NHRA News: Stewart joins Carrier Boyz Racing (9/25/2004)

Stewart joins Carrier Boyz Racing

9/25/2004

"I think I can add to the team for the remainder of this year and I know next year that we'll be in the hunt for the championship."
– John Stewart

Veteran crew chief John Stewart has joined Carrier Boyz Racing as co-crew chief on the Carrier Boyz Berryman Products Top Fuel Dragster.

"Todd Smith is crew chief for our program here at Carrier Boyz Racing and we have brought John Stewart on as co-crew chief to be another set of eyes," said McClenathan. "In this day and time, as complex as these Top Fuel dragsters are, two heads are better than one. This is especially true when you're up against cars like the three Kalitta cars, Dick LaHaie's and Tim Richards' beer cars and the Army of One car of Alan Johnson.

"Todd and John worked real good together last year when all three of us were with Darrell Gwynn Racing. This year Todd has done real well taking this car to two finals, winning one; but if you are going to chase a championship you need a total package and that what's we have with Todd and John. Together they do such a good job. It's hard to overlook that."

Stewart grew up in the Sacramento, Calif., area. He drove Top Fuel cars in the early 70's and in 1973 earned a spot in the 16-member Cragar 5-second Club.

In addition to a stop at Darrell Gwynn Racing, Stewart's resume in a long career includes positions with Connie Kalitta, Shirley Muldowney, Cruz Pedregon, Shelly Anderson, Tim Wilkerson, Dean Skuza, Jim Epler, Bob Vandergriff and Don Prudhomme's Snake Racing.

"I'm glad to be back with Cory Mac and Todd," said Stewart. "Todd and I worked real well together last year. This year after exploring other opportunities things worked out so that I could return. I think I can add to the team for the remainder of this year and I know next year that we'll be in the hunt for the championship."

Smith added, "I'll be the first to tell you, it's great to have John back. The difficulties of trying to run one of these Top Fuel dragsters by yourself are almost impossible. You have to have more than one person thinking about the details and tuning all the time.

"We believe this is going to be a good mix again. We think alike. We understand things alike. I'll continue to make the horsepower; John will get that horsepower to the ground.

"We already found some things that have increased our performance and are real excited about the last five races of this year. Welcome home John."

2004 News Archive
Return to the Home Page