NHRA (LAS VEGAS) - WJ is Ready to Get Back on Track in Las Vegas

After a two-week hiatus, the NHRA's POWERade Drag Racing Series returns to action this weekend with the ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals in Las Vegas, NV. As expected from a man who lists "work" as a hobby, Pro Stock legend Warren Johnson took full advantage of the period between races, splitting time between the LSX Shootout in Memphis, TN, where he was the Grand Marshal, and working on his GM Performance Parts GTO at the team's shop in Sugar Hill, GA.

"Being at the LSX Shootout was an interesting and enjoyable experience," said Johnson. "I was able to see a collection of truly impressive vehicles using the LSX block I helped design in a variety of applications. In talking to some of the participants, I could see just how much fun they were having.

"Once I returned to the shop, however, I had to hustle in order to have some of these new pieces we wanted to try ready for these last two races. I've been welding and grinding virtually non-stop, trying to make sure our GM Performance Parts GTO has the very best at its disposal in Las Vegas this weekend."

Located just outside of the city of Las Vegas, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is one of the top facilities in all of motorsports. Hosting two NHRA national events each season since 2001, it has rapidly become a favorite of both fans and racers. As WJ sees it, the racers' affinity for the Nevada quarter-mile comes from their recognition of the track management's efforts to keep this incomparable speedplant among the very best in the sport. This also makes a win in the Nevada desert one of the most desired among the straight-line set, with The Professor hoping to score his inaugural Silver State victory this weekend.

"One thing you can unequivocally say about a Bruton Smith-owned track is that they are continually working to maintain and improve the facility," said Johnson. "For example, they will spend whatever is necessary to make sure the racing surface is as good as they can get it, so we can put on a good show for the fans. As a competitor, you look forward to racing at a track where you know they pay attention to the details.

"Seeing that this race is being held in the fall when the temperatures will be cooler, we can expect the track to be pretty good this weekend. Our job is to make sure we tune our GM Performance Parts GTO to take advantage of what the racing surface will give us. After the work we've done to it over the last few weeks, let's say I'm cautiously optimistic. Check back with me after the first qualifying session on Friday.

"Although we don't approach this race any differently simply because we have yet to win in Las Vegas, I have to admit that if I am fortunate enough to win the ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals this weekend, it would compliment the other races I've won rather nicely."

Autograph Session/Hulk Hogan ACDelco Car Unveiling: Warren Johnson will be signing autographs from 6:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 25 at the NHRA FanFest, which will be held at the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas.