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IHRA: Oddy plans return to IHRA Pro Modified competition

Oddy's return was prompted by the recent announcement of rule changes for IHRA's Pro Modified division, which for the first time ever will allow helix superchargers with 34-percent overdrive during the 1998 season. The new rule was established by IHRA officials in an effort to attract more supercharged entries. During the last two seasons cars utilizing superchargers in the class have declined.

"For the last few years guys driving blown cars haven't had the tools to compete with in IHRA," said Oddy, whose race shop is based in Elma, N.Y. "Now, I think we can make an even match with the nitrous competitors and run some low 40s. Maybe if the conditions are perfect, even some high 30s."

Oddy said companies weren't producing the necessary parts for IHRA-legal superchargers.

"We had no research and development using the type of blower that was legal with IHRA in the past," he said. "During that time guys running nitrous- injected engines have gained a lot of knowledge. Now we'll be able to buy the parts we need and also get help on the R&D end of it. It's going to be competitive again."

Oddy estimates 10-12 supercharged entries at most IHRA national events in 1998. At the 1997 season-ending Snap-on Finals there were only two such entries, and neither qualified for the 16-car field.

"The rule change is something that needed to happen," Oddy said. "This class has always been one of the most exciting in drag racing. That was because there were so many radical designs on the track and there was a lot of controversy. That's what the fans love to see. IHRA has just took the first step in making Pro Modified a better class."

In addition to Oddy and Hahn's entry, others expected to pilot supercharged entries include five-time IHRA Pro Modified World Champion Scotty Cannon and recent Snowbird Nationals winner Johnny Rocca, among others.

Oddy points to the recent addition of DeSoto Memorial Dragway's Winter Nationals in late March as one event where a record turnout of blower cars may surface. At that event he hopes to add a fourth career IHRA victory.

"That race is especially exciting," he said. "I think there'll be a whole bunch of records set down there. There's a great racing surface there and I think you'll see some lightning quick runs. The weather at that time of the year should be perfect for the Pro Mod guys who'll be churning their own air. I can't wait to get started."

The 1998 IHRA Snap-on Tools Drag Racing Series opens March 27-29 at DeSoto Memorial Dragway in Bradenton, Fla.

To keep up with the latest IHRA news and developments, check out ihra.com on the internet.

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