Callin "excited and nervous".
28th February: Sweden's Susanne Callin is "very excited, and a little bit nervous" about her move to Top Fuel Dragster in 2002. As we revealed here last Friday, eighteen-year-old Susanne will be licencing in one of Knut Söderquist's Carbon By Design Top Fuellers in March and hopes to raise the sponsorship to compete at European events this year.

"I decided that I wanted to go Top Fuel after I crashed my Super Comp dragster before the European Finals last year", says Susanne. "I'd been thinking about it for a couple of months, but as I had a race car and was also driving the two-seater dragster the desire wasn't so great. I travelled around with Pelle Lindelöw and so I was already sort of in the Top Fuel business, and was quite satisfied with that. But after the crash I didn't have a race car any more, and the idea about going Top Fuel started to grow. When Pelle retired they needed someone to buy and drive the car, and this really started by mind going during the summer."

Having decided to go Top Fuel, the next step was to find a car. "During the winter we've been talking to Knut and Pelle, and we've decided to rent a car from Knut for my licence runs", says Susanne. "I've been racing together with Pelle and his Top Fuel team for over a year and have got a good insight into what goes into Top Fuel racing. That has helped me a lot. I've been in Pelle's car during warm ups, but no more, so some lessons will come soon."

"I'm very excited, and a little bit nervous", says Susanne about the coming weeks. "Not shaking nervous, but since it is a big step I'm making up to Top Fuel and I've never driven that fast before, I'm a little bit nervous to see what it is like. But mostly I'm excited, very excited. I've got an image of how it will be, but I'm also sure that no matter how good my imagination is, it is nothing compared to how it actually is. I will just have to wait and see!"

The Callins are a very close-knit family; within minutes of her crash last September, Susanne was on her mobile phone to her mother to reassure her that she was alright. In the light of this we wondered what Mum thinks about her daughter going over a hundred miles per hour faster. "My mum isn't too happy about it, not at all", says Susanne. "But the thing is that as far as she is concerned it wouldn't make any difference if I was sixty years old, so I might as well be eighteen. That's the general opinion that my family has about my racing."

What happens after Susanne gains her licence depends upon funding, but she still has her other ride. "The potential sponsorship deals aren't done yet", she says. "When they are, we will know how many races I will be running. Apart from that I will continue to drive Johan Hassler's two-seater dragster as I did last year."

You can find out more about Susanne on her web site at www.sc1165.com.

Web site updates.
28th February: The facelift of the FB Racing website continues at www.fbracing.co.uk. Webmaster Yoda has now added Classified pages, which can be accessed via the Home Page. "Pop along and place an ad as Fatty's look very lonely all on their own", says Ian Hook. Yoda has also given a facelift to the News page, and has added the facility for readers to add comments to any news items. Not content with that, the Guest Book also has a new look to match the News pages. Keep an eye on the site for more changes and, of course, for lots of Street-related news.

The official web site of the UK's Fireforce Jet FC team has been updated with an account of the team's appearance at Scotland's Crail Raceway last weekend. It sounds as if the team had a hellish trip to the track but had a great time when they got there. Check it out on the News page at www.fireforce.co.uk.

Easter Thunderball forms.
27th February: The Santa Pod Racers Club web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc has been updated with entry forms, supplementary regulations and declaration forms for all classes for the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway.

"Entry forms have been posted to racers who have registered", says Paula Marshall of SPRC. "Those who have registered with Wendy Talbot at APIRA will also receive their entry forms from me when I have the updated list from Wendy. If racers have not registered, and are wondering where their entry form is, then not having registered is the likely explanation!"

If you have any queries then please contact Paula Marshall at SPRC at 01933 313625 (+44 1933 313625 from outside the UK).

LJR T-Shirt launched.
27th February: Dutch Top Methanol FC racer Lex Joon has issued a great new T-Shirt for the 2002 season. The shirts are printed front and back with an eye-catching design and the slogan No Balls - No Glory. Prices start at 20 with a 5 discount for Fan Club members.

For a look at the new shirt, and ordering details, check out the Lex Joon Racing web site at www.lexjoonracing.nl.

Finnish SFI Day details.
26th February: Thanks to Finnish Hot Rod Association President Tapio Väljä and FHRA's Hannele Höydén for the details of the Finnish SFI Day, which takes place next week.

The Finnish SFI inspection takes place next Monday, 4th March, at the FHRA office at Sahaajankatu 27, Helsinki. The inspection will start at 11:00 am and will continue until all items are inspected, which is usually by 5:00 pm.

It is recommended that items to be inspected are sent to the FHRA office in advance. Tapio tells us that it is not necessary to be present at the inspection, but that if you are not then the following should be noted:
  • The inspection fee is $100 per item, which should accompany the items if they are sent in advance;

  • Items should be clean as there is a double charge for dirty items;

  • Please attach owner's name, address, and telephone number to each item;

  • Items are inspected as a complete package, so all parts should be present including bolts for covers. All bolts should be loosened as the inspection team has only a limited selection of tools available.
If you need to have your chassis inspected, then please contact FHRA's certified Tech Inspectors as follows:

Petteri Björkbom (Loimaa), Tel. +358-2-762 1030
Jari Kujala (Turku), Tel. +358-400-825 426
Erwin Lihtola (Espoo), Tel. +358-40-590 1166
Jarmo Ukkonen (Helsinki), Tel. +358-40-735 8414

Chassis inspections are also $100 plus inspector's travel fee. Please contact an inspector for details of travel fees.

 TV series still seeking racers.
25th February: Back in January we published an appeal from the producers of the Scrapheap Challenge and Junkyard Wars TV programmes for racers to take part in a new series called Ultimate Machine Combat. The new programme features three teams - one from the UK, one from the USA, and one from another country - going head-to-head to build vehicles to a brief to compete in races and other challenges.

"The response has been very good, but we are still seeking teams from all European countries, particularly Spain, Portugal, Greece, France and Turkey", says producer Lara Acaster of RDF media.

For more details, check out our original news item of 17th January, or visit the Ultimate Machine Combat web site at www.ultimatemachinecombat.tv. The FAQ is a good place to start but should you have any further queries then E-Mail ultimatemachinecombat@rdfmedia.com. The deadline is 12th March.

Racers' FAQs wanted.
25th February: Richard Bell of the Drag Racing Explained web site has been in touch asking for help with his latest update.

"I am currently re-designing and updating the site", says Richard. "One of the sections I am updating is an FAQ. However I don't know which questions newcomers are always burning to ask racers. So I had the idea that racers could send the questions which they are most frequently asked at the track."

If you would like to pass on your most frequently-asked questions then you can contact Richard through the Drag Racing Explained web site at www.dragracing.4all.cc.

AC Delco crew grows.
24th February: Sweden's AC Delco/Malmgren Racing Pro Stock team have announced an addition to their crew as they prepare to race in the USA next month: Crew member Tomas (clutch and cooking) and his partner Camilla's baby boy arrived on Thursday.

"We all had a slight hangover yesterday", says crew member Magnus Cato. "The party started of in our shop sauna, of course, and ended up with a delicious dinner later on Friday night. All of the crew wish Camilla and her son all the best for the future."

We are sure that everyone will join us in sending their best wishes to Tomas and Camilla.

NDRS racers' calendar posted.
24th February: Our good buddies at Svensk Dragracing have updated their web site with the detailed Nordic Drag Racing Series racers' calendar, which shows which classes are racing at which NDRS event and also details how points are to be calculated. "Every class has plenty of races to choose from!", says Christer Abrahamson of Svensk Dragracing.

To view the NDRS racers' calendar, click on the Calendar button of the Svensk Dragracing web site at www.dragracing.se and then follow the link at the top of that page.

King needs naked pictures.
24th February: FIM/UEM Competition Bike and ACU Top Fuel Bike Champion Ian King would like to hear from any readers who have pictures of his Top Fuel Bike in the pits. Ian and his bike are to be the subject of a feature in Performance Bike magazine, and whilst the action photographs are all arranged, the publishers need static shots.

"We particularly need shots of the bike 'naked', without its bodywork, so that you can see the engine and chassis", says Ian. If anyone has any such shots of Ian's bike then please contact him by E-Mail at ian@kingracing.com.

Four-day Festival.
23rd February: One of Europe's biggest races, the Sko Uno Drag Festival at Sweden's Mantorp Park, will this year be a four-day event on 25th-28th July. We received the following press release from Mantorp Park and the Organisation committee for the 2002 Sko Uno Drag Festival:

In an aim to provide a better race event for all involved parties we have decided to extend the Sko Uno Drag Festival to a four-day event. We felt that by making this alteration to the event we will be able to change the format a little, which we think will be of benefit to the sponsors, media, visitors and racers attending the event. We were thinking of making this change last year but didn't feel that we where ready at that stage, but now we feel we definitely are. With a growing interest from racers, media, spectators and supporting companies for the event we feel very optimistic about the future. We feel that this investment in to the event will mark the next stage of growth of the Drag Festival event and of Drag Racing in Sweden and Europe.

