FREE TESTING, FREE MONEY AT THE "ROCK"

In case you haven't heard, Steve Earwood, owner of Rockingham Dragway, and Jeff Burk, owner of this magazine, are staging a Winter "Test Fest" February 26-28 at the "Rock." Earwood had some problems with the track surface early in 2003 and consequently had the track surface replaced (not only once but twice) in order return it to the "legendary" status it has enjoyed through the years. The racers were rewarded with a track that yielded record numbers during the unique IHRA "double nationals" held at the end of the 2003 season.

In an effort to show all pro racers that the "Rock" has indeed finally returned as the premier track in the Carolinas, Rockingham Dragway will host a free, repeat free, three-day test session and Saturday extravaganza.

The Agent was shocked to learn that Earwood is going to let all Professional Class racers in at no charge for three days including not only Pro Mod, Pro Street, Pro Stock, and Ten-Wide cars, but will also open the gates for all Top Fuel and Pro Stock Harleys. The only catch is that the quickest two Pro Mods and Pro Stockers will have to run a no-entry fee, dash for cash on Saturday. That's the good news; the bad news

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(if there is any) is that on Saturday when there will be Jet Cars and other assorted circus acts along with the Pro Cars who are still testing there will be a fee for spectators, tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the gate (cheap!). Among those racers who have already committed to attend include Charles Carpenter (photo), Pat Moore, Quain Stott, Paul Athey, and Alaska racer Mike Prockish. Also confirmed are Top Fuel Harley racer Bill Furr and Pro Mod Harley racer Shawn Reno.

Stott and Prockish have told the Agent that since the rules are open, if everything goes well they intend to try to break into the fives. Oh boy! [2-6-2004]

IT'S PAINTED BUTT UGLY

The new Monte Carlo Fuel flopper bodies arrived at Phoenix for testing this weekend. A couple of the Agent's operatives saw the bodies and said that they took the infamous "Batmobile" style Buick bodies that the Arrivette Brothers built for Kenny Bernstein years back to the next level. Soon after they were spotted at Firebird uncovered, they were quickly covered, put on a truck and reportedly sent back to Indianapolis for a fresh paint scheme.

The Agent isn't saying that the paint scheme wasn't acceptable, but several spectators who were seen taking pictures of the bodies were asked if they would please not put the photos on the internet. The Agent thinks DRO probably won't get a photo but it's a good bet someone will. [2-6-2004]