Nitto Tires NHRA Sport Compact Spring Nationals - English Town, N.J.

Following the action on the NHRA circuit is like tracking a clay pigeon slung by a rocket launcher; you can't get a bead on it no matter how quickly you swivel your sights. As usual at E-Town, sparks were flying from the get-go. The local weatherman was busy tracking storm cells through the area; though not as fast as clay pigeons, the storms were equally perplexing.

Only two rounds of qualifying were run, which hurt a lot of people, none more than Stephan Papadakis and Jojo Callos. Steph, making his first pass of 2004, only managed a 9.68 in the first round. He didn't come out for the second, and when the third round slated for Sunday morning was cancelled, he was at number nine and on the trailer (figuratively). Jojo rolled in late Saturday and got diddly for his effort; he never saw the track on Sunday.

Those who made the show put on an impressive display. Thus we're enacting a new M.O. when it comes to coverage-Quarter Pounders. NHRA Peak Performers will photographically showcase the big-dog performances at the Nitto Tires NHRA Sport Compact Springnationals. Strap in and hang on.