The other news is that in the aim to make a better event we have decided that no race entries will be taken on the days of the event and only pre-entries will be allowed. Scheduling of an event of this size is hard and what doesn't make it easier is when you do not know all the factors involved in advance. But by instigating this change we feel that we should be able to hopefully do a better show and make all involved parties enjoy the event even more.

There will still be a deadline for normal entry at normal entry fee (June 24th). But the alteration from previous years is that racers can just enter late but with a late entry fee (if accepted) until the Friday (July 19th) the week before the actual event.

Entry forms, supplementary regulations and other information about the Sko Uno Drag Festival will be posted on www.dragracing.se and www.motorevents.com in the future, so make sure that you visit these sites regularly. Please contact Mantorp Park for information about Media Pass application, Hospitality package, trade spaces, tickets or any other queries regarding the event:

Mail: Mantorp Park, 590 17 Mantorp, Sweden
Telephone: +46 (0) 142 298850
Fax: +46 (0) 142 298869
E-Mail: info@mantorppark.com
Web site: www.motorevents.com

Big boost for Hunchback Racing.
23rd February: Swedish Comp Eliminator team Hunchback Racing have had a successful off-season's work, judging by the outcome of a recent dyno test. As a result, the team have big plans for their popular old-model Volvo.

"We have been to VM Performance in Västerås, dyno-testing some new ideas on our engine", say the team, speaking through our buddy Hasse of the Swedish Pro Street News Magazine. "The results were very good. We increased the power by 100 horsepower at the same turbo boost which we used last summer. When we tried a higher pressure which we couldn't reach with the old turbocharger, the engine produced over 950 horsepower and 830 Nm torque. With all this horsepower and our experience from last season, the world record for four-cylinder turbocharged doorslammers should be within reach!"

A video of the dyno test will shortly be available on the Hunchback Racing web site at www.hunchbackracing.com.

For more stories and gossip on the Swedish scene, check out the Swedish Pro Street News Magazine at www.spn-photo.com.

More RWYB racers.
23rd February: We have heard from a few more racers who are intending to test at tomorrow's (Sunday 24th) Run What You Brung at Santa Pod Raceway.

First up is Paul Hudson, who will be testing his ex-Curbishley Camaro which he has renamed Money Pit. "I plan to get in some shakedown passes and see how the throttle stop works!", says Paul. "I think there is less computer power in the Space Shuttle, and it's probably easier to set up!"

Also putting in an appearance will be Stuart and Collin Morrice who will be testing in Junior Dragsters. Stuart will be testing out the family's recently-acquired ex-Cook Boyz Junior Modified dragster, whilst Colin will be driving the Santa Pod Racers Club Junior Stock dragster.

For more details about tomorrow's RWYB, check out Santa Pod's official web site at www.santapod.com.

Web site updates.
23rd February: UK Supertwin Top Fuel racer Ben Beneke, who is now based in Australia, has updated his Stripbike.com web page dedicated to the rebuild of the Full Force Racing bike. Ben has been very busy getting the bike ready to run Down Under as you can see at www.stripbike.com/beneke.html.

Callin goes for Top Fuel licence.
22nd February: Swedish Super Comp racer and two-seater dragster driver Susanne Callin is to make licencing passes in a Top Fuel Dragster in March.

Eighteen-year-old Susanne will be driving Knut Söderquist's 'red' Carbon By Design Top Fuel Dragster which was last driven by Alan Jackson in a demonstration race on Malta late last year.

"It will be a giant step to go from Super Comp to Top Fuel Dragster, but Susanne has made one of these big steps before when she stepped up from Junior Dragster to Super Comp at the age of fifteen", says Susanne's father Gordon. "Right now we don't have any sponsorship contract signed, but that will hopefully be solved later next month. We are paying for Susanne's licence runs with the money we earned from selling what was left of the crashed Super Comp car, so we would like to take the opportunity to thank all the people who bought almost everything which was reusable from the Super Comp dragster, and to all the people who put money in the can at Santa Pod after the crash."

MSA TM Championship confirmed.
22nd February: Thanks to Lindsay Deuchar and those others who contacted us with the news that the MSA British Top Methanol Championship has now been confirmed following negotiations between promoters Obsession Motorsports and Trakbak Racing and the TM Racers' Association.

The 2002 Championship is to have three rounds, starting at Santa Pod Raceway's Easter Thunderball on 30th March-1st April, moving to Shakespeare County Raceway's Spring Nationals on 4th-6th May, and concluding at Shakespeare County Raceway's Fall Nationals on 24th-26th August.

You can find more details on Lindsay Deuchar's LA Racing web site at www.laracing.co.uk.

NDRS takes in Germany, England.
22nd February: Courtesy of our good buddy Christer Abrahamson at Svensk Dragracing comes the news that the 2002 Nordic Drag Racing Series calendar has now been set. "The heroes in Norway changed a date to avoid a date clash with the Deep Forest race", says Christer.

New for this season are NDRS Pro Modified rounds at the Nitrolympics at Hockenheim in mid-August and at the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod Raceway in early September, giving German and English fans the chance to see the wild Scandinavian doorslammers doing what they do best.

You can find more details including the NDRS schedule on the Svensk Dragracing web site at www.dragracing.se. Christer tells us that the full racers' calendar will be published very shortly.

Serpent Racing add sponsor.
22nd February: UK Supertwin Gas team Serpent Racing have announced the addition of another sponsor to the team for the 2002 season. Joining J&J Body Repairs are www.compressormart.com, an on-line company specialising in compressors and generators. It is hoped that Mitch Plackett-Smith from compressormart.com will also be joining the team at some of the races.

"The bike's frame is now 90% complete and should be finished in about a week", says rider Barrie Gregory. "The plan is to test towards the end of March before officially launching the team on the www.compressormart.com stand at the Classic Bike show in Stafford in the middle of April."

We understand that the bike will be resplendent in its new in-your-face paint scheme at the show, but Barrie is keeping his lips sealed as to the design!

We also understand that, as well as a new frame and paint scheme for the upcoming season, the team will also be unveiling a new website. "I'd like to say a big thank you to Nikki (Shaggy's Bird!) for building the website for us", says Barrie.

Web site updates.
22nd February: The Nilsson Motorsports web site has been updated with the latest report and pictures on the construction of Håkan Nilsson's new Camaro Pro Mod. Check it out at www.nilssonmotorsports.com.

Fancy a Fuel FC ride?
21st February: Alas, not the next Eurodragster competition but if you've ever fancied owning or driving a Fuel Funny Car then the latest announcement from the UK's Showtime Fuel FC team may well be what you're looking for. The team's 'spare' Dodge Avenger is available for outright sale (£50000), fifty per cent ownership (£25000), or on a rent-a-ride basis.

The ex-Skuza Showtime Avenger has a proven pedigree, having consistently run in the mid-fives and the mid-to-high two hundreds in the hands of John Spuffard, Bill Sherratt and Gary Page. It comes turnkey with an impressive list of parts including a 498 ci Keith Black, which has only nine runs on it, nestling in the chassis together with starter, jacks, tools, run logs and expert advice from one of Europe's foremost Fuel tuners.

Crew Chief Bob Jarrett has set up a web page which contains full details on the packages available together with contact information. If you are interested then check it out at members.home.net/nitro1471/Avenger.htm.

Support Leif in Las Vegas.
21st February: If you are considering a trip to April's NHRA Summit.com Nationals in Las Vegas to cheer on FIA European Top Methanol FC Champion Leif Andréasson (and Michael Malmgren - Ed), then you will be interested to hear of a deal just announced by Andréasson Motorsports.

Business partners Iceland Air and Islands Resor have arranged a group trip to Vegas, departing Stockholm on 2nd April. The package includes accommodation, transport to and from Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and a reserved seat at LVMS for every day of the event. Return to Stockholm in on 9th April.

For more details in the trip, pricing, and booking information, visit the Andréasson Motorsports web site at www.andreassonmotorsports.com.

RWYB racer list grows.
21st February: Further to yesterday's news item about the pair of Run What You Brung events this weekend, we have heard of two more racers planning to test this weekend.

Adele Atherton, who is planning to race in VW Sportsman in 2002, will be testing at Santa Pod's RWYB together with fellow VW Sportsman racer Natasha Garcia. "I race a 65 resto Cal Bug called StripTease and currently run a 1641 awaiting a 110 cam and twin Dellorto carbs", says Adele. "This will be my first test run this season. Natasha Garcia races The Custard Tart with a 1600 and twin Kadron carbs. Unfortunetly Natasha's car is still getting a new paintjob, so she will be practising in an alternative car."

Both Adele and Natasha are regulars over at the Volkswagen Drag Racing Club and Volkszone web sites. "We have had a lot of help from everyone there - they're fantastic!", says Adele.

Dutch Open SG fund increases.
21st February: Robert Joosten has been in touch again with the great news that the prize fund for the Dutch Open Super Gas Championship has gone up. "Another sponsor, dragscene.de, has put up 500 Euros for third place", says Robert. For more details, check out the official Championship web site at www.supergas.tiscaliweb.nl.

UK-Hockenheim trip announced.
20th February: Shakespeare County Raceway Race Director Richard Warburton has been in touch with details of a trip from the UK to Hockenheim, which is being organised by the travel company for whom he works.

