Shreveport Von Smith Race Notes

SHREVEPORT, LA. -- Von Smith couldn't have found a better closing line for his drag racing novel than he did in the 1999 season. The veteran Pro Funny Car racer from Oak Ridge, Tn., was relentless in his pursuit of excellence as he won his seventh IHRA Pro Funny Car title at the Mopar Parts World Finals in Shreveport, La. Smith also captured the class World Championship for the third time in four seasons.

"Everyone win is as good as the last win," explained Smith. "We felt that we had something to prove. I think seven wins in one season pretty well proves a lot."

He also confirmed a rumor of a possible impending move to Top Fuel.

"We have been trying to work something out to go fuel racing," Smith confided. "That's no big secret. Everyone tries to climb the ladder to Top Fuel. It's about time for us to try and head in that direction."

His latest win was nothing short of impressive as he topped such drivers as Gary Rettell, Rob Atchinson, Mark Thomas and posted a 5.935/239.70 winning lap over Scott Weney. Smith also had low elapsed time and top speed with a 5.851/239.70 package.