Phoenix: Shaun Calson preview

ROOKIE SHAUN CARLSON PUTS PREMIUM ON QUALIFYING IN PHOENIX

CHANDLER, Ariz. (Feb. 22, 2006) - NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series Pro Stock rookie Shaun Carlson is fiercely focused on qualifying for the Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals at Firebird International Raceway this weekend.

Driving the Team Mopar/SRT Dodge Stratus R/T in his first season with Don Schumacher Racing, the popular Sport Compact pilot failed to qualify for the season-opening Winternationals two weeks ago in Pomona (Calif.). The Alta Loma, Calif., resident, however, did gain valuable seat time and experience working with veteran crew chief Bob Glidden.

Despite the upset, Carlson understands it is all about gaining valuable experience in this hugely competitive class. "Between the testing runs at Las Vegas and the four qualifying runs at Pomona, I am feeling more and more comfortable in the car," he says. "Obviously, the more passes I get the better I will be.

"I'm understanding more and more every day what Bob wants from me and the Team Mopar/SRT Dodge, so I think that (understanding) and our four runs in Pomona put us in a position to qualify in Phoenix."

The edgy, 31-year-old fan favorite is excited to get back into the car and show that he belongs in the Pro Stock field. "I'm so excited and ready to get back in the car and go. This is the most excited I've been about getting into a race car in a while. The car and the power are there; now I just have to get it in the field.

"I know Phoenix has the opportunity to be awesome for this team. Richie (teammate Stevens Jr.) ran good in Pomona, and Bob has been back in Indianapolis working on some new things. Once we get my car going and we have all that data, it will only get better for all of us."

Carlson's in good company, as Richie Stevens Jr. qualified No. 1 at this event last spring, and holds the Pro Stock speed record here at 205.35 mph.

-dsr