The Hockenheim trip departs the UK on 14th August. There is a stop in the Moselle Valley en-route to Hockenheim on the night of the 14th August, four nights at the Mercure Heidelberg Schwetzingen, and then one night in Brussels on the way back to the UK, arriving home on 20th August.

Included in the price of the trip is coach travel from your local area, P & O ferries in both directions, six nights' hotel accommodation (based on occupancy of a twin or double room with private facilities), and buffet breakfast at all hotels. Tickets to the Nitrolympics are not included but Richard tells us that the price of these will be advised as soon as possible.

The Hockenheim trip is priced at £219 per person; single supplement is £90 per person and insurance is £14 per person. If you are interested then please contact Wendy Griffiths in Travelscope's Group Travel Department at wendy.griffiths@travelscope.co.uk.

RWYBs on Sunday.
20th February: Two Run What You Brungs are taking place in the UK this Sunday (24th February).

First up is Santa Pod Raceway with their fourth RWYB of the year. At present the only racer of whose attendance we are aware is Paul Marston who is hoping that it will be third time lucky for TV presenter Steve Berry who is booked a ride-along in the PT Bruiser having been thwarted by the weather on two previous occasions.

Entry to Santa Pod's RWYB is £9; a further £13 and the production of a valid DVLC licence buys you as many runs down the track as you can fit in. Racers please note that competition licences are not valid for RWYBs, however all safety rules appropriate to the class of vehicle should of course be followed. Gates open at 8:00 am, and the strip will be open from about 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more details including additional safety rules (for example when crash helmets are mandatory in cars) check out the Run What Ya Brung page of Santa Pod Raceway's web site at www.santapod.com.

Further north, the Fireforce Jet Funny Car and Fast Car magazine lead the festivities at Crail Raceway, Scotland's own drag strip. The strip's new timing system and other new facilities get their first run out and don't forget that you will be able to access the day's timing data via Crail's very smart official web site as soon as the event finishes. You can find more details including a map at www.crailraceway.co.uk.

Racers: If you are planning to test at either of this weekend's RWYBs then be sure to let us know at news@eurodragster.com and we will post it here.

Web site updates.
20th February: Dutch Top Methanol FC racer Lex Joon's web site has been updated with a report from last weekend's appearance at the Zandvoort circuit where, as you can see from the picture (click to see the full-sized version), he showed the assembled crowd a good time and showed the circuit guys just who puts on the best shows. Check out Lex's report at www.lexjoonracing.nl.

UK SFI Day details...
19th February: Thanks to Paula Marshall of Santa Pod Racers Club for passing on further details of the 2002 UK SFI Day, which as previously notified is to be held at Santa Pod Raceway on Friday 1st March.

Paula adds that the SFI inspections are to be held in the Pod Shop on 1st March, starting at 10:00 am and ending at 3:00 pm. This year's inspection team is Arnie Kuhns, Murf McKinney, Tim Hyatt and Danny Garcia.

Please note that parts cannot be sent by post. SPRC ask that if racers cannot attend, they should arrange for someone else to bring their parts to be re-certified. Please also note that only cash will be accepted.

SPRC would be grateful if racers could notify their intention to attend, either by E-Mail at paula@sprc.fsnet.co.uk, or by Fax on 01933 355558. If you have any queries then please call Paula at SPRC on 01933 313625.

...Scandinavian SFI Days.
19th February: Thanks to Svenska Bilsportförbundet Drag Racing Committee Chairman Lars Petterson for sending us details of the SFI Days for Swedish, Norwegian and Danish racers.

The Scandinavian SFI Days take place in Stockholm, at the Hotel Infra City in Upplands Väsby Kanal vägen 10 (Bredden exit from E4), on Saturday-Sunday 2nd-3rd March.

The inspection is for 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3 Bellhouses and 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 clutches. Inspection starts at 14:00 on Saturday 2nd March, and then again from 11:00-13:00 on Sunday 3rd March. "You can leave parts at the hotel from 10:00-17:00 on Saturday", says Lars, "and parts must be collected by 14:00 on Sunday. Please mark all parts with the owner's name, address, and phone number."

Please contact Tech Director Rolf Lundberg + 46 (0)70 3111496, fax + 46 (0)13 299752, or E-Mail loffy@dragracing.se to inform him that you will be attending, and how many parts you plan to bring. You can also contact Rolf if you have any questions.

The Finnish SFI Day takes place in Helsinki on Monday 4th March, and the German SFI Day on Tuesday 5th March. We will bring you more details on these two SFI days as soon as we get them.

Shockwave interview.
19th February: The latest in Eurodragster's occasional series of racer interviews is with Dave Bryant and Gordon Smith, Crew Chief and Driver of the UK's Shockwave Fuel Funny Car team. With the 2002 British Fuel FC recently announced, we took the chance to ask Dave and Gordon about their plans for this year including the large amount of work the team are undertaking on the FC off-season, and how they see their chances. As is to be expected Dave and Gordon are very upbeat about 2002, and the interview makes fascinating reading.

Click here to read the interview, or click on the Interviews link on the left-hand side of any Eurodragster page.

ACI return to the UK.
19th February: The UK's American Car Imports Racing Top Methanol Dragster team have returned to the UK after a successful first trip out in their new TMD at the NHRA Winternationals at Pomona. Although Dave Wilson pulled a red light in round one of eliminations, the ACI team recorded the quickest and fastest ever runs by a non-North American TMD team and have every reason to feel good about 2002.

As well as racing the ACI team managed to fit in a trip to Hooters and various other restaurants and bars, and even found time to take in a tour of Brad Anderson Enterprises guided by Brad himself, together with visits to Racepak, Keith Black and other performance suppliers.

At the track the team had a lot of fun playing with their new crew radios before the entire Top Alcohol contingent was sent back to the pits due to late running, but when they were allowed to come out to play the serious stuff started, culminating in bests of 5.623 and 255.24 over the weekend. The team also recorded their first eighth-mile speed over 200 mph at 205.16 in their final qualifying pass.

The American Car Imports/Playstation 2 dragster is now on its way to the UK where it is expected to arrive in mid-March, in time for the first round of the MSA British Top Methanol Championship at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway.

Crew Chief Andy Bissett has excelled even his own previous high standards with a very detailed and thoroughly entertaining USA diary on the News page of the ACI web site at www.eurodragster.com/nemesisracing. Don't miss it!

Dutch Open SG prize fund.
19th February: Robert Joosten has been in touch regarding the 2002 Dutch Open Super Gas Championship, which takes place across six races at Drachten (Holland), Hockenheim (Germany) and Santa Pod Raceway (UK). "We have our first Championship sponsor, Belles Construction BV", says Robert. "The winner will receive 2000 Euros and the runner-up 1000 Euros. In addition, 150 Euros will be awarded to the Best Appearing at each of the Drachten rounds (four of the six rounds - Ed). There is more to come!"

For more details on the Dutch Open Super Gas Championship, including a Calendar, gossip and rumour, and much more, check out the excellent official web site at www.supergas.tiscaliweb.nl.

NPSC becomes SDC.
19th February: Thanks to Swedish Pro Street News Magazine webmaster Hasse for passing on the news that the Nordic Pro Street Cup has this year become the Scandinavian Dragracing Championship. "The classes remain the same as NPSC", says Hasse, adding that the Championship is to be televised on Viasat Sport. You can find more details including a race calendar on the Scandinavian Dragracing Championship web site at www.nitroz.se/motor/street/npsc.

Web site updates.
19th February: The highly-popular Swedish Pro Street News Magazine is back on-line at www.spn-photo.com, backed by new sponsors ÖsterlenData and Mölndals Speedshop.

SPN webmaster Hasse has been hard at work this week as he has also been helping with the Old Fifty One Top Doorslammer web site. "I've helped out with some updates and new photographs", says Hasse. There are some pages yet to be finished but the car specs, media, sponsors and links pages are on-line. Check it out at www.welcome.to/old51.

Pre-Main Event private test.
18th February: Santa Pod Raceway are still taking bookings for a private test day planned for the weekend before the FIA Main Event. The test day, which has become an annual fixture, is this year planned for Saturday 25th May provided that there is enough interest from teams. A regular Run What You Brung takes place the next day, Sunday 26th May.

Teams planning to attend this test day are asked to contact Santa Pod Raceway as soon as possible either by E-Mail at test@santapod.fsnet.co.uk, or by Fax for the attention of Kjell Petterson at 01234 782818 (from outside the UK +44 1234 782818). Only pre-bookings will be accepted, and teams are asked to contact Santa Pod by 2nd April.

Svensk interview Markus Svensson.
17th February: Our good friends at Svensk Dragracing have updated their web site with an exclusive interview with Sweden's Markus Svensson, Crew Chief for US Pro Stock racer George Marnell who won the Winternationals at Pomona last weekend.

The Svensk Dragracing web site has also been updated with a link to the newly-updated FIA rules for 2002, together with a piece about the Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy. Tack sa mycket, guys! Check it all out on the Svensk Dragracing site at www.dragracing.se.

