Why they say "Never Again"...
29th February: Having brought you the story of Friday's UK SFI Day in yesterday's update, today we are very pleased to bring you another story of the day, this time from the racer's point of view. Regular readers will remember that Dave Evans has decided to bring his Coco Connection Camaro up to spec to contest Super Gas in 2004. Never Again Racing Crew Chief Andy Bennett kindly told us what happened when Dave wanted to take Coco to Santa Pod to be inspected by UK Tech Inspectors Geoff Martin and Mark Norton.

"This was an important day in the calendar for the Never Again boys, as it was the first Tech Inspection for the Coco Connection Camaro", says Andy. "The car last ran in Super Gas competition before the tech rules came in so it has been necessary to bring the car up to spec, which has involved a great deal of work and financial outlay on behalf of owner/driver Dave Evans. On Thursday Dave and I had the day off work to prepare the car.

"The first job was to get the Transit van running. This involved lots of pushing, cardiac arrest, dragging all round the Northern hills and valleys, then the van eventually started. Whilst reversing the van into the work unit, Dave thoughtfully squashed me up against a wall and a rogue nail ripped the poor Crew Chief's trouser leg completely off. Hysterical laughter followed. A quick fix with gaffer tape added to the hilarity.

"Off to sort the trailer, begged and borrowed from our mate Phil. Phil's Staffordshire Bull Terrier takes a dislike to the Never Again sweatshirt worn by our trusty one-pant-legged Crew Chief so decides to add to the hilarity of the day by the removal of a sleeve of the sweatshirt. By this time I am looking like I've been through a paper shredder.
©Eurodragster.com
"Is this van going to be reliable enough to pull the trailer for four hours' drive to Santa Pod, we asked ourselves. Maybe not, we thought, time to hire a van. Off to hire a van from Speedy Hire. Trailer and van sorted, then the devil farts in the face of progress and put down four inches of snow on Thursday evening. Friday morning sees it necessary to move two snowed-in transit vans to get to the trailer. Would they move, would they hell! Along comes a good Samaritan with a Land Rover to move one Transit Van, then to drag another Transit van out, then to drag yet another Transit van with a trailer attached to it with a nine-second Camaro on top of that - all this before eight o'clock on a Friday morning.

"Dave and Phil go off to the 'Pod for the inspection and a return with a list of anomalies which will keep us busy for the next few months, but we still have our sights set at competition early this year. Some bits and pieces plus roll cage modifications are required, nothing we can't handle with more cash from the wallet and sweat from the brow.

"In conclusion, I defy anyone to say that this is a simple hobby, and for grass roots enthusiasts like us chaps it's hardcore both mentally and physically and promotes a diet of bread and water. Fishing, anyone?"

You can find the Never Again Racing web site at www.neveragainracing.co.uk.

Swift snippets.
29th February: A couple of belated birthday greetings; firstly to Santa Pod Raceway's International Race Director and honorary Eurodragster staff member Darren Prentice, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday. Darren shares a birthday with Eurodragster whose sixth birthday it was on Thursday. Slightly belated greetings also to Carl Zettervall, son of Erik of Svensk Dragracing, who clocked up his fifth birthday a couple of days ago. Very best wishes to Darren and Carl.
©Eurodragster.com
PMR fleet update.
29th February: With the UK's Paul Marston getting his things together ready for his imminent racing trip to the USA, it has fallen to Operations Manager Dave Kalisz to bring us the latest of Paul Marston Racing's regular updates.

"Starting with Grumpy's Dodge, although I have not yet jumped on her to reinstall the electrical systems, all I can say is wow!", says Dave. "Gary at Jeep Club is working wonders really, we have all just stood back and given him a free rein and the results speak for themselves. Not that you get much choice when you ask Gary to do something, he just takes over! There are going to be a lot of very surprised people when they see Grumpy, but they will have to have a good memory to remember exactly what she was like, Paul is going to have to keep shooting rolls of film to remind everyone how much work has actually been done. There has been a lot of time spent, so much attention-to-detail stuff. I keep dropping in for tea, then I spend ten minutes trying to discover where they have hidden my tea bags (they all drink coffee) and then see what they have been working on since I last was there, it changes daily. With all the parts now coated by Nylospray, very soon the re-assembly will begin. Its not been easy to find the time but is well worth all the effort. I have had to do a lot of re-scheduling of jobs but it's all good news as far as Grumpy is concerned.

"The motor used last year has been freshened by Gary at Jeep Club and is back together, it just needs painting which will be done this week. The underside of the floor and behind the dash are also being painted, Paul painted the underside of the floor and got more paint on his clothes than on the car, but he did insist on doing it himself and gave us all a great laugh so was well worth it. That finishes off the main body, the motor and trans are to be refitted and the rest of the re-assembly can start We had a scare earlier this week when the courier company lost the new headers - three times! We could have walked there and back by now! They should have arrived back with us today, still not coated yet but back to verify that they are ours and then re-send them, it isnt over till the fat lady sings.

"Testing of Grumpy is now scheduled for the Street Machine/American Car World, Street Racer Saturday at Santa Pod on 27th March. The session is crucial: although most of the work on Grumpy is cosmetic, we all know that with the small upgrades which Paul has incorporated into the chassis he is hopeful that Grumpy will run nines. Paul is concerned that due to the shortage of time, there will only be limited testing before the first event; with such major changes to chassis set-up we will have to start from scratch to understand its new characteristics and learn its likes and dislikes. But however long it takes will be worth it, as the potential is huge.
©Eurodragster.com
"This is of course all in preparation for the opening of the Paul Marston Racing Drag Race Driving School at Santa Pod, where the Passenger Ride Experiences will commence and the Drag Race Driving School lessons will begin. At these early events Gary Springford from Jeep Club will perform his licensing runs prior to entering competition in Pro ET at the Easter Thunderball alongside Paul Marston who should be filling the vacant seat for Super Gas again in Grumpy's Dodge, as its pretty certain that the PT Bruiser will not be ready in time.

"On the PT Bruiser front, progress is okay; research and development took place last year designing a new set-up for the Pro Stock motor to promote better durability, to enable the PT Bruiser to become competitive in Super Pro and Super Comp. The Bruiser is still waiting on Grumpy; a new camshaft has been designed, the new intake manifold designed and built - special thanks must go to Dave Gibbons for his fabricating skills and know-how - the brand new alcohol fuel system has been brought back from the States from Bo Laws Performance courtesy of Tony Morris. Whilst competing at the Florida Nationals, Paul will be collecting the new custom made Jessel valve train which is designed to work with the new camshaft, then it is simply a case of putting all the parts together and getting to the track. Give me forty eight-hour days and fourteen-day weeks and Ill be happy! Being realistic, I still think that there is a good chance of getting the PT Bruiser out for Shakespeare County Raceway's season opener, thats if we can get Paul out of Grumpy after the Thunderball. I know what hes like and letting him loose in Super Gas again is not a good idea, especially as it is in fact the twenty-fifth anniversary of Super Gas at the Thunderball. I am already getting prepared for the conversation where Paul tries to convince me what a good idea it would be to run the PT Bruiser in Super Gas. I'll tell him you cannot run 160+ mph terminal speeds in Super Gas, you will frighten Spencer Tramm! Besides I dont think I can dial that much delay into the throttle stop!

"Moving on, the Insanity Chevy Vega Pick-up is turn-key, in fact it now needs so little doing to it that the maintenance on it is boring! Currently it involves a weekly ritual of disconnecting the battery saver, firing the motor, running up to temperature, full systems check, then put the cover back on. The Paul Marston Racing Drag Race Driving School already has alot of bookings for the Vega this season; it is proving very popular, not surprising really as it's great fun to drive! Last but not least the Alien altered, which has been doing the rounds at the Brentwood Racing Car Show and the Xtreme Wheels Show, is due some track action at the FIA Main Event at Santa Pod. It just needs a top end freshen and the spare transmission fitting. Our very own resident shoe Dave Gibbons is behind the butterfly again - look out for bigger wheelies this year, thats all I am saying.

"Once again thanks to everyone at Black Box London for allowing Paul and myself the time to indulge our other lives. We must also welcome Peter Fearn back to full-time crewing duties; Peter joined us with his company Individual Clothing Co, providing our crew uniform for the 2001 season with the PT Bruiser. Peter will be concentrating primarily on the Drag Race Driving School activities but will also be attending National Events; he will adopt the title of Spiritual Leader of the crew. Or more generally known as the man with the Buddha finger! Thanks of course to all our sponsors and supporters Mac Tools, Chrysler UK, ChryslerCard, Jeep Club, London Road Tyres, ATI Performance Transmissions, Geddex America, Individual Clothing Company, Disco Equipment Hire (020 8597 4575), Bo Laws Performance, Black Box London, UK Cruisers, Street Machine/American Car World, Custom Car, Santa Pod Raceway and of course the guys at Eurodragster."

UK SFI Day success.
 28th February: Yesterday's UK SFI Day at Santa Pod Raceway was the most successful ever, with no failures at all recorded amongst the clutches, bellhousings and wheels inspected (right).

As usual the US contingent of SFI Foundation President Arnie Kuhns and clutch inspector Tim Hyatt flew in to the UK, accompanied by Murf McKinney - a last-minute substitute for NHRA's Danny Gracia, who has commitments at Pomona this weekend. This year's SFI inspection team is completed by UK race car builder Andy Robinson. UK Tech Inspectors Geoff Martin and Mark Norton were on hand to inspect and tag chassis.

"We've had a pretty good day", Arnie Kuhns told Eurodragster last night. "The number of rejected parts goes down annually, but this is the first time that we have not rejected anything. We have inspected twenty three clutches, six bellhousings and two wheels today - thirty one items in all, which is one item down from last year."

"I have now been coming to Europe for ten years, and the quality of parts gets better every time I come here", said Tim Hyatt who inspected the clutches. "I've seen a big improvement over the years - to begin with I would be rejecting eighty per cent of parts, and today I haven't had to fail anything. Everything I see is good stuff, which proves that the SFI programme works."
©Eurodragster.com
Race car builder Murf McKinney joined the European SFI team last Friday after the NHRA Winternationals were rescheduled to this weekend, keeping Danny Gracia in California. Murf agreed with Arnie and Tim on the quality of the parts with which he was presented. "Everything was right up to snuff", he said. "I've seen parts from Fuel cars, Methanol cars and Pro Mods. All of the bellhousings and clutches which I inspected were of high quality". Murf also complimented Santa Pod. "They are making great progress on the track", he said. "Each time I come here I see more and more improvements and it all adds up".

Arnie, Tim, Murf and Andy are headed to Persåker's Speed Shop in Stockholm this morning before going on to FHRA Headquarters in Helskini and then Hockenheim.

As Sharkman was away and Tog is on his sick bed, Santa Pod's Track Manager Kjell Pettersson kindly arranged some photographs from the SFI inspection which you can view by clicking on the picture at right, clicking here, or by clicking on the Event Coverage link on the left-hand side of any Eurodragster page.

Beck aims to reset bests.
28th February: Financial constraints and work commitments are resulting in a more focused UK race programme for ACU UK Pro Stock Bike Champion Dave Beck in 2004 with only three rounds to be contested, writes Stephen Moon. Whilst this means relinquishing the ACU title which Dave has held six times, the team is looking to reset its own current fastest and quickest in Europe marks of 7.295 seconds and 183mph. Dave is single-mindedly pursuing a 7.1-second ET and looking to push the speed mark to over 185 mph.

To support this ambition, two new Roger Upperton-prepared 1640cc motors were readied at the end of last season. In addition, a third motor is being assembled from the current spares stock. While rumours abound of at least three 'mountain motors' of over 1700 cc making their way across from the US, the Beck team sees no need to follow this route. "The fastest motor in Europe is a Roger Upperton bullet, so if thats working, why change?" notes Dave. To support this, Dave has revealed that winter dyno testing and tuning extracted a further 20 bhp from the motor set-up.

Dave's bike is also sporting a new Al Cook carbon and kevlar TL1000 bodykit, and a brand new PMFR double disc front end. Motor tweaks include 50 mm Lectron carbs with a bespoke Paul Gast tune-up, and ceramic gearbox bearings. Look out for an upcoming photo feature of the bike in Streetfighters magazine.

Supporting Daves Pro Stock efforts for this season are Roger Upperton, Jay Regan of MRE, Steve Conway of Bikes of Brighton, Nimbus Motorsports, and Bates Leathers. Many thanks to all of these sponsors for their invaluable back-up.

An appearance at the FIA European Finals is still a possibility, providing that sponsorship of £2,500 can be secured. Any interested parties can contact Dave Beck at beck.racing@virgin.net or stephen@stephenmoon.com.
©Eurodragster.com
SPR offer the red carpet.
28th February: Santa Pod Raceway are as usual offering reasonably-priced VIP treatment to racers' sponsors and fans at the Easter Thunderball on 10th-12th April.

Kelly Ingall of Santa Pod Raceway tells us that for £79 plus VAT per person, or £38 plus VAT for under-12s, the package includes access to the VIP balcony, refreshments throughout the day, buffet lunch, VIP parking and toilets, complimentary ear plugs and event programme, and a souvenir of the day.
©Eurodragster.com
For more information, or to make bookings, drop Kelly an E-Mail at kelly@santapod.fsnet.co.uk, or call her on 01234 782828 (outside the UK +44 1234 782828).

On-track Classic.
28th February: Hampshire-based American and Classic car dealer Carolina Classics will be taking to the track this season with a 466 ci-powered Mustang which company owner Cliff Hepton will be fielding at Run What You Brung events. Carolina Classics sponsor the 514 ci Outlaw Anglia of Jimmy Isaacs but employee Nigel Taylor tells us that the boss is finally having a go.

"Running the Mustang will be Cliff's first experience at the track", says Nigel. "Cliff and I will be sharing the driving duties and we will also be supporting Jimmy Issacs."
©Eurodragster.com
Nigel told us a little about Caroline Classics. "Cliff has been into American and Classic cars for years, but has recently opened a gorgeous indoor showroom in Andover", he says. "We sold eighty cars last year and have already sold twenty this year! The showroom is fully-equipped with all-American diagnostic gear, emission tester and ramps, and offers four-wheel tracking, tyre changing and balancing,welders, headlight alignment etc, and we can also arrange MoTs, interior, chassis, paint and engine work. We also have a computerised vinyl cutter and engraving machine where given a good photograph we can produce mirrors etc engraved with a picture of any dragster/hot rod/custom or American car at variable cost depending on size required."

Drag racers and fans are very welcome to visit Carolina Classics at The Engineering Workshop, The Enham Trust, Enham Alamein, Andover, Hampshire SP11 6JS or call 01264 321170. Nigel tells us that a web site is currently under development which will feature drag racing and especially Shakespeare County Raceway.

Web site updates.
28th February: Alan Currans has posted the seventy seventh page of photographs on his Acceleration Archive web site. "Page 5 of the Peter Jones Collection contains the usual eclectic mix of pictures from yesteryear including the late Slam'n Sammy Miller's Vanishing Point rocket-powered funny car together with a number of more conventionally-powered floppers including, rather topically, a picture of the entire Houndog crew from way back", says Alan. "There is also a great launch shot of the awesome Jeep Competition Altered of Svante Eriksson, a very interesting snippet on another Swedish altered, and a collection of Modified cars including the legendary Al's Gasser of Alan O'Connor". Check it out at www.theaccelerationarchive.co.uk.
©Eurodragster.com
Swift snippets.
27th February: Congratulations to Zodiac Racing's Monique Pels and her partner Bert who are expecting a baby right in the middle of the FIM/UEM European Championship season, in July (great timing - Ed). The new team member will be a brother or sister for Nikita who was born in 2001, and a third grandchild for Supertwin racer Ton Pels and his wife Marianne.
©Eurodragster.com
Since when was an excuse needed...
27th February: Joint SPRC Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy winner (with Kjell Pettersson) David Lloyd-Jones of Santa Pod Raceway has been in touch to remind Eurodragster readers of an opportunity which only arises once in four years.
©Eurodragster.com
"Why not join us for our leap year Run What You Brung at Santa Pod this Sunday (29th), as next time it will occur you will be four years older and it will be 2008", says David. "Or if you are trying to escape the clutches of the good lady to avoid the inevitable question...you know where to come and have fun. And ladies, you will know where to find your man if he suddenly goes missing on Sunday morning.

"Gates open at 8:00 am with the track opening from 9:30 am, track conditions permitting. Admission prices are £10 per person, under 16s go free, with sign-on priced a further £15 with the production of a valid DVLC licence. Car and Bike clubs are welcome and can book their own fenced club area free. For further information call the Santa Pod office on 01234 782828, or visit the www.rwyb.com or www.santapod.com web sites."

Larsen already ready.
26th February: Danish Top Methanol Funny Car racer Dan Larsen is ready for this year's FIA European Championship with four new team members and a number of new sponsors. Dan (right) finished the 2003 Championship in second place, resetting his personal bests and overcoming some very bad luck on the way.

"There is a lot to live up to after a great season in 2003, having run 5.72 and 401 kmh", says Dan. "2003 was really a turning point for us. We did expect some great performances last year with a brand new set-up, but it was difficult to stay optimistic after breaking blower belts, tyre shake and a disaster in Finland where a quarter of the body was damaged and we lost in the first round of eliminations.

"The reward for our hard work came in Norway, where we got to the final round against Urs Erbacher and ran 5.78/401. That was very satisfactory, and also special because it was the home track of our crew members borrowed from Arvid Grødem. Then we went to the FIA European Finals, ran 5.72, won the final against Ulf Leanders, and took the second spot in the FIA European Championship just in front of Ulf. It was the perfect end to the season, much better than we ever dared hope."

