Cascade Crew

[dlp]

I havent been to PIR sense last years NHRA event. I went to todays qualifing round and was really impressed with the facilities. To start with the " dust bowl" is now a go kart track, they have shuttle vans that transport fans from the far reaches to the front gate, the PA system is awsome, and the track looks like it is flat as a sheet of plywood. My wife liked the restrooms, they expanded the grandstands.

To be honest, the NHRA has over reacted to last years fatal incident. Shortning the track to what appeared to be 1020 feet is not right. I saw several TFD have the shot come out prematurly. This will affect who qualifies, saw a guy lose 100 MPH in the trap speed and only 4 tenths becuase his shoot popped prematurly.

All in all, this was a great family experience. I brought my wife and two young sons, and my dad who hasnt been to a race in 21 years. I will never forget the look on his face when 2 TF dragsters whent by and he pushed his ear muffs against his head He said " GD, I dont remember those things leaving an impression in my chest!"

Every time a TF car made a pass he had a grin on his face.

Good times and definatly a good family experience.

[Twilightoptics]

Good times. The fuel cars had a hell of a time getting down the track. I agree with Bob Fry that since there were only 16 cars in the field everyone is in the show. So they were trying something new.

I think shortening the track is a good idea. Pacific raceways has a very long shutdown area. Most tracks don't and were built 30 years ago when times and speeds were half of what they are. These other tracks need to improve to keep up with the cars.

PR is an awesome track. It was paved with laser sites so it is flat as can be. I'd love to take my car up here to race but need to do it with a trailer lol. I do see woodburn in my future. :0)

[DBL_TKE]

I went to the eliminations today and it was absolutely amazing. I was pretty impressed with the facilities and the NHRA crew. In the Sportsman classes, one of Portland's very own, Gary Erickson, took 1st place in Super Street as well!

[GREG DAVIDSON]