The return of Can Do.
17th February: The UK's Top Banana Super Street and Pro ET team have announced the return of the Can Do name to the team with the addition of a new car and driver. Brian Huxley's son Mark will be driving the Can Do 3 Ford Mexico in Sportsman ET, whilst Brian and Lee Huxley continue to share driving duties on the Top Banana roadster.

Mark has already got his crew together, with longtime team member Richard Dance and Richard's father Les Dance who was with the original Can Do team. "The team should gel well!", says Brian Huxley.

On the Top Banana front, the roadster has a freshened engine and gearbox as well as new slicks, and a new paintjob is possible. Lee Huxley will be driving the car in Super Street whilst Brian takes the wheel in Pro ET. "We have been asked to race in Europe, but plans haven't been finalised yet", says Brian.

You can find out more about the Huxleys' operation on the Team Top Banana web site at www.topbanana.home-page.org.

Web site updates.
17th February: Andy Frost has updated his Red Victor web site with news of a new sponsor of his CCSE Vauxhall. "Thanks go to Alan and Mike of Sussex Auto Parts, Hailsham for having the foresight to get into the fastest motorsport on Earth!", says Andy. You can find full details at www.redvictor1racing.co.uk.

Feature on Little Big Racing.
16th February: In the latest of Eurodragster's series of Team Features we have returned to Scandinavia to talk to Swedish team Little Big Racing. The Axeldals are a shining example of the family team with father Peter having been involved in the organisation of the sport, mum Monica on the Little Big Racing crew, and children Linda, Conny and (soon) Glenn racing variously in Junior Dragster, Super Gas, and Comp Eliminator.

You can view the Little Big Racing feature by clicking here, or by clicking on the Team Features link on the left hand side of any Eurodragster page.

Racers: If you would like to be the subject of a Eurodragster Team Feature then E-Mail us at features@eurodragster.com.

SPR Hospitality now booking.
16th February: Santa Pod Raceway are now taking bookings for hospitality at this season's races. "The fastest motorsport on Earth ensures a truly memorable day out for you and your guests", says Kelly Ingall of Santa Pod. "The hospitality package is designed so you can enjoy all the exhilaration of a great days drag racing in comfort". Packages are available at the following races:
  • Easter Thunderball (30th March-1st April)
  • FIA Main Event (1st-3rd June)
  • FIA European Finals (6th-8th September)
  • Flame and Thunder Show (2nd November)
For more details or to make a booking please contact Kelly Ingall at Santa Pod by E-Mail at kelly@santapod.fsnet.co.uk, or by phone on 08700 782828 (outside the UK +44 1234 782828).

Radio-controlled racer?
16th February: Tom Digby of the Wildside Inc Top Fuel Dragster team has been in touch as he would like to make contact with fans of radio-controlled model drag racing. Tom is the nephew of team owners (together with driver Darryl Bradford) Lesley and John Wright and has been drafted on to the Wildside operation as 'team chimp' for 2002. He regularly takes part in radio-controlled circuit racing at Snetterton with his model Touring Car but is interested in building a dragster.

"Ricky, who shares our workshop at Santa Pod, and I were discussing how at one time R/C Drag Racing was all over the R/C press, with double-page spreads and step-by-step guides on how to make a model Top Fueller", says Tom. "But now it's just vanished. I would like to build a car and I've got some plans in my mind, but there's no point if I can't run it."

If you are involved or interested in radio-controlled model drag racing then you can contact Tom Digby by E-Mail at t_digby@hotmail.com.

Web site updates.
16th February: Further to yesterday's news about the FB Racing web site, Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Ian Hook tells us that the site's Guest Book is now up and running. "I'm looking forward to reading the comments left by our visitors", says Ian. "The new version has even got whizzy little emoticons you can add to your entry". Go and say Hi at www.fbracing.co.uk.

Bruiser gets full Credit.
15th February: Paul Marston Racing have announced that DaimlerChrysler Credit are to be primary sponsor of the PT Bruiser for the 2002 season, in a multi-tier deal with options for further seasons. "We are absolutely delighted to be associated with DaimlerChrysler Credit Services for the launch of their exciting new product in February 2002", says Paul Marston. "We were looking for a main sponsor who would be interested in being a partner as much as a sponsor, with dynamic marketing powers. The PT Bruiser being part of the ChryslerCard promotional campaign will raise the profile of our team as well as Drag Racing as a sport. I must congratulate DaimlerChrysler Credit Services for their boldness and wisdom in choosing to use a Drag Racer to spearhead the promotional campaign. The product identity and benefits association were so good, and so natural, it just made too much common sense to both parties.Put simply, we were made for each other!"

The brand new ChryslerCard credit card is to be launched at the end of February, and gives racers and fans a unique opportunity to personalise their credit card transactions. The ChryslerCard PT Bruiser will feature heavily in promotional literature and competitions, will be the promotional centrepiece at selected events, and will promote ChryslerCard at race tracks throughout the season. There will also be a benefits package for the motorsports enthusiast, unique to this product. It is aimed directly at the motoring enthusiast and like most Chrysler innovations in the past is a first in the UK. "The people at DaimlerChrysler Credit Services are just as excited about the opportunities which being involved with Paul Marston Racing provide as we are about them", says Paul Marston. "It really is going to be a great year: DaimlerChrysler Credit Services are very enthusiastic at the prospects for the year ahead, and we simply cannot wait to get started working with such a great partner."

Paul Marston sees this deal as another step in Drag Racing's progress towards the mainstream, demonstrating that big companies recognise and identify value in investing in Drag Racing as a promotional product. "But most of all it will be loads of fun, and offers an exhilarating way to create the desired image", he says. "One of the great things about this partnership is that you will undoubtedly be seeing members of the DaimlerChrysler staff on our crew during the year - they really are that enthusiastic about the Paul Marston Racing Super Comp ChryslerCard PT Bruiser!"

For more details on the ChryslerCard, telephone 0800 587 0531.

Web site updates.
15th February: The FB Racing web site at www.fbracing.co.uk has an updated Fatty's Diary including pictures of the rebirth of Ian Hook's Custom Car Street Eliminator '34 Ford.

Thanks to Adam Gleadow for letting us know about the latest update to the Sim Drag Racing site, which features a sim of the Showtime Fuel Funny Car. Check it out at www.simdragracing.com.

Bonin's 70-30 odds.
14th February: 1999 FIA European Top Fuel Dragster Champion Gordie Bonin has a "70-30, in favour" chance of racing in Europe this season, he says.

Canadian legend Gordie last raced in Europe at the 2001 Nitrolympics at Hockenheim, sponsored by Cyberkat and the German edition of Hustler magazine. Speaking in Mission Raceway's Chat Room overnight (actually very, very early this morning - shagged-out Ed), he said that negotiations are still ongoing with Cyberkat to run at least at Hockenheim and hopefully on the FIA Tour.

"I've got a current licence, and I need to come back and kick Barry's ass!", said Gordie. On being told that the fans want to see him back in Europe, Gordie replied "Not as bad as I want to come back!".

If Gordie does return then we may well see a second-generation Bonin at his side. "I want to bring my son Scott next time", he says. "He'd dig the hospitality you have!"

Stay tuned and the moment we have any firm news on Gordie's return we will let you know.

The Dogs are nearly all out.
14th February: The UK's Dog Squad Drag Racing Team have been breeding again with their new car, a big block alcohol-injected topolino named In The Dog House Again. Owned by Scottie Durrant, the Wild Bunch car is now in its final stages and the team hope to be out in mid-April. "Thanks to a lot of people, mainly Paul Stubbings for his time and knowledge on building the car", says Mark Turton. The new car will be on display at the Surrey Street Rodders' Wheels Day on 29th Match, along with stablemates Growler and Barking Mad.

Mark Turton's Growler has undergone a serious overhaul over the Winter months to clear the many gremlins which it suffered in 2001. The car was completely stripped and the chassis checked before being powder-coated. Amongst the other additions are new custom-made half shafts, new heavy-duty custom made wheel studs, a conversion from foot to hand brake, welding of the front beam, renewal of the king pins and bushes, and an MSD 6 AL ignition unit.

For more information on the Dog Squad Drag Racing Team check out their official web site at www.growlerracing.co.uk, which Mark updates on a regular basis.

Dave and Mark's long Thing.
13th February: Dave McKenzie and Mark Windridge of UK Wild Bunch team Thing Racing have announced that they are also to run with the Supercharged Outlaws in 2002 after some drastic changes to the chassis and engine.

The rear-engine dragster has been lengthened by thirty six inches over the winter to take the power of a supercharged, methanol-burning small-block Ford. "At the end of last season the plan was to remove the Rover setup and replace it with the Cleveland lump we had sat in the garage", say Dave and Mark. "That, in a way, is what has happened - except that we swapped the Rover for a 4-71 Rootes type supercharger courtesy of Alec Coe and the Cobalt team. This led to a rethink and the engine is now to be set up for methanol with the supercharger. We purchased a lot of new parts to bring the engine up to supercharged specification, and we also acquired a new Ford FMX gearbox from Team Top Banana.

