Herbert seeking to end the season on a positive note

POMONA, CA, pre-race: Doug Herbert is not one to sit around when things aren't going well. That's why the driver of the Snap-on tools Top Fuel dragster is looking forward to a strong performance at this weekend's Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Nationals.

While Herbert has endure one of his worst seasons ever in 2006, it has provided 16-year Top Fuel veteran pilot with plenty of inspiration to return in 2007 with a competitive, top-notch operation. Preparations for the 2007 season began with the decision of trying new engine combinations during the last three races. Herbert made the addition of veteran crew chief Doug Kuch in Las Vegas and the team was immediately rewarded with a top half qualifying effort and renewed enthusiasm.

As the Snap-on team continues to learn and adapt, Herbert is still eager to finish the year with a win in Pomona . The 39-year-old North Carolinian has enjoyed a considerable amount of success in Pomona . He became the quickest driver in NHRA history with a 4.88-elapsed time run in 1993, eclipsing the 4.80 barrier. He also became the second driver to record a 300-mph run with a 301.60 mph blast during the same event. "Dougzilla" also scored a victory at the NHRA 50th Anniversary Nationals at Pomona in 2001 and advanced to the semifinals here at the opening race of 2006.

"We've experienced plenty of good fortune here is Pomona ," Herbert said. "We will be trying a lot of different things and I'm looking forward to a good weekend. The Snap-on Tools team needs to really produce to create some good morale that can sustain us through the off season."