One of the big stories coming into the 2015 NHRA Mello Yello season is the entrance of Dave Connolly into the top fuel ranks as part of Bob Vandergriff Racing. Dave will be racing one of two C&J Energy Services dragsters along with teammate Larry Dixon. Dave had a full on nitro baptism be fire during the week of testing at Palm Beach International Raceway and we have the photos to prove it. There is no “easy” way to break into top fuel, even if you are a seasoned veteran like Connolly. He told us in an interview that the learning curve was steep and every single run is an opportunity to pick up more information, more knowledge, and more “feel” for this 10,000hp racer. On this lap he got a rude awakening on the slap of the throttle when the engine erupted into an epic fireball. In this photo sequence you will see the whole situation unfold. Something to understand. A top fuel car gets to the 60′ cone in less than nine tenths of a second so that is the time frame that these were shot in. You’ll notice that Connolly reacts to the unfolding situation in that amount of time. THAT’S the mark of a guy who is already getting attuned to the fury of these amazing cars. This stuff ain’t easy.
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE DAVE CONNOLLY’S WILD FLAMING LAUNCH AT THE 2015 PRO WINTER WARM UP
Poor bugger was freezing his arse off and decided to warm it up!
Hats off to Dave Connolly. His Heart and Right Foot is in it all the way. I was at PBIR for the warm ups. With only 1/2 of the teams that usually show, I was disappointed with the program this year. But watching Connolly, and things like Massey’s 332 mph pass made it enjoyable.
I was there on Sat. just a few words. Great numbers,great time. Only suggestion 2 hrs between is way too long. Maybe they could let locals run like a test and tune type deal. Also The track websight said first round @ 5. First round was at 4. Would have missed alot if I planned on 5 o’clock start. Anyway I am here from sunny warm Michigan so kinda fun thing to do.