the regular season before we enter the Countdown to 1, and we need to continue to work our way up the point ladder. We are currently sixth. The points are reset for the six-race Countdown finale, so the closer you are to the top of the point standings the more cushion you have for the Countdown. Counting this Topeka event, we have nine events before the Countdown starts.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

4: The number of active Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series that have won at Heartland Park Topeka. That means that the chance of having a first-time Topeka winner at this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals is very high. Below is the list of current Funny Car drivers that have won in Topeka:

• John Force (2008, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1996#, 1994#, 1993#)
• Cruz Pedregon (1995, 1995#, 1994, 1992)
• Ron Capps (2009, 2006, 1998)
• Tony Pedregon (2003, 2002, 2001)

# signifies discontinued Western Auto Nationals

DID YOU KNOW…

…that at NHRA Unleashed events scheduled in 2010, the Disruptive Studios team will conduct auditions for individuals who have always dreamed of becoming a race car driver.

Contenders are planned to be selected from the thousands of anticipated auditions at NHRA Unleashed events for the potential opportunity to compete for a life-changing prize: a one-year completely funded ride in an NHRA series.

For more, visit www.NHRA.com.

NEWS NUGGETS

DIXON GRABS 52ND TOP FUEL WIN; COUGHLIN EARNS 50TH PRO STOCK WIN IN ATLANTA: Larry Dixon powered his Al-Anabi Racing dragster past the likes of Steve Torrence, T.J. Zizzo, Tony Schumacher and Brandon Bernstein to pick up his 52nd career win in the Top Fuel category and fourth win of the season at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Dixon’s historic win tied him with NHRA Legend Joe Amato for the second most wins in the Top Fuel category. Defending world champion Tony Schumacher currently holds the most wins all-time in the category with 63.

“I feel the same way (about tying Amato) as I do against the other people I grew up looking up to: Unworthy,” said Dixon. “Those were the guys growing up, and to be able to reach a number that he got…well, I’m a few championships behind him still. The guys I looked up to didn’t get 23 chances a year to win.”

The win also helped Dixon strengthen his points lead over the competition, giving him a 112-point lead over second-place driver Cory McClenathan.

Former Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin also made history in Atlanta. Coughlin drove his JEGS.com Chevy Cobalt past third-year sensation Rickie Jones to pick up his 50th career Pro Stock win, a goal only accomplished by three other Pro Stock drivers in the history of NHRA Drag Racing.

“I was fortunate to eclipse the 50-win mark—including my Lucas Oil (Drag Racing Series) wins—a few years ago and thought I was done with 50 but was reminded here lately of the next plateau,” said Coughlin. “To celebrate it here, in JEGS’ 50th anniversary year, I’m very happy.”

It was also Coughlin’s second win of the season in three final-round appearances. For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

HIGHT RACES TO SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN; HINES PICKS UP SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ATLANTA: Defending Funny Car world champion Robert Hight held off fellow teammate Ashley Force Hood in the final round of competition to pick up his second consecutive win of the season Sunday at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was Hight’s 16th career win and second at Atlanta Dragway. Hight also jumped from sixth to third place in the point standings with the win.

“No matter what, we couldn’t lose; it was going to be a Force win,” said Hight. “But to leave here 1-2-3 in points is pretty big right now, especially this early in the season. We were real happy with the way we finished last season and were looking forward to this year, but like last year, we struggled again. We didn’t get it turned around until Sunday morning in Madison when Jimmy Prock made a wholesale change to the car, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Former three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Hector Arana, to grab his second win of the season. The win also propelled Hines from fifth to third in the point standings.

“I had to push it in the final,” said Hines. “I knew Hector was strong. He had been running good all weekend, and he qualified No. 1, so I held onto the clutch lever with just the lightest amount of pressure that I could, and I was .006. That was a little closer than I wanted it, but I’ll take it.”

For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

MOPAR HEMI CHALLENGE SERIES RETURNS IN 2010: Mopar has renewed its agreement with NHRA to support the Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series, an extremely popular three-day event schedule of races that showcases the world’s fastest Super Stock race cars. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series will open at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 18–20, before heading to the marquee 56th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis, September 1–6.

The Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas that are most associated with the series will compete for the lucrative $10,000 winner’s purse at the world’s most prestigious drag race Labor Day weekend. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Series will conclude at the JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals, Sept. 24–26, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio. The winner at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion and JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals will earn $5,000 a piece. All three Mopar Hemi Challenge races will be stand-alone events.

For more on this story, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SUMMER NATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 21–23: Drivers of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series head to the Heartland of America for the ninth event of the season. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Allen Johnson (Pro Stock).

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago Metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

THE CLOCK IS TICKING…: Top Fuel pilot Brandon Bernstein on this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka:

“We are at the halfway point of the regular season before we enter the Countdown to 1, and we need to continue to work our way up the point ladder. We are currently sixth. The points are reset for the six-race Countdown finale, so the closer you are to the top of the point standings the more cushion you have for the Countdown. Counting this Topeka event, we have nine events before the Countdown starts.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

4: The number of active Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series that have won at Heartland Park Topeka. That means that the chance of having a first-time Topeka winner at this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals is very high. Below is the list of current Funny Car drivers that have won in Topeka:

• John Force (2008, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1996#, 1994#, 1993#)
• Cruz Pedregon (1995, 1995#, 1994, 1992)
• Ron Capps (2009, 2006, 1998)
• Tony Pedregon (2003, 2002, 2001)

# signifies discontinued Western Auto Nationals

DID YOU KNOW…

…that at NHRA Unleashed events scheduled in 2010, the Disruptive Studios team will conduct auditions for individuals who have always dreamed of becoming a race car driver.

