Fuller looking for love in Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. (Oct. 3) -- "Virginia is for Lovers" according to the state's slogan and Top Fuel driver "Hot Rod" Fuller is hoping to fall in love with Virginia Motorsports Park this weekend at the inaugural Torco Racing Fuels NHRA Nationals.

Having never even seen the track, Fuller is determined to make his mark in an area known for great battles dating back to the Civil War.

"I'm really looking forward to the weekend," Fuller said. "We made a few test runs Monday after the Reading race and found some things that should have us right where we need to be heading into the last three events of the season.

"I'm going to Richmond with no preconceived notions and I think that gives me an edge. It's funny; I always seem to do well at tracks I visit for the first time and we're determined to put this Valvoline/David Powers Homes car back in the top five in POWERade points.

"Ever since the Seattle race in late July, we've qualified no lower than fourth, beating the best teams our sport has to offer. Every one of our guys has worked harder than ever to give me the best ride in the world and I'm not going to let them or our fans down."

This is the last event of the 2006 season before the Budweiser Shootout, the race within a race, held in Las Vegas that awards $100,000 to the winner.

"We're currently fourth in Bud points," Fuller said. "That will be another chance for us to show everyone that this team has what it takes to carry the season championship trophy."

Television coverage of the inaugural Torco Racing Fuels NHRA Nationals will carried on ESPN2 beginning with qualifying from 10-12 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, and final eliminations from 7-10 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 8, All times Eastern.