Words by Matt Willis
After a quick bite at a local Fontana restaurant (Jack in the Box), we headed back to the speedway to check out the final runs. It was around now that the track became exceptionally sticky after being in the heat all day. The officiators were frustrated because none of the drivers or teams would heed their advice, recommending that they increase their tire pressures slightly so they can move off the line quicker. Many of the Pro-Am FWDs had difficulty getting off the line because the tires would “grab, grab, grab”, creating a stuttering effect until the car gained enough forward momentum to even out. Nevertheless, with everybody afraid to reconfigure, it made for some close calls and great racing.
When we got back, the cars were already lined up in their respective lanes.
The turbo Z06 we saw earlier in the day was getting the track warmed up…
This 70s Celica had some trouble getting out of the gate. From my standpoint, I recall hearing the driver drop the clutch and what sounded like the gears grinding. I thought…maybe the car wasn’t in gear…that is, until I heard a loud “BANG”.
One of the officials went out to check it out…
The transaxle had separated from the differential…ouch. This is partially why, in my opinion, I would never get involved in drag racing…I love it and all, but the repairs would just be off the chart! This car wasn’t the only victim…FWD axles were snapping all day…
The tow truck came in, along with a value pack of towels to clean up the fluid…
And the residue was torched to eliminate any slippery remains.
Shot of the flag after the playing of the National Anthem…
This R32 Skyline had some great runs.
White GSR on street tires had some trouble hooking up on the sticky track.
Late 90s Lumina making smoke with just the right wheel.
Civic hatchback with JDM Integra front end…kind of makes me twitch, but doesn’t look too bad. Much better than when they try to do the same with the US front end…
Tony Tabet’s Sol keeping the lead…
And another…current model WRX Sedan…
In the interest of time, Tim and I decided to head out early after some extensive delays on the track. There were some very close matches and I would have loved see the final few runs but we had to take off. At the time this was written, I was expecting to have the results finalized. Strangely enough, IDRC has not posted the official results as of yet. Based on various sources, the internet consensus seems to point to:
FWD Outlaw winner as Anthony Dinallo, 9.27 @ 167 mph (Black EG)
FWD All Motor winner as Scott Kelley, 9.88 @ 164 mph (Scion xB)
As the official results come through, I will update them here. Not sure if they’re having difficulty with the scoring or rules or what…but as soon as we hear anything we will advise.
Anyways, that seals up the IDRC coverage. The circuit should return in Spring 2012 and we’ll do our best to bring you all the action once again. Be sure to follow our Facebook page for more updates.
Thanks for reading! – Matt
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