"With all these parts bought or ordered, the next question was: Do we make our own injection system or buy one? With our budget at rock bottom we were going to make one, but the task seemed a bit much. Dave asked around the team and they all said they would dig a bit deeper and allow us to buy an injector setup from the States. With the promise of funds, Dave rang Gary Burgin in the USA and ordered a new bugcatcher and Enderle alcohol setup, which Gary is going to set up to run on our car."

Whilst Mark has worked on the engine, Dave has extended the chassis and has recently tested it with an ultrasonic tester borrowed from Rugby Cement. "All the readings were within specification, so there should be no tech inspection problems at the track", he says. The team hope to test their winter improvements at the APIRA Test and Tune at Shakespeare County Raceway on 20th-21st April.

Stay tuned for news of a new Thing Racing web site.

Spy vs Spy.
13th February: This morning a scrap of paper was slipped under the door at Eurodragster Mansions, with the following message scrawled in a hurried hand:

"Some dodgy motoring journalist has infiltrated the workshop of Paul Rose Racing and, at great personal risk, has managed to capture some digital images of the Pro Stock Bike being built for Helen Curran's 2002 season. I know that honest, trustworthy (and of course prize-winning) journos like yourselves would never stoop to telling your readership that the photos can, for the time being, be found on the Photo Gallery at www.cooperizedracing.com."

But listen, you never heard it from us, OK?

Z Case tie the knot.
13th February: Carla Pitau of UK Pro ET team Heaven and Hell Racing sent us the following good news.

"Z Case Racing, aka Bob Doyle and Tracy Morgan, will tie the knot on 23rd February in Braintree, Essex. Quite a few of the invitees have asked Heaven and Hell what to buy for the happy couple - the simple answer is - but isn't it obvious - Summit Racing gift vouchers!"

Summit Racing gift certificates are available in amounts from $25 to $500, and can be purchased online from the Online Catalog section of the Summit web site at www.summitracing.com, by phone at 001 800 230 3030, by Fax at 001 330 630 5333, or by mail at PO, Box 909, Akron OH 44309, USA.

"Cheers and congratulations to the happy racing couple!", says Carla, and everyone here at Eurodragster would like to add their own best wishes.

APIRA Work Party detail.
13th February: Over-indulged over the Winter break? Looking for something to do to get back into that Summer trim ready for the 2002 Drag Racing season at Shakespeare County Raceway! Then why not book a place at the Shakespeare County Spring Break Fitness Centre for a weekend of excerise and fun! The Fat Club it ain't but we're looking for a volunteer work force to get Shakespeare County Raceway back into shape after a winter of freezing and rainy conditions.

The APIRA Fitness Training schedule includes all the usual pre-season duties; launch pad scraping, armco painting, building maintanence (Wheelchair facility, Race Control, Pit Office & Track Shop). Your instructor Bruno has plenty for you to do. Work parties have already started and will continue every weekend up until the first Super Series event in May.

Bruno also wants to add that there will be a Marshal's meeting during the Easter break (March 29th-April 1st). Food and hot/cold drinks will be laid on during the working day. The weekend also includes an informal 'bring your own' barbecue at FAST HQ Saturday and Sunday evenings.

All marshals who consider they have a position for the 2002 race season at Shakespeare County Raceway MUST attend and bring with them last years Track Pass and two passport-sized photos. If you do not attend we must consider that you have no intentions of working at Shakespeare County Raceway this season.

For further information contact Bruno Sanderson-Brown on 0121 556 4140 or E-mail fastbruno@netscapeonline.co.uk.

Smax and Andrews' FC deal.
12th February: UK Fuel Funny Car racer Smax Smith, who is currently recovering from "pioneering, painful eye surgery to improve my Reaction Times", has announced an alliance with the Andrews family's Just Another Toy Racing. The Just Another Toy team have campaigned a very popular Ford Customline in Sportsman ET but have now stepped up big time.

"Vince and Cindy Andrews and their son Chris have been quietly helping us in the past as well as racing themselves"; says Smax. "Once Chris had worked in the States with various teams and gained his Alcohol Funny Car licence with a 6.2/225 - at 19 years old! - at Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School, he was itching to drive a Fuel Funny Car."

Chris had the itch, Smax had the car: something was going to happen. "We talked about running a two-car team, but with Vince's many business commitments time was a problem", says Smax. "We decided that Just Another Toy Racing would purchase half of the Oldsmobile Achieva Funny Car and split the costs of running it properly for the 2002 season whilst making a two-pronged attack to get sponsorship."

The team's priority now is for Chris to gain his Fuel FC licence and become Europe's youngest Fuel FC driver, after which he will be sharing the driving with Smax. "No, it's not a two-seater!", jokes Smax.

The team are currently working on their set-up for 2002. "We're ready to rock, and both Ritchie from Fuel records and young Chris were at Pomona with a shopping list!", says Smax. "Following our 5.74/265 blast last season we feel it would be prudent to capitalise on what we have, so we will run the Stage 10 Keith Black with a four-disc clutch and SSI blower, but Ritchie insists on an MSD Pro Mag 44 right now! We are shopping for a spare TFX motor, Johnson heads, spare SSI and a spare clutch, and we are also after an 8 5/8" clutch can if anyone can help?

"We are confident that we can gun down Spuff's 281 mph best. Our team worked really well together in our rookie season, even setting a Guinness World Record for stripping down and rebuilding an engine, so we will be practising!"

With the British Fuel FC Championship confirmed, Smax is very grateful to all concerned in its organisation. "None of this would have been possible without a tremendous amount of work and commitment from many parties", he says. "My thanks go out to Terry Gibbs and Keith Bartlett for making it happen, followed closely by Bob Jarrett for negotiating, to the other teams - Mark Hawkins' North Herts FC, Gordon Smith and Dave Bryant's Shockwave, and Tony Betts - for pulling together, and to Jim Broome for taking on the thankless task of Co-ordinator. These are exciting times for drag racing and we believe that the Fuel Funny Cars are where it's at! Bring on the TV! Have a fast, safe season."

Smax also asked us to remind readers that the Panic Mechanics TV programme, featuring the Mainline Menace FC, will be broadcast on BBC2 at 8:00 pm on 28th February. You can stay in touch with all of the latest news from the team on Smax's web site at www.smax.co.uk.

Web site updates.
12th February: Dutch Top Methanol FC racer Lex Joon's web site has been updated with more news of the LJR team's appearance at Zandvoort this weekend. LJR Fan Club members get into the event free and the team will even arrange transport from Schipol. For full details check out the News page at www.lexjoonracing.nl.

Swedish Pro Mod racer Freddy Fagerström's web site is now back on-line after server problems. Check out come.to/fast-freddy for all the latest on Europe's fastest pickup.

A Personal Thank You.
12th February: Tog and Sharkman would like to thank everyone who has E-Mailed and phoned with congratulations since we were presented with the Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy. Your kind comments are very much appreciated.

King's Award thanks.
11th February: Ian King has written to thank all of the Eurodragster readers who submitted nominations for the King Racing Top Fuel Bike as Best Appearing Bike for the 2001 season.

"Of course, winning such an award is not possible without the collective efforts of the team and our sponsors", says Ian. "In winning this award in particular, we would like to thank House of Kolor UK for providing what are, without doubt, the best custom paint finishes on the market, Simon Butterworth of Image Paintwork (01763 245927) for his fabulous skills at custom painting, Ian Turburville for the crew uniforms and embroidery, Royston Signs and Graphics for the vinyls and signage, and Vanson Leathers UK."

Super Series Gala: last call.
11th February: The closing date is fast approaching for bookings for the Super Series Pre-season Gala Evening and Awards Ceremony, which takes place at the Clarendon Suites, Edgbaston, Birmingham on Saturday 2nd March. All bookings should be made by Tuesday 19th Febuary.

There is a choice of three-course menus or vegetarian option. The meal commences at 7:00 pm, followed by the awards ceremony, raffle, and then a disco until 12:30 am. The APIRA AGM takes place at the same venue on Sunday 3rd March.

Any racer unable to attend the Gala Evening to receive their trophy is asked to contact Obsession Motorsports at superseries@eurodragster.com or by phone on 01483 236262.

Tickets are £22.50 per person, and booking forms are available from Obsession Motorsports as above. Anyone wishing to contribute prizes for the raffle is also asked to contact Obsession Motorsports either by E-Mail or by phone.

Special rates are available at two hotels within walking distance of the Clarendon Suites. They are the Quality Hotel on 0121 454 6621 and the Comfort Inn on 0121 454 8071. Quote "Two-day function at Clarendon Suites" to get the special rates.

Web site updates.
11th February: The official web site of the UK's Fireforce Jet FC team has been updated with another set of entries in the contest to design a new paintjob for the Fireforce 2 Jet FC. Webmaster Dave Nelson tells us that the contest is now closed so expect to hear about the winner very soon. The Fireforce site also has a calendar of appearances for 2002. Check it out at www.fireforce.co.uk.