Contenders are planned to be selected from the thousands of anticipated auditions at NHRA Unleashed events for the potential opportunity to compete for a life-changing prize: a one-year completely funded ride in an NHRA series.

For more, visit www.NHRA.com.

NEWS NUGGETS

DIXON GRABS 52ND TOP FUEL WIN; COUGHLIN EARNS 50TH PRO STOCK WIN IN ATLANTA: Larry Dixon powered his Al-Anabi Racing dragster past the likes of Steve Torrence, T.J. Zizzo, Tony Schumacher and Brandon Bernstein to pick up his 52nd career win in the Top Fuel category and fourth win of the season at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Dixon’s historic win tied him with NHRA Legend Joe Amato for the second most wins in the Top Fuel category. Defending world champion Tony Schumacher currently holds the most wins all-time in the category with 63.

“I feel the same way (about tying Amato) as I do against the other people I grew up looking up to: Unworthy,” said Dixon. “Those were the guys growing up, and to be able to reach a number that he got…well, I’m a few championships behind him still. The guys I looked up to didn’t get 23 chances a year to win.”

The win also helped Dixon strengthen his points lead over the competition, giving him a 112-point lead over second-place driver Cory McClenathan.

Former Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin also made history in Atlanta. Coughlin drove his JEGS.com Chevy Cobalt past third-year sensation Rickie Jones to pick up his 50th career Pro Stock win, a goal only accomplished by three other Pro Stock drivers in the history of NHRA Drag Racing.

“I was fortunate to eclipse the 50-win mark—including my Lucas Oil (Drag Racing Series) wins—a few years ago and thought I was done with 50 but was reminded here lately of the next plateau,” said Coughlin. “To celebrate it here, in JEGS’ 50th anniversary year, I’m very happy.”

It was also Coughlin’s second win of the season in three final-round appearances. For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

HIGHT RACES TO SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN; HINES PICKS UP SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ATLANTA: Defending Funny Car world champion Robert Hight held off fellow teammate Ashley Force Hood in the final round of competition to pick up his second consecutive win of the season Sunday at the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was Hight’s 16th career win and second at Atlanta Dragway. Hight also jumped from sixth to third place in the point standings with the win.

“No matter what, we couldn’t lose; it was going to be a Force win,” said Hight. “But to leave here 1-2-3 in points is pretty big right now, especially this early in the season. We were real happy with the way we finished last season and were looking forward to this year, but like last year, we struggled again. We didn’t get it turned around until Sunday morning in Madison when Jimmy Prock made a wholesale change to the car, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Former three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Hector Arana, to grab his second win of the season. The win also propelled Hines from fifth to third in the point standings.

“I had to push it in the final,” said Hines. “I knew Hector was strong. He had been running good all weekend, and he qualified No. 1, so I held onto the clutch lever with just the lightest amount of pressure that I could, and I was .006. That was a little closer than I wanted it, but I’ll take it.”

For more results from the 30th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

MOPAR HEMI CHALLENGE SERIES RETURNS IN 2010: Mopar has renewed its agreement with NHRA to support the Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series, an extremely popular three-day event schedule of races that showcases the world’s fastest Super Stock race cars. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Race Series will open at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, June 18–20, before heading to the marquee 56th annual Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis, September 1–6.

The Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas that are most associated with the series will compete for the lucrative $10,000 winner’s purse at the world’s most prestigious drag race Labor Day weekend. The Mopar Hemi Challenge Series will conclude at the JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals, Sept. 24–26, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio. The winner at the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion and JEGS NHRA Northern SPORTSnationals will earn $5,000 a piece. All three Mopar Hemi Challenge races will be stand-alone events.

For more on this story, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SUMMER NATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 21–23: Drivers of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing series head to the Heartland of America for the ninth event of the season. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Allen Johnson (Pro Stock).

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago Metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

THE CLOCK IS TICKING…: Top Fuel pilot Brandon Bernstein on this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka:

“We are at the halfway point of the regular season before we enter the Countdown to 1, and we need to continue to work our way up the point ladder. We are currently sixth. The points are reset for the six-race Countdown finale, so the closer you are to the top of the point standings the more cushion you have for the Countdown. Counting this Topeka event, we have nine events before the Countdown starts.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

4: The number of active Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series that have won at Heartland Park Topeka. That means that the chance of having a first-time Topeka winner at this weekend’s O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals is very high. Below is the list of current Funny Car drivers that have won in Topeka:

• John Force (2008, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1996#, 1994#, 1993#)
• Cruz Pedregon (1995, 1995#, 1994, 1992)
• Ron Capps (2009, 2006, 1998)
• Tony Pedregon (2003, 2002, 2001)

# signifies discontinued Western Auto Nationals

DID YOU KNOW…

…that at NHRA Unleashed events scheduled in 2010, the Disruptive Studios team will conduct auditions for individuals who have always dreamed of becoming a race car driver.

Contenders are planned to be selected from the thousands of anticipated auditions at NHRA Unleashed events for the potential opportunity to compete for a life-changing prize: a one-year completely funded ride in an NHRA series.

For more, visit www.NHRA.com.

A photo collection of Chrysler 300 display vehicles from the 2009 SEMA Show.

A photo collection of Chrysler 300 display vehicles from the 2009 SEMA Show.