IHRA CHAMPIONS GET AWARDS

Awards were presented to the 2001 champions at the IHRA Banquet. Back row, L to R: Mike Lyons (Modified); Bernard Weaver (Super Rod); Anthony Bertozzie (Super Stock); Mike Fuqua (Quick Rod); Ricky Adkins (Top Dragster); Steve Splawn (Top Sportsman); Mark Thomas (Funny Car).

Front row, L to R: Mike Janis (Pro Mod); Doug Vancil (Nitro Harley); Monty Joe Bogan Jr. (Stock); Clay Millican (Top Fuel); Gene Wilson (Pro Stock). Missing: Don Webb (Hot Rod). (Photo by Ian Tocher)

TWO COUGHLINS MOVING TO SPORTSMAN RACING

With Pro Stock Truck leaving the NHRA professional classes, John and Mike Coughlin are returning to full-time sportsman racing. John will run a FJ Smith-built 2002 Cheverolet Cavalier in Super Stock, while Mike will compete in an Undercover Chassis-built Super Comp dragster. Both drivers will run a full schedule of events competing in selected national and divisional races.

Testing in Florida over the winter caused many to believe that Mike might be driving a third Pro Stocker, but Mike explains that sighting. "I did join Jeg at the test session in Bradenton, but I was just helping break in some new tires," he explained. "Actually, my new dragster should be arriving pretty soon; preparing and driving it will be my main focus in 2002. Our goal is to debut the new car at the Mac Tools Gatornationals."