Image credit: Darren Bingham

Qualifying for the Southern Nationals presented by Fiat Professional & Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge got off to a promising start today but ultimately weather dictated proceedings at Calder Park.
 
Each of the three ANDRA Drag Racing Series brackets, Pro Stock Motorcycle, Pro Stock and Top Doorslammer, each completed one qualifying run.
 
Several competitors found the chilly conditions challenging with ETs down on expectations. Aaron Tremayne currently sits first in Pro Stock on a 7.174 with a number of drivers stepping off early at half-track. Lee Bektash (8.722) is second, Richard Cavall (8.847) third, Emilio Spinozzi (8.962) fourth and Bill Kostias (8.962) fifth.
 
Pro Stock Motorcycle was much the same with Maurice Allen (7.360) currently on top, Luke Crowley (7.691), Tony Hinkley (8.665) in third, Scott White (8.804) fourth. All others did not register a time.
 
Top Doorslammer however saw some quick times over the 1000 feet distance as Stuart Bishop went ripped a 5.267 from Ben Bray (5.407), John Zappia (5.555), Simon Travaglini (6.054) and Victor Bray (6.066).
 
In the end the weather rendered the track unsafe and the decision was taken to call it a night as the rain began to fall.
 
ANDRA Competition Manager Brett Stevens said the decision was made in the interests of competitor safety.
 
“The track was becoming colder and at the time of the decision to call the event we were two degrees from the dew point,” he said.
 
“We felt it was best to call off the rest of tonight’s schedule and move tomorrow’s schedule ahead by an hour and a half to ensure all brackets are able to complete the qualifying programme in a fair manner.”
 
Several qualifying runs were completed in the Aeroflow Sportsman Drag Racing Championship with Modified, Modified Bike, Super Street and Junior Dragster all seeing the track three times.
 
Super Comp, Supercharged Outlaws, Super Sedan and Super Gas each completed two qualifiers.
 
Tomorrow’s action will now be brought forward from 12:00pm to 10:30am in order to ensure qualifying is completed. Fans returning to Calder Park are urged to arrive early for a full day and night of racing.

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