Clint Thompson Wins BC Nationals
Clint Thompson had a great Memorial Day weekend by winning the Lordco Auto Parts BC Nationals at Mission Raceway, the first Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series race of the year to feature Top Alcohol cars. And what an opener it was for Thompson who was battling tire shake for much of the event.
Thompson qualified third with a 5.78 at 253 MPH, and faced Dave Germain from Toledo Washington in the first round. Unfortunately, Germain hurt an engine and was unable to make the call. After struggling in qualifying Thompson changed the set up prior to first round and realized it was the ignition causing the problem after he made the single. “We found our race car again” Thompson said.
In the second round Thompson faced Ken Kraus, the popular up and coming driver from Montana. Kraus had qualified second and Thompson knew this round wouldn’t be easy. But Kraus slowed down from his 5.65 qualifier to run a 5.73. Thompson on the other hand, got a slight jump on Krause at the line and then it was lights out at the top end with Thompson recording a 5.66 at255 MPH to go to the final round. “We were lucky to get the win because I short shifted due to all the shake I was having” Thompson concluded.
In the final, Thompson faced fellow Oregon driver Brian Hough who had qualified number one with a 5.61. “We were confident going into the final but we also knew we had our hands full and would have to be on our game at the starting line because Brian is a good leaver” Thompson said. This time it was Thompson’s opponent that would have to drive through the shake. Thompson on the other hand, was on a good clean run and never looked back scoring the BC Nationals title with a 5.67 at 254 MPH. Hough, meanwhile made a race out of it and attempted to chase Thompson down with a 5.74 at 256MPH. “What a great win and good way to begin the season! Thompson said while celebrating the win.
Next, the team will be returning to Woodburn Dragstrip for the Fire and Thunder race, June 9 and 10. The team will also make a big announcement later in the week.
