Beckman, a two-time Southern Nationals champion, thundered to the top spot with an Atlanta Dragway track record 3.939 elapsed time at 326.32 miles per hour. Joining the past NHRA champion provisionally atop their respective categories were Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle).
Beckman has three No. 1 qualifiers to his credit this season and 18 in career, but none from the track located outside of Atlanta, Ga.
“This year we have not had the same performances as we did last year,” Beckman admitted. “We are fine when the track conditions are cool, but we’re struggling when it’s warm. There’s still some more performance in this car. At the end of the day, end of the weekend, end of the race, really the only thing that matters is holding up that trophy with your group in the winner’s circle. We haven’t even been to a final yet, and I’m hoping this Sunday is our first one.”
Beckman edged out teammate Matt Hagan, who was second. Courtney Force was third and earlier in the day recorded the track's first three-second Funny Car run and picked up four points to pull ahead of Tim Wilkerson in the point standings.
FULL ARTICLE
***
Bobby Bennett is the Publisher/Editor of CompetitionPlus.com, a leading independent online drag racing magazine, since 1999. For the latest in dragster news worldwide, visit www.competitionplus.com or follow on Twitter @competitionplus
