Alan Bradshaw and Tuttle Motorsports Part Ways
ODESSA, Texas (June 10, 2008) - After ten races of NHRA Top Fuel competition under the Tuttle Motorsports / Vis Viva banner, former Lucas Oil champion Alan Bradshaw and team owner Dexter Tuttle have decided to part ways, citing "chemistry" issues with Bradshaw and car chief, Tony Shortall.
"I really felt like we had huge potential with Dexter's race program and past successes, but unfortunately it just didn't work out for either one of us," Bradshaw said.
"Dexter and Tony had a different view point with regard to safety equipment than I did. I want to be perfectly clear on this point: I am not saying the car was unsafe in any way. They met all of the minimum requirements as required by NHRA.
"Personally, I felt the current rules represented the minimum safety standard, and I will always lean toward making the driver's cockpit as safe as possible within reason - just as many other teams are currently doing for their drivers. Since it is Dexter's operation, I have to respect his decisions but in the end I have to do what I believe is right for me," Bradshaw said.
Bradshaw added that he felt there were definitely good things that came out of the short relationship.
"I am very grateful that Dexter gave me the opportunity to advance my career. I was No. 1 qualifier twice, set my career best ET of 4.52 and top speed mark of 327 m.p.h., and won a race on a holeshot which was really exciting.
"I believe our biggest accomplishment as a team, however, is the fact I was able to do the tribute car honoring Darrell Russell, something I feel definitely had to be done. I really appreciate Dexter and Vis Viva allowing me the opportunity to do the tribute as it was definitely the highlight of my racing career in Top Fuel," he said.
Bradshaw said he is currently entertaining opportunities with other teams in Top Fuel as well as Funny Car, and hopes to have an announcement in the near future.
"I am in communication with a couple of teams and we'll see where this all goes. I know God has a plan for my life and I believe it involves driving racecars, so we will see what He has in store for me.
"Either way life is good and I wish Dexter nothing but the best," Bradshaw added.
