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NHRA: Mike Coughlin wins first of the year and third of career

9 October 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

In the opening round John Coughlin went head-to-head with Steve Johns. The reaction time advantage went to Johns (.439 to .454). Both Chevy S-10's raced side-by-side to the big end. The win light came on in the other lane. John ran a 7.458 at 179.64 mph.

"That was a good race," said John. "We will focus on the next race in Dallas. We will come out swinging in the Big D!"

Mike Coughlin faced off against Scott Perin in round one. Coughlin took the starting line advantage (.435 to .452) and never looked back. The two drivers were door-hanlde-to-door-handle fighting to get to the finish line first. Mike turned on the win light on a holeshot. He ran a 7.441 at 179.02 mph.

"The track is tricky today," commented Mike. "Having the first round under our belt is a big relief."

Mike faced Todd Patterson in the second round. The red light came on in the other lane and the win light automatically came on for the Jeg's machine. Mike ran a 7.445 at 179.18 mph and advanced to the semifinal round.

"We are making some solid runs in this truck," explained Mike. "We have learned a lot about this track since the beginning of the weekend."

In the semifinal round Mike lined up next to Bob Panella. The yellow and black Jeg's machine blasted off of the line first (.424 to .444). Coughlin turned on the win light by .097 seconds at the stripe. He ran a 7.435 at 179.42 mph.

"Our guys are doing an awesome job this weekend," noted Mike. "We have been running consistent all weekend."

In the final round Mike met Steve Johns. Mike had lane choice and took the left lane. Johns turned on the red light and gave the win to Coughlin. Mike ran a 7.473 at 179.11 mph.

This is the third career NHRA Pro Stock Truck victory for Mike Coughlin. The first victory of the year and second final round appearance. He moved up to the No. 6 spot in the NHRA Winston Championship points.

"What a day! Have one of our Pro Stock Trucks and Pro Stock Cars win at the same event is something that we have always wanted to accomplish as a team," said Mike. "I will always remember this day!"

Text Provided By Scott Woodruff

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