Seattle: Bernstein beats Herbert

SEATTLE, July 30, 2000 - Weekends like the one Doug Herbert had at Seattle International Raceway are not ones to remember.

Herbert's Snap-on Racing Top Fuel dragster was among the most consistent during qualifying with runs of 4.724, 4.856 and 4.755 in the Prolong Northwest Nationals, but had engine problems, too. He qualified eighth (the 4.724) and raced Kenny Bernstein in Sunday's first round.

But the dragster smoked the tires and Herbert had his slowest run of the three days - 5.966 at 155.49 mph - in falling to Bernstein's 4.847 at 282.24.

"We just need to have some luck," said Herbert. "We're running close to the guys ahead of us (in the standings) but haven't been able to win rounds on race day. One of these days it's going to come together."

Herbert, who remained eighth in points with 537, will look for improvements at the Autolite Nationals, Friday through Sunday at Sears Point Raceway in Sonoma, Calif. <pre> Qualified: No. 8, 4.724 seconds at 294.11 mph

First round: Kenny Bernstein def. Herbert

Pro Winners:

Top Fuel - Gary Scelzi Funny Car - John Force Pro Stock - Richie Stevens

Next Event: Autolite Nationals, Aug. 4-6, at Sonoma, Calif.