Wed, 18 Jun 2008, 10:24 AM Todd Debuts 'New Blue' Lucas Oil Dragster

Courtesy of Jay Wells Photo copyright 2008 NHRA

ENGLISHTOWN, N.J. --

J.R. Todd

J.R. Todd isn't the least bit discouraged by his recent setback in as many races. Actually, Todd is feeling more than confident than ever. That's because he has some key reasons to be excited.

In the last couple of events, Todd's Lucas Oil Octane Booster team has qualified very well. For instance, the last race in Chicago he qualified in the No. 4 position, his best so far this season, and at Bristol set Top Speed of the Meet of 330.80 mph. That's what keeping Todd's step in stride with the inset of some great runs. Now, the team has to put it all together.

"We know we have all the components in getting our winning percentage up," said Todd. "Besides, seeing Morgan's (Todd's teammate Lucas) car running so well tells me we have a chance of getting our turn in taking on a couple of win lights."

Another change you will see on Todd's team is a new paint design emphasizing the blue tone of Lucas Oil Products countering the red livery on teammate, Lucas' Top Fuel vehicle.

"We're looking forward to the new look, especially for the Lucas Oil SuperNationals at Englishtown," said a smiling Todd. "This may just be the change we need to change our luck and start turning on some win lights on Sunday. It's definitely something new and we can't wait to see what it will run."

Raceway Park has a serious reputation for some great elapsed times and adding your name to the winner's circle list will be among the sport's greatest names.

"It's always a challenge at that track and to say you've won at Englishtown has some clout in the northeast," said Todd. "It's a big race and with Lucas Oil on board as sponsor gives up just that much more incentive to win."

Todd will be making a special autograph appearance on Thursday, June 19 at 6 p.m. at the ESPNZone at 1472 Broadway, New York, N.Y.

The start of the 39th annual Lucas Oil SuperNationals begins at the Old Bridge Township Raceway Park on Friday, June 20 with two nitro qualifying sessions starting at 4:00 p.m. (ET) and 7:00 p.m. Saturday's time trials start at 1:00 p.m. for the nitro classes followed by a second session at 3:30 p.m. The race starts promptly at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 22.