Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Don’t count out Tony Schumacher just yet...

It’s hard to believe, but Tony Schumacher is winless through the first 10 NHRA events in 2011. Along the way, he’s lost some extremely close races, including some against his teammates. His win / loss record against Antron Brown and Spencer Massey so far this season is 2-5. Both of those drivers and their teams are hungry for a championship plus they have access to the same parts, pieces and knowledge as Tony’s team. But it doesn’t stop there. There are many other teams that are just as hungry for a championship, including Al-Anabi Racing, Kalitta Racing, Brandon Bernstein, Morgan Lucas Racing and Terry McMillen. In any sport, the competitors always seem to step up their game when they are playing against the best. It is no different in drag racing. When drivers, crew chiefs and crews see the 7x Champ’s name as their next opponent, there’s no question they dig a little extra deeper for that run.

Tony and the Army crew are just as hungry for another championship, but the team is struggling to find the right tune-up that will get them back in the winner’s circle.  Tony mentioned in his ESPN2 interview in Norwalk that the car is launching off the line like a rocket, but it is a little sluggish on the back half of the run. You can bet that Mike Green and the Army crew will figure it out and have that car in championship form soon.

Tony Schumacher fans need not push the panic button. With the countdown format, any team can win as long as they are in the top 10 in points after the U.S. Nationals. Tony is currently 5th in points, and there is a huge gap back to 6th.  You must also remember that he has won championships in just about all imaginable ways. Finally, with the strength and determination of the US Army behind that team you can bet they will be battling until the very end.

Hooah!







No comments:

Post a Comment