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Pomona - U.S. Army Top Fuel driver, Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher, jumped to the provisional number one starting position here Friday following the second day of qualifying for the CARQUEST Auto Parts Winternationals at Auto Club Raceway.
After grabbing the fourth starting spot on Thursday, Schumacher posted a 4.483-second pass at 328.30 mph on day two and in the process advanced three slots in the order.
"It was a good run, but it wasn't real beautiful," said the defending NHRA POWERade Top Fuel world champion. "Certainly, moving to the provisional pole is rewarding, but we know we have more left in the car.
"For some reason, the car is not running well in the middle of the track. But, of course, we know that Alan Johnson (his crew chief) will get it figured out. We'll learn from this session and be ready for the last two qualifying sessions tomorrow."
The final two Top Fuel qualifying sessions for Sunday's race are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. PT on Saturday. However, rain may play a role in the day's activities.
"I guess the forecast for tomorrow is not real positive," added Schumacher. "So, that definitely makes our run today that much more important. If the weather allows, though, we'll be ready to go."
Schumacher is seeking his 36th career pole. He pocketed a record-setting 13 poles in 2006.
"As always, being number one is nice, but what we really want is a consistent race car for Sunday," he said. "Winning races is what we're all about."
Schumacher Moves To No. 1 Spot
Pomona - U.S. Army Top Fuel driver, Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher, jumped to the provisional number one starting position here Friday following the second day of qualifying for the CARQUEST Auto Parts Winternationals at Auto Club Raceway.
After grabbing the fourth starting spot on Thursday, Schumacher posted a 4.483-second pass at 328.30 mph on day two and in the process advanced three slots in the order.
"It was a good run, but it wasn't real beautiful," said the defending NHRA POWERade Top Fuel world champion. "Certainly, moving to the provisional pole is rewarding, but we know we have more left in the car.
"For some reason, the car is not running well in the middle of the track. But, of course, we know that Alan Johnson (his crew chief) will get it figured out. We'll learn from this session and be ready for the last two qualifying sessions tomorrow."
The final two Top Fuel qualifying sessions for Sunday's race are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. PT on Saturday. However, rain may play a role in the day's activities.
"I guess the forecast for tomorrow is not real positive," added Schumacher. "So, that definitely makes our run today that much more important. If the weather allows, though, we'll be ready to go."
Schumacher is seeking his 36th career pole. He pocketed a record-setting 13 poles in 2006.
"As always, being number one is nice, but what we really want is a consistent race car for Sunday," he said. "Winning races is what we're all about."
