First Regional Race of the Year Has Ahten Looking Back

Chandler, AZ – Been there, done that. Johnny Ahten and the Ahten Racing Team are looking to go back to a familiar place. This weekend they are racing at Firebird International Raceway, but that is not the place. They want to get back to running in the 5.30’s. The Ahten Racing Team are done waiting.

“We have to get this thing back in the 30’s,” said Ahten. “We have run mid-to-low 30’s at Firebird in the past and I know we can do it again. A few years ago we even qualified number one. We have the parts, the knowledge, and the ability. Now we just have to go out and make it happen.”

The Island Renovation/801 Racing/Fireman’s Brew dragster showed promise at the season opener in Pomona. A second round appearance was a positive step. An issue with the fuel system was found to be a performance limiting factor, but Crew chief Al Ahten believes he has it cured. Assisting Al will be Howard Katano, Bob Ahten, and Kevin Colvell, with Johnny pulling extra pit duties.

“The warm weather is going to be a concern since fuel cars don’t like it warm,” added Ahten. “The track might not be as tight as Pomona was, but we will deal with it and work to avoid tire shake. Speaking of shake, I would also like to take this opportunity to personally thank DJ Safety’s “Big Ben” and John for their support.”

As the Ahten Racing caravan travels to Arizona for this weekend’s West Regional race, they are preparing for the race mentally. The work ahead, the tuning decisions to be made, but mostly Johnny and the gang are thinking about the 30’s. Everyone has aspirations, goals, and wants. The pieces are in place to make it happen; now all they have to do is get them in the right order. Johnny Ahten will be looking to the past for inspiration, and he is planning on adding jigsaw puzzle master to his resume.