Rupert Scores at IHRA Season Opener

If the Southwestern Nationals at Southwestern International Raceway are any indication of what is to come in the new era in IHRA drag racing, then be prepared for one wild ride.
It was classic IHRA action during Saturday’s finals at the season opener in Tucson, Ariz. as a new championship program and new classes led to an increased sense of urgency and, in-turn, some incredible action on the track. Jason Rupert led Saturday’s winners at Southwestern International Raceway, taking the win in Nitro Funny Car to the thrill of the capacity crowd.

“This win really means a lot to me. We have won three (NHRA) championships and a ton of races and to win this race, the first with the new IHRA deal, is pretty prestigious to me,” Rupert said. “We have some of the best people and some of the best cars in the country in this category here this weekend and to win against that lineup is just an awesome deal.”

With the exception of a small hiccup in the opening round, Rupert was nearly unbeatable in the “Bays and Rupert” Camaro. Rupert kept his ride in the five-second range throughout the weekend, saving his best stuff for last. With the inaugural Ironman on the line in the newly restructured Nitro Funny Car class, Rupert went right down Broadway in the final against “Mr. Explosive” Mark Sanders with a 5.853 elapsed time at over 247 miles per hour, while Sanders had to click it off early.

“We have worked for years to reach this point, to be recognized as a premier class in these cars,” Rupert said. “In front of this great crowd, to come out and take the win was amazing. I want to thank my awesome crew, my sponsors, all of which help me do what I do. What a great start to the 2014 season.”

Rupert took the coveted No. 1 qualifying position in Saturday’s eliminations, besting Roger Garten and surprise semifinalist Bruce Litton to reach the finals.

Posted by: Larry Crum