Dennis Taylor- LODRS D-6 Woodburn Preview

Taylor looking to Win in Woodburn

Anaheim, Calif. – Dennis Taylor always rolls into Oregon’s fabled Woodburn Dragstrip with anticipation and enthusiasm. Having qualified number one just two years ago, along with a recent record of two wins and one runner-up effort, his performance data log book should provide the right signals towards a favorable Woodburn tune-up. Dennis noted, “We’ve had our share of good times here in NHRA’s Pacific Northwest Division and our K&N / Plumbing Concepts team looks to continue those experiences. It’s no secret we’ve run a limited schedule this year, and I’m hoping that won t bite us.” Of course, Taylor is speaking in terms of seat time and the aforementioned performance data.

In order to put those concerns aside, Taylor planned to test on Thursday before the event. He added, “We may only be able to put one hit on it, because my crew won’t be in town yet. Terry and I will have to find a volunteer or two to be sure everything runs smoothly. With these cars, experience and extra eyes play an important role during fire-up, burnout and staging. Something as simple as a broken fuel or oil fitting could spell disaster, so we’re just looking for a safe test shot. We still need to control wheel speed through first gear.”

Woodburn’s history books reveal a strong showing from Division 7 racers (like Taylor) as well as the full complement of Division 6 competitors testing the track and weather conditions. Earlier in the week, 12 cars were pre-entered for the eight-car qualified field and more are likely to arrive, so you can bet each team will be bringing its “A-Game.” The forecast calls for sun with low and upper 80s respectively on Friday and Saturday, and partly cloudy with mid 70s on race day, so the unknown quantity will be track conditions. History is always tough to repeat, but the crew is well prepped for Taylor’s turn at Woodburn.

Courtesy of Randy Fish