Jack Beckman Has Funny Car Run In NHRA History... Again
BRAINERD, Minn. (AP) — Jack Beckman had the quickest Funny Car run in NHRA history for the third straight event Saturday, powering his Dodge Charger to a 3.901-second pass in qualifying for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway.
Beckman also had fastest speed in NHRA history at 325.69 mph
Beckman, who posted a 3.921 at Sonoma, California, and a 3.912 in Kent, Washington, in the previous two events, will need to post a time of 3.940 seconds or quicker Sunday to certify the 3.901 as a national record — which carries a 20-point bonus.
"I am very satisfied with the 3.901 and the speed record," said Beckman, a five-time event winner this season. "It's been a long time since I've had a speed record. I saw John Force run that 3.93 right in front of us. But then there goes (crew chiefs) Jimmy (Prock), John (Medlen) and Chris (Cunningham) again. It's so interesting when you see a car that's this unbelievable; it's like everything becomes believable. I love our chances tomorrow and I feel incredibly comfortable."
NHRA canceled the final qualifying session because of persistent rain showers and the threat of a thunderstorm.
Richie Crampton led Top Fuel qualifying, Shane Gray topped the Pro Stock field, and Andrew Hines was the fastest in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Crampton had a 3.718 at 323.50, Gray powered his Chevrolet Camaro to a 6.607 at 209.20, and Hines had a 6.937 at 190.54 on a Harley-Davidson.
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