Wed, 9 Sep 2009, 09:58 PM Steve Harker Comes Close to First US Nationals Win!

Courtesy of Harker Motorsports

CLERMONT, Ind. -- Australian NHRA Top Alcohol Funny Car driver, Steve Harker came close to notching his first US Nationals Win at this past weekends 55th running of the prestigious drag racing event held at O'Reilly Raceway Park.

Harker come out strong in qualifying putting down consecutive 5.58 seconds passes at over 258 mph to place the Harker Motorsports Chevy Monte Carlo 2nd at the conclusion of qualifying.

First round of competition paired Harker against fellow Australian driver, Jeff Burnett. Harker slowed slightly from his qualifying efforts but was able to keep the momentum going to earn the win with a 5.61 seconds run at 249 mph.

Harker matched up against Canadian racer, Roger Bateman in the second round of competition. Bateman earned a slight starting line advantage over Harker who had the muscle to run him down at the finish line. In a close race, Harker took the win with a 5.60 seconds run at 255 mph to defeat Bateman's 5.62 seconds pass at 249mph.

Semi-final competition was a huge match up between the reigning World Champion, Frank Manzo and Harker. This was a close race; Harker was able to gain advantage on the start line which was enough to hold out Manzo at the top end to take a holeshot win. Harker ran a consistent 5.61 at 256 mph to defeat Manzo's quicker 5.57 at 259 mph pass.

The final round of competition at the US Nationals for the Top Alcohol Funny Car class paired Harker against number one qualifier, Bobby Martin. Martin was first off the line but Harker had him covered by the 60ft markers and lead to half track when the motor went silent. Martin ran on through to take the win.

"The mounting bracket that holds the accelerator cable broke on the final run" said Harker "The car was on a nice mid 5.50 pass until that point. Overall we had a great weekend racing, this car is a lot of fun to drive and tune. We have to say a special thank you to our crew and sponsors for their support."

Harker and his team will travel to Atlanta Dragway for the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event to be held across September 11-13.

About Harker Motorsport
Steve Harker has been competing in the sport of Drag Racing for over 30 years. The transplant Australian had his career best season in 2008 making thirteen final round appearances and finished 2nd in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Top Alcohol Funny Car Championship.

Harker is also the reigning Lucas Oil South Central Division Four Top Alcohol Funny Car Champion. Steve is joined by his identical twin daughters, Kate and Diana who compete in the Top Alcohol Dragster category.

Steve's career best elaspe time is a 5.526 seconds pass at over 260.56 mph. In 2009, Steve celebrates his twenth year behind the wheel of a Top Alcohol Funny Car as an owner, driver and crew chief. Harker Motorsport Sponsors

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