Championship Drag Racing

Mac Tools U.S. Nationals
Clermont, IN
(August 31-September 5)

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Brandon Bernstein MAV TV/Lucas Oil dragster

Indianapolis, Monday:  Despite a very strong qualifying effort, Brandon Bernstein will have to wait another year for a chance to capture a victory at the prestigious Mac Tools U.S. Nationals.

The Budweiser/Lucas Oil Top Fuel team qualified fourth with a very competitive 4.502-second elapsed time at 325.14 mph.

In the first round of Monday's final eliminations, second generation driver Bernstein squared off against David Grubnic. When the lights on the starting line Christmas tree went green, Bernstein was first out of the gate, but by the 330-foot mark, he was in trouble as tire spin set in. Grubnic lost traction further down track, and both drivers were on and off the throttle, but Grubnic won the pedal fest, crossing the finish line first.

"We had some good qualifying runs this weekend, especially on Sunday, the day leading into the finals," said Bernstein. "Sunday's qualifying runs were under conditions that were most like race day, so it was a surprise to go out and lose traction right off the bat. We knew David (Grubnic) was going to be very tough and obviously we both went in with hot tune-ups. This sport keeps you humble, that's for sure."

Bernstein remains fifth in NHRA POWERade Top Fuel point standings.

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