... yesterday at Gateway International Raceway, Darryl Russel parished in a horrific accident while piloting Joe Amotos Top Fuel racer.
Darryl's car was almost instantaneously disintregated by a violent explosion somewhere in the rear of the car. This probably was THE most violent accident I have ever seen. He was alive when extracted but I don't know how. His competition in the run was Scott Kallita from Michigan.

All whom have ever traversed the quarter mile, are forever brothers and sisters. We should all bow our heads and bemoan the fact that one has left us. GOD Speed, Darryl Russell... You will be missed.

 

another cool guy lost..
God bless the Russel Family, crew, and Power aid for this devastating loss.

..and Goodyear tires??
I don't know

 

http://www.nhra.com/2004/news/june/russell/index.html

 

It looked like the left rear tire blew just after the finish line (going 328 mph) and took out the wing but then there was an incredible explosion with debris entering the cockpit. Scott Kaltta did a good job of veering toward the wall to avoid the front end of the dragster. Those new Goodyear tires are supposed to hold up better than the old ones. Darrell Russell 1968-2004 Rest in Peace

 

Top Fuel & Funny Car, effective Immediately
* Current design Goodyear tires used in both fuel classes...OUTLAWED!
* Driver cockpit shielding MANDATORY on top fuel dragsters.
Its not specified in the release but I had the inside line this morning that Titanium would be required for shielding the drivers from tire failures.

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