SURVIVORS AT IHRA

The ACCEL Sportsman Survivor Series for Mr. Gasket Pro-Am Tour will begin at IHRA events. This special sportsman program, contested during the World Finals at Rockingham (N.C.) Dragway October 22 - 24, consists of the top eight racers in each of the seven Mr. Gasket Pro-Am Tour classes based on the national point standings. The racers will be paired and run-off, resulting in a winner for each class.

"With a total purse of $70,000 up for grabs, plus the prestige that a victory as the Final Survivor will generate, we feel this will certainly spice up the sportsman ranks," said Mr. Gasket Vice President of Marketing, Dennis Rogers.

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The payout schedule: winner - $5,000, runner-up - $1,500, semi-finalist - $750, first round qualifier - $500.

The program will officially begin April 25, in conjunction with the IHRA Spring Nationals in Rockingham, N.C. All participants will be awarded the full points value of any events they have participated in up to that point.

"We have completed a handful of Pro-Am events in Division 2 and want those drivers to have an equal shot at qualifying. By awarding everyone their full points value for any events they have completed in up to April 25, we can start off in Rockingham on a level playing field," said Skooter Peaco, IHRA Director of Racing Operations.

In 2005 and beyond, the program will begin January 1 and continue to conclude at the World Finals. [3-10-2004]

IHRA BROADCAST TEAM ANNOUNCED

Announcer Ken Stout will be joined by Pro Mod racer Johnny Rocca and former wrestler Madusa on the SPEED Channel broadcasts of the Hooters IHRA Drag Racing Series. Stout will return for his second year with the play by play action, while Rocca will handle the color commentary and Madusa will report on the pit and "lifestyle action." Madusa has been driving monster trucks since 1999 and competes on the USHRA Monster Jam circuit.

"I'm looking forward to presenting the IHRA show in a new light," said Madusa. "Fans can expect to see something new and rejuvenating, fun and off the wall."

Clear Channel Entertainment - Motor Sports has taken a noticeably more prominent position in IHRA business this season. With the deep pockets and promotion expertise of their majority owners, IHRA could be set to make some serious strides in the future. [3-9-2004]