Alan Rudolph test notes

Rudolph Impresses with Test in Elliott Owned Craftsman Truck

(Phoenix, Arizona) Kart racing sensation and multi time national champion Alan Rudolph raised a few eyebrows in the world of stock cars as he impressed with a strong two-day test in a Bill Elliott owned Dodge powered Caftsman Truck . The test was held at Peach State Speedway outside Jefferson, Georgia. Rudolph's fastest lap of 19.1 seconds on the asphalt ½ mile high banked oval, eclipsed a baseline time run by Elliott earlier during the test, and was several tenths quicker than either of the other drivers in attendance.

Rudolph has been coaching Elliott's son Chase in karting competition this year, in the Colorado State region. The stock car legend was able to see Rudolph in action during a recent race, and after Rudolph's dominant win, Elliott offered him a test in a Dodge powered Craftsman Truck.

Although the test was originally scheduled to take place at Greenville Speedway in South Carolina, a long rainstorm forced them to head to Peach State Speedway in Georgia. The ½ mile asphalt Peach State track billed as "the fastest ½ mile track in Georgia" was promoted by Elliott's father in the 1960's and was host to many Grand National stock car events

Rudolph was able to turn some 150 laps in the 760 hp Hoosier slick shod truck, and was comfortable with the considerable limits of the vehicle from the start. Elliott offered advice in some areas, but overall seemed to let Rudolph take his time figuring out what to do on his own.

"I wasn't really sure what to expect from that car," remarked Rudolph. "From karting to sportscar racing, all the stuff I've been in has been really light and quick, and with the that truck weighing 3,400 lbs and making 700 horsepower, I wasn't totally sure what it would be like. The truck handled really well though, actually way better than I thought and the brakes we strong too. I started off left foot braking in my first session, but Bill coached me a bit and told me on the shorter ovals right foot braking is usually the way to go. After that we just concentrated on getting some good quick clean laps in."

"He did real well in the test," said Elliott in a recent interview. "I was totally surprised. He ran very consistent, even though I didn't have much time to work with him. I think if we can give him an opportunity he'll do real well."

In addition to spending time at the track with Elliott, Alan was able to spend some time at the race shop and engine shop and even went and had lunch at one of Bill's favorite burger places, The Pool Room. Alan came away from his time with Elliott impressed with the entire experience.

"Bill's one of the most interesting and nicest guys you'd ever want to meet," said Rudolph. "Everyplace we went people knew him, and was very cool with everyone. I learned a lot about his history, and I felt like we became good friends."

Elliott was equally kind in his assessment of Rudolph. "Everyone seemed to like him," said Elliott. "He's well spoken and he understands promoting. I hope I can help him with some opportunities."

-www.alanrudolph.com.