NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Bobby Cottrell earned his fourth consecutive Funny Car title at Firebird Raceway during the 51st running of the NAPA Auto Parts Ignitor presented by Peterson Chevrolet.

Driving the Austin & O’Brien “Northwest Hitter” Camaro, the final round pitted the #1 and #2 qualifiers on a rather wet and cool weekend of racing in western Idaho. Billy Morris who claimed the pole at 5.63 with the “Problem Child” Camaro would oppose the reigning NHRA Heritage Series national champion. Cottrell qualified second at 5.65 in the eight-car field.

In the final, Cottrell left the line first in a .040 to .077 advantage with both cars running identical 5.687 elapsed times, along with 251.72 by Cottrell and 253.95 by Morris. Also noteworthy, in the semi-final round of eliminations, Dan Horan Jr., established a new Firebird track speed record of 261.98 (at 5.64) after red-lighting against Morris.

Additional event champions included: Jake Jones (Super Pro), Courtney Alley (Pro), Clay Pollitt (Sled/Bike) and Chris Townsend (Sportsman).

Photos by Wayne Lederer