After the United Nations Team of recent seasons, Dan will start 2004 with four new Danish crew members. "Our Swedish Crew Chief Torsten Dahl is still with us", says Dan. "This will be his eighth season in our team."
©Eurodragster.com
Dan says that although some fine adjustments are needed on the set-up, there will be no drastic changes. "We expect to run a 5.6 at the FIA Main Event in England", says Dan. "The competition is tough against the likes of Ulf Leanders 5.66, Urs Erbacher's 5.69 and Leif Andréasson's 5.70 but that so many racers run so close is what makes it so exciting."

Dan is welcoming some new sponsors in 2004. "Scandinavian Oil Company are providing their quality Sunoco oil and methanol", says Dan, "and we are also sponsored by www.pitbike.dk, an online shop selling many smashing low-cost pit bikes who can deliver all around Europe. Our team will be taking several models of pit bike to races (steady, Shark - Ed). We are happy to say that we still have sponsorship from Boxter Subwoofers and DFDS Seaways with their great method of travelling."

Dan's web site at www.funnycar.dk has been updated with biographies of the new team members as well as all the latest news from his workshop.

Habermann aims for TMD.
26th February: Germany's Timo Habermann is planning to race in Top Methanol Dragster this season. Twenty-year-old Timo started his racing career in Junior Dragster in 1990, winning the German Championship in 1998 and then taking the German Super Comp Championship in 2001 in his father's blown Small Block-powered dragster. After two years spent in Comp Eliminator, including event wins at Husum and Alteno, the Habermann team set their sights still higher.
©Eurodragster.com
"For 2003 we looked for another dragster which had to be bigger, faster and longer", says Timo. "So we bought a Top Methanol Dragster chassis and together with Jürgen Nagel we built a 440 ci blown-alcohol Arias engine and competed in Comp Eliminator. We set new European AA/D records of 7.02/322 kmh at Hockenheim (right), and we plan to run the first six-second AA/D pass in 2004."

Timo originally planned to contest Top Methanol Dragster throughout 2004, but his brother Dennis is racing his last season in Junior Dragster so the Habermann family have to follow the 2004 German Championship schedule. "We do however plan to attend two races in Top Methanol Dragster this season", says Timo.

Stay tuned for more news about Timo's TMD début. In the meantime you can stay in touch with the latest news from Werner Habermann Racing on the team's very professional web site at www.werner-habermann-racing.com.

Web site updates.
26th February: UK Pro Mod team BA Racing have launched a web site at www.ba-race-cars.com, writes Andrew Wright. The site features the latest news of the blown-alcohol Pro Mod driven by Bert Englefield as well as other B and A Racing projects, and comes with picture gallery, team history, crew biographies, car specs and more.
©Eurodragster.com
Grumpy comes home.
25th February: 2003 FIA European Top Methanol Dragster Champion Dave Wilson and the American Car Imports Racing team will not be competing at the rearranged NHRA Winternationals at Pomona this weekend. Grumpy is qualified thirteenth at 5.543/256.94 but commitments at home in the UK mean that he will have to miss the event.

"It wasn't an easy decision to make", Grumpy told Eurodragster from the USA last night. "We have things to do at home to deadlines, and if we miss those then it throws everything out for the rest of our US tour. In any case, the long range weather forecast for this weekend is not looking good - more than a fifty per cent chance of rain. The next rain date for the Winternationals is after we return to the USA so we could easily be back in the field!"

The ACI Racing team attended a number of test events in the USA before the Winternationals. "Our testing was up and down", said Grumpy. "It was a worthwhile experience, though, we just need the chance to put it all into practice and hopefully get the benefit of it."
©Eurodragster.com
Grumpy said that Friday's qualifying pass at Pomona was not all-out. "It wasn't representative of what we are capable of", he said. "But we missed the first session, and we weren't sure about the weather so we had to put in a solid pass to get from A to B and make sure that we got into the field."

Dave and the team will be back in the USA for the NHRA Pacific Division event at Firebird Raceway in Arizona on 12th-14th March. "We've been to Phoenix before and we know the track", said Grumpy. "The surface wasn't as good as it could have been during testing, but there will be a National event the week before we race there so they can put down plenty of rubber for us!"

Söderquist on tour.
25th February: Carbon By Design Top Fuel Dragster team owner Knut Söderquist has a busy schedule over the next few weeks as he has a stable of dragsters to finish in time for the season, as well as flying to Gainesville to supply American teams with his latest injectors.

"I will shortly be off to Sweden with new parts for Micke Kågered and Jöran Persåker's Top Fuellers - the new-spec wheels and so on ", says Knut. "We are also putting an upgraded fuel system on Micke's new car. Mats Eriksson has done a tremendous job on the new Bahco Tools car, everyone is saying how great it looks and you have seen the pictures. I think it is as perfect as you can get!"

In recent weeks Knut has been working on the dragster to be driven by Lex Joon this year, as well as on a trailer for the MPM Oil-sponsored operation. "I needed to get Lex's car ready early", says Knut, "as Lex is licencing and competing in the Pro Fuel Shootout at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod. I've been working flat out, but the car is now ready for its new colours and Lex will be coming over soon to see to that."

Knut also confirmed that Micke Kågered and Jöran Persåker will be testing at the Professional Test at Santa Pod Raceway on the Saturday before the FIA Main Event, and he also says that the Carbon By Design team have a definite game plan this season. "We will be working on consistency, not big numbers, as consistency will win races", he says. "Let others run for the records!"
©Eurodragster.com
Knut was delighted to hear that Crew Chief Alan Jackson had been awarded with Santa Pod Racers Club's James Edgar Trophy for the best crew member. "Alan deserved to win - his record speaks for itself", says Knut. "One and two in the European Top Fuel Championship last year. And on top of that he is a nice guy and very popular. The right man won!"

Stay tuned as we are expecting some more news from the Carbon By Design pit in the next few days.

Swift snippets.
25th February: Shakespeare County Raceway are holding the latest of their work weekends this Saturday and Sunday (28th-29th February), with other weekends planned on 13th-14th March and 27th-28th March. APIRA marshal Beth Satchell gives more details of the work weekends and describes the off-season work so far at the Warwickshire venue on the News page of the APIRA web site at www.apira.org.uk/news.
©Eurodragster.com
York dates confirmed.
25th February: York Dragway PR Howard Holmes has been in touch to confirm this year's dates at the Yorkshire track:

11th April: Street Fighter SpectacularYork Raceways Easter Sunday bike bash, including Roger Gorings Firestorm jet car.

12th April: Super Street Shootout Featuring the 9th Annual Mini v Beetle Shootout. Plus 1st rounds of the Hot Rod Challenge, Northern Drag Racing Championship bracket series and the Cruise Missile Shootout. Including limited Run Wot You've Brung for cars only. Roger Gorings Firestorm jet -powered Trans Am car.

9th May: 2NZ New event at York, heads-up no-nonsense quick cars with the 0-60 Challenge. For pre-registration, please E-Mail howardholmes@btinternet.com. Also including Ford Sport Club event.

30th-31st May: UK Open Nationals The big double header for Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday! Sunday 30th includes qualifying and eliminations for American Super Stock round 1. Northern Drag Racing Championship bracket series: 2nd round Sportsman ET and Pro ET. Qualifying and eliminations for 2nd round of the Hot Rod Challenge series. Plenty of track time for the Run What Youve Brung sessions. 2nd round of the Tuners/Cruise Missile Shootout. Monday 31st Qualifying and eliminations for American Super Stock round 2. Qualifying and eliminations for Hot Rod Challenge round 3. Northern Drag Racing Championship bracket series: 2nd round Sportsman ET (12.90 cut-off) and Pro ET. Limited RWYB available.

20th June: Midsummer Mayhem American Super Stock round 3. Round 3 of the Northern Drag Racing Championship and Hot Rod Challenge. NSCC round 3. Run Wot Youve Brung. Always a great event, and topped off with Roger Gorings Firestorm jet-powered Funny Car.

25th July: Ultimate Road Car Challenge Including 18th Annual Ford Shootout. Tuners/Cruise Missile Shootout round 4. Special Ford vehicle drag racing displays. Car-only RWYB.

7th August: UK Northern Nationals Hot Rod Challenge round 5. Qualifying for round 4 of the Northern Drag Racing Championship. NSCC round 5. Qualifying of American Super Stock round 4. Open Run Wot You've Brung. And, repeating the success of last year, the Super Pro Shootout. Saturday evening 27th Annual Street Racer Championship. Saturday night party and camping.

8th August: UK Northern Nationals Day 2 Super Pro shootout. American Super Stock round 4 eliminations. Hot Rod Challenge round 6. Round 4 of Northern Drag Racing Championship. NSCC round 6. Limited RWYB.

29th August: GTi Hot Hatch Spectacular The Tuners Shootout and Run Wot You've Brung for GTi and Hot Hatch Enthusiasts. GTi special demos, including show, shine and cruise parade. Tuners/Cruise Missile Shootout round 5.

30th August: Motorcycle Mayhem Street Fighters Straightliners Championship round. Bike stunts. Large motorcycle Run Wot You've Brung.

26th September: UK Northern Finals 5th and final round of American Super Stock series. NSCC round 7. Tuners/Cruise Missile and Modifiers Shootout round 6. Northern Drag Racing Championship finals. Hot Rod Challenge round 6. Open Run Wot You've Brung.

10th October: Ultimate Run Wot You've Brung Hot Rod Challenge finals. Tuners/Cruise Missile finals. Open Run Wot You've Brung plus running any finals not concluded.

For more details check out York Dragway's web site at yorkdragway.intrica.co.uk, E-Mail Howard at howardholmes@btinternet.com, or call him on 01422 843651.
©Eurodragster.com
Web site updates.
25th February: The official web site of the European Pro Mod Racers Association has been updated with a Team page for UK Pro Mod racer Gordon Appleton. Check it out at www.promod.nu.
©Eurodragster.com
Murén to sit out 2004.
24th February: Swedish Pro Stock racer Jan Murén is to sit out 2004. Jan, who put up a strong showing in 2003 including his first six-second pass, says that he will be back in 2005 either in his Oldsmobile or a new car.

"The main reason for not racing in 2004 is that I need to devote this year to my company and family", says Jan. "The motors have been sold, but the Olds remains in the shop. The car is for sale until this summer, and unless we sell it we will race it in 2005 and beyond."

Jan is very pleased with his progress last season. "When we look back at 2003 season I can hardly belive the performance we put out of our machine", he says. "It's old, but we have been able to outperform all the 'pro-built' cars with the chassis technology developed at BARS Racecars in Sweden. When we learned to handle all the power from our new motor, we were able to take the number one qualifing spot in the last three races - a place which Malmgren Racing have reserved for themselves over the last five years.
©Eurodragster.com
"We also set two track records, at Mantorp Park and Gardermoen, and came within eighth thousandths of a second and 0.3 km/h of the European Records. Unfortunately we weren't able to make much out of our good qualifying, since the motor broke twice in eliminations and we couldn't stop Michael Malmgren or Jimmy Ålund getting ahead of us (great racing, guys)."

Jan tells us that plans include a better motor, and either more development on the chassis or a new car. "I will probably be at the FIA Main Event to check out all the new and cool factory hot rods, and to look at the opponents' powerplants and their potential on track. That way I will be better able to judge what's needed to win the Championship in 2005, which will be harder than ever."

Veidec Racing field three bikes.
24th February: Sweden's Veidec Racing Pro Stock Bike team will be fielding three bikes at some events this season, says Crew Chief Roger Lyrén. 2003 FIM/UEM Pro Stock Bike Champion Roger Pettersson and the UK's Helen Curran will contest the entire 2004 Championship Tour, and Italy's Remo Nassi will compete at two or three events with the Veidec team.
©Eurodragster.com
"It has been a very intensive and exciting winter with more discussions than ever with existing sponsors and new ones", says Roger Lyrén. "Veidec will remain as main sponsor, and Suzuki, MotoSpeed and Valvoline will be our other biggest partners. We also have support from Dynatek Performance ignition, Arlen Ness Lethers, Shoei Helmets, RK Chains, Mickey Thompson Tyres, NGK Sparkplugs and Cometic Gaskets. Papyrus will support us with all the best products for our VIPs, and Wiklunds Akeri will take care of services on the bus.

"What is interesting is that this season there will be a large mix of nationalities racing: Swedish, Italian and British racers and at some events there will be racers from Norway. The mix of nationalities is really one of the biggest challenges of this season, also to show that Italy is on the map of drag racing and also to try to help them to raise the level of the sport in their country.

"There will be even more of Italy in the team as VM Dragracing, a company owned by Carlo Molinari and partner Martino, MotoSpeed and Vance and Hines Motorsport will be supporting the team with engines. We will use both two-valve and four-valve engines the season, so that we can try different combinations to see what is best."

VW racers start to test.
24th February: Testing for the UK season started on Sunday as three VW Alternate Engine racers went to Santa Pod Raceway's Run What You Brung, writes Volkswagen Drag Racing Club Championship Co-ordinator Spencer Tramm. Spencer kindly sent us a report on the progress of Ian Huggan, Simon and Joe Williams, and Andy Raw.

"Ian Huggan is running the old Chunky Blackout car with a 2.2 Subaru engine. After a first checkout pass Ian managed to get the car into the 14s on its second pass. Ian later broke first gear and then resorted to using his pickup truck, which also runs a Subaru, down into the 17s.

"Simon and Joe Williams now own Gin Marrone's green Beetle, and after an eight-hour tow to Santa Pod on Sunday they got in a few runs in the 15s with no nitrous and should be ready to step up at Easter.
©Eurodragster.com
"Finally, Andy Raw was running in his new 2.0 Scooby lump, a 13.3 with no gas was followed by a 12.2 with a squirt of nitrous in third and fourth gear. Andy followed this up with a couple of 11.8s, a new personal best with plenty of room for development."

You can find out more about VW Alternate Engine at www.tsrdragracers.co.uk.

Swift snippets.
24th February: The UK has a new Junior Dragster this season in the person of nine-year-old Millie Bond, daughter of Top Methanol Dragster racer Doug and sister of erstwhile JD racer Joe. Millie will be driving the dragster previously driven by Joe, but with a Stock motor since she is not yet old enough to race Junior Modified. Joe tells us that he will be crewing with the Gleadows' Time Machine altered this season.
©Eurodragster.com
Joe also tells us that he would be very pleased to hear from anyone who has photographs of the old silver dragster which Doug Bond used to race. If you have any pictures then please drop Joe a line at jb_razor@hotmail.com.

Ultimate Power Dinner Dance cancelled.
24th February: Lee Child of LA Performance Services has announced that this year's Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship Dinner Dance and Trophy Evening has been cancelled. The Dinner Dance was scheduled to take place in Coventry on Saturday 20th March, but lack of support has forced Lee to call it off.
©Eurodragster.com
"We do understand that the Custom Car Street Eliminator, Wild Bunch/Supercharged Outlaws, and Santa Pod Racers Club Dinner Dances coming along at one a month is hard on the racer's budget" says Lee, who sponsors Eurodragster's Links pages through his company LA Racing Parts. "All cheques which I have received so far will be returned."

Lee tells us that the 2003 Ultimate Power Champions will be presented with their trophies at the Excitement Nationals at Shakespeare County Raceway in May.

Racers invited to Show.
24th February: Barry King has been in touch with Eurodragster to ask if any racers would be interested in attending a Classic and Vintage Show in the town centre of Bridgend in South Wales.

"The Show takes place on 15th May", says Barry. "The event is free to the public and we expect to attract a large crowd. The vehicles will be parked on the pedestrianised area of the town centre and racers would be most welcome."

If you would be interested in showing your vehicle in Bridgend, or if you would like more details, then drop Barry King an E-Mail at king-barry@btconnect.com, or call 01656 661338 or mobile 07976 430086.

Gracia misses SFI Tour.
23rd February: We are indebted to SFI Foudation President Arnie Kuhns for letting us know that NHRA's Danny Gracia has had to withdraw from this weekend's SFI recertification tour which is to take in England, Sweden, Finland and Germany.

"Danny has had to withdraw because the NHRA Winternationals have been moved back a week due to rain", says Arnie. "In that regard, Murf McKinney will join us as he has in the past. Andy Robinson will still perform the recertifications of bellhousings.
©Eurodragster.com
"I am passing on this information in case any of your readers wanted to talk to Danny. However, they can always talk to the rest of us."

The SFI Tour dates are:
  • Friday 27th February: Santa Pod Raceway, England
  • Saturday-Sunday 28th-29th February: Persåkers Speed Shop, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Monday 1st March: Finnish Hot Rod Association Headquarters, Helsinki, Finland
  • Tuesday 2nd March: Hockenheim Ring, Germany
Wright Racing update.
23rd February: One of the problems which has dogged the UK's Wildside Top Fuel Dragster team over the past two years has been workshop space, writes Lesley Wright. Top Methanol Dragster team Turner Racing have helped out by sharing their workshop with the Wrights, but inevitably both teams needed the space leading up to the two FIA events at Santa Pod. "We are extremely grateful to the Turners helping us out, but you need your own space" says John Wright.

In October last year the Wrights moved to a place with the space to build a garage big enough to house the Top Fuel car. "People keep asking me what we are doing in 2004 and as we havent even unloaded the car since we ran it at Shakespeare County Raceway last October", says John. "I havent really got an answer. Having the car at home will allow me to spend more time with it - even sitting with it, with no-one else around, lets you focus better on any problems or improvements which could be made". The garage is well on its way, thanks to Jon Cross (ex-FIA International Race Director) and Darren Prentice (current FIA International Race Director). "Jon and Darren have virtually lived with us since we moved here, and under their company Dragan Build they are transforming the building into a real racers home, living with the race car at close quarters", says John.
©Eurodragster.com
"Running any of the FIA events in 2004 looks unlikely but perhaps we could run at Shakespeare County Raceway in mid-to-late summer. The FIA deal needs the right sort of money and we have a few people who are acting on our behalf to raise funds. We are open to all options from any driver - so long as they fit the cockpit anyone is welcome to sit in it. From someone wanting to licence in a Top Fuel car, a one-event car hire deal or a full-blown FIA tour, if the money is there we will do it. We feel that we have built a good team and an image which will last in peoples memory; converting that into dollars, though, is the hardest job.

