Bill Reichert Indy ORP preview

Reichert looking to be first back to back Indy winner

CLERMONT, Ind. - Defending NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster World Champion Bill Reichert will be looking to become the first back-to-back Mac Tools U.S. Nationals winner in class history during this weekend's running of the "Big Go" at the famed O'Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis. Reichert wheeled his Rislone Engine Treatment backed A/Fuel Dragster to the winner's circle last year, and could take a big step towards clinching a second-straight World Championship with a strong performance this weekend.

Reichert, who runs Reichert Racing Engines in Owosso, Mich., is excited about the opportunity to be the first back-to-back winner. He enters the event hot off a final round appearance at last weekend's Division 3 meet in Bowling Green, Ky. He also reached the final round of this event in 2001.

"I just found out that nobody has won this event back to back in Top Alcohol Dragster," said Reichert. "Rick Santos won this race twice, but not back to back. It's such a great accomplishment to win this event in general. The car has been running good, so hopefully we can make another good showing for Rislone and Bar's Leaks. Bob and Fred Mermuys will be out here this weekend, so we would love to give them another Wally."

Along with the statistical implications, a strong showing could go a long way towards clinching his second-straight World Championship this weekend. He currently holds a 144 point lead on second place Jim Whiteley, and even larger leads on fourth place Morgan Lucas and fifth place Spencer Massey, the only remaining drivers with shots at catching him. Those drivers must essentially win their remaining events this season, along with keeping Reichert out of the winner's circle. Lucas and Massey will be in attendance this weekend, while second-place Whiteley will not.

"It's not a done deal by any means," stated Reichert. "Whiteley, Lucas and Massey can still catch us, and they're all great teams that are capable. We just have to focus on going rounds and let the points take care of themselves."

Competitors in the alcohol categories will receive two qualifying sessions on Friday, one on Saturday and one final session Sunday morning. Eliminations begin with round one on Sunday afternoon, followed by final eliminations Monday.

-credit: bar's leaks