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Drags: Rocca's USA Racings Quickest Pro Modified at Snowbird Nationals

6 December 1998

BRADENTON. FL.-- There's just something about the Snowbird Nationals that brings out the best in Johnny Rocca and his team. The defending Snowbirds Pro Modified champion was in attendance as a car owner with his trusty, 1933 Willys to do battle. Veteran Australian Top Doorslammer pilot Troy Critchley was entrusted with the chore of defending Rocca's title. He did well to earn his keep by nabbing the pole position in his debut as driver for the USA Racing team.

Critchley saved his best for last as he roared to a 6.440/215 mph to pace the field by nearly .02 of a second. Of the thirteen entries in attendance at the Bradenton-based event, Rocca's machine was the only supercharged entry in attendance. According to Rocca, the controversy has far from subsided in the least toward the blown, alky cars. An earlier 6.204, which was later determined to be a rear-wheel start, only added fuel to the fire.

"They left no stone unturned in checking us," explained Rocca. "They checked our fuel, pulleys and everything that they could possibly check. Heck, we got back to the pits and they checked under our car. I said, 'Damn, where's Scotty Cannon at?' Well, all I can say, is that they will take us serious from now on. To do this, and not event hurt a part, makes this personal victory even sweeter."

Critchley's pole position will pair him opposite Billy Harper in the first round of Sunday's eliminations.

For more info on USA Racing, check out our website at: www.usaracing.com.