"We have an excellent crew in place: Sean, Simon, Ian, Lee and Clive have become the most trustworthy guys I have ever worked with and as many teams know, when the money comes from your own pocket you even want the broom to be treated with respect. These guys do that. In their real lives they have jobs as diverse as selling childrens wooden toys to working at Rolls Royce but they all have the same interest as Les and I - Hot Rods."

One other distraction for John Wright this year is the start of a new partnership, borne out of his employment at Cambridge Motorsport. "Chris Conoley is a highly respected engineer in the TR Classic Sports Car world", says John. "I have joined him in partnership building competition engines for classic and historic sports and single seater race cars, and classic rally engines. I look forward to filling the shop with engines for drag racing - Super Pro ET to Ultimate Street Cars.".

Based at Great Gransden near Huntingdon, John and Chris' shop has two dynos, and a rolling road facility, and they offer a complete engine building and testing service. The company builds and service all types of engines, extremely diverse in their origin and Chris and Johns equally diverse experience gives the company a competitive edge. John Wright can be contacted at Conoley and Co Mass Racing Engines on 01767 677800.

Italian series dates.
23rd February: We are indebted to Italian Top Fuel Bike racer Antonio Ferretti for sending us the dates of this year's Nitro Drag Racing Challenge and NDRC Drag Bike Tour in Italy. The series for cars and bikes takes place on the following dates:

20th-21st March: Fast and Furious, Marzalia MO
1st-2nd May: University Drag, L'aquila
12th-13th June: Planet Drag, Marzalia MO
18th-19th September: Nitro Drag Day, Marzalia MO
2nd-3rd October: Race Wars, venue to be confirmed (may be Ravenna)
©Eurodragster.com
"Racing takes place on airport strips, all racers are welcome", says Antonio.

Car racers can get more information from Lorenzo Lauro by E-Mail at dragster@dragster.it or call +39 335 591 0599, and bike racers can get more information from Antonio Ferretti by E-Mail at info@ferrettiracing.com or call +39 338 645 6433. For schedules, rules, entry fees, result and pictures check out the Italian drag racing site at www.dragster.it.

Team Feature: Blackout Fullsize Racing.
23rd February: The latest in Eurodragster's occasional series of Team Features returns to four wheels and across the sea to Sweden, as we interview Anders Envall, whose street-legal Chevrolet Impala SS is one of the quickest such machines on the planet. Anders made headlines last September when he and his wife and son drove all the way from their home in Sweden to Santa Pod Raceway in time to compete in Pro ET at the FIA European Finals, then Anders promptly shot further up the list of quickest SS Impalas on Earth despite shedding blower belts and losing boost on every pass.
©Eurodragster.com
In our Team Feature Anders provides a lot of very interesting technical detail as well as humorous anecdotes from his long racing career, including a story which we suspect that guests will hear at son Axel's wedding in about twenty years' time.

Click here to check out our Blackout Fullsize Racing Team Feature or click on the Team Features link on the left-hand side of any Eurodragster page.

When you have read our Team Feature then be sure to visit Anders' equally entertaining web site at www.blackout.nu.

Swift snippets.
23rd February: Swedish Top Fuel Dragster racer Micke Kågered (right) had a very busy few days at the Göteborgs Motorshow, says Team Manager Åsa Kinnemar. "It has been one of the busiest shows ever for us", says Åsa. "The interest in the new Top Fueller was enormous. The show attracted in excess of 40,000 visitors, with close to 18,000 on Saturday alone. It was crowded!"
©Eurodragster.com
Our good friends at Svensk Dragracing have posted on their web site a picture of the tremendous new paint job on 2003 NDRS Bilsport Pro Modified Champion Roger Johansson's Mustang, as well as a picture of the Bahco Tools Top Fuel Dragster. You can check out the pictures at www.dragracing.se.

Champions, Perpetual winners honoured.
22nd February: The winners and runners-up in the 2003 UK National Drag Racing Championships and Santa Pod Racers Club Championships were presented with their trophies at the SPRC Dinner Dance and Trophy Presentation in Bedford last night. The winners of SPRC's Perpetual Awards, for whom Eurodragster readers had the chance to vote, were also presented with their trophies.

Congratulations to the Perpetual Award winners:
©Eurodragster.com
Best-Looking Car: Gordon Appleton (Pro Modified)
Best-Looking Bike: Martin Newbury (Pro Stock Bike)
Most Professional-Appearing Team: Steve Woollatt and the Dealer Top Fuel Bike team
Most Promising Newcomer: Justin Aldred (VW Pro)
Paul Giddings Memorial Trophy: Sarah Jane Head (Funny Bike)
James Edgar Memorial Trophy: Alan Jackson (Carbon By Design Top Fuel team)
Alex Brachtvogel Memorial Trophy: Kjell Pettersson and David Lloyd Jones (Santa Pod Raceway Track Managers)

SMRA Super Modified Crew Chief of the Year: Kev Perkins

Many thanks to all the Eurodragster readers who submitted votes for the SPRC Perpetual Awards.

Free entry for SPRC Champions.
22nd February: It was also announced at last night's Trophy Presentation that the 2003 Champions in the Santa Pod Racers Club Championships will be given free entry to all five UK National Championship events at Santa Pod Raceway in 2004 (Easter Thunderball, FIA Main Event, SPRC Summernationals, FIA European Finals and UK National Finals).

The runners-up in the 2003 SPRC Championships will be given free entry to one of the five Webster Race Engineering Test Days at Santa Pod in 2004 (24th March, 24th April, 14th July, 18th August and 22nd September).
©Eurodragster.com
The 2003 Champions in VW Pro, VW Sportsman and VW Alternate Engine will be given free entry to the Big Bang in May and the Bug Jam in July, whilst the runner-up in the three VW classes will be given free entry to a 2004 WRE Test Day of their choice.

Web site updates.
22nd February: Dutch Super Gas racer 'Wild' Willy Reerink has updated his web site at www.reerinkracing.com with the latest news and pictures from his pit. "We compete in the Dutch eXplosion Championship with our '71 Chevrolet Vega Super Gasser", says Willy. "The Dutch Championship is very competitive and every year more foreign drivers appear. We have a very fast track at Drachten with lots of grip - see the wheelstanding pics in our photo gallery! Our engine is now at the workshop to give it some extra horses, so competitors look out for this nasty Vega. Don't say I didn't warn you..."
©Eurodragster.com
Ready to Play.
21st February: Lin and Gary Malin will make their first outing in their Serious Playtime Super Pro ET and Super Comp dragster at the Webster Race Engineering Test Day on 24th March, says Lin Malin. This will be the Malins' first on-track outing since Gary was involved in a two-car crash at Shakespeare County Raceway in 2002.

The 'Playtime made its public début at last weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show and Lin tells us that she and Gary have just about recovered. "Well done to all involved, for the first show it went well", says Lin. "And we had so many compliments on the new ride, it made us feel that it is all worth it."

The WRE-built dragster is powered by the Malins' first alcohol-burning motor, provided by Jeff Bull. "That'll be a new experience for us, we are used to drinking alcohol but not to using it as a fuel!", says Lin. "You can imagine that 24th March will be an exciting, if a little emotional, day for us. Gary will finally be back in the hot seat to shake the car down and with the expert guidance of Jon Webster and Jeff Bull we will see what Serious Playtime is made of. If all goes well then we should be at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod, ready to take on the 2004 season."
©Eurodragster.com
The plan is for Gary to drive the car in Super Pro ET and for Lin to drive Super Comp. "It looks like it could be a really exciting year with many new machines and new paint schemes", says Lin. "Let's hope that the weather is kind and that the crowds come along. We would like to say a big Thanks for all of the support which we have received from the members of the drag racing clan, our friends, and the dedicated crew without whom we couldn't do this.

"I would just like to add a big, big Well Done to Gary for his determination to carry on doing what he loves despite just a few setbacks (Hear, hear - Ed). I am proud of you."

Open eXplosion.
21st February: Holland's Dragrace Association eXplosion has had a request for its three races to count for the official Dutch Open Championship accepted by the KNAF, says eXplosion PR Jaap Selles.

"This means that in 2004, car classes in the eXplosion races at Drachten for officially count for the official Open Dutch Championship", says Jaap. "eXplosion is challenging you to enrol and take the title of Dutch Champion 2004!
©Eurodragster.com
"The rule of a minimum of seven contestants per race per class will be maintained, and the option is still open to have additional races for one or more classes is still open. If you want to participate in eXplosion's Open Dutch Championship 2004, then you can subscribe at www.explosion.nl. Entry forms are available in Dutch, English and German."

MoT Station Beams on ABS.
21st February: UK Wild Bunch racers Andrew and Sandie Gibb have signed a sponsorship deal with Beam MOT Station of Rainham in Essex. Andrew tells us that Eurodragster readers can benefit from the deal, too.

"All of us at ABS Speedshop are over the moon with this deal which will hopefully help towards a successful season", says Andrew. "Anyone in need of an MOT or associated work should mention Eurodragster to get a discount on current rates."

You can find the Beam MOT Station at:
©Eurodragster.com
21 New Road
Rainham
Essex
RM13 8DJ

Telephone: 01708 550100

Sharkman and Tog would like to add their thanks to Beam MOT Station for the deal for Eurodragster readers.

Xtremely Pink.
21st February: UK Comp Bike team Think Pink Racing attended last week's Xtreme Wheels Show at Alexandra Palace and Roland and Sandra Chaplain tell us that they had a great weekend.

"The bike, in its new livery, was placed between King Racings Top Fuel monster and Nobby Hills' new Fuel Funny Car", say Roland and Sandra. "Sandra and the team were in the pink when Think Pink Racing was awarded the coveted Exhibitors' Choice trophy. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those who chose to vote for our machine. It is particularly rewarding to be nominated by fellow enthusiasts, particularly given the amazing standard of the other exhibits.
©Eurodragster.com
"The show was a most enjoyable experience and a chance to meet up with old friends and to make some new ones. It was especially good to see Nobby Hills is ready for action again, and still as enthusiastic and dynamic as he was in the 70s. We also had the chance to show our latest creation to some of our current sponsors who visited the show and who were impressed with the displays.

"We would like to thank Terry and Tina Gibbs for inviting us to Xtreme Wheels and thanks also go to everyone else who made the event run so smoothly. We hope that this year's show represents the beginning of many such events in the future.

"We also extend special thanks to the House of Kolor for providing the superb paint and, last but not least Wacky Shack Paintshop, Cambridge for creating yet another show-winning masterpiece."

A look at the new Bahco Tools TF.
 20th February: We are indebted to Fredrik Ström for sending us a couple of pictures of the new Bahco Tools Top Fuel Dragster which is to be campaigned by Sweden's Micke Kågered. The Top Fueller, owned by Knut Söderquist of Carbon By Design, is currently on display at the Göteborgs Motorshow.
©Eurodragster.com
Click on the picture at right to see a larger shot from another angle.

Simpson makes Impact on Showtime.
20th February: Bob Jarrett, Crew Chief of the UK's Showtime Fuel Funny Car team, has announced that Impact Racing, the new company of legendary safety equipment manufacturer Bill Simpson, has become the official supplier of safety equipment to British Nitro FC Champion and European record holder John Spuffard.
©Eurodragster.com
"We are very pleased to be associated with such a high-profile company and look forward to a successful racing season", says Bob Jarrett.

You can find the Impact Racing web site at www.impactraceproducts.com, and Bob tells us that he will be distributing Impact's free catalogue at all events during 2004.

Hogarths return.
20th February: Following on from Wednesday's news item about Jon and Sharon Hogarth's weekend at Xtreme Wheels, we managed to persuade Sharon to tell us the Hogarths' plans for their own Super Modified 'Vette.

"Jon will be spending a little time at the beginning of the season ensuring that Craig Gibbs is comfortable in his new ride, and that the Camaro is bedding in nicely", says Sharon. "Jon has still to work some magic on the 'Vette before it can hit the track again. The newly-rebuilt engine has been reworked by Jeff Bull; it has been increased in size to 565ci and has been built to squeeze out every last ounce of power, right to the rules. We will be running the car normally-aspirated this season, which may be a bit of a test against all of the Nitrous cars. But hell, the 'Vette always looks as if it's moving fast when standing still so we will just go with the flow.

"We are looking forward to seeing our cars sitting on the start line side by side, it has been a lot of hard work and they should make a great photo opportunity. For us that will be better than taking the win light!"

Swift snippets.
20th February: Swedish Top Methanol and Pro Mod racer Freddy Fagerström will be racing both the Firebird TMFC and the blown-alcohol pick-up in 2004, says team member Björn Anderberg. "The pick-up has been on display for sponsors and the Funny Car has been updated by Hauser Race Cars in England", says Björn. "We left the chassis there after the European Finals. We have got it home now so we should begin work on it as soon as Freddy's new garage is ready".
©Eurodragster.com
Go West for vinyls.
20th February: Graphic designer Darren West, whose work can be seen on the Shockwave and Houndog Fuel Funny Cars and the Obsession Super Mod Camaro, has expanded his business Power Race Graphics to include the production of vinyls.

"Over the course of the past year with Power Race Graphics, I've been repeatedly asked if we can produce vinyl graphics", says Darren. "Vinyl lettering and full colour vinyls are becoming increasingly popular as they are quick and economical ways to run detailed graphics and photographic imagery - especially suitable for displaying your sponsor's logos and products as a graphic. The other advantage of course is that if they get damaged they are easy to replace! Take a look at any of the top runners in the States for examples - the scope is literally endless!

"Over the past few months I've been getting a brand new workshop (right) ready to cater for the requirements of racers, the modified car scene and the usual commercial trade vehicles. From here we can offer a huge range of vinyl products and full colour work. Graphics can also be delivered and applied at the track.
©Eurodragster.com
"Power Race Graphics will continue to trade as normal and will retain the name Power Race Graphics and operate from the new PRG shop offering the same popular line of services to racers and suppliers - paint scheme design, logos, T-shirts and caps, decals, and sponsor pitch illustrations.

"It was great to see the Gibbs family win best paint and most extreme paint at the Xtreme Wheels show. The paint scheme was a joint effort between Power Race Graphics and Specialists In Design, and demonstrates perfectly what a versatile and talented painter Jon Hogarth is! Expect to see two more Power Race Graphics-designed cars hit the strip at Easter, and if I get the time the long overdue Power Race Graphics web site should be along shortly afterwards with a full gallery of customers work."

You can contact PRG Motor Signs and Graphics (Vinyl) and Power Race Graphics at:

Unit 12G
Hybris Business Park
Crossways (near Dorchester)
Dorset
DT2 8BF

E-Mail: powergrfx@dw1320.fsnet.co.uk
Telephone: 01305 854895

Web site updates.
20th February: The guys at Dragsterworld have updated their web site at www.dragsterworld.com with a report and photographs from Xtreme Wheels, produced by guest reporter Richard Stirling. Richard was also responsible for an accompanying video in which he interviews Comp Eliminator racer Martin Gleadow which webmaster Gary Cottingham tells us "Takes a while to download but it worth the wait".

Erbacher gambles before season.
19th February: 2003 FIA European Top Methanol Funny Car Champion Urs Erbacher has been honoured by Switzerland's ACS, the equivalent of the UK's Motor Sports Association, for his achievements in motorsport outside Switzerland. "Finally everyone around Urs got an idea of how amazing the FIA Trophy Night in Monaco was", says team member Andrea Wucher.

Urs and the team are very busy preparing the Funny Car for a very special engagement. "The body has had a new paintjob by Dieter Löffler and it looks great, as everything always does when Dieter paints it", says Andrea. "The repaint has been necessary as one of our major sponsors has changed the product line he distributes. All of the existing main sponsors have again pledged their support for this season. Our main sponsors for 2004 are Midland Oil, SCS IT Procurement and Techno AG.
©Eurodragster.com
"Why the hurry with the paintjob, you might be thinking? One of the biggest Casinos in Switzerland has booked the Fat Attack team for a special event starting on 28th February and going on to the end of March. There will be a show every Friday or Saturday night, you know: pit girls, sound, smoke, race videos and a fantastic light show...everything you need to present an FIA Champion. I am sure that Urs and the team will enjoy it. The Funny Car will be presented in the middle of the casino between the roulette and blackjack tables. The indoor warm-up was dropped after we gave a short demonstration at our workshop to the casino management and their head of security. I wonder why they called it off?"

Andrea tells us that the team are also gainfully employed waiting for parcels from the USA containing all the gadgets which have just been ordered. "We will be ready for the Professional Test before the FIA Main Event, and we are ready to defend the number one on our car", says Andrea. "The whole Championship team is back in 2004 and we are all looking forward to racing again."

You can stay in touch with events in the Fat Attack pit on the team's official web site at www.fatattack.ch.

Wacker ups the cubes.
19th February: Swiss Pro Mod racer Peter Wacker has joined the European 740ci club with a new engine built by Eurodragster Home and News page sponsors ICE Automotive Racing Engines.

"Our last two years of in Pro Mod have not been very succesful, except for a win at Hockenheim", says Peter. "Despite the highly-competitive and absolutely perfectly-built '57 Bel Air by Andy Robinson Race Cars we were always struggling with main bearing problems. It was very frustrating, especially when you consider that my 706 ci motors have gone down the tracks before without any problems in my old steel-bodied '57. Luckily I have a good team with Crew Chief Petra and 'Big' Andy Kennedy, and with support from Rob Loaring and Nick Davies of ICE Automotive the cause of our problems was finally found in the three-disc clutch at last year's FIA European Finals."
©Eurodragster.com
Peter's first competitive outing this year will be at the FIA Main Event at Santa Pod Raceway in May, with the Roofer's Toy sporting the new 740 ci nitrous-equipped engine. The plan is to test at the pre-FIA Main Event Test at Santa Pod the previous weekend.

