Insight Propels Ahten to Second Round in Seattle

Kent, WA – Fans and racers at the line were treated to something special at last weekend’s Northwest Nationals for the first round of Top Alcohol Dragster qualifying. First, there was the sight of the newly wrapped Stump Puller and matching crew uniforms. Then there was the sight of a 5.274/264.60 on the scoreboard. Close to Johnny Ahten’s career best, the team has put forth the effort necessary to return them to the 5.20’s. Research, testing, and attention to detail had a lot to do with the strong qualifying sessions and advancement into the second round.

“The car felt strong and I knew it was going to be a run,” said Ahten. “Our testing really paid off and I am very proud of my crew. Our battles with tire shake and fuel issues have been a real pain. This just goes to show what can happen when you put together a plan and keep an eye on the goal. That 5.27 and second qualifying position was just the wake-up call to remind ourselves and others what we can do,” added Ahten.

The last round of qualifying saw the Stump Puller continue to strut its stuff with a strong 5.343/267.22. That would keep Johnny #2, and set up a match-up with Greg Sereda. First round action saw Johnny get the advantage and never look back. His 5.390/263.26 bested Sereda’s 5.553/255.58 to get the win.

“Saturday was a whirl-wind day for us,” added Ahten. “Friday’s rain-out dampened everyone’s day, but Saturday was a blast. We had an autograph session with some of the other Sportsman drivers under the Mello Yellow tent. It was a great chance to meet the fans and the place was packed.  Saturday was also the first appearance of our new wrap, new crew shirts, and new major associate sponsorship with Combust Filters. I really want to thank Combustion Technologies for choosing Ahten Racing to showcase their line of by-pass filtration systems. We use and love their CleanBoost 70W Oil. I would also like to thank Island Renovations who provided us with new crew uniforms to match the car,” Ahten concluded.

The Ahten Racing team headed into Sunday eliminations with confidence. Waiting in the other lane would be previous World Champ Duane Shields. At the flash of the light, Johnny left the line with the advantage but at 1.9 seconds into the run a cylinder lost fire and began spewing out raw nitro. Tried as he could, Johnny could only watch as Shields took to the win. The carnival ride that was the Northwest Nationals for Johnny Ahten had come to an end. Strong numbers and data will carry Johnny and the Ahten Racing team forward, as they continue to have their sights set on quick times and victory.