Demke Going to the Max for Gainesville Title Defense

Courtesy Maddern Racing

Gainesville, FL – Winning is good. Winning the same race two years in a row is better. That’s the task that befalls Chris Demke and the Maddern Racing Team this weekend at the 43rd annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NapaFilters.com. The Peen Rite/801 Racing Team won this race in 2011, and are ready to defend their title.

“It’s an awesome track,” quoted Chris Demke. “The close proximity of the trees gives great oxygenation, and that means more horsepower. I’m looking for some great performance out of the car.”

Before the celebratory chicken dinner can be served, there is work to be done. Travel to the east coast is the first matter. Maddern Racing is based in Southern California. Getting the car and trailer to Florida is just the beginning. Jerry and Dixie Maddern arrived early in the week and began the setup.

“My mind is back in the right place,” said Demke. “I’m just going to drive the car and not think.”

The major thinking (tuning) will be handled by Jerry Maddern and Kevin Watson. They have their plan in place and a tune-up for every weather condition. The major wrenching will be performed by Mike Demke, Ron Mann and Joe Cole.  Dixie Maddern is there to assure everything is just right.

“I can’t wait to race again,” said Dixie Maddern. “It’s always a surprise when we win. With everything that happened last year, I’m looking forward to making new memories this year.”

A family based team; Maddern Racing is geared up for the Gators. Even the engine is treated like one of their own. Nicknamed “Maximus” by the team, the Supercharged Top Alcohol engine is fed a steady diet of 801 Racing 70Wt Racing Oil with CleanBoost Technology. With “Maximus” behind him, Chris Demke’s Gatornationals title defense will not be forgotten.