ASHLEY OUT AS PRO MOD DRIVER BUT IS WORKING ON NHRA PRO MOD SERIES

DRO spoke with NHRA/AMS Pro Mod World Champ Mike Ashley concerning the reports he is trying to put together a program that would keep the NHRA Pro Mod exhibition series from extinction. “I don’t have a deal in place yet, but I am working hard to put something together. I think NHRA has given the Pro Mod class a boost and I would like to see that continue,” Ashley said.

He also revealed to DRO that he was not going to drive a Pro Modified car in 2006, which is not surprising considering the fact that Torco’s Evan Knoll recently told DRO Editor Jeff Burk that Ashley would be driving his Fuel Flopper at both NHRA and IHRA events which could total as many as 30 races. Hard to squeeze 10 more Pro Mod races into that schedule. (Jeff Burk photo) [11-14-2005]

RUMORS OF DRIVER AND TEAM CHANGES

One of the rumors the Agent is hearing is that Top Fuel shoe Jack Beckman could be headed to

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Jim Dunn’s Funny Car, and Funny Car pilot Jeff Arend could end up in Dexter Tuttle’s Menards-backed Top Fuel dragster just vacated by Beckman.

The Agent also keeps hearing the rumor that Kenny Koretsky is going to add a Fuel Coupe to his racing stable that now has a Top Fueler and a Pro Stock car. Jerry Caminito's name has surfaced as a potential IHRA fuel funny car owner or driver. The Agent also hears that David Baca may get a regional sponsorship from the Big O tire stores and also add a second team. [11-14-2005]

 

FRY JOINS JENNINGS MOTORSPORTS

Mendy Fry will be driving a second nostalgia Top Fueler owned by the recently retired Lee Jennings. Fry will continue to drive for Frank Hedge as well.

"With Frank's blessing I'll be able to drive for Lee without any conflict of interest." Fry explained. "Frank's plans are to focus more on the match race scene throughout the Midwest in 2006, which will allow me to continue to participate in the Goodguys West Coast CRA Series."

Fry will take over the reins of the Jennings and Scheele Chevy-powered entry beginning with the Goodguys March Meet. Jennings will convert the A/Fuel entry driven by his son, Lee Paul, back to Top Fuel form. Lee Paul will move to the Nostalgia Funny Car ranks with a Chrysler-powered 'Cuda-bodied entry. (photos courtesy Jennings Motorsports) [11-14-2005]