U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher clearly has one goal in mind as the NHRA Full
Throttle Drag Racing Series begins its annual Western Swing here this weekend at Bandimere Speedway
outside of Denver.
"It's all about building momentum," said the six-time world champion as he prepped for
the MOPAR Mile-High Nationals. "If you can have success the next three weekends in Denver, Seattle
and Sonoma (Calif.), then you're setting yourself up in a nice way for the Countdown to One
(playoffs)."
Schumacher knows what it means to peak at the right time. Last year, he became only the
seventh driver in NHRA history and the fourth in Top Fuel to sweep the Western Swing. His victory
in Denver began an impressive stretch of seven straight wins and 11 consecutive final rounds that
ultimately led to another world title.
"It's pretty important you go a bunch of rounds during the Western Swing," he added.
"It's really a grueling part of the schedule, but like our Army Strong Soldiers we'll be prepared
for the mission."
Schumacher, who will travel to the ESPY awards in Los Angeles following the Denver race
weekend, currently holds third-place in the standings, three points behind Larry Dixon in second
and 56 points in back of the leader Antron Brown.
The Chicago-area resident has not been to a final round since the Bristol, Tenn. event
the middle of May.
"The funny thing is we've been running pretty well the last few races, but the results
just haven't been there for us," he said. "We'll be all right. Before too long, the final rounds
and wins are going to come."
If Schumacher's record at Bandimere Speedway is any indication, a final round
appearance or victory may be right around the corner. He has two wins and four other final rounds
to his credit at the track situated in the Rocky Mountains.
"Despite all the challenges with the altitude, we've managed to do well," he offered.
"Hopefully, we can continue that trend this weekend."