Peter's spare 706 ci Eagle motor, which has run 6.41 in the USA, is for sale. For more details check out the advertisement on Eurodragster's Jeff Bull Race Engines-sponsored Swap Meet, or call Nick Davies at ICE Automotive direct on 01327 858992.

Sanity's last strike.
19th February: Charles Berg will be taking one last trip in the Twisted Sanity Rocket Dragster before the car is retired in favour of the new dual-engined dragster currently being put together, writes team member Paul Cann.

"The Phatarazzi Extravaganza at Santa Pod Raceway will be the old car's last outing", says Paul. "This is primarily to test a new fuel type for the new car which we are hoping will be ready for the end of march and which should put us in the seven or eight second bracket for the new season.
©Eurodragster.com
"We are also sponsoring this year's Street Machine Street Racer series with a top-of-the-range progressive nitrous controller, and we have updated our web site at www.twistedsanity.com with a complete new look. Due to supplier delays we have put off the launch of our car nitrous kits until 15th March, when we will be fully open for business.

"Thanks to all the people who dropped by and said hello at the xtreme Wheels, good to see some old faces and meet some new ones too."

Swift snippets.
19th February: Swedish Top Fuel Dragster racer Micke Kågered's new Top Fuel Dragster makes its first public appearance today at the Göteborgs Motorshow in Sweden. The dragster, built by Matts Eriksson for Knut Söderquist, has a stunning new paintjob and carries the colours of Bahco Tools. You can get a sneak preview of Micke's new car on the Kågered Racing web site at www.kagered-racing.com. The Göteborg Show also sees the début of NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod Champion Roger Johansson's new paint scheme on the Svensk Dragracing stand.

2003 FIA European Top Methanol Dragster Champion Dave Wilson and the American Car Imports Racing team are making their first competitive appearance of 2004 at this weekend's NHRA Winternationals at Pomona, site of Dave's 5.3-second pass last November. Qualifying starts today (Thursday); you will be able to stay in touch with Dave's progress on the Drag Race Central web site at www.dragracecentral.com and on the NHRA's web site at www.nhra.com.
©Eurodragster.com
UK Junior Dragster racer Matthew Seamarks set new personal bests of 15.076 seconds and 41.44 mph in his first outing in his ex-Hauser Gingerman Racing Junior Dragster. Matthew's personal best ET came on his first pass in the car in damp conditions at last Sunday's Run What You Brung at Santa Pod. "We have only had the car a week, and we are very happy with its performance and with how we got on on Sunday", says Matthew. "Hopefully we will be out again soon."

Santa Pod Raceway's latest Run What You Brung takes place this Sunday, 22nd February. Track Manager David Lloyd-Jones tells us that everyone signing on will receive a free sticker and also a copy of the catalogue of RWYB series sponsor Motech Performance. "For all serious enthusiasts Cool Blue, the performance petrol, will also be on sale on the day", says Ian. "Ten litres are priced at £39 and twenty five litres at £79. Cool Blue is street-legal and improves quarter mile times by 0.5 seconds". Gates open at 8:00 am with the track opening from 9:30 am, track conditions permitting. Admission prices are £10 per person, under 16s go free, with sign-on priced a further £15 with the production of a valid DVLC licence. "Car and Bike clubs are welcome and can book their own fenced club area free. For further information call the Santa Pod office on 01234 782828, or visit the www.rwyb.com or www.santapod.com web sites.

Our good buddy, Supertwin Fuel racer and drag bike photo-journalist Ian Turburville dropped us a line to alert die cast collectors to this Sunday's (22nd February) Autojumble at the Newark Showground in Nottinghamshire. "There will be thousands of car and bike parts for sale as usual along with tools, clothing etc. - and a growing number of die-cast vendors amongst which is Turboville with a large selection of drag racing models", says Turbo. "Easy to find at the end of the A46 and well signposted, it usually proves a fun day out and is on once a month all year."

Another great weekend.
19th February: Jon and Sharon Hogarth of Specialist In Design had their first-ever trade stand at a show at the weekend. The Specialist In Design stand at Xtreme Wheels hosted the Gibbs family's new Obsession Super Modified Camaro, which was built and painted by SID; the Camaro took home trophies for Best Paint, Most Extreme Paint and Best Competition Car rounding off a great first show for Jon and Sharon.
©Eurodragster.com
"We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Obsession Motorsports and everyone involved with Xtreme Wheels for putting on a great show", says Sharon Hogarth. "We have no hesitation in recommending a trade stand to anyone considering something similar for next year. Jon and I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and made a number of useful contacts as well as picking up orders and enquiries. We would also like to thank Craig Gibbs for the use of the all-new Obsession Camaro to show off on our stand, and which could not have been a better advert for the quality of work which SID turns out. Paul Marston did us all proud by lighting up the car fantastically with an array of spots to complement the paint and workmanship, and the fact that the Camaro topped the poll amongst fellow exhibitors in three separate categories certainly made the weekend."

First WRE Test filling.
18th February: Eurodragster webcam sponsor Webster Race Engineering is holding its first Test Day in just over a month, and Ian Marshall of WRE has been in touch to let us know that this first Test Day, at Santa Pod Raceway on Wednesday 24th March, is filling up fast.

"As a result of the great turnout at last weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show, we have had a lot of interest in our Test Days in general and particularly in the first one", says Ian. "This will be the only chance to test at Santa Pod on a fully-prepped track before the Easter Thunderball, so we encourage racers to get in their booking forms early to avoid disappointment. Numbers are limited and we do already have a considerable number of racers signed up to attend on 24th March."
©Eurodragster.com
The WRE Test Days offer racers the opportunity to test or to dial-in a car or bike in event conditions. The track is prepped to race standards, and there is full marshall and safety cover. The staff of Webster Race Engineering are also in attendance for immediate assistance or advice. Catering is also available on-site.

Entry to WRE Test Days is £125 + VAT per rider or driver. An an entry form can be downloaded by clicking here, or from the Entry Forms page of the Santa Pod Racers Club web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc.

For more details contact Webster Race Engineering direct on 01933 315236.

Eurodragster will be reporting live from the WRE Test Day on 24th March in association with American Car Imports.

Two great weekends.
18th February: UK Jet Funny Car pilot Roger Goring and partner Helen Rusling had a very enjoyable weekend exhibiting their Firestorm Jet FC at the Xtreme Wheels Show in London. "We spent just about the entire two days of the show talking!", said Roger, which would explain his croaky throat when we spoke to him last night. "The car generated a lot of interest and we answered no end of queries about what the car can do and where it can be seen. It was also, as usual, particularly enjoyable to see all of our fans - we do it for you and we're very appreciative of your support. We gave out hundreds of hero cards and also sold a number of T-shirts and caps".

Xtreme Wheels was something of a new experience for the Firestorm team as the car is not often seen on static display. "We learnt a lot at the weekend", said Roger, "even down to such things as whether the car looks better on display with its body up or down! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and we are grateful to Terry and Tina Gibbs for the invitation to appear". Firestorm's next scheduled appearance is currently a flame and thunder show at April's Performance Bike Show in Sheffield, but stay tuned to the team's calendar on their web site at www.firestorm-jfc.co.uk as it is being updated frequently.
©Eurodragster.com
Also enjoying their weekend in London were Iain and Liz Malcolm whose Jus' 4 Fun Racing Pro ET dragster made its public début at Xtreme Wheels. "We had a great time Alexandra Palace", says Iain and Liz. "We would like to thank all the show's organisers for inviting us to bring our dragster to Xtreme Wheels. Although this is the first time our car - and us! - have been out of the workshop we had a great response. Even though it was the first Xtreme Wheels event it was good to see so many high-quality and unusual vehicles there; the standard, to say the least, was high. Once again thanks to everyone, organisers and racers, for making us feel welcome and we look forward to Xtreme Wheels 2005."

Web site updates.
18th February: Our good friend Ulf Stadig has updated the web site of Swedish Pro Mod team Nilsson Motorsports with a brief digest of statistics from Håkan Nilsson's Pro Mod career. If you'd like to know how many #1 qualifying spots Håkan has taken, or how many runs his Camaro has made, then check out the Nilsson Motorsports web site at www.nilssonmotorsports.com.
©Eurodragster.com
Maurischat holds on to dreams.
17th February: German Comp Eliminator racer Marco Maurischat was set to fulfil one of his dreams by acquiring a Top Methanol Funny Car for 2004, before losing one of his sponsors. Marco will continue in Comp Eliminator although he has not lost sight of his TMFC dream, and he has another ambition to fulfil this season.

"Last season started great because we made the final of the FIA Main Event and set a new personal best of 7.19 at about 190 mph during that same weekend", says Marco. "Most of the other races of 2003 were also very good. We won one event at Drachten, had one runner-up finish there, and we were third qualifier at nearly six-tenths under our BB/D index at Hockenheim. We didn't break many parts, so all in all it was a good season.

"Last year was my fourth in Comp Eliminator, and all through last year we were making plans to step up into the Top Methanol Funny Car ranks. I spoke to Lex Joon many times about buying his car and things were looking very good, but then we lost our main sponsor Holiday Autos at the end of the season. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to to drive a Top Methanol Funny Car, but the main thing for me is to have a competive car out there and for that you must have enough money. Without the backing of a good main sponsor it's not the right moment to make this change. I do however have to thank Holiday Autos for the support which they gave me over the last four years."

Marco is therefore staying in Comp Eliminator this season, but says that he is happy because it is a tough class. "We have a race car which is running very well, and it's a lot of fun to run our blown alcohol-burning Small Block against all the carburettor engines", he says. To prepare for the season Marco has built a completely new engine with some major changes, not just to run quickly in BB/D and AA/D, but also to chase a long-standing record.
©Eurodragster.com
"To lose some weight we have changed from our Dart iron block to a new generation Brodix aluminium block with JE pistons, Callies Crank and Pro Shaver heads", says Marco. "We lost between forty five and fifty kilos. With the blower rebuild and some small changes on the fuel system we hope to run between 7.0 and 7.1 seconds, and with good weather and some luck we hope to run under the old AA/D record of 7.02 seconds set by my good friend Peter Schöfer when he ran in Comp Eliminator some years ago. We will also have a new paintjob but that will not be done before the end of April."

Marco has made all of these changes to his operation without a main sponsor, but he tells us that he is working on sponsorship at present.

Marco's schedule this season starts with the Test and Tune at Gross Dölln, and he also plans to contest all three of the Explosion Club events at Drachten, the Danish Nationals at Vandel, and the Nitrolympx at Hockenheim. He also hopes to contest the Veidec Nitro Festival at Mantorp Park in July, and the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod Raceway in May.

You can find the Maurischat Racing web site at www.maurischat-racing.de.

Kirk gets a PSI.
17th February: UK Super Modified team Kirk Motorsport have announced the signing of an associate sponsorship deal with Process Systems International Ltd of Northampton. "We couldn't be happier", says team owner and driver Andy Kirk. "PSI are a worldwide leader in the oil and chemical world. They are involved in the API Oil, Gas and Heavy Chemical industry both on and off-shore, on a worldwide basis. Their client list is a veritable who's-who of the oil and chemical worlds. They provide Project Management, Hydraulic Consultancy and Supply Services for packages of rotating equipment to suit the very specific demands of the industry. They are a very professional company whose attention to detail is second-to-none. Kirk Motorsport share this approach with everything we do, and we are confident that this new partnership will be mutually advantageous."

"We would like to say a big thank you to PSI's head honcho Lawrie Gatehouse. Lawrie is a long-time drag race fan and it is his love for the sport and confidence in us which has made this partnership possible. Thanks Lawrie, here's to low numbers and big speeds."
©Eurodragster.com
Swift snippets.
17th February: As long-standing Eurodragster readers know, we pride ourselves on not publishing gossip or rumour, even in the off-season. We are however not averse to clearing up rumours so we were pleased to hear from UK Super Street racer Andy Williams that the story about his moving up to Super Comp in 2004 is true. Andy is importing a Super Comp dragster turn-key from the USA. Featuring a Frameworks 225-inch chassis and running a 377 ci Small Block, the dragster will in Andy's words be "Interesting if nothing else". Andy's Eight Mis 'B' Haven roadster is for sale on Eurodragster's Jeff Bull Race Engines-sponsored Swap Meet.

UK Fuel Funny Car racer Gordon Smith has written on behalf of the Shockwave team to thank everyone who responded to Friday's request for a tractor unit. "With special thanks to Peter Knight and John Wright we are now sorted on the tractor front", says Gordon. "We are however still looking for an HGV driver to join our team for 2004. This season looks like being very busy for Shockwave, so if you can spare the time and want to be involved please contact me by E-Mail at nitrofc7@aol.com."
©Eurodragster.com
Also looking for a team member is UK Super Comp and Super Gas racer Malcolm Francis who is seeking an experienced mechanic to assist with set-up and maintenance of his race car both at the track and in the workshop. "We are based at London Heathrow", says Malcolm. "The mechanic must be able to attend all eight UK National Championship events and test sessions. What you will get? Free entry, fed, watered, hotel accommodation, travel expenses, experience, the pee taken, and fun as part of our team". If you are interested then you can contact Malcolm by E-Mail at malcolm@airsealogistics.com, call him on his mobile on 07976 411598 or in the evening on 01276 473961.

PMR enjoy Xtreme experience.
17th February: Paul Marston has been in touch to express his thanks to the organisers of the weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show at London's Alexandra Palace. Paul Marston Racing were represented by their Alien altered, which was promoting the Drag Race Driving School and Passenger Ride Experience.

"We had a lot of good quality enquiries and saw a lot of familiar faces from the race track", says Paul. "John Price hosted the Main Stage and was kept busy by a constant flow of dignitaries and special guests. Most notable of these was none other than Peter Crane, the first person ever to run a five-second pass in England, beating Big Daddy Don Garlits in the process. Stu Bradbury also made an appearance, Santa Pod's longtime Chief Starter again kept the audience thrilled with stories of how it used to be. Nobby Hills Racing brought the Houndog Funny Car and added Nobby's own unique flavor to the event, it's going to be great to have him back at the track.
©Eurodragster.com
"Coming up-to-date our current superstars in Top Fuel, Darryl Bradford and Andy Carter, both appeared on the Main Stage. Andy Carter has a very strong package for the 2004 season and spoke at length about his career in drag racing including his infamous Ford Pop in which he ran a 7.50 ET, a European Record which still stands today.

"All in all, a very solid start to a brand new show which without doubt can be built on. Once again everyone at Paul Marston Racing would like to express our thanks to the organisers for all the very hard work they put in to make this event happen."

Turbo's race Craft.
17th February: Turboville.com has just been appointed the sole Nottinghamshire dealer for the Craft helmet range from Germany, writes Ian Turburville. "I raced in a Craft helmet last year and was I so impressed I invested heavily in a product I truly believe in", says Turbo. "The new Craft 2004 range is extensive, ranging from carbon superlight Barracudas to olive drab Mirage jet-fighter helmets. These helmets are incredible value, very light and strong due to the tri-layer, carbon-dyneema weave construction. They have click and lock strap systems (great when you are all suited up waiting with gloves on), unique air venting, removable washable linings, and hi-tech optically-correct quick-release visors, in a lot of shades and tints. The helmets are ECE 22.05 compliant and are all ACU Gold Stamped for racing! They are also considerably cheaper than their equivalent competitor's helmets. The new paint finishes and graphics are truly stunning, including the new black-chrome models, no cartoons here! Most models are in stock at the shop now, but check out the Helmets button at www.turboville.com/turbo-7/race_wear.htm for full details. I will get a price chart up on the site as soon as possible, in the meantime please E-Mail me at i.turboville@ntlworld.com. If you hadn't noticed we now take any major credit card through the ultra secure Papal system."
©Eurodragster.com
Knight/Canto reunite with Webster.
16th February: Jon Webster will be again be appearing in a Top Fuel Dragster in 2004. Engine builder Peter Knight tells us that he and Martin Canto have teamed up again in a repeat of the deal struck for last season's FIA European Finals, at which Jon clocked 5.413/231.20 in qualifying before being shut off for a fluid leak in eliminations.

The dragster will again be carrying the name of Martin Canto's company The Canto Consultancy, and will contest the FIA Main Event and FIA European Finals at Santa Pod Raceway in May and September respectively. Peter Knight will be Crew Chief.

"We do not yet have a permanent deal as yet", says Peter Knight. "We feel that we will be ready for that sort of commitment in 2005, when we will have more experience and a complete outfit. This year we will be trying as hard as we can, within our capabilities both in knowledge (lacking!) and finance (lacking!)."
©Eurodragster.com
The dragster is currently at the workshops of Eurodragster webcam sponsor Webster Race Engineering being prepared for the 2004 season. Jon Webster is also working to finish the trailer. "This is a good deal all round, we think", says Peter.

"I am building two short motors using BAE forged blocks, replacing last year's cast TFX", says Peter. "Everything will be brand new. We will have spare heads and blower, a spare 'big' pump, plenty of new pistons on rods etc. - and hopefully half a functioning trailer. Alan Jackson will be checking over the blower and also taking a look at our new 'latest model' blower. He will also be sorting out the bugs which we had at last year's Finals in the fuel management system, cannon and computer."

