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NHRA Matco Tools Nationals at Houston Goes to Scelzi, Top Fuel; Skuza, Funny Car; Coughlin, Pro Stock

28 October 1997

Gary Scelzi, Fresno, CA, maintained his point lead in NHRA Top Fuel 
by turning in a 5.74 et, 202 mph quarter mile over runner up, Larry
Dixon's  5.843 and 200.72 pass. Joe Amato had the top speed of the 
meet at 318.69 mph in the semi.

In Funny Car, John Force was never in contention, as  Dean Skuza, 
Brecksville, OH--currently number eight in the points--won the Houston race
with a 5.041 et and 307.16 mph run.  He beat Tony Pedregon who ran/broke 
at the lights a 8.200 et at 102.44 mph.

Pro Stock went to Jeg Coughlin, Columbus, OH with a 7.001 et and a speed
of 198.63, overhauling Max Osborne, who posted a 7.040 et and 194.93 mph.

Bill Maloney -- The Auto Channel