Promising start for ACI.
10th February: The UK's American Car Imports Top Methanol Dragster team had a very promising first run out with their new dragster at the NHRA Winternationals at Pomona. After a seven-second familiarisation pass, Dave Wilson qualified fourteenth with a 5.623/253.23; the Elapsed Time would have been a new European record had it been run on this side of the Pond, being backed up by an earlier 5.675. In round one of eliminations Dave pulled a 0.382 red light to hand Brian Hough victory but still ran 5.731 at a huge 255.24, which would have been a new European speed record if set over here.

The ACI dragster is now on its way to the UK. You can view full qualifying and elimination details on the Summit Racing web site at www.summitracing.com/stories/index.htm or on the official NHRA web site at www.nhra.com. In addition, you can find a photograph of Dave in action on Photo Gallery 3 of NHRA's Winternationals coverage.

Project Camaro takes shape.
10th February: Swedish Pro Mod racer Håkan Nilsson and his Veidec-sponsored team are making good progress in the project to build a replacement for the 'Vette which crashed at Piteå last season. Nilsson Motorsports have purchased from the USA a Mauney chassis and a Tim McAmis '68 Camaro body and are currently putting it together at their Eslov workshop. The engine and other parts have been salvaged from the 'Vette.

The Nilsson Motorsports web site at www.nilssonmotorsports.com is being updated on a weekly basis with news and pictures from the build. We hope to bring you some comments from Håkan himself very soon.

Champions honoured...
10th February: Winners and runners-up in the 2001 Santa Pod Racers Club Championships and some of the 2001 UK National Champions and runners-up were presented with their trophies at the SPRC Dinner Dance and Trophy Presentation in Bedord last night. The traditional SPRC Perpetual Awards were also presented. For the first time, Perpetual Award nominations included input from racers and fans via a tie-up between SPRC and Eurodragster, and this is how the Awards turned out:
  • Most Promising Newcomer: Lewis Honey (10.90 Bike)
  • Best Appearing Car: Dale Reardon (Custom Car Street Eliminator)
  • Best Appearing Bike: Ian King (Top Fuel Bike)
  • Most Professional Appearing Team: AC Delco/Malmgren Racing (Pro Stock)
  • Paul Giddings Memorial Trophy: Len Paget (Pro Stock Bike)
  • James Edgar Memorial Trophy: Richard Henry (Fireforce Jet FC)
European record-holding Top Fuel Bike racer Brian Johnson, who retired from racing at the end of the 2001 season, was presented with a special award to mark his several highly-successful years in the sport.

The remaining 2001 UK National Champions and runners-up will be presented with their trophies at the Super Series Gala Night in March.

...Eurodragster wins Memorial Award.
10th February: Also presented at the SPRC Dinner Dance last night was the Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy. This trophy was first awarded to the late Alex Brachtvogel last year for outstanding service to Drag Racing, and has now been instituted as a Perpetual Award in his memory.

The Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy for 2001 was last night awarded to Eurodragster. To follow someone who put so much into the sport as Alex is an honour and a privilege and we are very grateful to Santa Pod Racers Club and to everyone who nominated Eurodragster.

Those who were there last night won't quickly forget the spectacle of Tog and Sharkman almost at a loss for words, but we can only repeat what we eventually managed to say last night, which is that Eurodragster wouldn't exist without all of you and so this award was really for everyone. Many thanks for your support, and with your help we will do everything we can to be worthy of Alex's name.

Two Drag Power shows.
9th February: Following last year's highly-successful Drag Power Show in Estoril, Portugal the organisers have arranged a repeat performance in 2002 and added a similar event in Spain.

This year's 2nd Drag Power Show takes place on 24th-25th August at the Estoril race track. Amongst the classes on display are Top Gas, Top Fuel, Jet Cars and a Rocket Car together with American cars and bikes. In addition there are trade stands and live music.

The Spanish Drag Power Show takes place at Jerez Circuit the following weekend, 31st August-1st September.

For more details E-Mail dragpowershow2002@yahoo.fr.

Feature on TF Team Switzerland.
9th February: For the latest of Eurodragster's series of Team Features we took an electronic trip to Oberönz and spoke to Peter Beck and Regula Stucki of Top Fuel Team Switzerland. As with all of our previous features, the TFTS article is interesting and informative and we guarantee that you will find out things about the team which you never knew!

You can view the Top Fuel Team Switzerland feature by clicking here, or by clicking on the Team Features link on the left hand side of any Eurodragster page.

Racers: If you would like to be the subject of a Eurodragster Team Feature then E-Mail us at features@eurodragster.com.

ACU Championships finalised.
8th February: In the wake of Tuesday's news about the withdrawal of Obsession Motorsports' events at Shakespeare County Raceway from the UK National Championships comes the better news that the 2002 ACU UK Drag Bike Championships have been finalised. This year's ACU Championships take in six rounds, three at Santa Pod Raceway and three at Shakespeare County Raceway. Classes involved are Top Fuel Bike (not all rounds), Pro Stock Bike, Funny Bike, Comp Bike, and Super Street Bike.

You can find full details on the Pit Lane Gossip page of ACU Championship co-ordinator Ian King's web site at www.kingracing.com.

Crail all-new for 2002.
8th February: Scotland's own drag strip is looking forward to the 2002 season with a new track, the addition of facilities, and a new feature-packed web site.

The Crail Airfield strip, which is host to a large number of very popular RWYBs each year, has been moved to a longer and smoother runway and has been equipped with a Portatree timing system. There is a new race control, new PA for new track announcer Jason, and a bigger club show/trade area.

Another major new feature for Crail in 2002 is timing data posted on the web site in record time. "At the end of every event you can go home, look up our site and see every person who has run, and their times for every run", says William Robertson of Craig Airfield Promotions.

Crail's calendar of events commences on Sunday 24th February, with the Fireforce Jet Funny Car leading the day's attractions and a TV crew from Granada Men and Motors filming everything which moves. RWYBs follow fortnightly with a Streetfighters Straightliners weekend on 4th-5th May, and events backed by Fast Car and Redline later in the season. In addition the Meanstreet Cruise visits Crail for the first time in June. William tells us that some "serious" cars are wanted for 2002 - consider yourselves invited!

For more information check out the official Crail web site which is due to be relaunched today at www.crailraceway.co.uk, or call 01333 450801.

2002 British Fuel FC Championship.
7th February: Championship co-ordinator Jim Broome has confirmed the dates of the 2002 British Nitro Funny Car Championship. This is the second year of the Championship; last year saw ET and speed records eclipsed, close racing and a fairy-tale ending in the last round when Norm Wilding won the final on his return from the USA.

This year's Championship has four rounds and takes in two tracks:

Round 1: 4th-6th May, Springnationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
Round 2: 1st-3rd June, FIA Main Event, Santa Pod Raceway
Round 3: 24th-26th August, Fallnationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
Round 4: 6th-8th September, FIA European Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2001 Champion John Spuffard in the Showtime Fuel Funny Car is expected to face challengers Gordon Smith in Shockwave, Smax Smith in the Mainline Menace and Norm Wilding in Mark and Jackie Hawkins' North Herts Engineering FC. In addition we understand that 2002 may see the return of Tony Betts in the Jungle.com FC although this has yet to be officially confirmed.

Stay tuned for more details.

US invasion commences.
7th February: This season's European invasion of the USA starts today at the NHRA K & N Filters Winternationals at Pomona Raceway in California, where Dave Wilson will be racing the new American Car Imports-backed Top Methanol Dragster. He will be followed in a few weeks' time by Sweden's Michael Malmgren (Pro Stock) and Leif Andréasson (Top Methanol Funny Car) who are also taking a shot at the best the US has to offer.

You will be able to keep in touch with events at Pomona starting today on the Summit Racing web site at www.summitracing.com/stories/index.htm, and on the NHRA's site at www.nhra.com.

SCR events not UK National.
6th February: Obsession Motorsports and Avon Park International Racers Association have announced that the Midsummer Nationals at Shakespeare County Raceway on 15th-16th June will no longer be a UK National Championship event. This means that none of Obsession Motorsports' events at SCR this year - the Spring Nationals on 4th-6th May, the Midsummer Nationals on 15th-16th June, the Fall Nationals on 24th-26th August, and the just-announced Doorslammer Shootout in October - will form part of the 2002 UK National Championships for the Sportsman classes.

We do not yet know officially whether this means the end of the UK National Championships for the Sportsman classes; stay tuned and we will of course bring you developments as we receive them.

"This has been bought about due to a change in the Super Series race format and class structures this year, and no firm decision has been made as to which classes will be running at each of the events", writes APIRA Press Officer Jerry Cookson. "However, Obsession Motorsports can confirm that rounds of the Super Modified and Custom Car Street Eliminator will be appearing at all three rounds of the Super Series Championship.

"Also on a positive note, the much talked about and proposed 9.50 and 10.50 fixed-index motorcycle classes will run exclusively at all three Super Series events at Shakespeare County Raceway this year. The first round makes its public debut in May at the Spring Nationals.

"Obsession Motorsports are expected to release more news soon."

