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"I'm not exactly sure why, whether it is the heat and humidity or the fact that it likes the track's surface, we find a way to get the power to the ground." -- Scott Geoffrion

For Mopar Pro Stock drivers Scott Geoffrion and Darrell Alderman, the return to Gateway International Raceway represents the opportunity to gain momentum heading into the second half of the 1998 Winston NHRA Drag Racing Series. If last year's trip to Madison was any indication, the "Dodge Boys" may find themselves carrying the Mopar colors deep into eliminations on Sunday.

"I really like racing at this track," said Geoffrion. "This always seems to be the time of the year that our Dodge Avengers start running really well. I'm not exactly sure why, whether it is the heat and humidity or the fact that it likes the track's surface, we find a way to get the power to the ground."

Geoffrion, 33, from San Juan Capistrano, Ca., is in his seventh year driving for Team Mopar and second for team owner and engine builder Dale Eicke. Despite having only one win through Chicago of this year, Geoffrion feels confident that now is the time to make a move.

Photo by Bob Frye

"We can't hide that fact that we're down a bit in the standings. Guys like Warren (Johnson), Kurt (Johnson) and Jim (Yates) have all done their job of winning rounds. We need to concentrate on becoming more consistent heading into the weekend so that we can get an early baseline on our combination."

"We made it to the semi's here last year and probably should have been in the final round," he added. "We have proven already this year that qualifying position is crucial in our class. With the cars so close in performance, lane choice may be the deciding factor in whether or not you win the race."

For three-time NHRA Pro Stock World Champion Darrell Alderman, the path to the winner's circle has grown longer. An NHRA World Champion in 1990, 1991 an 1994, Alderman's last win came last year at the Mopar Parts Nationals in Englishtown, N.J., where he won in dominating style.

For Alderman, he relies on his years of experience and success in handling the quarter-mile strips.

"I guess experience means that your getting old," smiled Alderman. "I feel that we have a real good race car. The Mopar Dodge Avenger is as good a car as I have ever driven. I know we have a ton of Mopar fans in this area and I hope we can bring them a victory. Gateway is a great track and we hope to put on a good show."

Alderman, 47, from Moorhead, Ky., continues to feel the sense pride of carrying the Mopar banner.

"Both Scott and I are very fortunate to be able to race for Mopar," added Alderman. "Chrysler Corporation's motorsports programs are an integral part of the company's corporate and brand image development and they play a significant role in the continuous development of their people, processes and their consumer products. We understand how important racing is to them."