Schumacher Back to Work After Stock Car Experience

CHANDLER, Ariz. -- U.S. Army NHRA Top Fuel driver, Tony "The Sarge" Schumacher, returned to his real job here Friday after testing a stock car last week in California.

Schumacher, who is a five-time NHRA POWERade world champion, arrived at Firebird International Raceway for pre-season testing after posting a number of laps in a Late Model stock car under the direction of a championship-winning NASCAR Grand National West team.

"I spent a day at a small oval track out near Sacramento with Bill McAnally Racing," said Schumacher. "I had a blast. I ran about 150 laps in one of their Late Model cars and really got a good feel for that kind of racing."

The Chicago native said he first got "the stock car test bug" a few years ago after connecting with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Also, numerous discussions with his U.S. Army NASCAR teammate, Mark Martin, further sparked his interest.

"Everyone kept telling me to try it, so I hooked up with Bill McAnally," he added. I really appreciate those guys giving me the opportunity. Like I said, I had loads of fun.

"At one point, they put me out on track with another one of their drivers and we got to bang around a little bit and run side-by-side. Of course, I know that it would be a lot different with a full field of cars around me. All in all, I'm happy I got this chance. Now, it's time to return to the world I know."

Schumacher emphasizes that people should not view his stock car test as an indication he's going to leave the NHRA circuit any time soon.

"I'm not going anywhere," he said. "I love driving the U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster and look forward to challenging for a fifth straight title this year."

Upon completion of pre-season testing on Sunday, Schumacher will then turn his attention to the season-opening CARQUEST Auto Parts Winternationals, Feb. 7-10, at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, Calif.