DRAG RACING: CHRONICLES OF DRAG CHALLENGE#3 – HERBIE EDWARDS

Author : cmunroe

There was a time when I would attend motorsports events armed with two important weapons – a pen and a notepad. I was focused on the task at hand – snatching the most relevant/significant stories. I would pose numerous questions, observe and all the time, introduce ink to paper to record the invaluable data being collected.

I would be sidetracked by nothing. I will admit, it was a difficult exercise, considering that the young ladies who usually roll-out to these high-powered events embraced an assortment of exclusive modifications which were all capable of leading the wayward to temptation’s lair – think Sintra Arunte-Bronte ! (Do the research)

At times, a  compromise was arrived at and I would, willingly, yield to the abundant, beckoning temptation! Now you know why I brandish an immeasurable grin at motorsports events!

But, in recent times I have altered my battle-gear. I no longer travel with the aforementioned tools of the trade. In my quest for that which is salient, the even more interesting background behind the rapidly emerging stories, would escape my severely restricted lens. Now, I simply show up and like Donnie Brasco, I blend in. My aim? Allow oneself to be immersed in tales of speed! There was no coordinated method to my insanity. It simply unfolded.

Nestle Supligen

Several weeks have elapsed. Words have disappeared, seeking solace. Can we find anything else to say about the NDRC’s Nestle Supligen Drag Racing Series Drag Challenge #3? It was a walloping,thunderous success from any vantage point! But wait, there is always more. I unearthed a treasure trove. I will share two nuggets.

Hillman Hunter

Midday was about three hours in the past. Elimination was in full-flight, exiting third and summoning fourth gear. The paddock, like a cemetery, was a ghost town. Everyone was locked on the relentless shelling occurring on the 1320ft. Like a foraging canine, I sauntered across the paddock. I saw and approached a drag racer who was engrossed in a conversation on his cellphone.

When he employed the end-icon (on his cell-phone) our conversation began. He owned his first car at the tender age of 17 – a Hillman Hunter, but, he did not become an active drag racer until the 1990′s. He was a part of a fearless, dominant team that terrified drag racers at that time. The team was led by a Professor of the Nissan marque – ‘Clevie’ Graham. He spoke highly of the team and the members he mentioned, even though their names were comprised of different letters, they were all pronounced – speed!

The Nissan Pulsar GTI-R – The Enforcer, was the machine of choice for the team. His machine was not the most potent of the clan, but it claimed more than its fair share of scalps!

His love for the sport has not waned. He competes in the same Nissan Pulsar GTI-R. The car is prepared by the same mechanic (who was employed to Clevie’s outfit in the 1990′s) and with approximately 450+ whp racing through the GTI-R’s 4 excited wheels, the machine, on any given day, when paired with his still razor-sharp reaction-time, will, like any chain-saw, shred the opposition!

Strange but True

On race-day (Sunday), the pilot of this iconic Nissan Pulsar, uses the early qualifying session to post a respectable time. After qualifying, he exits Vernamfield, Clarendon. His destination? He drives to church in Spanish Town, St. Catherine!

After extensive dialogue with the Lord, fellowship with members of the congregation and the sacred delivery of his tithe, the pilot returns to Vernamfield, dipped in Praise and Worship! It is my view that his faith eradicates fear, sows seeds of supreme confidence and the blessings bestowed by the Creator, gives him permission and the authority to appease the lords of speed with blistering elapsed times! Who said you could not serve two masters?

His name is Herbie Edwards!

Herbie Edwards’ machine.

Herbie Edwards' machine.

At Drag Challenge #3 he qualified in the Pro Modified 11 class (before scurrying to church) with the second quickest time – a scorching 11.145 seconds. Seek him and congratulate him. A fierce, crafty and committed competitor!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer

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