Summit Racing

Starting Fifth, Jason Line Targets First U.S. Nationals Win

 Starting Fifth, Jason Line Targets First U.S. Nationals Win
Event:  58th annual Mac Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals

Location: Lucas Oil Raceway, Clermont, Ind.

Day/Date: Saturday, September 8, 2012

When the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Clermont, Ind. were postponed last week due to constant rain, Jason Line and the Summit Racing team were among several competitors who headed directly to Charlotte, N.C., taking advantage of the time to put in some testing at zMAX Dragway in preparation for the race to be held there next weekend.

However, the two days proved to be extremely beneficial for Line and his KB Racing crew, as they were able to gain further information about the performance envelope of their Camaro, which they were able to apply upon their return to the Hoosier State. With temperatures significantly cooler than they were a week ago, a premium was put on teams to extract the maximum from their race cars.

Fortunately, Line and the Summit crew was up to the challenge, posting a 6.569-second, 210.83 mph pass on their first attempt, which turned out to be their run of record when he slowed slightly in the final session.  Starting fifth, the defending Pro Stock champion was pleased with the progress the team had made, but cautioned that further improvement would be necessary in order to contend for the win on Sunday.

“The test session in Charlotte really helped us,” said Line. “We learned things about our Summit Racing Camaro that we were able to apply here in Indy, and even though we did not make what I would consider a good run, we were still fairly competitive, which is encouraging heading into race day.

“I believe we will have a car capable of winning the race.  However, to do so, we will need to do a better job with the tune-up, as well as avoiding any mistakes that could cost us the win.  I believe we are directionally correct with this new car, and it’s up to us to get it completely dialed in.  If we can do that, we should have a long and productive day tomorrow.  After all, it’s about time I added a U.S. Nationals Wally to my trophy case.”