NEWS

Judd runs another AA/AP Record preparing for next round

The track record books were rewritten again by the Studebaker Racing Co when they top qualified their immaculate '53 Studebaker and, in doing so set a new AA/AP track speed record of 217.90 mph. Under Group 2 rules the team has to restrict the car's 16-71 supercharger overdrive to 33% (70% is allowed under T/D rules) and run one spark plug per cylinder (T/D rules allow two per cylinder). Despite the step down in power Judd achieved an ET of 6.495, which is his third quickest ET ever and his second .40 under AA/AP rules. At the start of the season the team decided to run this Group 2 bracket at local (non T/D) race meetings due to better handicap conditions.

"This proves you don't necessarily have to make big horsepower to run fast" Judd reflected. "We ran a 6.40 two months ago with the same set up. The pro-mod racers in the USA run a similar low overdrive and can consistently run in the 30's. Admittedly they have better tracks".

Robin and the crew will be taking this experience to Willowbank, QLD for round 3 of the Top Doorslammer National series on January 15. Willowbank has the reputation of being the best track in Australia and was where Judd's fastest speed of 220.05 mph was recorded during the Winternationals in June last year.

Judd goes into round 3 in fourth position, just 70 points behind the leader Dave Koop. The field is one of the toughest yet with T/D racers travelling from all over Australia to compete. QLD is home to the most T/D racers of any State with most of these having registered for the one day event. The weather in QLD in mid January is usually hot and humid. These conditions may restrict fast times but Judd hopes to run his first .30 at the event. He said of his chances "If the conditions are right we could run a PB but our initial goal will be to qualify as high up the ladder as possible and then see what happens from there. Willowbank is the home track for some very classy acts but Top Doorslammer racing is so unpredictable, virtually everyone in the field has a chance".

Stay tuned...