CREASY AT HOME TO RECUPERATE

Creasy was missed at the IHRA race in Grand Bend.

Dale Creasy Jr. left the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, hospital on Saturday, July 19, and is now home in Beecher, Ill. He took a commercial airline and he was in the first row with loads of pillows for his injured legs. He reportedly has an appointment in Indy to see the group that did John Force’s rehab, so he should be in good hands.

Tim Finley, the crew chief for Chris “The Greek” Karamesines, went to Dale’s home with some other folks and built wheelchair ramps so “Peanut” can get around in the house. Nice.  (Steve Embling photo) [7/22/2008]

FIRST FC WIN FOR BARTONE

Tony Bartone collected his first Funny Car win at the Schuck’s Auto Supply NHRA Nationals in Seattle. It was Bartone’s first Funny Car win since joining the class more than seven years ago.

According to DRO statistician Jim Hawkins, Seattle made the 88th event Bartone has qualified as a pro since he started nitro racing in 2001. He's compiled a 39-87 record in those years. Bartone’s previous and only final round appearance was against Whit Bazemore at the first Las Vegas race in 2005.

On the way to the winner's circle at Seattle, Bartone beat the other Tony, making his career record 6-7 against Tony Pedregon (and that's not too shabby). See complete Seattle coverage in our Race Coverage. (Ron Lewis photo) [7/22/2008]