Columbus: Dave Connolly Saturday summary

Dave Connolly's 6.693-second Run Puts Him Sixth Overall

Dave Connolly said his SKULL GEAR Pro Stock Chevy Cobalt "didn't run as well (Saturday) as we hoped," but the driver from Elyria, Ohio, was pleased to be starting sixth in the Pontiac Performance Nationals Sunday at National Trail Raceway.

A combination of sun and tricky track conditions, plus crew chief Tommy Utt's tune-up changes, made Friday's 6.689-second time at 205.94 mph Connolly's qualifying best. It was the quickest of first-day qualifying.

"We were glad we made a good enough run Friday to keep us in the top half of the field," added Connolly. "Lane choice is going to be a big factor."

Connolly races Mike Edwards (11th, 6.707 at 205.94 mph) in the opening round of eliminations.

"It seemed like the engine's performance was falling off a little on our last two runs," said Connolly. "I think Victor's guys (Victor Cagnazzi's team supplies the engines) will be changing the motor for eliminations."

Connolly will be seeking his second straight win. He won at Atlanta two weeks ago.

-sgr