Denver: Cory McClenathan Saturday summary

FRAM Boost Top Fuel Driver to Race JR Todd Sunday

DENVER, July 15, 2006 -- Cory McClenathan put his considerable driving talents on display on a 103-degree Saturday as he coaxed the Carrier Boyz dragster down a slippery track during qualifying for Sunday's Mopar Mile-High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway.

McClenathan pedaled the throttle twice on the car's final attempt and it responded with a 5.140-second time at 254.38 mph. That, fortunately, held up for 15th overall, bringing a sigh of relief to the FRAM Boost crew. Earlier in the day, McClenathan pedaled it but it resulted in a 5.269 at 285.89 effort.

"Sunday could be a pedal contest because of the heat, altitude and tricky track," said the veteran throttle jockey. "I feel pretty good going into race. We had the highest track temperature I've ever raced on, 135 to 145 degrees Saturday. We'll just have to make enough power to get down the track and be careful at the trouble spot where everyone seems to be having problems. That's at the transition from the concrete staring line to the asphalt."

He races newcomer JR Todd, who was second with a best of 4.638 at 315.45 mph.

-cbr-