TELL IT TO THE MARINES

Major Philip A. Toretti tried Doug Herbert's Top Fuel dragster on for size at the Winternationals. Toretti and seven othe Marines were part of Herbert's "Marine Corps Pit Crew."  (James Drew photo)
[2-18-2005]

PRO TOP OUTLAWS PREPARE FOR FOURTH SEASON

The Pro Top Outlaws club will run 13 races and have signed on with 10 tracks thus far for the 2005 season. The 30-member group of Sportsman racers run blown alcohol or nitrous engines and usually dip into the 3.80's on the eighth mile, said president, Ron Bales. In the past, PTO ran IHRA Top Dragster rules, but this year IHRA-legal Alcohol Funny Car combinations will be allowed if they run an altered body. For more information go to www.protopoutlaws.com.  [2-18-2005]

HEALTH SCARE FOR SAMPEY

Angelle Sampey knew something was seriously wrong when she awoke last Thursday morning at her home with severe chest pains. After a plethora of medical tests over the last

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few days, a heart attack was ruled out but an inflamed pancreas was diagnosed.

"I'm on medication that I have to take for the next month that should eliminate this inflammation," she said. "As time has gone on, the pain has virtually gone away, which is a positive sign. I just need to resume normal eating again. That's been the tough part. I've had to survive on just clear liquids and Jell-O. I've had enough of that already."

Sampey should be ready for the Pro Stock Motorcycle season opener March 17-20 at the Mac Tools Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway.  [2-18-2005]