NORWALK, Ohio (July 5) - After a two-race break to regroup, Pro Stock driver Rodger Brogdon returned to NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series competition to make a statement at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk.
The ProtectTheHarvest.com Camaro made four consistent passes throughout both days of qualifying, but it was Brogdon's 6.574 at 210.90 11 mph in Q2 that got him the No. 11 qualifying spot for Sunday's eliminations.
"It's good to come back to the track after having to miss a couple races this season," Brogdon said. "It's always good to see everybody here but we still have a lot of work to focus on. I always want to be at the track but I didn't want to come back until I thought we were ready.
"We're running a decent speed compared to the rest of the class; we just have to figure out how to run a low e.t. to go with it. In Q4, we were about third or fourth in the session but our qualifying spot doesn't reflect it. We'll see what happens tomorrow, but this class is a tight battle and anything can happen."
Even with his short departure some things never change. When Brogdon pulls up to the starting line for round one of eliminations, he will see the familiar face of No. 6 Jeg Coughlin Jr. next to him, a common matchup for this season and Brogdon's entire career.
"We're going to try to get a good light and straight outrun him," Brogdon said. "After qualifying it looks like we're going to have a one-lane race this weekend. Lane choice is always important, especially in eliminations, but it might be a little more important than normal."
Brogdon will continue his comeback when eliminations begin at noon, Sunday. ESPN2 will carry all elimination action.
