NHRA Saturday: Warren Johnson Steps Up on Saturday, Qualifies 3rd in Memphis

Event: 16th annual O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals 
Location:  Memphis Motorsports Park
       Memphis, TN
Day/Date: Saturday September 20, 2003


Entering the third qualifying session for the O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals, Warren Johnson knew he would have one chance to secure a top starting spot for Sunday's final eliminations.  With forecast calling for sunny skies and temperatures in the 80's at Memphis Motorsports Park, Saturday's morning session would offer the only realistic opportunity to record times competitive with those recorded on Friday evening.  

Taking full advantage, Johnson's GM Performance Parts Grand Am streaked down the quarter-mile in 6.774 seconds with a top speed of 203.46 mph, which was the second quickest in Pro Stock for that session, and earned "The Professor" the third starting position.  

On his final attempt, Johnson showed he was ready for race day by posting the third quickest elapsed time in the afternoon heat at 6.815 seconds.

"Yesterday we found both ditches, and today we went down the middle of the road.  This morning we were a little light on the clutch because we didn't want to go overboard, and although we're pleased with the performance, there was a little room for improvement.  

"We made some adjustments to the GM Performance Parts Grand Am's tune-up for this afternoon's run, and I think the clutch was just about right to where we didn't leave anything on the table.  Based on what we did on that run, I think things bode well for tomorrow."