Federal Mogul's Ultimate backing.
16th February: LA Performance Services have signed a sponsorship deal with parts manufacturer Federal Mogul for the 2004 Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship at Shakespeare County Raceway. Federal Mogul count amongst their brands such names as Champion Spark Plugs, Anco Windscreen Wipers, Moog Chassis Parts for US vehicles, Sealed Power Engine Components, Speed-Pro, Wagner Brake Products, Fel-Pro Gaskets and National Oil Seals.
©Eurodragster.com
"It gives me a lot of pleasure to announce another major American company as a sponsor", says Lee Child of LA Performance Services, who sponsors Eurodragster's Links pages through his company LA Racing Parts. "Federal Mogul's product list includes a large number of prestigious brands already used by UK National and Ultimate Power Champions. I am grateful to Federal Mogul for their support and look forward to a long and successful partnership."

Federal Mogul products can be purchased through LA Racing Parts on 01803 554308 or at www.laracingparts.com, or through your local dealership of fellow Ultimate Power Championship sponsor Ampar Parts and Service Network. You can find the Federal Mogul web site at www.federalmogul.com.

Outlaws go by the rules.
16th February: The UK's Supercharged Outlaws had a very productive rules meeting at the weekend, says Chairman Roy Wilding. "I was very pleased with the outcome", says Roy of the discussion which was attended by representatives of the racers and race officials.

As well as their own annual Championship, the Supercharged Outlaws will also be contesting the three-round Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship at Shakespeare County Raceway in 2004 and the rules for this include a chassis tagged to 7.50, blower restraints and burst plates, clutch protection, speed-rated front tyres, and the appropriate safety equipment.

The minutes of Saturday's discussions and the draft rules will shortly be distributed to all registered Supercharged Outlaw racers for their feedback. "Our intent is to keep racers in touch at every stage and ensure that they can air their views", says Roy.

Roy, who races in the Supercharged Outlaws with the ex-Stones Hemi Hunter slingshot, tells us that even this early in the year a field of at least six to eight cars is already envisaged for the first Ultimate Power round in May, with more racers joining during the season.

You can find the Supercharged Outlaws' official web site at www.superchargedoutlawsuk.com.

Swift snippets.
16th February: Swedish Pro Mod racer Håkan Fällström has teamed up with Mousetrap Racing and will be racing their 1966 Ford Fairlane in NDRS Bilsport Pro Modified in 2004, writes Patrik Jacobsson. The car previously sported a Small Block but is now toting a BAE Stage 5 526 ci engine. You can read more on the Teams page of the European Pro Mod Association web site at www.promod.nu.
©Eurodragster.com
Legendary UK Super Gas racer Al O'Connor, well-known as a big fan of Motorhead, got a motor head of his own last week in the form of a tattoo by UK Pro ET racer Carl Burton. The tattoo (right), applied at Carl's English Rose studio in Peterborough, took three hours to complete and runs from Al's hairline to under his collar. "It was Al's first tattoo and he wasn't sure how he would handle the pain", says Carl Burton. "But Al didn't moan once, although when it was finished he said he'd had about enough. He's one tough nut!". We should be able to check out Al's tattoo for ourselves as Carl tells us that he will be returning to the track this year. If you are interested in being tattooed then give Carl a call on 01733 894568 or visit his web site at www.english-rose-tattoo.co.uk.

FIA racers: important message.
15th February: UK Tech Inspector Geoff Martin has been in touch with a brief but important message to FIA-class racers.

"I would suggest that all racers in FIA classes take a good look at the 2004 regulations", says Geoff. "Top Fuel Dragster owners please take a look at the Oil Line regulations and 4.2 Deflector Plate regulations. The Scrutineers will be checking these for sure."

If you have any queries then you can contect Geoff by E-Mail at geoffrey.martin4@btopenworld.com.

Irvine chairs NAST.
15th February: UK Supertwin Gas racer Don Irvine was last week confirmed as new Chair of the National Association of Supertwins, succeeding Ian 'Rush' Carruthers. Don, who finished fifth in STG in 2003, has been racing with the Club for nearly ten years in the Street and Gas classes. He took up post at last weekend's NAST Annual General Meeting which was attended by forty five racers, crew and other interested parties.

One of Don's first duties as Chair was to list this season's confirmed events for the National Association of Supertwins, which are as follow:

17th-18th April: APIRA Test and Tune, Shakespeare County Raceway. Pre-season get-together, to include class technical scrutiny, especially for new entrants.

1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway. 2004 NAST Championships Round 1.

7th-9th May: Speedfreaks Ball, Santa Pod Raceway

12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway. 2004 NAST Championships Round 2.

26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway. 2004 NAST Championships Round 3.
©Eurodragster.com
17th-18th July: RWYB/Club Day, Shakespeare County Raceway. Mid-season get together, ET bracket racing for all and party.

28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway. 2004 NAST Championships Round 4.

2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway. 2004 NAST Championships Round 5.

30th-31st October: Halloween Showdown, Shakespeare County Raceway. ET bracket racing, RWYB and end of season party.

5th-6th November: Flame and Thunder Show, Santa Pod Raceway. ET bracket racing, RWYB on Sunday.

Trophies were presented to the 2003 NAST Champions and runners-up, and a Most Improved trophy was presented to Supertwin Fuel racer Ian Turburville.

"The National Association of Supertwins would like to thank the Racers' Clubs, the Tracks and the Promoters for a good year's racing, and we hope to have an even better year in 2004", says Don.

Pro ET sponsorship update.
15th February: Further to our news item of 1st February, Bob Regis tells us that the exercise to find sponsors for the UK's Pro ET class is now getting into full swing.

"Carl Burton of English Rose Racing already has four new sponsors lined up for the coming season", says Bob. "Carl asks that all Pro ET racers interested in participating in the scheme send an A4 stamped addressed envelope for their registration form to:
©Eurodragster.com
Carl Burton
Gravel House
2 Wisbech Road
Coates
Peterborough
PE7 2DG

"There is a £5 admin fee required to register. The Pro ET Sponsorship Scheme is not compulsory but 'Ya got to be in it to win it'!"

You will be able to find more details on the UK Pro ET web site at www.pro-et.co.uk.

Web site updates.
15th February: UK Wild Bunch racer Tony Smith has updated his Cunning Plan web site with a large number of photographs from this weekend's Xtreme Wheels show which is taking place at London's Alexandra Palace. You can check out Tony's pictures at www.cunningplan.net.
©Eurodragster.com
Gareth Evans has also posted pictures from Xtreme Wheels on his UK1320 web site at www.uk1320.com.

The Modified Kiwi.
14th February: Adopted UK Pro ET racer Kev 'Kiwi' Taylor has stepped up big time with a move to Super Modified in 2004. Kev will be contesting the wild doorslammer class with his Capri which will now be sporting a nitrous-equipped 500 ci engine.

"I'm going to go to a Run What You Brung and then the first Webster Race Engineering Test Day", says Kev. "Then I'll put the gas on at the Easter Thunderball and get on with it!". Kev is preparing a new transporter which will be ready in the early part of the season.

The Crap Racing Capri is appearing at this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show on the stand of new sponsor Spax. "It's my first year with Spax, and my third year with Sussex Auto Parts", says Kev. "I am very pleased to have a big name such as Spax on the car in addition to Sussex Auto Parts who have been very good indeed to me."

Kev tells us that fellow Crap Racing team member Mark Anderson will be appearing in a Super Pro ET dragster later on in the season, and that the team will also be fielding a new car either in Pro ET or Super Street.

Swift snippets.
14th February: UK Pro Stock Bike racer Martin Newbury is contesting the 2004 season with a new PMFR chassis, says fellow racer Richard Gipp. Martin's bike also features a new lightweight front end, and new Kawasaki bodywork, and he will also be able to call upon two engines.
©Eurodragster.com
2003 FIA European Top Methanol Dragster Champion Dave Wilson has been dubbed the European TAD King by the NHRA's official web site in the headline to a news item about Grumpy's current US tour. Dave and the American Car Imports Racing team are in a 'bloody cold' Las Vegas this weekend for one final test before the NHRA Winternationals.

Swedish Top Methanol FC team Andréasson Motorsports have again teamed up with Islands Resor and Iceland Air to offer a package holiday for an NHRA race weekend. The event in question is the National event at Las Vegas on 1st-4th April. Silver and Gold packages are available, with the Gold package offering the MGM Grand hotel and Top Eliminator Club tickets. For more information check out the Andréasson Motorsports web site at www.andreassonmotorsports.com/2004_las_vegas_dragracing_tour.htm.

Xtreme Wheels coverage.
13th February: We have now posted our report and pictures from today's Xtreme Wheels Press Day at London's Alexandra Palace, in association with American Car Imports.

You can view our Xtreme Wheels coverage by clicking here or by clicking on the Event Coverage link on the left-hand side of any Eurodragster page.
©Eurodragster.com
New Batmen welcomed.
13th February: Svensk Dragracing Vice President Olle Elfquist has welcomed the new owners of the Batmobile Pro Mod, whose purchase by Holland's K & H Racing we reported upon on Wednesday.

"We are looking forward to meeting Marc Meihuizen and Piet Kaptein, and all the other European Pro Mod teams", says Olle. "We know that they will give the current NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod champion Roger Johansson, Hkan Nilsson and Michael Gullquist and the other drivers a hard, tough and rough fight for the NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod title. We hope that they will contest all the events in the 2004 NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod Series so that they will have a chance for the Championship."
©Eurodragster.com
2004 promises to be tougher than ever. "The battle for the 2004 Championship will be the hardest ever in the history of European Pro Mod", says Michael Gullquist, President of the European Pro Mod Association and himself an NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod racer. "We had four different champions in the last four years - myself, Patrick Wikstrm, Håkan Nilsson and Roger Johansson - and we're all back to fight for the crown. I would say that there are at least four more teams able to win events this season. I'm sure that we will see the European records reset a number of times, because everyone will have to step it up a lot."

Kats diagnose the bang.
13th February: 2003 ACU UK Super Street Bike Champion Karl Larcombe, bike owner Roger Yelland and the Krazy Kat team have identified the extent of the damage done to the bike's engine on its last run of 2003. "It went bang - that's the scientific term", says team member 'Bert'.
©Eurodragster.com
"We are looking at a new (-ish) set of casings and a new gearbox, which will mean a complete re-build for the new season", says Bert. "We usually have the top end off in the off season and look at tweaking the settings from the last tune-up which we had in the bike. We know where to work from and the work we are undertaking will not change that much."

Karl and the guys are also working on sponsorship for the 2004 season. "One of note is a local - in Surbiton, anyhow - radio station, Radio Jackie, who have had interviews with both Karl and Roger, and are showing a healthy interest in our activities."

Shockwave seeks a tractor.
13th February: Gordon Smith, driver of the UK's Shockwave Fuel Funny Car, has been in touch to appeal for the help of Eurodragster readers to help to get the team to the track.

"The team's tractor unit has finally given up on us over the winter", says Gordon. "With most of our funds going into upgrades on the car for 2004, we need the help of someone who has a artic tractor unit and would be interested in helping us out over the next season. Anyone responding would become a member of the team and, if they want, could help out on the between-rounds work on the car. However this is not compulsory and any help would be very much welcome.
©Eurodragster.com
"Watch out for reports on Eurodragster in the next few weeks, as we may have some major announcements to make."

If you have an artic and can help, or if you know anyone who can help, then please drop Gordon a line at nitrofc7@aol.com.

Swift snippets.
13th February: France's Eric Teboul will be running his Rocket Bike at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway in April, Santa Pod's Track Manager Kjell Pettersson has confirmed. Eric recorded the quickest drag bike ET of all time with a 5.649 at Hockenheim last August, after recording Europe's first five-second drag bike pass at the Speedfreaks Ball at Santa Pod last May. You can find Eric's web site at www.teboulracing.com.
©Eurodragster.com
Busy weekend for Santa Pod.
13th February: Santa Pod Racewaywill forthe first time be promotingits series of Modified/Performance car events at this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show at Alexandra Palace, alongside its traditional drag racing fare.

JoiningSanta Pod's brand new show Top Fuel Dragster and Martin Hill's Fireforce 2 Jet Funny Car will be the record-breaking Nissan Skyline owned and driven by Andy Barnes. The HKS-enhanced machine blew away the official Santa Pod quarter-mile record for a Skyline, clocking a 10.2 at 144 mph and a 10.4 at 143 mph, beating the previous record by 0.8 seconds. Andy expects his street-legal Skyline to go quicker still once the Nitrous is plumbed in. "The car was dyno'd producing 916 bhp without the use of nitrous", says Andy. "When the Nos is finally mapped to the car, we expect a power level of 1150bhp."
©Eurodragster.com
Andy's car will be helping Santa Pod Raceway to promote their four Peak Performance days and the specialist Fast Show and Jap Show events, all of which you can read about at www.santapod.com.

After treating your loved one on Valentines Day and taking a turn around Xtreme Wheels you can round off the weekend with a visit to the Run What You Brung at Santa Pod Raceway this Sunday, 15th February, says Track Manager Kjell Pettersson. "Come and have a go with your car/bike or just to watch boys and girls play with their toys", says Kjell.

"Gates open at 8:00 am with the track opening from 9:30 am, track conditions permitting. Admission prices are £10 per person, under 16s go free, with sign-on priced a further £15. Please remember to bring your driving licence to sign on.

"Car and Bike clubs are most welcome and can book their own fenced club area free of charge. For further information call the Santa Pod office on 01234 782828, or visit the www.rwyb.com or www.santapod.com web sites."

Web site updates.
13th February: Alan Currans has updated his Acceleration Archive with the second page in the Andy Barrack Collection. "Once again Andy has chosen to contrast pictures taken in the early 1970s with much more up-to-date images", says Alan. "This highly individual approach shows how the cars have developed over a thirty-year time span, yet at the same time demonstrates how some of the body styles, teams and individuals have remained in the sport over this longish period. As always, the pictures are given additional meaning by Andy's comprehensive and well-researched captions". Check it out at www.theaccelerationarchive.co.uk.
©Eurodragster.com
Avon Tyres Racing in MT deal.
12th February: In the sport of drag racing Mickey Thompson Drag Tyres have become a force to be reckoned with. Now the full range of Mickey Thompson Drag Tyres are available from stock in the UK for the first time through Avon Tyres Racing and three specialist dealers.

Cooper-Avon Tyres Motorsport Director, Julian Baldwin, commented "By keeping stock in the UK we will be able to provide a fast and efficient service to our customers, which is something Avon Tyres Racing has always prided itself on. It will also give us a tremendous advantage over our competitors who dont stock their full ranges in the UK."

The range of Mickey Thompson drag tyres includes the ET Drag, a proven winner with a maximum traction compound and engineered for consistent performance, the ET Front with an ultra-lightweight design to reduce rolling resistance, the ET Street and the world-beating Motorcycle Series.

In addition to availability of product, Avon Tyres Racing will also be offering a contingency programme to race participants.

For over forty years Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels has been the innovator in street, strip, truck and off-road tyres for the extreme automotive enthusiast. Last year thirty three World and National Championships were won on Mickey Thompson drag slicks and Mickey Thompson racers set five world records.

Mickey Thompson tyres are available in the UK through Avon Tyres Racing and from:

LA Racing Parts
60 Berry Road
Paignton
TQ3 3QJ

Contact: Lee Child
Telephone: 01803 554308
Telephone: 07771 590 176
E-Mail: mttires@laracingparts.com

Webster Race Engineering
Unit 5 Sanders Lodge Industrial Estate
Rushden
Northants
NN10 6BQ

Contact: Jon Webster
Telephone: 01933 315236
Fax: 01933 315274
E-Mail: jw@w-r-e.com

Andy Robinson Race Cars
Los Andes
Reading Road
Turgis Green
Hook
Hampshire
RG27 0AE

Contact: Andy Robinson
Telephone: 01256 880589
Fax:- 01256 883057
E-Mail: robinson_racecar@yahoo.co.uk
©Eurodragster.com
Glassup's Xtreme Topo.
12th February: The UK's Bob Glassup is returning from a long layoff with an all-new blown-alcohol altered. The Topolino altered (right, click on picture for large version) will make its first public appearance at this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show in London, and will be sporting an Xtreme Wheels-themed colour scheme for the weekend. Bob has kindly given Eurodragster a sneak preview of his beautiful new car.

Bob previously raced a Topolino altered named Bubblegum and initially planned to change only the chassis as the original could not be tagged. But the further the project went, the more new parts were added. "The parts from the Bubblegum car are...well, the body!", says Bob. "The rest is new. I was originally going to keep my original engine and run injected methanol with a Crower Porcupine set-up, but then I decided that it should be blown. The Topolino lends itself to the blown look, anyway!

"Norm Wheeldon built the chassis and did the fabrication in his spare time, and then Richard and Lee of J and W Autos in Bridgwater put all the pieces together. Richard put together the 454 Big Block Chevy, which has a Powerglide and Andy Robinson rear axle, and Lee painted the car and applied the graphics (below right, click on picture for larger version). It was going to have a crazy colour scheme but I liked it in black, just like a traditional hot rod."
©Eurodragster.com
Bob will be racing in the Supercharged Outlaws and the car is also legal for UK National Championship competition in Super Pro ET. "It should run sevens or quicker", he says. "To be honest I built the car and then found a class for it!"

The engine will be balanced after the car's appearance at Xtreme Wheels this weekend, and the altered should be ready for action on the strip at Easter or soon after. "I'm going from nines to sevens and I haven't raced for a long time so I am a bit nervous", says Bob. "To be honest, what I am looking forward to the most is some decent pit space! I have been crewing for my daughter Holley's Junior Dragster but she is looking for a bigger ride now...my kids are queueing up behind me!"

Bob says that he is very grateful to Norm Wheeldon and to Richard and Lee of J and W Autos, and he is also grateful to his family. "I would like to thank my wife for putting up with the expense and to the rest of my family for their support", he says. "Thanks also to Terry and Tina Gibbs of Obsession Motorsports for all of the practical help they have given me - they have been just great."

