NHRA: Epler looks to keep momentum going in final stretch
12 September 2000
Posted By Terry
Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
MOHNTON, Pa. - Jim Epler is gaining confidence
these days.
With each passing race, the Phoenix driver is totaling more round
wins and more victories in his WWF Racing Chevrolet Camaro.Based on his performance in recent events, Epler will be among the top drivers to beat at the 16th annual Keystone Nationals, Sept. 14-17, at Maple Grove Raceway. The $1.9 million race is the 18th of 23 events in the $45 million NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series.
Consider the statistics. He claimed his first victory of the season at Las Vegas. Then he won the prestigious U.S. Nationals, where he was also runner-up in the lucrative Budweiser Shootout. His other top finishes this season have included a runner-up effort at Brainerd, Minn., and semifinal efforts at Columbus, Ohio and Seattle. He's been the No. 1 qualifier twice.
"With (Jerry) Toliver's team and the support we get from the WWF, we expect to win every race," said Epler, currently fifth in the NHRA Winston point standings. "Our car has to be one of the most consistent four-second cars out there and when guys have to race us they know they have to put down a good run to beat us."
That includes John Force. The nine-time Winston champion has compiled one of the best records against Epler over the years. Until the U.S. Nationals, Epler had not beat Force in a round of racing since 1993. In the second round, Epler used a powerful run to oust Force. The victory gave Epler great satisfaction and even more confidence.
"I've always dreamed of winning in Indy," said Epler. "To win the U.S. Nationals is such a huge career-builder for me. Hopefully we can keep this momentum going and keep moving up in the Winston point standings because our goal is to finish in the top three."
Text provided by Anthony Vestal
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