Words by Dave Densmore
Photos by Jeff Burk
11/11/04

Think of Gary Densham as a supporting actor in a drama starring John Force, the reigning and 13-time NHRA Funny Car Champion. It's a role he's capably filled since he first came on board as driver of the third of the John Force Racing Ford Mustangs.

In fact, Densham's eight victories in the Automobile Club of Southern California's Mustang, two in each of the last four seasons, helped the team extend to 12 the number of

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consecutive years it has won the NHRA POWERade Funny Car championship.

During that time, the veteran also set a national speed record, twice led the driver standings and this year became only the fifth Funny Car driver ever to win the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals and the Skoal Showdown bonus race on the same weekend.

However, that chapter in his career will speed to a conclusion this week with the season-ending 40th annual Auto Club Finals at Pomona Raceway. It will be his last race with Team Force; his last with crew chief Jimmy Prock. Next year, the former high school auto shop teacher hopes to be back in a starring role with his own car, one for which he currently is seeking sponsorship.


While this week's finale will be bittersweet, Densham is determined to make his last ride a memorable one.

"What could be better than winning the Auto Club race with the Auto Club Funny Car on my home track in my last race for John Force?" Densham asked.

Although he is winless in 38 previous appearances at Pomona Raceway, Densham is optimistic.

"With Jimmy Prock, you always know you've got a shot," Densham says. "He's one of the great young crew chiefs in the sport and it's been one of the highlights of my career to have worked with him the last four years."

Moreover, he is returning to a track on which he began the season as runner-up in the K&N Filters Winternationals, losing to Jerry Toliver in a final round upset.