All the 3s at Thunderball.
6th February: Santa Pod Raceway have announced that the third annual Pro Fuel Shootout, which takes place at the Easter Thunderball on 30th March-1st April, will be contested by three Top Fuel Dragsters and three Fuel Funny Cars. The highly popular Shootout sees Top Fuel Dragsters pitted against Fuel Funny Cars, with the Fuel FCs getting a head start (0.400 seconds in 2000 and 2001).

Twice Shootout Champion John Spuffard in the Showtime Fuel FC will be accompanied on the FC squad by Gordon Smith in the Shockwave FC, and Norm Wilding in Mark Hawkins' North Herts Engineering FC. Barry Sheavills in the Triple R-sponsored dragster is currently the only nominated Top Fuel participant, but the names of the other two TF racers are expected to be announced shortly.

The Easter Thunderball also sees the first round of the 2002 MSA British Top Methanol Championship, together with the first rounds of the 2002 UK National (but see above - Ed), ACU Drag Bike, and Santa Pod Racers Club Championships.

Ticket prices for the Easter Thunderball are already available via the Events link on Santa Pod Raceway's web site at www.santapod.com.

Speedfreaks Ball gains momentum.
6th February: Martin Hill has been in touch with the latest news about the Speedfreaks Ball bike-only event, which he is promoting at Santa Pod Raceway on May 10th-12th.

"The event is gathering momentum within the biking fraternity", says Martin. "Dave Nelson is currently building a web site which should be up and running very soon.

"At present we have a Top Fuel Bike Shootout lined up; 99% confirmed are Ian King, Steve Woollatt and Roel Koedam against the Harleys of Ton Pels, Rob van Geffen and Anders Karling. We aim to have a Cannonball-style event with the racers with the two quickest accumulated times meeting in the final. There will also be the fastest Super Street Bikes, and the fastest Junior Modified Dragsters.

"A motorcycle stunt rider has yet to be confirmed. Both Fireforce Jet FCs will hopefully be putting on side-by-side shows as well as normal runs. We also have Michel on his jet quad, a jet trike, and Lee on his jet go-ped. There is possibly one more addition to this line-up, which will be announced by the end of this month.

"The track will be open to the public both days for a motorcycle-only Run What You Brung. On the Sunday we hope to be able to present trophies and cash prizes to individual class winners. There will also be an under cover Custom show for bikes and trikes, sponsored by 100% Biker magazine.

"Off the track we have caterers and traders, and a beer tent which will have entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights: one band on Friday, then two bands and a disco on Saturday. We hope to address problems at previous events by providing quality food at reasonable prices, not forgetting the beer too! A fun fair and other attractions will be confirmed later this week.

"There will be weekend camping along with an area for the disabled."

Admission prices are £25 for the weekend (£20 in advance), or £15 each for Saturday and Sunday. Twelve- to sixteen-year-olds are half-price and elevens and under go free. It's £5 for the RWYB with an extra £5 payable on Sunday which goes into the prize fund. Expect to see advertisements and posters later this month. We will bring you more news about the Speedfreaks ball as we receive it.

Doorslammer Shootout announced.
6th February: More news from Obsession Motorsports with the announcement of a Doorslammer Shootout to be held at the Warwickshire track in October.

Although very much still in the planning stages, it is anticipated that the track will run a special non-Championship event for doorslammer classes: anything which has doors will be welcome to enter.

"This is great news", said a spokesman for Obsession Motorsports. "Ever since the days of the seventies inspired Pro Stock class here in England doorslammer racing has been, and always will be a firm favourite with the fans."

"Although Pro Mod has all but disappeared from our shores and moved across to Scandinavia, the advent of Super Modified has certainly captured the imagination of the British public this year", said Shakespeare County Raceway Press Officer Jeremy Cookson. "Last year's demo races at Shakespeare County Raceway were a credit to those involved, and the sheer spectacle and horsepower from these cars will certainly make the Autumn Doorslammer meet a 'Shootout' to remember."

Obsession Motorsports have opened up the race to take in as many European and Scandinavian doorslammer teams as possible. Any doorslammer teams interested can E-mail Obsession Motorsports at superseries@eurodragster.com.

The race, due to take place at Shakespeare County Raceway, Stratford-Upon-Avon on October 5th/6th, may well mark the return of a couple of extra special attractions. More details are expected to be released soon.

Web site updates.
6th February: The Street 'n' Strip website of UK Custom Car Street Eliminator team FB Racing is now back on-line at www.fbracing.co.uk having changed Internet service providers. There is a degree of rebuilding still to do so the service will take a while to get back to 100%. In the meantime check out the fresh entry in the Diary section, where driver Ian Hook has started to detail the work being carried out to resurrect the '34 after last year's crash. Also on the site is the first news of provisional dates for CCSE in 2002.

Turn up and race!
5th February: If you've ever fancied taking the wheel in Super Gas, Super Street or Pro ET then Paul Marston Racing's "Turn up and race" scheme may be just the thing for you.

The newly-refurbished Grumpy's Dodge is available for hire at selected events in 2002. "It will be fully prepared and serviced, all the driver will have to do is turn up and race", says Paul Marston. "The car can be set up for Super Gas, Super Street or Pro ET. The person hiring the car doesn't have to worry about getting the race car to the track, or acquire the experience needed to successfully run a race car at this level, let alone the crew or tools needed at the track, capital outlay for the racecar, towing rig, trailer etc. Full training and tuition can also be given including appropriate licencing and testing if required."

Some dates are already taken but a number are still available. "I was shocked at the uptake, but the team set-up means that we can do this no problem", says Paul. "Whoever buys the ride becomes in effect a Paul Marston Racing team member for the event. Previously there was no way of finding out what the greatest motorsport on earth is like, short of buying a race car and entering a race. Now, with this turn-up-and-go programme, there is."

Paul says that he would love to think that this will bring more people into the sport by whetting their appetite, and that he also feels that the offer will be taken up by seasoned racers who miss the competition but don't want to own another race car at the moment. In addition, there will be no objection to the display of sponsorship on the race car, within reason, if it helps the driver to pay for the ride.

If you would like to book a ride, or for more details, E-Mail Paul Marston Racing at office@pmracing.fsnet.co.uk, or by phone on 0208 597 4575 (office) or 07831 650230 (mobile).

Homewood's gotta lotta bottle.
5th February: Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Richard Homewood has asked us to thank everyone who responded to his 1st February call for a fifteen-pound Nitrous bottle for sizing up in his new race car.

"The article resulted in offers from all corners", said Richard. "A twenty-pound bottle from Ian Hook and the Fat Boys - thanks guys but it's just too big (or is that fat) - and a 15lb bottle from Andy Frost. The offer of a loan has been taken up from Andy Robinson, so no one else needs to turn out the back of the workshop looking for me. I am stunned by the speedy response and helpfulness of all. Thanks a lot!"

Web site updates.
5th February: Allen and Amanda Curtis have updated the No Manners Racing web site with news of the off-season work undertaken on their Custom Car Street Eliminator 300E van. Check it out at www.nomannersracing.co.uk.

Dave Stanley has given the Wordweaver web site a facelift. Wordweaver Urban Race Wear sponsor a number of drag bike racers including Dave's own team which is featured on the web site at www.wordweaver.co.uk. The site also features a run-down of some of the clothing on offer from Wordweaver, together with links and more.

Andy Frost has asked us to apologise to fans who visited his site yesterday and didn't find the promised update. "It was due to computer gremlins", said Andy. The missing update was loaded during the day yesterday and is now available at www.redvictor1racing.co.uk.

Peter Walker's funeral.
4th February: We have now received details of Peter Walker's funeral. It is to be held at Kettering Crematorium at 2:15 pm this Wednesday, 6th February.

Peter's family have asked for no flowers, but donations can be sent to:

Toby Hunt
34 The Square
Earl's Barton
Northamptonshire
NN6 0NA

Cheques should be made payable to Toby Hunt Donations Account, and should be accompanied by a note stating that the donation is in memory of Peter Walker, plus the name of the donor.

Sponsorship slots available.
4th February: Eurodragster's current sponsorship deals expire at the end of February, and although we are currently in negotiation with some interested parties, slots are still available.

Eurodragster's budget covers domain name registration, contributions to staff phone bills, decals, attire and other such expenses. If you would be interested in sponsoring one of Europe's premier drag racing web sites then please E-Mail us at administrator@eurodragster.com and we'll let you know how you can get your name in front of thousands of people every day.

Web site updates.
4th February: The official web site of the UK's Shockwave Fuel Funny Car team has been updated with a report from driver and co-owner Gordon Smith about the team's off-season work. It certainly sounds as if the Shockwave guys have put in a lot of effort to be right up there again in 2002, and you can find out what they have been up to on their web site at www.funnycar.uk.com. Crew member Stuart has also asked if any Eurodragster readers have pictures of Shockwave's altercation with the timing reflectors at Shakespeare County Raceway last August; if so then please contact Stuart by E-Mail at stuart@funnycar.co.uk.

Andy Frost has updated his Red Victor web site with the latest progress report on his CCSE-bound Vauxhall. You can find pictures of the just-completed paintjob ("I know I'm biased but it does look pretty good!", says Andy) plus details of a new sponsor. Check it out at www.redvictor1racing.co.uk.

