Post-Race Report
Event 14: NHRA Mile High Nationals
Bandimere Speedway
Morrison, Colo.
July 21-23

Kalitta falls in close second round race
Race Recap: Doug Kalitta and the Mac Tools team were focused on starting the annual Western Swing strong.

After a starter issue in the first qualifying session, the Mac Tools Toyota Top Fuel dragster was on point through the remainder of qualifying. Kalitta was on the provisional pole after his 3.767 second pass. However, for the second time in the last four events, it was taken from him in the final qualifying session. Still, the Mac Tools team was pleased with the second starting spot and their three clean qualifying passes.

First up for Kalitta was the debuting Greg Carrillo. Kalitta and Carrillo were off of the line together but the Mac Tools machine was ahead by the 60 foot line and never looked back as he took the opening round win.

In the quarterfinals, Kalitta drew defending champion Antron Brown. The Mac Tools dragster had lane choice, and Kalitta was able to get the jump on Brown at the starting line. Kalitta’s holeshot advantage had the Mac Tools Toyota ahead at the 330 foot line but Brown was able to drive around Kalitta soon after and win by mere inches.

Statistics:
Qualified: No. 2 (3.767 sec., 323.97 mph)

E1: Kalitta defeated Carrillo – 3.827 sec., 320.20 mph to 4.344 sec., 281.01 mph

E2: Kalitta defeated by Brown – 3.814 sec., 324.75 mph to 3.796 sec., 315.34 mph

Quotable: “Just lost a close race to another great competitor. Nothing to hang our heads about. We will get this Mac Tools Toyota reloaded and ready for Sonoma.”

Point Standings: Fifth; trails Tony Schumacher by 101 points for fourth; leads Brittany Force by two points for six