There is a new green machine on the scene and it’s driven by the closest thing drag racing has to stand up comedian – Al McClure.
While his laconic demeanour might not give it away, McClure’s quick wit has made his trophy acceptance speeches legendary and you can be sure any interview he is doing is worth a listen.
While he might be a concreter by day, McClure turns into a drag racing phenom by night and he is confident a new car for this season will take him to new personal best performances.
McClure tested the bright green BB/Altered-classed machine last weekend.
“The car is really good, with a big cockpit that makes it a lot more comfortable to sit in,” he said, “It also has four wheel carbon brakes and it is a real pleasure to drive, it stops so much better. I was really enjoying how nice it was.”
As well as the new chassis, McClure has switched to a manual transmission, something he has never used in a drag car before.
“Bringing the revs up on the start line and pulling into stage was awesome,” he said. “We’ve got a lot to learn about getting the clutch settings right but eventually it should go faster than the auto.
“That said there are so many variables with the tuning that I think initially it will confused me. (Top Doorslammer racer) Daniel Gregorini was giving us a hand last weekend and so we were able to try some things to see what worked.
“With the extra gear ratios we now have and the way we can rev it up on the line, we should be able to get closer to a 5sec. pass.”
The West Australian drag racing season starts anew this weekend with the running of the Grand Opening at Perth Motorplex on Saturday.
As the opening round of the State Championship, drag racers across nine divisions will have their chance to begin their season on a high note.
The headlining Top Comp bracket has seen a strong turn out with 15 teams nominated for race day. Leading the way is John Zappia, who claimed the ANDRA Top Doorslammer last season. He will be joined by five other Top Doorslammer teams in the field including Steve Aldridge, Paul Carey, Mark Chapman, Kelvin Lyle and Pino Priolo.
– Perth Motorplex press release
