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NHRA: Mike Coughlin takes pole at US nationals

4 September 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

John and Mike Coughlin will battle from opposite sides

Mike Coughlin was in the first pair of Pro Stock Trucks during the fourth session. He ran a 7.605 at 176.49 mph and jumped up to the No. 1 spot. In the process Mike set the track ET record.

"That was a strong run," stated Mike. "The truck responded well the minute that the clutch was let out. I knew that it was going to be a good run."

John did not improve during the fourth session. He ran a 7.627 at 176.07 mph and slipped down to the No. 7 position.

"We just got a little too aggressive," noted John.

In the final session Mike did not improve. He ran a 7.666 at 175.84 mph and made the ninth quickest run of the session. Mike stayed in the No. 1 spot. This was the first time in his career that he has qualified in the No. 1 spot.

"It doesn't get any better than this. This is the way that you dream of defending the US Nationals title," commented Mike. "I won last year in Pro Stock Truck and my goal is to become the first repeat Pro Stock Truck winner."

John remained in the No. 7 spot. He ran a 7.662 at 175.94 mph and was the seventh quickest of the final session.

"We are ready to go to battle tomorrow," said John. "Our truck program has shown a lot of strength so far this weekend and our goal will be to have it continue."

Mike Coughlin will face off against Lou Ficco in the opening round. John Coughlin will go head-to-head against Steve Farr. Both Jeg's Mail Order Chevy S-10s will battle to meet in the final round for their first ever all-Jeg's final round in Pro Stock Truck.

Text provided by Scott Woodruff

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