Ecstatic Hernandez advances to quarterfinals

Madison, Ill. (June 24, 2005) – Tommy Lipar Racing driver Joshua Hernandez won his first round of eliminations in the Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals with a 6.170 second, 228.27 mile per hour pass over Joey Martin who’s car broke shortly after the launch.

“This car is set to kill. All I have to do is cut a light and hold on, because I’m confident Howard [Moon, crew chief] will get it down the track – even in the heat,” Hernandez said.

Moon responded, “The car is happy, happy, happy right now. We seem to have a hot-weather tune-up figured out. All we have to do now is keep from beating ourselves.

“Josh is really focused this weekend. I think he’s ready for another trip to the winner’s circle, and the guys are going to try to get us there,” Moon said.

Hernandez won his first race in just his second outing as a Pro Modified driver, and since that time has been fighting to get back to the top.

“I’ve got a good feeling about this weekend,” said Hernandez. “With the way the team is moving in synch at every turn, I think we have a great shot.

“I’m really excited for tomorrow,” he said.

Final eliminations begin at 4:30 p.m. Sunday at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Illinois.

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