Epping Jamie Emery Final Round Report

EPPING, NH -- Twenty-four year old Jamie Emery strolled to the starting line at the IHRA North American Nationals, the final stop on the Screamin' Eagle Top Fuel Harley Series. The youngest licensed Top Fuel Harley rider on the tour reached in his pocket with a cool, calm and collected demeanor and pulled out a stone. He promptly loaded it into his slingshot and slew a giant.

Okay, so maybe the assessment is a little harsh. But, that's the best way to describe what transpired when Emery lined up opposite the number one qualifier Johnny Mancuso.

Emery battled transmission woes all weekend in his Harley-Davidson of Washington fuel scoot, but managed to make the show with a 7.128/182.77. That run secured the bump spot in the 8-car field.

He came to the line against Mancuso with plenty of hope and determination in his mind. His thoughts were well rewarded as he outreacted the low qualifier and held on for a 7.164/181.67 win. Mancuso struck the tire and aborted his run.

In the second round, the shoe was on the other foot. Opponent Bob Spina outreacted Emery and easily distanced himself to the finish line. Spina set an unheard of mark when he sped to a 6.603 lap. Emery shut-off almost immediately after the green light with severe tireshake.