NHRA: Mike Coughlin is looking forward to raceday

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

John Coughlin started the final day of qualifying needing to break into the quick sixteen. He ran a 7.567 at 177.74 mph. The run was not an improvement and John remained in the #12 position.

"We made a much smoother run during the third session," said John.

Mike Coughlin and his Jeg's Chevy S-10 began the day sitting in the number nine spot. Mike ran a 7.547 at 177.74 mph. The run was the eighth quickest of the session and stayed in the number nine position.

"The guys have been busy working the Jeg's machines all weekend," noted Mike. "I think that the small measurable changes that we have been making are starting to pay dividends."

John was on the outside looking in when the final session began. The crew changed carburetors and made clutch adjustments in an effort to break into the quick sixteen. John made a nice run, but it wasn't enough. He ran a 7.568 at 178.47 mph and missed the field by .002 seconds.

"This certainly isn't the way that I thought we would begin my season," explained John. "We have 13 more races this season and not performing at one race doesn't put an end to the season. Racing is a lot like golf. Your score is important at the end of the round and the points are totaled at the end of the season."

Mike ran a 7.558 at 178.10 mph during the final qualifying session. He cruised straight down the middle of the groove and made the eighth quickest run of the session.

"We are just off a little this weekend," said Mike. "We are moving in the right direction and we will be ready for battle on raceday."

Mike Coughlin and his Jeg's Mail Order machine will face off against the Dodge of Todd Patterson. Lane choice will go to Patterson and the two will likely be the first Pro Stock Truck to go down the track on raceday.

Text Provided Scott Woodruff

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.