Dave Earhart – A Champion of Canadian Drag Racing
Strathroy, ON – May 16, 2013 - There is no doubt that this weekend’s “Spring Blowout” presented by RPM Magazine and Lucas Oil at Grand Bend Motorplex (Grand Bend, ON) will open a new chapter in Canadian drag racing.
The National Drag Racing Association introduces doorslammers to their entertainment package on Saturday (May 18) and it was all because of Strathroy, Ontario’s Dave Earhart. His passion to give Canadian Pro Mods a “north of the border” race series initiated what is destined to become one of the best in Southern Ontario and all of Canada.
After two successful seasons since Dave lead the Heads Up Racing Association (HURA), he came to a crossroad; trying to balance the demanding organization and marketing of an obviously popular series and his own racing operation … not to mention his busy Earhart Heating & Cooling INC business.
That’s when he and NDRA Director of Operations, Dale Boeru got together to meld the doorslammers into the already established and successful National Drag Racing Association race program.
“I was thrilled that Dale took over what I had started! His professional promotion and marketing skills are just what was needed to take Canadian Pro Mod racing to the next level. In the next couple of years, this series is going to be one of the best in Southern Ontario!”
Now Earhart is focusing solely on his 2013 season performance and particularly on winning the opening race at Grand Bend. “I picked up the win at the inaugural (2011) HURA event, so I am after the same in the first season of the doorslammers in the NDRA series.”
He continues, “We have a limited season with three or four races. I’ve been thinking about this all winter. Obviously, I’d like to win them all, but we’ll see where it goes.”
When I spoke with Dave, he and the Earhart Racing crew were in the final stages to ready the 2002 Chevrolet Camaro for testing and this weekend’s competition. It will still run with its 526-cubic inch KB Olds mill with Kobelco 14-71 supercharger on top. “It’s old but absolutely dependable. This is my 14th year with the car and it continues to perform like new. With some data upgrades we are confident that our goal for consistent 6.50s is totally achievable.” He adds that he has switched back to a 3-speed shifter from the 2-speed that he has used for the past two years, simply because he wants some more challenge with the clutch. “We ran the 2-speed and it was great! No problems what-so-ever. I just want more to do in the car … not just wave to the crowd.” This guy is a driver!
Not only is Earhart a damned good racer, but here is a guy who is dedicated to the growth of Pro Mod and all drag racing in Canada. His passion for the sport was definitely apparent through our entire interview. He has been a good friend of Canadian Drag Racer Magazine and an outstanding supporter of the NDRA from the beginning. Dave promotes drag racing off the track too: attending car shows and chatting with anyone who shows interest.
Not only does he have a quest for winning, but he places an importance with giving the spectators a good show. This is what helps to put “bums in the bleachers” which is so important for the growth of Canadian drag racing and makes his fit with the NDRA so right.
Behind the scenes, Dave has a great crew who he emphatically thanks for their dedicated support. The team is led by crew chief, Simon Couto and includes Chris Melo, Sherry Earhart, and Tanya Vieira.
He recognizes his sponsors, Earhart Heating & Cooling INC. (Strathroy, ON) and Performance Unlimited of London, ON for their invaluable contributions too.
Dave Earhart is an accomplished drag racer, but more than that, he is a champion of drag racing in Canada. His love for the sport and his tenacity towards its growth is remarkable to say the least. It is guys like him that will perpetuate Canadian drag racing long into the future.
THANKS Dave!
Good luck this weekend. May the “Clutch” be with you!
Dale Hickey
Canadian Drag Racer Magazine