Troxel awaiting repeat performance

Defending Top Fuel champion of the Summitracing.com Nationals, Melanie Troxel has only one thing on her mind -- to repeat and take home the crown again of one of NHRA's more prestigious events on the tour.

She knows that is easier said than done, but so far in 2007, Troxel already has one final round appearance at Phoenix and knows her Vietnam Veterans POW/MIA dragster, led by crew chief, Richard Hogan is clearly capable of matching her 2006 performance.

"I feel that Las Vegas is one of everyone's favorite races of the year," said Troxel, who has made 12 final round appearances. "The facilities are beautiful and that track has been really good to both me and my husband, Tommy, who has won there several times himself and us winning there last year."

Her march to the 2006 title included defeating David Baca, her present teammate, Morgan Lucas, Doug Kalitta, and in the finals David Grubnic.

"As a driver you have places where things work out for you, but there isn't any actual advantage you have, but you do well in certain places," said Troxel. "Certainly, the biggest part of our performance comes from Richard's abilities. He does seem to have a very good setup for this Vegas racetrack. We have historically run better at the cold weather tracks. We're seeing our performance stepping up with our No. 2 qualifying spot at the last race (Houston) and we're in the perfect position to breakthrough with another win."

Troxel desires her return in the victory podium and feels it has been too long between wins.

"That would make it one year since the last event we won," said Troxel. "Not only are we itching to get back to the winner's circle; Las Vegas is a great place to be, to race with a lot of fans coming out there to a great facility is certainly what we're working for."