FHRA rejoins NDRS.
3rd February: After talks between the Nordic Drag Racing Series, Finnish Hot Rod Association and Norsk Drag Racing Gardermoen, a solution has been formulated for the 2002 NDRS series with regards to the date clash between the two final rounds.

The Drag Finals in Norway will move forward one week, to the weekend of 23rd-25th August, and will still be the Final of the NDRS. This move was possible after NDRG had intensive talks with organisers of two other car/motorsport-related events in Norway. These talks concluded that it was possible for NDRG to swap weekends. The FHRA Final will still take place on 30th August - 1st September but will not be part of Nordic Drag Racing Series. With this change it is possible for the FHRA to have some of its events in the 2002 Nordic Drag Racing Series.

Svensk Dragracing President Kjell Pettersson says: "It feels very satisfying that we could, at the end, find a solution to the date clash. When I had the first talks with Thor Larsen from NDRG and Tapio Välja from FHRA regarding the clash, I felt confident that there were something that could be done, and after efforts from especially Thor Larsen and NDRG, but also from Tapio Vlj and the people at FHRA, it turned out to be the case. I would like to thank Thor Larsen NDRG, Tapio Välja FHRA and NDRA co-ordinator Per-Olof Eriksson for all their efforts to find a solution to this subject, and hope that all parties involved and the teams participating in the NDRS Series will find this satisfactory."

Tapio Välja from FHRA says "Im extremely happy that we can re-join the NDRS series. I felt very sorry that we had to make the decision to step out from the NDRS earlier this month after having negotiated hard to have FHRA to be part of the Nordic Drag Racing Series from the beginning. Now that we can re-join the series, we in the FHRA feel that this is very good for Finnish drag racing. We would like to express our big thanks to Thor Larsen and NDRG for the hard work they have put in to try to find a solution. We would also like to send our appreciation to Kjell Pettersson for taking the initiative to re-negotiate, not giving up, and taking this problem so seriously that he even travelled from England. We also would like to thank Per-Olof Eriksson for being active and calling us almost daily helping to try to sort this issue. I believe that what made it possible was that all the parties recognised that this was very serious problem and that everybody worked very hard trying to find a solution. Thank you all!"

The Event Calendar for the 2002 NDRS Series is expected to be finalised no later than mid-February, and regular updates will be available on the Svensk Dragracing web site at www.dragracing.se.

Feature on Staflund Racing.
3rd February: Eurodragster's latest team feature is on Swedish Super Comp team Staflund Racing. Driver Jonas Staflund gives us all the background on the Skellefteå-based Funny Car operation including what he did when strange Norwegians fiddled with his fuel system.

You can view the Staflund Racing feature by clicking here, or by clicking on the Team Features link on the left hand side of any Eurodragster page.

Peter Walker tribute page open.
2nd February: The promised tribute page to the late Peter Walker is now open on the Santa Pod Racers Club web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc.

If you would like to send a tribute to Peter for inclusion on the page then please E-Mail petertributes@eurodragster.com.

Super Modified is go!
2nd February: The UK's Super Modified class is to run a complete Championship series in 2002. Although not yet an official UK National class, the Super Modified racers will be running their own self-administered Championship. The Super Modified racers have also appointed Sharon Hogarth, wife and Crew Chief of Super Mod racer Jon, as Class Administrator and Championship Co-ordinator.

The 2002 Super Modified Championship has seven rounds:

30th March - 1st April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
4th - 6th May: Shakespeare County Raceway
15th -16th June: Shakespeare County Raceway
29th -30th June: Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
20th - 21st July: Bug Jam, Santa Pod Raceway
24th -26th August: Shakespeare County Raceway
26th -28th September: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

Maximum sixteen-car fields will be run at all rounds, and there may also be demonstrations at other events.

"Judging by the reaction of spectators and fellow racers alike who were lucky enough to be standing trackside during the inaugural sessions of 2001, the all-new Super Modified class has proven it has all the right ingredients to set pulses racing and keep everyone on the edge of their seats in 2002", says Sharon Hogarth. "Look forward to long smoky burnouts, .400 lights, and real close match racing which will see ETs plummeting into the real low eights and even down into the seven-second zone!"

Copies of the Super Modified rule book can be obtained from Sharon Hogarth as follows:

Sharon Hogarth
Super Modified Class Administrator
S.I.D. (Specialist In Design)
Custom Fabrication and Paintwork
Unit 9, Owen Road
Harfreys Industrial Estate
Great Yarmouth
Norfolk
NR31 0NA

Workshop phone: 01493 651198
Mobile phone: 07753 863700

E-Mail: sharonhogarth@aol.com

European racers offered discount.
2nd February: US performance parts manufacturer Bull Racing Products is offering a special deal to European racers for their clutches and clutch grinders. "The first racer from each of the European countries to purchase a billet clutch or clutch grinder will receive a ten per cent discount", says Doug Hearsum.

Bull Racing Products are also offering to refund the cost of the clutch to the first racer to run a five-second pass using their product. "Peter Kapris from Australia probably is the favourite but with the North American season just about to start nothing is certain", says Doug.

You can get full details on Bull Racing products from their web site at www.bullracingproducts.com.

Web site updates.
2nd February: Santa Pod Raceway's web site at www.santapod.com has been given a facelift. Santa Pod's site features news, ticket prices, calendar, event previews, track and facility hire and more.

Eurodragster staffer Sharkman has added three more Windows wallpaper files to his personal web site Sharkman's Top End Tales, which you can now find at www.topendtales.com. The new pictures feature Michael Malmgren and Niclas Andersson, Chris Tombleson, and Kim Reymond and Andy Carter.

First word on UK SFI Day.
1st February: UK Top Methanol Dragster racer Lindsay Deuchar has updated his web site with the first news of the UK's SFI Day for 2002, which is to take place on March 1st. You can find out more details on the News page of the LA Racing web site at www.laracing.co.uk.

Homewood's got no bottle.
1st February: UK Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Richard Homewood has asked for Eurodragster readers' help in the construction of his new race car.

"I am currently putting together a new car for the coming season and need to borrow a fifteen-pound Nitrous bottle, so that the position and fixings can be sorted on the chassis before the actual Nitrous set-up arrives later in the year", says Richard. "The bottle will be needed for about one week, can be collected and returned, and will be handled with care."

Anyone who can help out with the loan of a 15 lb Nitrous bottle can talk to Richard on 07970 821122 or Dale Reardon at West Coast Racing on 01326 564486.

Out to get Paranoia?
1st February: UK Wild Bunch racer Martin Holgate has put his Paranoia altered up for sale. The Paranoia name has a long and distinguished history in UK drag racing, having been around since the 1970s.

"I've had the car for about six years now, and it is about twenty one years old", says Martin. "Brian Thomas got the car into the eights, managing a best of 8.77, and my best effort is 9.2. However we replaced the antique clutch last season so that could be bettered now. The car is turn-key with two engines, a recent state-of-the-art clutch, a billet oil pump, and a high-powered Don Zig magneto."

Martin has enjoyed the car but has decided to move up. "We have had a lot of fun running in the Wild Bunch, especially some of the head-to-heads with Roy Wilding in his old slingshot", says Martin. "We will be running the car at selected events whilst I still own it, but if it is sold then I will be shopping in the States for a new toy!"

If you are interested in purchasing Paranoia, then you can contact Martin by phone on 01132 562387.

Carter does Monaco.
1st February: If you tuned in for our coverage from Autosport International you will remember that 2001 FIA European Top Fuel Dragster Champion Andy Carter told us a little about his trip to Monaco to collect his Champion's trophy.

Andy's official web site at www.andycarter.net has now been updated with the full story of Andy and wife Sarah's trip to the ceremony. Click on the picture on the right to see Andy lined up with all of the other 2001 FIA Champions.

Web site updates.
1st February: Thanks to Adam Gleadow for bringing us up-to-date with the latest NHRA 2 simulations at www.simdragracing.com. You can now download sims of Micke Kågered's Bahco Tools Top Fuel Dragster, Monica Öberg's Top Fuel Dragster, the Shell Racing Top Methanol Dragster (the first Shell Rail mentioned), and a special Eurodragster.com Top Fuel Dragster.


Earlier news


All news, photographic and other material submitted to Eurodragster.com is accepted and published in good faith. Although we make every effort to ascertain the accuracy of published material, Eurodragster.com and its staff are not responsible for any errors in submitted news and photographs. Inaccuracies or other issues in published news items or photographs should be taken up with the named contributors, or with the Eurodragster.com staff only if the item is not credited to any individual. This page ©Eurodragster.com.

Eurodragster.com aims to bring you links to all the best European Drag Racing web sites. To add your site to Eurodragster's listings, simply email links@eurodragster.com with your URL and a little information about your site and we'll do the rest. When you update your site, drop us a line at news@eurodragster.com and we'll feature your site in our "What's New" section.

Eurodragster.com is a non-profit-making organisation run by a small group of Drag Racing enthusiasts for the sole purpose of promoting European Drag Racing. If you can help us to meet the modest cost of hosting this web site by advertising here, please email webmaster@eurodragster.com. We're sure you'll find our rates extremely competitive.