Compiled by Ian Tocher
Photos by Tom West
6/17/04

As usual, the racers tell the story in their own words via team and NHRA press releases from the 40th annual Pontiac Excitement NHRA Nationals presented by Summit Racing Equipment, held June 11-13 at National Trail Raceway, near Columbus, OH.

TOP FUEL

“I double-stepped it in the final session there and we lost a good chance to get some data under some sunshine, but I think Tim [Richards, crew chief] has a good enough handle on this thing.” - Brandon Bernstein after qualifying number one—and before going up in smoke in the opening round against Mitch King on raceday

“We’re about a 10th of a second behind. That doesn’t sound like much, but when you’re going 320 miles an hour, it’s quite a bit of difference at the finish line. We’re getting a little better, but we don’t quite have it all together yet.” - Doug Herbert before qualifying third, his best starting position in more than a year

“This is a real disappointment, especially when you go from a number-one qualifying position at the last race to a DNQ at this one. But it’s even more of a downer when you don’t even have a chance to run.” - Cory McClenathan on the clutch problem during his burnout that prevented his fourth and last attempt to break into the 16-car field. It was Cory Mac’s first DNQ since the 2001 Dallas race and only his fifth in 248 career races

“We didn’t get down the track in either of the last two sessions, which was a bit disappointing. But, as always, I’m confident we’ll be properly prepared for tomorrow. That’s when they start counting the points.” - Tony Schumacher qualifying second behind Brandon Bernstein

“It’s nice to be able to give one back to the team every once in a while.” - Larry Dixon on his holeshot win over David Grubnic in round one