Commerce: Ron Capps Saturday summary

CAPPS TAKES THIRD IN ATLANTA QUALIFYING

COMMERCE, Gas. (April 18, 2009) - Ron Capps pulled out a 4.101-second run at 299.26 mph in today's third round of Funny Car qualifying to take the No. 3 spot for the NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway.

His other laps in the NAPA AUTO PARTS Dodge included a 4.116/298.27, which landed him on the pole in the opening session on Friday. He then struck the tires to post a 5.457/129.16 Friday evening (No. 4), while his final run today produced a 4.120/299.26.

"It seems like when we go up there we're expecting to run a little bit better," said the Funny Car points leader, "but then we're a little disappointed with the run. Lo and behold it ends up being either low of the round or one of the quickest of the round.

"We're still happy. The NAPA Dodge has been very consistent all weekend and we're also doing a little bit of testing within these runs. So, to end up No. 3 is big.

"If you can qualify in the top four it gives you lane choice and we'll see what happens. The weather is changing so much here day to day and run to run. It's going to be a tough race day."

Capps faces Mike Smith in the opening round of Sunday's eliminations.

-credit: dsr