Race Updates

Kenny Tran Pummels The Competition At NHRA Palm Beach Nationals

While other Hot Rod racers may have looked at the NHRA Palm Beach Nationals as their 'moment of inertia' Kenny Tran looked to keep momentum gained in testing and a dominating win at NOPI's Dallas Race Wars rolling in the Sunshine State.

After setting the class record with an 8.19 at the NOPI event Kenny Tran Racing was riding high coming into the NHRA Sport Compact Series opener held at Moroso Motorsports Park. The Garrett-powered Q-Power/Nitto Tires Scion tC didn't miss a beat, picking up right where it left off in Dallas-deep in the 8's.

Using a blistering 1.38-second 60-foot and loads of top end thrust from his impressive 3RZ powerplant Kenny was top qualifier with an 8.10 at 177.72 mph in his first qualifying attempt. He followed up the .10 with an 8.14-second blast.

In eliminations Kenny advanced to the finals against Stephanie Eggum, who qualified second with an impressive 8.21 at more than 180 mph. This was a real high-noon showdown with a touch of déjà vu mixed in for good measure. In last year's season opener at Moroso Eggum beat Tran in the final. That was a different season and a different car. Kenny didn't flinch and nailed a wicked .093 light on the way to a new personal best 8.099 at 181.45 mph. Eggum was on the boost herself, posting an 8.359 in a runner-up effort.

It had been a while since Kenny has had the pleasure of placing a Wally on his mantle. With numerous runner-up finishes, one has to go back to the 2004 season to find the last time Kenny won a Hot Rod class event. "What a relief to get this off my chest," said Kenny. "The monkey is now off my back and we can get ready for Virginia. This sets a good trend for the season. I want to again thank my sponsors Q Racing, Scion, and Nitto. Without their help and strong support we wouldn't be winning."

As the 2007 season spools to life there should be more Hot Rod class cars joining the fray. With the Q-Power/Nitto Tires Scion tC at fever pitch Kenny Tran Racing looks to keep the roll rolling April 21-22 at Virginia Motorsports Park in Richman, Virginia.

TV Info- NHRA Palm Beach Sport Compact Nationals, Moroso, Tuesday, July 10, 5PM (ET) ESPN2. Check your local listings.