Johnson Advances to Quarters at NHRA Finals
Mopar-powered NHRA POWERade Pro Stock driver Allen Johnson wrapped up his 2008 season in the seventh spot of the final points standings on the strength of a quarterfinals finish in the NHRA Finals at Pomona (Calif.) Raceway on Sunday, Nov. 16.
Johnson qualified fourth in his HEMI-powered Mopar/J&J Racing Dodge Stratus R/T and knocked off Jeg Coughlin (who had earlier clinched the 2008 Pro Stock title) in the opening round. A.J. was unable to move past Mike Edwards in the quarterfinals. Johnson, a Greeneville Tenn. native, finished the season with 28-24 round win record, eight semifinals appearances (including two runner-up finishes) and claimed three No. 1 Qualifier Awards.
Mopar-powered Pro Stock rookie Rickie Jones finished out a strong first season on good footing, besting ’08 Countdown contender Dave Connolly in round one before losing by a slight three thousandths of a second margin to veteran racer Kurt Johnson in round two.
V. Gaines, who finished ninth in the final Pro Stock standings, exited in the opening round, as did fellow Mopar-powered drivers Vinnie Deceglie, Johnny Gray, and Richie Stevens Jr.
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