Martin: Charles Carpenter final summary

High personal expectations go unfulfilled in Martin

(8-7-06) CHARLOTTE, NC - Carpenter entered the Torco Racing Fuels Northern Nationals with high hopes for his Embee Performance-backed 1955 Chevy Pro Modified, but unfortunately couldn't quite get the setup he needed to achieve personal bests and qualify for the extremely tough field at US 131 Motorsports Park.

"We have been making great strides forward with our program this year, but unfortunately we weren't able to continue that trend this past weekend," Carpenter said. "We underestimated the tremendous racing surface this track offers, and just weren't able to hit the mark with our clutch setup."

Carpenter was looking forward to not only performing well for himself and his supporters, but for the tremendous crowd in attendance at US 131 Motorsports Park. "They had a record crowd this weekend. Evan Knoll and Torco do so much to support this sport every day, and I was glad to see a huge crowd as well as some of the big names from NHRA come out and support Evan and his home track."

Carpenter was also happy to see somewhat of a resurgence among the nitrous-assisted entries. "Several nitrous cars made outstanding passes and put themselves in the show Saturday night," stated Carpenter. "On top of that, Mike Castellana put on a clinic, winning the Torco Racing Fuels Pro Modified Shootout and advancing all the way to finals of Sunday's eliminations. Both of those things were great to see."

Next weekend Carpenter heads to his home track, Mooresville Dragway, for a Quick 8 Racers Association race. There he hopes to get the minor problems sorted out of his car and take home a win in front of his home crowd.

"I always enjoy racing in Mooresville. Though it can be a tricky track, it's great to see all my old friends that have been going there for 30+ years just like I have," said Carpenter.

-credit: charles carpenter racing