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NHRA: JEG, Jr Wins 98' NHRA 'Rookie of the Year'

20 November 1998

Jeg Coughlin, Jr. won the 1998 NHRA "Rookie of the Year" after a very successful "rookie" season in NHRA Pro Stock, which is considered to be most competitive class in NHRA Drag Racing. He was also rewarded with a #2 finish in the 1998 NHRA Winston Championship.

Jeg was a threat to his competition at all 22 NHRA national events this year. This young and talented driver appeared in 14 semifinal rounds, seven final rounds, and took home 4 national event titles in Pro Stock. In addition, he became the second driver in NHRA history to break the 200-Mph barrier in a Pro Stock car.

"I could not have done anything this year without the support of my family, the employees at JEG'S Mail Order and the experience, knowledge and dedication of my teammates. My father assembled a championship caliber team, and it shows," stated Jeg, Jr. The JEG'S Mail Order Racing Team will regroup in the off season and begin an extensive testing schedule in early December. Richard Maskin, renowned engine builder and owner of DART Machinery, will perfect our power during our down time.

"With a full season behind us our young and talented team will be ready to take a serious run at the 1999 NHRA Pro Stock Championship. All members of our team will be returning in 1999. Our entire team learned a lot this year by having two cars and we will continue to campaign two Pro Stock cars," said Jeg Coughlin, Sr., who is the team advisor.

NOTE: The 1998 NHRA Winston Championship Awards Ceremony can be viewed on ESPN2 Sunday, November 22nd.