The first day of qualifying for the 27th annual Auto Parts NHRA Nationals in Reading, Pa, provided racers and fans with what promised to be the warmest temperatures of the weekend, with highs reaching into the seventies. Although this may have been good for those seated in the stands, it prevented any attempts at the national record, particularly in the naturally-aspirated Pro Stock category, which was also slowed by the increasing humidity.
Even so, Jason Line and the Summit Racing team were able to make the most of the day, with their best attempt of 6.541-seconds matching that of his teammate Greg Anderson and veteran Mike Edwards for the quickest of the day.
As he eventually slotted third based on the top speed tie-breaker, the current championship points leader hoped that the rainy forecast for Saturday would change, allowing him to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and better his standing for Sunday’s final eliminations.
“It wasn’t a great day, but it certainly wasn’t a bad day,” said Line.
“The weather was nice, and it was great to have Ken back at the track with us. We made a decent run with our Summit Racing Pontiac, matching Greg and Mike on e.t., but giving up a little on top speed, putting us third, which is a good starting spot, although we’d be on the same side of the ladder.
“Having said that, I feel like there’s room for improvement, so I certainly hope the weatherman is wrong about tomorrow, because I think we would have a good chance to improve. Besides, if the temperatures drop as much as they say they’re going to, it would be optimal to get a run in before race day. Either way, we’ll just have to make the most of it. After all, the bottom line is that we’re here to handle every challenge and win the race.”
| 
|