Visitors to this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show will be able to find - or more accurately won't be able to miss - the altered in the Palm Court, next to the Show's information desk.

Swift snippets.
12th February: The Pat's Toy Super Comp Pontiac has been sold by Patrick van Hal to a racer in Greece and broke the Greek record in its second outing, writes Dick Koster. You can find results from Greece on the Dragster.gr web site at www.dragster.gr.

Webster Race Engineering, who are joint sponsors of Eurodragster's webcam, now have their Parts department up and running with a complete line of race and street parts. "Shipping on a fortnightly basis, we are direct distributors for Aeromotive Fuel Systems, Flowmaster Exhaust Systems, GPE Competition Starter Motors, JW Transmissions, and Mickey Thompson Street and Race Tyres for both cars and bikes", says Ian Marshall, who operates the Parts department. "We also supply, fit and refill Nitrous systems. And that's all on top of our usual fabrication and manufacturing services!". Call Ian at Webster Race Engineering on 01933 315236 to discuss your requirements.
©Eurodragster.com
George Kinghorn, Communications Manager of the UK's Super Modified Racers Association, has asked us to remind Super Mod racers to send in updated team details to george@supermod.co.uk as soon as possible. The new Super Modified web site will be launched shortly and George would welcome comments and pictures for inclusion on the site to the above address, similarly if anyone would like to become involved in the SMRA to find and secure sponsorship for Super Modified then please contact George as above. Finally George would like to hear from anyone with experience of photographing and filming the Super Mods in action.

Malmgren heading for USA.
11th February: 2003 FIA European Pro Stock Champion Michael Malmgren and the AC Delco Racing team will be testing and racing their new Pontiac Grand Am in the USA before European season starts.

"The crew will fly to Jerry Bickel's shop in Easter to pick up the new car", says team member Magnus Cato. "There is some additional work to be done on the car, then we're probably off to Bradenton in Florida to start testing for two or three days. Then we will hopefully be prepared for another attempt to qualify at the O'Reilly Nationals in Houston on 15th-18th April."
©Eurodragster.com
The team's engines are currently at Bob Ingles' shop undergoing some developments so that they will be in top shape for the race. "We have sent our tools and transmissions as well, so we will be ready", says Magnus. "What we haven't sent is our transporter, and without the outstanding support from a very dear friend in Chicago, this couldn't happen. We have had a close relationship with an ex-Pro Stock racer on the internet for a couple of years now, coming to know each other quite well, and he has pulled some strings to help us. We will have access to a beautiful motorhome and trailer during our stay in America, it's a fantastic offer we have had. Now it's up to us to make him proud of us, and believe me, we won't hold anything back.

"The Pro Stock field is even closer than the last time we ran in the USA, but you have to try, don't you?"

Magnus says that he will try to send updates to Eurodragster from the USA.

The Batmobile goes Dutch.
11th February: The new owners of Thomas Nataas' Batmobile Pro Mod are planning to compete in the 2004 NDRS Bilsport Pro Modified Series, writes Dick Koster. The '37 Chevy Business Coupe, which finished third in the 2003 NDRS Bilsport Pro Modified Series, is now in the hands of Holland's Marc Meihuizen and Piet Kaptein, otherwise known as K & H Racing, who have previously contested Pro Mod in a '34 Ford three-window Coupe.

"The '34 Ford had a 526 Keith Black hemi, which was very reliable", says Dick. "The chassis put paid to the team's plans as the car went out of its lane several times. Because of this the team decided to look for a car with the same old looks, but with a chassis which could hold the horsepower.
©Eurodragster.com
"After some discussions and a visit to Norway the team became the proud owners of the '37 Chevy and a few weeks later they also had the money to take it including the 526 ci Chevy engine.

"The K & H Racing team will change the colour of the car, will make some refinements to the wiring loom and change the headers. Our plan is to compete in the 2004 NDRS Bilsport Pro Modified Series if we are sure that we have the budget."

Grumpy repeats.
11th February: American Car Imports Racing Team Principal Anthony Cohen has been in touch to let us know that 2003 FIA European Top Methanol Dragster Champion Dave Wilson recorded a half-pass in testing at Firebird Raceway in Arizona on Sunday. Anthony tells us that Dave's 3.53/207 eighth-mile was one thousandth of a second off the incrementals for his 5.38 at Pomona in November. The ACI Racing team are planning to test again this weekend before heading back to Pomona for the NHRA Winternationals.
©Eurodragster.com
Get well soon, Bev!
11th February: Annette Talbot has been in touch to ask us to send best wishes for a speedy recovery to APIRA Chief Marshal Bev Batsford, who is currently in hospital but doubtless keeping everyone on their toes even there. "Everyone at APIRA and Shakespeare County Raceway sends their love, all the very best and get well soon Bev", says Annette.
©Eurodragster.com
Sharkman and Tog also send their love and best wishes for a speedy recovery and we are sure that all of our readers do likewise. See you back at the track soon, Bev.

The Strip comes to Xtreme Wheels.
11th February: USAutomotive are literally paving the way at this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show, which takes place at Alexandra Palace in London, writes PR Dan Welberry.

As the public enters the show, they will walk through USAutomotive's replica of a drag strip complete with Christmas Tree, and pass a line-up of vehicles including a drag racing milk float and a slingshot dragster. Here, visitors will be able to learn about the unrivalled aftermarket parts sourcing service USAutomotive offers to American car enthusiasts.

USAutomotive has been satisfying the requirements of American car owners for over six years and is delighted to have a major presence at the show. "We stock a vast range of service components for the most popular American vehicles on Britain's roads, plus we have the ability to find rare and unusual components for one-off vehicles", states USAutomotive's Lynn Stafford.

Part of USAutomotive's success story is based on its unrivalled technical knowledge and a dedicated team who put customers first. This enthusiasm extends to the American Auto Club (AAC) and National Street Rod Association (NSRA), both of which are sponsored by USAutomotive.

USAutomotive is the official UK distributor for the American aftermarket products of American Racing Equipment, Budnik, Borla exhausts, Crane Cams, Dee Zee, Erebuni body styling, Howe Racing (ASCAR) and Xenon body styling. USAutomotive is also a key UK distributor for the products of Hurst, Hays, Lakewood, Mallory, Mr Gasket, Carter, Cartech Books, Champion, Clevite, Excel, Echlin, Federal-Mogul, Fel Pro, Fram, Gabriel, IPC-Huth exhaust components, Raybestos, ROL, Quality Brake, and Wolfgang Publications.

For further information check out the USAutomotive web site at www.usauto.co.uk or E-Mail sales@usauto.co.uk.

"We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the show", says Dan Welberry. "John Price will be bringing the Great Hall to life with interviews from the live stage to include chats with Andy Carter, Nobby Hills and Keith Bartlett to name a few. Dancers and DJs are also appearing, kindly provided by Kream Developments, plus a trophy presentation early on Sunday afternoon. Once again, thanks to our trophy sponsors and thanks to thanks to USAutomotive for sponsoring the drag strip."

Xtreme Wheels 2004 is open from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm this Saturday, and from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm this Sunday. Entry is £12 for adults, £6 for under-16s, and £32 for a Family ticket (two adults and two under-16s), with free entry for OAPs and reduced rate entry to Alexandra Palace's ice rink at £3.

Dan has asked us to remind accredited media that the Xtreme Wheels Press Day will kick off at 12:00 noon on Friday with a selection of vehicles at the front of the venue. Press will then be invited to attend a brief presentation before being taken into the Show halls. "See you there and don't forget a passport photo!", says Dan.
©Eurodragster.com
Ultimately, it's Ampar again.
10th February: Lee Child of LA Performance Services has announced that Ampar Parts and Service Network have renewed their sponsorship of the Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship at Shakespeare County Raceway. The 2004 contingency programme again offers cash awards to racers carrying Ampar decals, which will be available at the track.

Ampar, whose mission statement is Keeping American vehicles on the road, is a nationwide network of dealers stocking parts for American cars, vans and light trucks.
©Eurodragster.com
"Dave Riswick of Ampar was really happy to be involved with the Ultimate Power programme in 2003" says Lee Child, who sponsors Eurodragster's Links pages through his company LA Racing Parts. "I am very grateful to Dave for his support and enthusiasm, and I am very pleased to be associated with Ampar, and with Dave, for another season."

You can find your closest Ampar dealer on the company's web site at www.ampar.com.

SCR is the American Car World.
10th February: Lee Child of LA Performance Services has also announced that American Car World, which is incorporated in Street Machine magazine, is now the title sponsor of what was previously the Classic American Nationals.
©Eurodragster.com
The American Car World Nationals takes place at Shakespeare County Raceway on Saturday-Sunday 15th-16th May and incorporates the NASC Gary's Picnic and the Doorslammer Internationals. The event features Custom Car Street Eliminator and a Street Machine Street Racer Sunday, and includes a Quick 32, Run What You Brung, and Show and Shine.

"It's great to be working with Richard Nicholls and CH Publications", says Lee Child. "If American cars, doorslammers, or American Doorslammers are your thing then Shakespeare County Raceway is the place to be on 15th-16th May! I would also like to thank Classic American for their support in the last couple of years."

You can find the website of Street Machine magazine, incorporating American Car World, at www.chp.ltd.uk/street_machine.

Francis to the rescue.
10th February: Tina Gibbs of Obsession Motorsports, organisers of this weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show at London's Alexandra Palace, has been in touch to thank UK Super Comp and Super Gas racer and sponsor Malcolm Francis of Air Sea Logistics for an act of generosity which has ensured that the Gibbs' new race car can make its début this weekend.
©Eurodragster.com
"We didn't have a trailer to transport our new Obsession Camaro to Xtreme Wheels this weekend", says Tina. "Malcolm Francis has stepped in at the last minute to transport the car to the Show. Obsession would not be at Xtreme Wheels without Malcolm's intervention, and it is very much appreciated by Terry, Craig and myself."

Tina tells us that race car builder and Pro Mod racer Andy Robinson also offered to take Obsession to Xtreme Wheels but the logistics didn't work out. "We were very grateful indeed for the offers of help which we received", says Tina. "Malcolm's generosity and Andy's offer are perfect examples of what the sport is all about - people helping one another out."

Pels in the frame.
10th February: Dutch Supertwin racer Ton Pels and his son and Crew Chief Vincent finished the new frame of his Zodiac Racing Harley last Saturday, writes Monique Pels.

"Ton and Vincent can now start building a new engine", says Monique. "Since Ton gave the bottom end of last year's spare engine to Svein Gottenberg, we need to build a new engine which will be identical to our other engine. The new engine will be built in the new frame, and the engine which we raced last year will be our spare for 2004.

"I have put some more workshop pictures on-line on the News page of our web site at www.zodiacracing.nl, as well as a picture of our brand new new rear wheel with a reinforced sprocket hub which we got from our sponsor Performance Machine Inc.

"As always we would like to thank our main sponsor ZODIAC Performance Products for Harley Davidson (at www.zodiac.nl) for their continuing support."
©Eurodragster.com
Get well soon, Trev!
10th February: We were shocked to receive the following news from UK Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Ian Hook about his close friend, crew member and fellow CCSE racer Trev Jones.

"Some of you may have heard that Trev Jones suffered a heart attack on Saturday morning", says Ian. "He was rushed to Cheltenham General Hospital and was in intensive care for two days. Today I have been given the excellent news is that Trev is now out of danger and on his way to making a good recovery.

"Trevor is well known to a lot of you guys out there as hes been involved in the drag racing scene on and off for nearly twenty five years. If youd like to wish him well, please feel free to use the Guest Book on the FB Racing web site at www.fbracing.co.uk, which was created by Trev. I will screen dump any messages and pass them on to him when I visit again later this week."

We are sure that all of Eurodragster's readers will join Tog and Sharkman in wishing Trev a very rapid recovery, and we look forward to seeing him back at the track.
©Eurodragster.com
Time for Lucas Oil.
10th February: UK Comp Eliminator team Time Machine Racing have announced that as of this season they will be able to supply pre-paid orders of Lucas Oil Products to the race track. Martin Gleadow says that this eliminates delivery charges and means that racers have the oil exactly where they need it.

"We are currently taking orders for the Easter Thunderball", says Martin Gleadow, "so if you are interested then please E-Mail lucas@timemachine.co.uk, contact Bob Gleadow on 07748 300762, or come and visit us at the Xtreme Wheels Show this weekend, and and we will provide a quote for your requirements. Details of products available are listed on the Lucas Oil Products web site at www.lucasoil.co.uk and if you have any special needs we will attempt to meet these. We will also be selling products directly at the Xtreme Wheels show with special offers available: a litre of Heavy Duty Stabilizer will be available for just £9.99, and we will be giving away Fuel Injector Cleaner/Upper Cylinder Lubricant with every purchase, whilst stocks last.

"Later this year we will be launching a web site which will carry details of all the products available, prices, and a form which will allow you to place an order quickly and easily, though on-line payment will not be available to begin with. We are happy to discuss bulk order discounts, and will be offering discounts to racers who carry Lucas Oil Products decals. Finally, if you run a business and would like to become an outlet for Lucas Oil Products please get in touch through the Time Machine Racing web site at www.timemachine.co.uk.
©Eurodragster.com
PMR announce new racer, US trip.
10th February: It's the day for announcements from Paul Marston Racing as Paul has been in touch with details of this year's first graduate racer and a drive in the USA.

PMR's first graduate racer of 2004 is Gary Springford, who attended Paul's Drag Race School in 2003 driving the Insanity Vega. Gary will be driving Grumpy's Dodge at the Easter Thunderball, most probably in Pro ET, with the intention of entering Super Gas later during the year. Paul tells us that Grumpy's Dodge will be running in Super Gas at Easter as well, with the driver to be confirmed closer to the event. "Gary will be attending a test session prior to Easter to complete his observed runs and familiarize himself with Grumpy", says Paul. Garys drag racing experience comes from attending RWYB events for many years, having built a number of road and off-road cars for customers, including his current daily driver, an outrageous SWB Shogun pickup powered by a manual 454ci BBC which can nearly get its front wheels as high as Ronnie Picardo's wheelying Stingray! Gary is the owner of Five Oaks Carriages (020 8597 4575) and a partner in Jeep Club, where Grumpy's Dodge is currently being updated.

"We all expect Gary to progress swiftly. He has the potential to become a formidable and accomplished driver by mid-season; it is a race-by-race deal so Grumpy is still available to other interested drivers. Garys entry into Super Gas is just one of many new Super Gas entries expected for the 2004 season, where new and old established teams are expected to swell the ranks of this great class. The 2004 season marks the twentieth anniversary of Super Gas, yes it has been around for that long! There is even suggestion that the 'Professor', Al OConnor will be making a return in Al's Gasser, along with the début of Spencer Tramms new Chris Isaacs-built VW Super Gasser."
©Eurodragster.com
Paul Marston has also confirmed that he is to compete in an NHRA Division 2 event at Orlando Speed World in Florida on 13th-14th March. The deal to drive in Super Street was organised by ex-pat Brit Tony Morris. "Tony now lives in Florida with his wife Lynn and works at Bo Laws Performance, manufacturers of High Performance Carbs, Alcohol Systems, Fuel Pumps, Fuel Logs and a whole lot more", says Paul. "Their products are known and used by alot of UK Racers, their quality and service is second to none. I always hook up with Tony whenever I am in Florida. Tony is as hardcore as they come where drag racing is concerned and is simply the best company. Last October I was lucky enough to accompany Tony to Gainesville for the Division 2 Race of Champions where his racing buddy Steve Deatheridge went six rounds in Super Pro, that was just awesome. When Tony rang me and said that he was working on getting me a ride whilst I was over there in February, I was knocked out! The call came from Tony saying that he was 99% certain that there was an offer on the table and if I wanted it all I had to do was say Yes. You already know my answer, it is truly a chance in a lifetime, you just dont even need to think about it, you just go.

"Tony knew that due to the licensing structure the easiest class to compete in for a visiting racer is Super Street, so I will be driving a Pontiac Ventura. The racing will be really tough as all the Super Street racers that are due to race at Gainesville the following weekend will be there at Orlando Speed World. I will without doubt be giving it my very, very best shot but I also have my eyes wide open. I am a realist, these guys race all year round on this track. Its a tricky track so I am going to enjoy the experience to the full and have no illusions of doing any more than qualifying and making first round. Yes it's still drag racing, but it's a whole new ballgame with much higher terminal speeds in Super Street than we have ever seen in England. It's going to be tough, but this is where you come to learn.

After Speed World it's time to pack up and head straight off to Gainesville and join the queue to get pitted up for the Gatornationals. Tony Morris and Steve Deatheridge are both entered in Super Comp and I will spend the event crewing for them, learning more and enjoying the spectacle that is an NHRA National Event from a racer's perspective. Tony Morris and his beautiful brand new Undercover Chassis Slip Joint Dragster will be making their National event début, whilst Steve Deatheridge will be running the four-link dragster in which he came so close to lifting the Division 2 Super Pro title at the Race Of Champions last October. I am going to have to get used to the crazy early starts the Sportsman classes are scheduled for. How about 7.00 am on the start line (And your point is? - Live Coverage reporter)?

"As you can probably guess it has not all fully sunk in yet. I am just too excited about it all at the moment, but with so much to arrange and confirm with the airline, the NHRA, car rental, airport arrival and departure times, parts deliveries to arrange, etc. I am going to remain very busy right up to the day. It may be a month away but it sure will come around fast. Whilst over there I shall try to keep everyone at home updated via our web site www.paulmarstonracing.com and of course Eurodragster. I am sure that all the guys on the American Car Imports Racing Top Methanol Dragster Team will keep you abreast of their developments at Gainesville.

