Troy Is Excited About Hometown Race

NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series
40th annual NHRA Pontiac Excitement Nationals
National Trail Raceway
Columbus, Ohio
June 10-13th

Team JEG’S – Pro Stock
Troy Coughlin
Pre Race Summary

Ten years ago Troy Coughlin made his Pro Stock debut at the Pontiac Excitement Nationals at National Trail Raceway. He became the first of the four Coughlin brothers to step into the professional ranks within the NHRA. That year Coughlin qualified ninth and lost to Pro Stock legend Bob Glidden in the opening round.
“A lot has changed in Pro Stock in ten years,” explained Coughlin. “We have seen a number of body styles come and go from the big three. But the class has always been ultra-competitive and fans can relate to their showroom counter parts. The technology advancements and horsepower gains that have taken place over the last ten-years is pretty amazing when you think about.”

In 1997 Troy Coughlin reached the final round in Pro Stock for the first time in his professional career at his home track. He ultimately scored a runner-up finish.

Coughlin has qualified for the last four straight events and has been making a gradual move up in the NHRA POWERade championship each week. He is currently sitting in the No. 18 position with 175 points. A strong performance this weekend could put the 39-year-old second-generation driver firmly within the top-15 and a step closer to breaking into the top-10.

“We are moving in the right direction and things are starting to fall into place,” said Coughlin. “We certainly have room for improvement, but if we can get in the top half of the field that will give us a leg up on race day.”

Coughlin has qualified seven times in nine attempts at National Trail Raceway. He has never started race day lower than the No. 10 qualifying position.

“You always want to do well at your hometown track,” said Coughlin. “We will obviously have a number of local fans, friends, family and over 300-plus Jeg’s associates and their families cheering us on all weekend. Doing well at this race has been a lot of fun in the past and we are looking forward to having another great weekend in our backyard.”