RICHIE CRAMPTON RETURNS TO NHRA

Richie Crampton celebrates winning the US Nationals – Photo: Supplied

Australian Drag Racer Richie Crampton will return to the NHRA at this weekends U.S. Nationals.

The South Australian, now based in Indianapolis, will take over the SealMaster Top Fuel dragster for Kalitta Motorsports for the remainder of the 2017 NHRA Drag Racing season. Replacing rookie Troy Coughlin Jr who stepped out of the seat.

“It was a huge honor to get the call from Jim O (Oberhofer) asking if I could finish out the year with the team,” said Crampton.

“Connie Kalitta is a legend, and for me to get an opportunity like this is unreal. I am excited to jump into the SealMaster Toyota dragster and see what we can do. I never knew if I was going to be able to drive a Top Fuel dragster again, so I am extremely grateful for this opportunity.”

The SealMaster Toyota dragster – Photo: Supplied

After spending seven years as a crew member, clutch specialist and car chief, Crampton made the move into the drivers seat in 2014 where he earned almost instant success claiming Rookie of the Year and U.S. Nationals champion titles.

“After talking with Connie Kalitta and SealMaster, we decided Richie Crampton would make a good fit to fill the seat of the SealMaster dragster,” said Jim Oberhofer, Vice President of Operations, Kalitta Motorsports.

“His driving experience as well as his overall knowledge of the dragster will make him a valuable asset to Kalitta Motorsports. We were happy he was available to race in Indy.”

Kalitta Motorsports Team – Photo: Supplied

We’ll follow Crampton’s progress in next week’s International Wrap. In the meantime pick up the current issue of Auto Action magazine for more of the latest international motorsport news. Also follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or our Weekly Newsletter for all the latest updates.