"I must at this point thank everyone I work with at Black Box Production London, without their help and understanding none of this would be remotely possible, I owe you guys more than I can say. I must also thank all my outstanding crew at Paul Marston Racing for all their hard work in the past years and the hard work ahead during the 2004 season.I am looking forward to seeing my friends Joe, Pam and everyone at BLP, Larry Nadeau (Pro Mod PT Cruiser) and all the guys I have been fortunate enough to meet whilst at the strips in the USA. Lastly thanks to Tony 'Chunky' Morris (as John Price used to call him when Tony drove Dave Gibbons' Rough Diamond altered): as you know it is a dream come true for any non-American drag racer, I thank you for this wonderful opportunity.

"This coming weekend you can catch Paul Marston Racing at Alexandra Palace with the Alien altered. The Paul Marston Racing School will make up part of the drag racing display at the Xtreme Wheels Show presented by Obsession Motorsports. Please come and see us at the show where we will be happy to discuss in detail any of the packages we have available through the Paul Marston Racing Drag Race Driving School or the Passenger Ride Experience. Alternately you can find out more details on our web site at www.paulmarstonracing.com, call the office on 0208 597 4575 or call my mobile on 07831 650230.

Web site updates.
10th February: John 'Burgerman' Williamson has completely revamped his Do It Yourself Nitrous web site and added a forum for Nitrous-minded readers. John's well-designed site tells you everything you could want to know about the use of Nitrous Oxide in clear and often humourous style, and even passes the rigourous 'Mechanical-Idiot News Editor' test. Check it out at www.diy-nitrous.fsnet.co.uk.
©Eurodragster.com
Grumpy's new PB.
9th February: Dave Wilson clocked a new personal best terminal speed of 262.9 mph with an ET of 5.55 in the American Car Imports Racing Top Methanol Dragster at Firebird Raceway on Saturday. Because of the time difference Dave has not made any of Sunday's runs at time of writing, but Team Principal and Eurodragster sponsor Anthony Cohen of American Car Imports kindly tells us that he will let us know as soon as he has any news, as the web sites reporting on the Firebird test have so far been reporting only on Pro racers.
©Eurodragster.com
APIRA AGM.
9th February: Ozzy Ewing of the Avon Park International Racers Association Committee has been in touch to pass on his thanks to all marshals, officials, racers, press and non-members who attended yesterday's Annual General Meeting. "We are pleased with how well the AGM went and look forward to a very positive 2004 Race Season at Shakespeare County Raceway", says Ozzy.
©Eurodragster.com
"As discussed the pre-season work weekends will be starting at Shakespeare County Raceway fortnightly from 22nd February, lunch will be provided to those who attend. For further details please get in touch with myself at osmond.ewing@ntlworld.com or Beth Satchell, or alternately E-Mail work@apira.org.uk with your availability."

Outlaws Co-ordinator still sought.
9th February: Roy Wilding tells us that the UK's Supercharged Outlaws are still seeking a co-ordinator for race events. The co-ordinator would have to be ever-present on race days, and act as a go-between with the Race Director, race teams and the commentators in the tower. The candidate should have a knowledge and enthusiasm for Supercharged Outlaw racing and not tied to any team. He or she would be working alongside Roy Wilding, Johnny Hall and Dave 'Fuzzie' McKenzie.
©Eurodragster.com
For more information, call Roy Wilding on 0121 552 7188, drop Johnny Hall an E-Mail at johnnyholeshot@btinternet.com, or drop Fuzzie an E-Mail at david.mckenzie3@ntlworld.com. You can find the Supercharged Outlaw web site at www.superchargedoutlawsuk.com.

Work stacks up at PMR.
9th February: Time is fast running out in the Paul Marston Racing workshop as the countdown to the beginning of the season continues. "The off-season sees a host of activities, with work continuing on every race car in the stable", says Paul Marston.

"The updates and refurbishments on Grumpy's Dodge have become a lot more than just comprehensive, only the original paint scheme will be left untouched. We have taken the opportunity to make many more improvements whilst other work is carried out, not dissimilar to last year when we saw the Paul Marston Racing Drag Race Driving School Insanity Chevy Vega go through a major refurbishment.

"Grumpy's Dodge sure is keeping us busy and we are loving every minute, completion should be within the next two weeks then the interesting stuff testing! Everyone is excited to see how Grumpy turns out, maybe answering the tantalising question: will Grumpy be quick enough for Super Gas?

"The PT Bruiser is next in line, with some major engine development taking place which hopefully should result in the crew enjoying a more manageable maintenance schedule whilst double-classing in both Super Comp and Super Pro ET during 2004. The ex-Jari Konola Pro Stock Motor is already removed from the PT Bruiser chassis rails for a full overhaul. As with all development work it will be done when its done, so with the additional workshop resources being spent on Grumpy, the clock is ticking and time is starting to become a concern. That and what kind of weather we get in February and early March will factor themselves in. With so much new equipment to test on the PT Bruiser there are real concerns as to weather the PT Bruiser will be ready in time for the Easter Thunderball. It would after all be naive just to assemble the PT Bruiser, roll up and expect either the new package to work perfectly first time or the weather to give us a break if we needed one. That just does not happen.

"With the level of competition and preparation you can expect from the teams competing today, things will be tough from the get-go. To arrive at the first National Event of the 2004 season without testing would be foolish - eliminations day would be short and disappointing! This possible scenario is despite the monumental efforts currently being put in by so many people, starting with John Sleath for the initial chassis work, thanks mate. Grumpy's Dodge was delivered from John Sleath Race Cars directly to Gary at Jeep Club (0208 501 4471) for the remaining work, which is comprehensive: not just the chassis work but a freshen of the motor too; plus of course Dave Corrigan from Paul Marston Racing who has been working on Grumpy full-time since arriving at Jeep Club; General Manager Dave Kalisz who is orchestrating the materials required and the arrival of new parts. And of course I am making the tea, sorting everyone's lunch and getting in the way! Whilst this continues Dave Gibbons, the intrepid pilot of our Alien altered, is carefully fabricating the new sheet metal intake manifolding for the PT Bruiser, in his own workshop away from all this chaos.

"Compounding the situation even further is a very enticing offer I have recently received to drive in America early in the year. If this does happen it will mean there will be some tough decisions to be made, as we fully intended to be a force to be reckoned with in the 2004 National Championships. So as you can gather its busier than ever, but we are living the dream in our own little way and would not have it any different.

"However any of the above turns out, none of it affects the Paul Marston Racing Drag Race Driving School and Drag Race Passenger Ride Experience, which will open its doors as usual with a nicely-upgraded Grumpy's Dodge (Yummy - booked-in Ed) and the Insanity Chevy Vega as soon as the season starts. All of the 2004 dates can be found at www.paulmarstonracing.com. The bookings are coming in daily at the moment, so to sign up or for enquiries please call us at the office on 0208 597 4575 or call my mobile on 07831 650230.

"I must say a very special Thank You to all of the Paul Marston Racing Crew, whose efforts are really second to none. Thanks also to everyone at Jeep Club (0208 501 4471); Dave Gibbons; Disco Equipment Hire and Black Box London Limited (0208 597 4575); and to our sponsors Chrysler UK, ChryslerCard, MAC Tools, Disco Equipment Hire, Black Box London, London Road Tyres and all of our contingency sponsors. Without your help and faith we would not exist."

Tune in to tomorrow's Eurodragster News for an announcement from Paul Marston Racing.

Web site updates.
9th February: The latest update to Chris Dossett's excellent Trakbyte's UK Drag Racing History web site features more photos from the Tim Claxton collection, the first of a series of race reports from Clive Rooms, six more pages in the Dos Palmos Diaries and a new addition to the Anecdotes page from Stu Bradbury (which is absolutely hysterical - Ed). There are also more requests for help in the Help Us Find... section, the latest of which is from the current owner of the Pubcrawler who wishes to contact a previous owner of the same car. Finally there are new entries in the Hall Of Fame files for John Hobbs, Dennis Priddle, Allan Herridge and The Stones. Check out the What's New section to see all the latest updates at www.trakbytes.com.
©Eurodragster.com
Parkinson spending Every Penny.
8th February: UK Super Pro ET racer John Parkinson is making good progress in rebuilding the Every Penny Racing dragster which was involved in a top end two-car crash with Gary Malin at Shakespeare County Raceway in 2002. John tells us that we should be seeing him back on the track in 2004.

"We always knew that it would be a while before we would return after the crash, but we will", says John. "We are returning this season - maybe not at the start, but we are determined to come back and run again as soon as possible. We have not been idle over the winter, but due to work and other commitments within the crew progress has been slow, and of course the big word money played its part in the progress.

"The chassis has been re-built at the Paul Stubbings Emporium for Lost and Stray Chassis. Despite the look of the car after the crash it was a fairly easy job. The centre section was not touched at all apart from the roll cage front hoop, and extensive measurements revealed that it did not deflect in any way. Using that as the starting point we cut off the bent front - the back was already gone - and laid up some new tubing courtesy of Andy Robinson onto Paul's jig, and using the cross brace that holds the steering rack we re-aligned the front end and tacked it up in place.

"Next we turned our attention to the non-existent rear end, and after a lot of pondering and backwards and forwards with a tape measure we decided that we ought to change the back end in the new car. The crash happened because the back axle seized in the lights - we lost twenty six of the forty one teeth on the crown wheel on that fateful run, it must have been spitting teeth all the way. At this point fate took a hand because resting in Paul's drive was the Krypton car which Wendy drove in Top Methanol. I think that Paul and I knew that in that car was the rear which we needed. A phone call was made to Dave Wilson, and we bought the entire back end of the Krypton set-up, from the motor plate back .
©Eurodragster.com
"The task of re-building the back end suddenly became easy. We not only had the mechanical parts, but also the chassis which it came out of to copy. Did I say easy? Andy Robinson didn't think so when I turned up at his place one day with a piece of copper pipe which Paul and I had bent to mimic the top and bottom rails on Krypton. I'd like to say what an experience it was watching Andy work out how to bend the moly to match our pipe; a totally professional job using not only experience but an array of digital inclinometers. I'm not sure Andy wants another job like that though!

"The only part of the centre section which was damaged was the front hoop on the cage, but rather than just replace that we opted for a complete new cage, again from Andy Robinson and in kit form. A jig was made to form the new A-arms up front, and the next week it was out of Paul's and back home with me.

"At last we turned our attention to the engine, which on a cursory inspection after the crash seemed OK, but in the back of my mind I was dreading pulling it right down. When the car came to a rest, almost upside down, and I realised that I was OK I thought 'I can hear a motor running, I wonder if it is mine', and sure enough when I hit the kill switch the noise stopped. So I was half expecting to find the bearings shot at the very least. But they are almost perfect, a tribute to the Babbit bearings that we run; they will be replaced but are certainly serviceable as spares. The only other damage was to the side of the timing cover which took the full force of the front motor plate when the bolts sheared in the block and the plate came sideways towards the centre of the motor.

"We had to buy a new hat for the top of the blower but under it will sit the same engine, running through a triple-plate Crower pedal clutch which sits inside an eight and one eighth Browell can, which in turn will go through a B and J three-speed box with reverser and shifted by air. This lot exits into a nine and a half Strange rear end, and into new wheels and tyres.

"Those of you who are in the sport will appreciate just how much that little lot costs, and how much time we have spent on putting it all together whilst holding down a steady job. I think we are all mad but hey, how else can you have this much fun - with your clothes on that is.

"In closing I'd like to say what a great bunch of guys we have out there in our sport, right through from those who offer parts and services as a living down to the ordinary racers like ourselves, and one guy in particular. Gary Malin, you are a star, mate."

Swift snippets.
8th February: The UK's The Fang Supertwin Modified team are doing well in their preparation for 2004, says Carl Wadkin Snaith. "Saturday saw the new billet big bore cylinder block nearly finished", says Carl. "On the News 2004 page at www.thefang.co.uk you can see photographs of how the block was carved from a chunk of heat-treated aluminium, plus first photo of the new Eaton supercharger mounted in the chassis. Would any Junior Dragbike racers who have anything for sale please get in touch, as a For sale page is under construction. I would also like to hear from any new teams planning to contest the 2004 series: please contact me carl@turnertech.co.uk."
©Eurodragster.com
Web site updates.
8th February: The official web site of Holland's Explosion Drag Racing Club has had a facelift, says Henriette Selles. "There will be more updates, so stay tuned for the latest news about Dutch drag racing", adds Henriette. You can find the Explosion Club web site at www.explosion.nl.
©Eurodragster.com
2004 CCSE rules set.
7th February: The 2004 rules for the UK's Custom Car Street Eliminator have been set and are now available from the offices of Custom Car magazine. The rules were finalised this week by CC Editor Kev Elliott and Co-ordinator Lee Child.

Amongst the changes to this year's rules are the removal of the requirement for alternate-lane qualifying; Frontrunners allowed for on-track use because of increasing speeds; and a change in the points structure. "The new rules will spice up the CCSE Championship", says Lee Child who sponsors CCSE and Eurodragster's Links pages through his company LA Racing Parts.
©Eurodragster.com
To register for this year's Custom Car Street Eliminator and to receive a copy of the rules, send a cheque for £15 payable to Kelsey Publishing Ltd to:

Custom Car Street Eliminator
Kelsey Publishing Ltd
Cudham Tithe Barn
Berry's Hill
Cudham
Kent
TN16 3AG

Lee tells us that ninety per cent of the series sponsors have already renewed for 2004. Don't forget that CCSE will be represented at next weekend's Xtreme Wheels Show at London's Alexandra Palace; we understand from Lee that there will be some interesting vehicles on the Custom Car stand.

First SPR entry forms posted.
7th February: We are indebted to Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Paula Marshall for supplying the first batch of entry forms for events at Santa Pod Raceway this season. This is the first part in a project to make all UK event entry forms available on-line in a number of different locations to make things as convenient as possible for racers and protect against server failure. This year, entry forms include clearly-labelled entry dates - see our report on the UK Riders' and Drivers' Meeting on 1st February for more details about the new conditions on late entry.

The following entry forms are available on the Entry Forms page of the SPRC web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc:
©Eurodragster.com
Easter Thunderball all forms except Top Fuel Bike
Big Bang
FIA Main Event UK National Championship classes
SPRC Summernationals
Bug Jam
FIA European Finals UK National Championship classes
UK National Finals all forms except Top Fuel Bike

FIA/FIM-class entry forms for the FIA Main Event and FIA European Finals and the entry form for the Flame and Thunder Show will all be made available within the next week or so; entry forms for all Top Fuel Bike rounds and the On2Wheels event, which is currently a round of the UK National 9.90 Bike and 10.90 Bike Championships, will be made available as soon as the issues surrounding TFB and On2Wheels are resolved.

Swift snippets.
7th February: 2003 FIA European Top Methanol Dragster Champion Dave Wilson and the American Car Imports Racing team are testing in the USA for the second weekend running, this time at Firebird Raceway in Arizona. You will be able to stay in touch with events at Firebird on the Drag Race Central web site at www.dragracecentral.com and on the NHRA's web site at www.nhra.com. We will bring you any news we receive from the team over the weekend.
©Eurodragster.com
Krivan's (ski) run of luck continues.
6th February: Swiss Top Methanol Funny Car racer Dezsoe Krivan is fast following the likes of Dave Wilson, Ronny Aaasen, Gary Malin and Ian Hook in suffering everyone else's share of bad luck as well as his own. Not long ago Dezsoe lost his Funny Car and a lot of other kit after the building in which his Shop was located burnt to the ground, but team member Steve Wilson tells us that unfortunately it hasn't ended there.

"We had our 2003 season review dinner last Sunday", says Steve. "The plan was to discuss the forthcoming season. Here is what happened:

Setback No. 1: After our disastrous fire last year when we lost our operation, we have been looking for new premises. No luck so far; either the places were too big, too small or we couldn't get access with the truck to load the car and equipment. So we are still checking out premises.

Setback No. 2: We are still looking for a car. It was suggested that we do what we did at Hockenheim during the 'cracklefest': as we hadn't finished the motor we mounted the body onto a trolley and pushed it down the track. It was dark and people didn't notice until we started making 'vroom vroom' noises. But this was dismissed as it would be too quick, and Dez is already off his trolley anyway!
©Eurodragster.com
Setback No. 3: Sunday morning, the day of the dinner, and Dez and his good lady Iris decide to go skiing in Engelberg, the mountain ski resort where I live. Ah yes it's the life here, après-ski martinis with Roger Moore, the celebrity of it all. Anyway on one of the runs Dez stops but his knee doesn't - yes, the knee carries on and Dez falls over, to be brought down by the mountain rescue ski patrol. So now Dez's clutch leg is kaput with two operations and months of recuperation required.

"So...best foot forward - or in Dez's case best crutch forward. As a team we pulled together, Dez fell over because we pulled his crutch (that's crutch, missus), and the team plan is to go out and purchase the best parts, spares and equipment; spend the summer building up our resources; do some team training to be as professional as we can; and come back soon fighting fit.

"We hope to be able to do some shows and exhibitions in the meantime, do some PR stuff, and visit races to spy on the other teams. Hah!

"The team would like to thank Dez and Iris for an excellent Christmas dinner, and Dez would like to thank the restaurant for having a disabled toilet."

Dezsoe's web site at www.dragracing.ch has been updated with some video clips from 2003, including a short home movie of the cacklefest at Hockenheim.

Milam to sit out 2004.
6th February: UK Top Methanol Funny Car racer Steph Milam is to sit out 2004. Steph had a very good year in 2003, setting new personal bests on just about every outing, but the unfortunate pause in the car's development is necessitated by the self-funded team's need to replenish their bank account.
©Eurodragster.com
"We have funded the car out of our own pockets for four years", says Steph's husband and Crew Chief Dave. "To continue to improve upon out performance we need to have a year off to recoup funds, and ideally find outside backing."

