Driver Blog - John Lombardo Jr.

Have you ever experienced a weekend with a lady that you just couldn't get out of your mind? You know, the perfect weekend. It's ironic we'll spend Valentine's Day weekend kicking off the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at the Winternationals in Pomona.

In November I had the event of my life with the only woman that leads me astray from my lovely wife-my NAPA Funny Car. At the World Finals we were #1 qualifier, set low e.t. every session, ran the quickest TAFC pass of 2012 all competitors-all events, won the event, and moved into the top five in national points. It was by all accounts a perfect weekend and a stellar way to end our 2012 season.

Was it coincidence that the NAPA Filters Camo Cap girl was bigger than life on the hood of our 263 mph hot rod in November? Maybe it is true that "luck be a lady." What I don't have to question is how fortunate I am to share the company of many fine ladies! Please don't get the wrong idea; I mean my lovely wife Michele, daughter Jordan, sister Jenna, Sondra, Sheryl, and LuAnn were with us in November and will be back this weekend.

During the off season I caught up on some store projects, enjoyed tinkering on a few mechanical upgrades on the car, and cheered Ryan and Jordan on at many of their high school soccer games. LuAnn and I worked with our marketing partners on 2013 concepts and plans, setting specific goals and creating action plans necessary for a productive season.

Last Saturday we worked a display for NHRA at a local Hooters Store (more ladies), promoting the race this weekend and the local NAPA Store in Covina. Being out with the race car, visiting with fans, and of course parking and setting up today at Pomona brings the excitement of racing to life. The new season is upon us with fresh graphics, new art and apparel, all points reset to zero. When the crew chiefs hit the starter switches silly season subsides. Rebounding from nasty hail last Friday, SoCal has beautiful, nearly 80 degree weather slated for our fantastic fans. Seemingly unaffected by the temperature there's nothing like the chill and goose bumps of the motors firing on the last note of the Star Spangled Banner.

The performance numbers speak of the accomplishments Jeff, Tim, Russ, Mike, and Jim have delivered for the NAPA/Lucas Oil funny car. It's a pleasure to drive the car they provide, made possible by the support and belief you place in our program. Thanks for allowing us to represent you again this season now let's go NHRA Drag Racing!

Thank You to all our sponsors: NAPA Auto Parts, Lucas Oil, Good to Go NAPA Legend Batteries, NAPA Filters, NAPA Belts and Hoses, NAPA Power Premium Plus, NGK, Twin Palms, NYNY, Raymond's Trophey, CP Carrilo, Clevite, Hoosier Tires and Jackson Auto Supply!

Be sure to follow the team on Facebook and Twitter: @Lombardoracing and at www.Lombardoracing.com

John Lombardo Jr