Fri, 24 Apr 2009, 02:30 PM Tony Schumacher Presented 2008 Driver of the Year Award

Courtesy of Chris Dirato

TALLADEGA, Ala. --

Presenting U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher with his 2008 Driver of the Year trophy were NHRA President Tom Compton (L) and Barry Schmoyer, President of the Driver of the Year Award Foundation (R).

U.S. Army NHRA Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher received his 2008 Driver of the Year trophy here Thursday night during the annual International Motorsports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Last December, an elite panel of broadcasters and journalists named Schumacher the 2008 Driver of the Year after the Chicago-area resident posted a record fifth consecutive world championship to go along with 15 victories.

"While we've already turned the page to the 2009 season, it's nice to be able to reflect on what was truly a historic season," offered Schumacher, who also collected a Tissot wristwatch. "When I look back to last year, I feel blessed I was part of such a great team. I'm not sure we'll ever see that kind of dominance again in drag racing."

Schumacher became the third NHRA driver to win the prestigious Driver of the Year award. Funny Car's John Force captured the 1996 honor, while Pro Stock's Greg Anderson won it in 2004.

"I said it in December and I'll say it again - this award is dedicated to our Army Strong Soldiers," said Schumacher. "Their teamwork and passion are inspiring and a huge part of our drive to be successful."

Six races into the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series season, Schumacher apparently is still the one to beat in Top Fuel. Having won two races, he currently resides atop the standings.

"Despite starting from scratch with a new crew chief (Mike Green) and a new group of crew guys, we're still leading the way," he said. "I'm confident that we'll be right there contending for another world title. I have a great group surrounding me."

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