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NHRA: Sears Craftsman Nationals to be Contested Under the Lights

10 January 1999

GLENDORA, Calif. -- The thrill and excitement of nighttime drag racing will be the main attraction at the third annual Sears Craftsman Nationals, June 24-26 at Gateway International Raceway.

The NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series event near St. Louis will feature professional category qualifying and eliminations contested exclusively under the lights during three nights guaranteed to showcase a spectacular display of fire and speed.

The nighttime format will feature final eliminations for all pro categories contested on Saturday, instead of Sunday.

NHRA Senior Vice President for Racing Operations Graham Light said a variety of factors prompted the decision to change the event format, most notably the extreme heat that's typical of a midwest summer day.

"We wanted to make this event more enjoyable for both the spectators and the competitors," said Light. "During the last two events the temperatures during the day have entered the 100-plus range. We feel an all-night format will better serve this event."

Sears Craftsman Nationals qualifying will be held Thursday and Friday, with daytime sportsman sessions and evening pro sessions. Pro Stock, Pro Stock Truck and Pro Stock Motorcycle qualifying will begin at 3:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Top Fuel and Funny Car will run at 5 and 9 p.m. Eliminations will start Saturday at 4 p.m.

Tickets for the Sears Craftsman Nationals are available by calling the Gateway International Raceway at (888) 827-7333.