Tim Stevens Rockingham preview

Stevens looking to get an early start on ’09 season at the Rock

ROCKINGHAM, N.C. – After sitting out most of the 2008 season, IHRA Alcohol Funny Car driver Tim Stevens and his Michfab Machinery backed team are looking to get an early start on the 2009 season with a strong showing at this weekend’s IHRA World Finals at ‘The Rock,’ Rockingham Dragway. After promising results from several test sessions at his home track of Milan Dragway, Stevens is looking forward to returning to competition this weekend.

Stevens, from Dorr, Mich., cites it was hard to stay away from the racing action, and even considered selling his operation. However, the collective competitive spirit of his team and sponsors took over and he once again hit the track testing everything from superchargers to different gear ratios.

“2008 has been the worst season in my life,” said Stevens. “It got to the point I even considered selling everything. I talked to my sponsors and crew, and we decided we needed to take a step back and test.

“It really hurts me as a competitor to be home when all my friends are at a real race,” Stevens continued. “But in the end, when the Epping race was going on, we went fast enough in testing that we could have qualified there. After doing that, everyone on the team felt like we had accomplished something.”

The testing results were impressive enough that Scott Richmond from Michfab Machinery surprised the team by taking the body and returning it with a new paint job.

“This is my way of showing the team that I am 110% behind them,” stated Richmond. “I employed the talents of up-and-coming artist Jena Jones to apply the fantastic colors and graphics. I encourage fans and racers to come see this car up close! I told the guys I want everyone to take notice when this car rolls out of the trailer at Rockingham. The car’s performance and appearance will let the fans and competitors know this team is back.”

“All I can say is we’re very excited to see what we can do this weekend,” added Stevens. “It’s a real honor to have a sponsor like Michfab believe in you enough to go the extra mile like they have done. We also have to thank Tailored Building Systems, Lettinga Performance Machine, NGK Spark Plugs, Crane Cams, Motive Gear, Hoosier Tire, Stevens Signs and Design and Repair Rite Machine. I also have to thank our great crew consisting of J.J. Thurston, Chris Harubin, Mark Noble, Kevin Shaefer, Kevin Foecking and my wife Tari.”

Qualifying begins on Friday with two sessions and concludes with the Saturday night “Nitro Jam.” Final eliminations will conclude the event on Sunday.

Fans can find out more about the team at their new website, www.michfabmotorsports.com

Contact: Will Hanna/ Pro Race Communications
Email: Will.Hanna@InsideTopAlcohol.com