Pomona: Cory McClenathan Friday summary

Cory Mac Aborts Run Because Front Wheels Off Asphalt
FRAM/ Torco Top Fuel Driver Now 14th in Winternationals Qualifying

POMONA, Calif., Feb. 9, 2007 -- Cory McClenathan knew he was on a good run, but he opted to shut off the motor during Friday's qualifying for Sunday's season-opening NHRA Winternationals at Pomona Raceway.

"The front end was in the air and the car got out of the groove," said the veteran driver from Lake Havasu City, Ariz. "I could tell it was on a good run because I was pulling away from Melanie (Troxel, who was in the other lane). It was unfortunate, but there was nothing I could do."

He was timed in 4.812 seconds at 226.01 mph. He goes into Saturday's final two rounds of qualifying in 14th position (4.674 seconds at 317.05 mph), but confident crew chief Wes Cerny and assistant crew chief Tony Shortall will pick up the pace. "They know what we need to do. We need to make it happen. I feel good because we are starting to show we can run low numbers here."

-credit: cbr