The team have not been idle, however, as they have updated their official web site at www.shedevilracing.com and Dave tells us that they will continue to update it throughout the season. If you are interested in sponsoring Steph then you can contact her through the web site.

Doignie to Fly again.
6th February: Proving yet again that you can't keep an old a good racer down, UK Super Gas racer Stuart Doignie tells us that his dad Bob will be contesting Custom Car Street Eliminator in 2004. Bob sold his Flying Doctor Super Street 'Pop in 2003 and he is now working on the CCSE project. "Although Bob won't be a serious contender, he's looking forward to having some fun!", says Stuart.
©Eurodragster.com
Stuart tells us that Bob's car is to be a 1979 Toyota Celica ST with original floorpan and eight inch wide rubber. The motor is a brand-new 347 Ford stroker built by Bennet Racing in the USA, featuring steel crank, H-beam rods, Ross pistons, TFS full CNC heads, T and D shaft rockers and full CNC Victor Junior. "It only has a mild nitrous hydraulic roller cam at the moment and should push out around 520BHP without the gas", says Stuart. "A nitrous kit has not yet been purchased but expect to see one when the car hits the strip, hopefully in May. The motor has been built to take 750bhp with the block being the limiting factor.

"On the back of the 347 is a C4 and 3500 nitrous converter. The plans are for wheels-up nine-second passes on eight-inch street rubber!"

Clarification: FIA helmet standard.
5th February: We are indebted to UK Tech Inspector Geoff Martin for sending us a clarification of an issue concerning crash helmets valid for FIA competition. The FIA declared Helmet Standard Snell SA95 no longer valid for International Competition, but after consultation Geoff tells us that this declaration does not apply to drag racing and so Snell SA95 helmets can be used.

"Carl Olson (FIA Drag Racing Commision) has been in contact with Ian Brown (FIA Tech)", says Geoff. "Ian Brown agreed that in the FIA Regulations, Appendix J, Tech List No 25, 'Drag Racing' was not a 'Named Sport', therefore Drag Race Helmet Standards should be as listed in the FIA Drag Racing Regulations.
©Eurodragster.com
"This decision has been communicated to the MSA at Colnbrook, so there should be no anomalies between Sportsman and Pro Class scrutineering. I know that that this will be too late for some racers who have already purchased a new helmet. The redeeming factor is that SA2000 is a step up in helmet standards safety-wise."

Geoff also tells us that racers who require a new chassis tech check should if possible come to Santa Pod Raceway on Friday 27th February for the SFI Day, as both Chassis Inspectors will be present. "Thanks to Kjell Pettersson, we hope to have the use of the Bar tent in the event of rain", says Geoff.

If you have any queries then you can drop Geoff a line at geoffrey.martin4@btopenworld.com.

If it takes 4.8s...
5th February: Carbon By Design Top Fuel Dragster team owner Knut Söderquist has already decided the game plan for the three cars which he will be fielding this season in the hands of Micke Kågered, Jöran Persåker and Lex Joon.

"We plan to run a little quicker than in 2003", he says. "We will be tuning for low 4.9s, or high 4.8s when needed. We won't be tuning for 4.6s!"

Knut has recently been working on putting together the race operation for Lex Joon, who will be licencing at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway in April. "I've been preparing the trailer, I have prepared the dragster's body panels for Lex's colour scheme, and I have got the crew together", says Knut. "Lex is a very good racer and I am very glad that he is racing with us. I think he will be very successful in Top Fuel."
©Eurodragster.com
Fellow CBD team member Jöran Persåker's licencing passes will now be taking place at the pre-FIA Main Event Test Day at Santa Pod Raceway in May, says Knut. "Micke Kågered's new car and Jöran's car (which Micke raced last season - Ed) are still being worked on", he says. "We will bring both cars over together in May and Jöran will run the week before the Main Event."

Knut has a fourth Top Fueller available, with a number of racers reportedly working on deals to take the seat in 2003. "Hopefully there will be an announcement within the next week about that", says Knut. "Nothing is definite and we may end up running just the three cars. If we do run a fourth dragster then I am working on getting Bill Schultz to come over from the USA this year to ease the load on Alan Jackson". Stay tuned for more from the Carbon By Design pit.

Winding up The Mob.
4th February: The UK's The Mob Fuel Altered team are planning to commence testing early this season as they continue to come back from problems at the start of 2003.

"We did a lot of damage early last year", says driver Mickey Moore. "We wound the tune-up right back and then started to move it forward again. We were making changes through the year but we now think that the mag was going off. We have a new mag for this season and we hope that it will sort the problems out."

Crew Chief Ollie Burn, Mickey and the Mob team have made some other minor changes to the engine of the popular Altered. "We have moved the fuel tank breather and put in a bigger fuel line from the tank to the fuel pump", says Mickey. "We will strip and refurbish the engine and then we will be ready for testing."

Mickey says that the team want to test the Altered out of competition, either at Shakespeare County Raceway or Santa Pod Raceway, before taking match race bookings for 2003. "Last year we were putting plugs out so we have to make sure that we know why", says Mickey. "We'll do a burnout, then shut the car down and check the engine; then we will do a burnout and a launch then shut down and check the engine, and so on. We were also marking liners last year, we had teflon-coated pistons which marked the chromoly liners, but we solved that by getting pistons which weren't teflon-coated."
©Eurodragster.com
Mickey is looking forward to renewing old acquaintances at the track in 2004. "Phil Cornish is building a Fuel Altered and should be testing this year, we always want to beat Jim Seward of course, and Clive Mechaell will be there when he's invited - he's still the main man and he's good fun", says Mickey. "Fuel Altered people all seem to be similar personalities, serious when they need to be and a good laugh the rest of the time. We all love Fuel Altered racing and it's what we can afford to do. And Fuel Altereds are the most entertaining! Entertaining the spectators is what it is all about, although sometimes it is too easy to forget it. You have to enjoy what you do or there's no point in doing it. I am doubly fortunate to have such a dedicated crew around me. They are the right people and that counts for a lot. We have known each other for thirty years, originally from three separate teams but we've been racing together and pooling our expertise since the 1980s."

The self-financed team have acquired product support this season from Birmingham-based Sonic, who have supplied ship-to-shore radios so that Mickey is in contact with Ollie Burn and other team members. "I specified that there should be a volume control so that I can turn Ollie down, because he talks loud anyway!", says Mickey.

Team member Mike recently got engaged to Karen but Mickey says that she knows what she is letting herself in for. "We told her it's love me, love my team!", he says. "Karen comes racing with us so she knows what it is all about. But we told her that she's engaged to all of us!"

You can find the team's official web site at www.themob.org.uk.

CCSE racers take on the world.
4th February: UK Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Andy Frost is in the advanced stages of organising a race between four street-legal racers each from the UK, US and Canada, to be held in the USA early in 2005.

The four Custom Car Street Eliminator racers representing the UK are Steve Pateman, Steve Neimantas, John Sleath and Andy Frost. The US and Canadians are yet to be decided. "We have already had a great deal of interest in this 'World Street Race' from US and UK companies, media etc", says Andy. "Obviously the logistics are immense, but having spoken to shipping companies in the UK and track managers and race organisers in the US I'm confident that any obstacles can be overcome, however many come along.

"At the moment it is way ahead, but this sort of undertaking has to be planned long-term. I am now looking for companies who want to get involved in what will be the biggest world Street Racing event ever as never before have the UK, US and Canada faced up to each other in one country. Any interested companies can E-Mail me on andy@redvictor1racing.co.uk. I will be able to give more information (track,affiliation, prize money etc.) as soon as a few little points are ironed out."

New driver for Freddy's Revenge?
4th February: Not quite yet, but what can a racer buy his son for his birthday? Dave Grabham, pilot of the Grabham and Carter families' Freddy's Revenge blown-alcohol Altered, hired Santa Pod Raceway's Junior Dragster for son Robbie's 13th birthday.
©Eurodragster.com
With instruction from Dave Mills and expert guidance from Chris and Ricky Emms, Robbie made six passes up Santa Pod's quarter mile last Sunday, 1st February. "Facing into a strong headwind, Robbie managed a best run of 16.642 seconds at 34.64mph on the cold, damp track", says Dave Grabham. "Hils and I would like to pass on our thanks to Dave, Chris and Ricky for a very enjoyable and well-organised day."

Despite Dave's protestations, Robbie may be set to take over the wheel of the Altered, even going as far as to have his own hero card produced, at right - click on the picture to view a larger version.

Bikes join Xtreme line-up.
4th February: Further to last Wednesday's update on the four-wheeled attendance at next week's Xtreme Wheels Show at London's Alexandra Palace, PR Dan Welberry has been in touch to bring us up to date with drag racing's two-wheeled representatives.

"As mentioned last week, Ian King will have his Top Fuel Bike on display, and the Show will host the public début of the bike's new paint scheme", says Dan. "Ian's bike will be joined by:
  • Paul Valentine, 9.90 Bike
  • Richard Gipp, Pro Stock Bike
  • Ian Berry, Super Street Bike and Funny Bike
  • Paul Pittourtou, Super Street Bike
  • Sandra Chaplain, Think Pink Racing Pro Mod bike
  • Martin Bishop, Pro Stock bike
"It is hoped that the Mynheer stand will also include some wild two-wheeled machines with some outstanding paint jobs. One of these machines is said to be worth 70,000!"
©Eurodragster.com
Dan also tells us that although there is a long list of traders already attending Xtreme Wheels, there is still some room available for any traders wishing to have a stand at the Show. "If you are interested in trading at Xtreme Wheels then call 01425 277342 - you have nothing to lose and it may cost less than you imagine!", says Dan.

Xtreme Wheels is open to the public on Saturday and Sunday of next week, 14th-15th February. For full details including ticket prices and bookings, check out the Show's official web site at www.xtremewheels2004.com.

Web site updates.
4th February: The official web site of Swedish Pro Mod racer Håkan Nilsson has been updated with a 2003 season review and pictures of some memorable (for whatever reason) moments. Check it out at www.nilssonmotorsports.com.
©Eurodragster.com
Runaway from damp.
3rd February: UK Outlaw Anglia racer Bob Hancox has been in touch with advice which residents of damp climates will find very useful.

"After completing several courses working for the American government I have found that the following works", says Bob. "If you have a damp garage get an ordinary fan-blowing heater, set it to cold air blow, and leave it running all the time. This keeps the air circulating, keeping the damp off all your expensive parts. I have told a few other racers and they have also found it works."
©Eurodragster.com
Bob's wild Prefect Runaway, doubtless a grateful recipient of this advice, is currently undergoing major work. "Yes, the car is up for sale", says Bob, but this is only to make another move in a different direction (racing-wise). Unless we get the right deal the car will stay with us and be out this year if work commitments allow. We're looking forward to seeing everyone when the new season starts."

Take every chance you get...
3rd February: Our good buddy Christer Abrahamson of Svensk Dragracing grabbed the chance to promote drag racing at last week's Autoteknik show at Jönköping in Sweden. Christer put his track announcing and TV presentation experience to good use on Kågered Racing's display as the team put on their mehanics' show.

"Team Kågered put on a very good show", says Christer. It draws a lot of attention and is short enough to keep the visitors' interest for the whole session. It is, of course, also a very good opportunity to market the FIA Championships and drag racing in general. I had a microphone and ten to fifteen minutes to talk, I wasn't going to miss that chance!"
©Eurodragster.com
Christer has updated the Svensk Dragracing web site at www.dragracing.se with photographs from Autoteknik as well as details of the SFI Tour's Swedish stop.

Web site updates.
3rd February: The excellent European Pro Mod Racers Association web site at www.promod.nu has also been updated with details of this year's SFI Tour, as well as a vote on this year's NDRS Bilsport Pro Mod Champion.
©Eurodragster.com
UK Super Street Bike and Top Fuel Bike racers should note the update immediately below to Sunday's news about the On2Wheels event at Santa Pod and the fourth ACU Top Fuel Bike round.

Extra event for UK bike racers.
1st February: Racers in the UK's 9.90 Bike and 10.90 Bike have an extra National Championship round in 2004, it was announced at today's UK Riders' and Drivers' Meeting. Santa Pod Raceway's On Two Wheels bike-only event on Saturday 21st August will be hosting the Championship round, with qualifying in the morning and eliminations in the afternoon. The entry fee will be £90.
©Eurodragster.com
Update 3rd February: Since we originally posted this news item the inclusion of ACU Super Street Bike at the On2Wheels event and the fourth ACU Top Fuel Bike round at the UK National Finals appear to have become the subjects of some confusion. Santa Pod Raceway, Santa Pod Racers Club and ACU Championship Co-ordinator Ian King are currently in discussion about the status of these rounds. You can find an explanation on the Pit Lane Gossip page of the King racing web site at www.kingracing.com. We will bring you clarification as soon as we receive it.

Stay tuned for more details about the On Two Wheels event, and see below for more information from today's Riders' and Drivers' Meeting.

UK Riders' and Drivers' report.
1st February: The annual UK Riders' and Drivers' meeting took place this afternoon (Sunday) at the Diamond Centre in Irthlingborough. The official minutes of the meeting will be published in due course but these are the main points:

Dates confirmed so far for the UK Championships are as follow:

2004 UK National Championships for Super Pro ET, Pro ET, Sportsman ET, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Junior Dragster, 9.90 Bike and 10.90 Bike:

10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
28th-31st May: FIA Main Event, Santa Pod Raceway
12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
21st August: On Two Wheels, Santa Pod Raceway 9.90 Bike, 10.90 Bike only
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
9th-12th September: FIA European Finals, Santa Pod Raceway
2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2004 MSA British Drag Racing Championship for Top Methanol:

10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2004 UK National Pro Modified Championship:

10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
28th-31st May: FIA Main Event, Santa Pod Raceway
12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
9th-12th September: FIA European Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2004 UK National Super Modified Championship:
©Eurodragster.com
10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
23rd-25th July: Bug Jam, Santa Pod Raceway
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2004 ACU UK Top Fuel Bike Championship (subject to change):

10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway TBC

2004 ACU UK Drag Bike Championships for Funny Bike, Pro Stock Bike, Comp Bike and Super Street Bike (subject to change):

10th-12th April: Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
26th-27th June: SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
21st August: On Two Wheels, Santa Pod Raceway Super Street Bike TBC
2nd-3rd October: UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway

2004 Junior Drag Bike Championship:

1st-3rd May: Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
12th-13th June: Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
28th-30th August: Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway

This year's Entry Fees are as follow. The increases are mainly due to an increase in paramedic costs at both tracks, and increased insurance costs primarily with the ACU.

  One to two-day event Three-day event Four-day event
MSA British Top Methanol; MSA British Nitro Funny Car; Pro Modified £110 £120 £130
ET classes; Super classes; Super Modified; Custom Car Street Eliminator; VW classes; Wild Bunch; other car classes £85 £95 £105
Junior Dragster; Junior Drag Bike £50 £60 £70
ACU Top Fuel Bike £115 £125 £135
ACU Funny Bike; ACU Pro Stock Bike; ACU Comp Bike; ACU Super Street Bike; 9.90 Bike; 10.90 Bike; NAST Supertwin classes £90 £100 £110

Prize funds for National Championship classes are to be increased by ten per cent across the board. This year's prize funds will shortly be made available via Eurodragster. As from 2005 prize funds will increase in line with inflation.

As previously mentioned on Eurodragster, the rules regarding Late Entry are to be tightened. The official closing date will be three weeks before an event. Late entry, at the Club's discretion, will incur an additional charge of £40 for the following two weeks, and entry will be completely closed one week before an event. FIA and FIM/UEM classes have their own entry deadline which is four weeks before an event. Payment for late entry will no longer be accepted at the track. The deadline for cancellation with return of entry fee is one week before an event.

Also previously mentioned on Eurodragster, Registration at the start of the season is no longer necessary (and thus saves the £10 fee). However both Clubs would be grateful if racers could fill in and return a Vehicle Information Form for the benefit of the track announcers.

Entry forms will no longer be posted to racers as a matter of course; entry forms for all events at both tracks will be available for downloading from SPRC and APIRA's web sites. If racers have no internet access and cannot get forms by any other means (for example via a friend or fellow racer) then Clubs will post forms, but only on specific request.

Other important points to note:

Random alcohol testing will be taking place this season of anyone signed-on - racers, crew and officials. The alcohol limit will not be the legal limit for the road but a strictly-enforced zero. Details of testing methods and penalties will be made available as soon as finalised.

All racers in whatever class will this season be required to have a fire extinguisher in their pit to conform to Health and Safety requirements. This is in addition to the fire extinguisher system on the race vehicle. Details, including recommended equipment, will be released shortly.

Junior Dragsters will be required to use a flag when towing in the pits as outlined in the class rules.

Pro ET on sponsor search.
1st February: The UK's Pro ET racers are searching for class sponsors for 2004, says Bob Regis.

"Carl Burton of English Rose Racing is proposing to try to find sponsors for the class", says Bob. "If there are no objections from Pro ET racers, he will try to find companies willing to sponsor Perfect Light, closest ET, Best-Appearing Team etc. To qualify for prizes, each team would be required to run company stickers, distribute any stickers, business cards etc. to satisfy sponsors, complete a small registration form and possibly pay a £5 registration fee. If any racers have any ideas or objections then please E-Mail admin@pro-et.co.uk for posting on the web site. At the moment Carl will only try to find sponsors for the Santa Pod events, if anyone would like to do the same for Shakespeare County events please E-Mail Carl directly at burton@coates234.fsnet.co.uk or via the Pro ET web site."
©Eurodragster.com
The UK Pro ET web site at www.pro-et.co.uk has had a revamp with a complete redesign and new Classified Ads section. "Any Pro ET racers who would like to feature their car, team and sponsors can do so with their own dedicated web page", says Bob. "Please send us your news, photos and anything else you would like to see included on the web site."


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. News articles may not be copied or published elsewhere without the written permission of 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.