The California Independent Funny Car Association rolled into Sacramento Raceway for one of the oldest and most prestigious races, the Fox Hunt. Charles Ware was the No. 1 qualifier and went as far as the semi-finals. Both semi's were lost with red lights, leading to the final match up between Brent Jones in the Team Lawless car and Andre Pegues in the Team Windjammer entry. After the burnouts, Pegues had to shutoff after an oil leak was discovered. Jones's fuel line came off on his single run, so he shut off and coasted to the win. (photo courtesy CIFCA) [8-2-2005]

ASHLEY CLOSER TO FC LICENSE

Pro Mod champ Mike Ashley will be in Salt Lake City this weekend continuing his quest for a Funny Car license. Business commitments and a full racing schedule have delayed the process, which began in June at Joliet, where Ashley shut down the car after the throttle stuck, and at St. Louis.

"I'm looking forward to finishing up the licensing this weekend," Ashley said. "The opportunity to gain more seat time is something I'm looking forward to. This is one of the important items on the checklist that we have to cross off in order to get where we want to be."

Ashley plans to debut his Torco Race Fuels-sponsored Funny Car as a third car within Del Worsham's operation at the U.S. Nationals. [8-2-2005]

'UNDERCOVERED' SAYS NASCAR

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Here's a news item that came across the Agent's desk and nearly caused him to choke on his morning bowl of Cheerios. NASCAR CEO Brian France has announced the creation of a division to generate news for newspapers, radio, TV stations and cable networks that lack a staff knowledgeable of motorsports. Although NASCAR is the second-highest-rated regular-season sport on TV, France says his organization is "undercovered by the media."

Mama mia, he thinks THEY are undercovered? Has he ever tried to find any drag racing coverage? [8-2-2005]