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It's enough that this writer takes a deep breath as Force continues to talk about Gibson, a new motor project, and a machinist hired to make parts in-house. But it hardly registers as he thinks about what Force is thinking about doing. There's nothing official, that will come in future announcements, but the road map has been unfolded.

"I'm investing in the future, spending some big bucks," Force continues. "That's why I was sweating the Castrol deal.

"I owe Tony Pedregon, you can print that. His mother will see her son winning that crown because that is what I'm going to fight for. That's about keeping my word. That's my game plan, that's what I'm looking forward.

"Forget the heavy stress. The next five years I'll be trying to get that title. When I get it, I'll get it for Tony."

Awards no longer drive Force, not after winning Driver of the Year in 1996. It's evident winning number 11 is important, but not that he will admit to the media. Force would also like to win an Espy, presented by ESPN through online voting.

"I know NASCAR has a huge voting setup and that's why they win," Force says. "NASCAR's huge. I heard some of those fans say they vote for their guy because they live NASCAR. But some of those guys say they live NASCAR, but they also like John Force.

"Hey, maybe if I don't win the Espy I can ask for a recount."

Who says Force doesn't keep up with current events.

The allotted time stretches past its schedule, thanks to exchanges that are totally personal and off-the-record. Force can be a very open person, but if he asks to keep a matter private, it's best to comply. Force is perhaps the most media-savvy person in drag racing. He knows those he can trust with such secrets, and those he can't. The sportswriter knows that his 25-year relationship with this former truck driver has been forged through trust. Both men are confident that whatever is said in this room, where Force taped the pilot for his talk show "Off The Wall," will stay in the room.

"Time to go get my hair cut," Force says. "Kelly said I can't break this appointment, this is the fifth one. Look at all this hair. Gotta get it done.

"Follow me. I'll go in my car so I can use the phone. Gotta make some calls and it's quiet and private in the car. I get a lot done when I'm driving myself."