The FIA Nitro Nationals 2011 kicks off tomorrow for the pro classes with Qualification round 1 commencing at 2pm local time.
RF Motorsport has 3 Top Fuel cars competing this weekend, with Risto Poutiainen and Jari Halinen continuing their battle for the European title, and Antti Horto piloting the Spitzer chassis dragster for his 2nd FIA meeting this year.
Antti writes:
“Tierp arena went really well for us, bringing me my highest terminal speed yet (448 kph), and I gained a lot of experience from a weekend of successful runs.
“My friends and family are supporting me this weekend and we're working hard to run faster and quicker than Tierp.”
Risto Poutiainen is hoping to continue his strong performance so far this year, and currently places 2nd in the points standings and comments:
“Last year held mixed results for us, with the accident against Stig Neergaard almost writing off the brand new Hadman dragster. We worked all night to build our 2009 chassis and took the Top qualifier spot on our only shot at getting back into the field.
“Unfortunately we missed out in the final against Timo Lehtimaki, but this year will be different. We have our Hadman chassis back after being front-ended earlier this year, and it’s running great.
“Everything is still to play for in the Top Fuel Championship and a win here will definitely help take us that bit closer to the European title for 2011”
Jari Halinen is currently in 7th position in the points ladder and is looking for a strong performance here at the Nitro Nationals to help him climb some places.
He writes:
“The race this weekend means a lot to me. The Nitro Nationals is my home event, and I have lots of friends coming. Our main sponsor Sisu Polar will also be coming to watch the event so we are hoping to put on a good show for them.
“My crew and Rune have been working hard to find a tune-up to deliver the results we’ve been looking for this year.”
We’ll be updating our Twitter and Facebook accounts from the racetrack so make sure you follow our progress!
