U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher posted a record-tying eighth Mac Tools U.S.
Nationals victory here Monday at O'Reilly Raceway Park (ORP).
After beating Larry Dixon in the finals with a 3.861-second pass at 314.17 mph,
Schumacher matched Don Garlits' Top Fuel record of eight wins in the NHRA's most prestigious race.
"I'm a little speechless right now," said Schumacher afterwards amidst a noisy winner's
circle. "It's a little tough to comprehend just what we've accomplished here today."
On the way to his fourth consecutive victory at ORP, Schumacher wiped out the likes of T.J. Zizzo,
Rod Fuller and Brandon Bernstein before leveling Dixon in front of an enthusiastic Labor Day crowd.
"We had a great car all day long," added the six-time world champion. "Mike Green (his crew chief)
and the team were just unbelievable. They functioned just like our Army Strong Soldiers do - with
plenty of precision and perfection."
Schumacher, who collected his fourth win of the year and the 60th of his career, will advance into
the Countdown to1 playoffs in two weeks holding third-place in the standings, 40 points behind
leader Antron Brown.
"With the playoffs coming up at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, we needed to get the ball rolling right
here in Indy," said Schumacher. "I'd say we did just fine. It's going to be a real tough road to
the title, but I truly believe we're going to be a serious player throughout. I can't wait for the
bell to ring in two weeks."
Schumacher won the inaugural race in Charlotte last year and in the process moved past Joe Amato on
the all-time Top Fuel career win list.
"For sure, that's a race I will always remember," he offered.
