Mon, 27 Jan 2020, 12:45 PM Balough Dominates Pro Gas Series Opener at Fontana

By Bob Johnson Photo copyright 2020 Bob Johnson Photography

FONTANA, Calif. (January 18-19, 2020) -- Travis Balough dominated the season-opening Southern California Pro Gas doubleheader weekend by winning both races with his '63 Corvette. The series began its 41st season under perfect California weather, with the 9.90 racers getting an opportunity to get their cars dialed for the upcoming NHRA Lucas Winternationals, held just 15 miles west of Auto Club Dragway.

Travis Balough

Riverside, Calif., racer Balough and former Pro Gas president Ray Cordeiro matched up to open the semifinals of the Russ Harris Memorial Race, with Balough advancing to the final, while Randy Fabbro, driving his '79 Pinto beat Matt Treadway to setup the final. Balough won the final with a 9.947, 146.42 as Fabbro slowed with a 10.09, 138.77. Harris Motorsports sponsored the event.

Travis Balough defeated Randy Fabbro

Balough advanced to the final of the second race of the season by stopping Larry Bradshaw, Dave Meziere, and Fabbro before getting a bye into the final. Ray Cordeiro advanced to the final with round wins over Gary Mignacca, number one qualifier Mike Lang, and Randy Kersey in the semifinal. Balough used a .001 reaction time in the final to Cordeiro's .025, and took the win at 9.928, 157.82 to a losing 9.918, 161.79.

Travis Balough defeated Ray Cordeiro

Balough will take a comfortable point lead into the next doubleheader weekend scheduled for May 2-3 at Fontana. Cordeiro, Fabbro, Kersey, and Greg Martin make up the top five with six races remaining on the schedule.