Aussie Richie Crampton takes out top NHRA Rookie Honour
Adelaide Top Fuel racer Richie Crampton has been named the 2014 NHRA Road to the Future recipient, topping off a stellar rookie year in the GEICO/Lucas Oil Dragster.
The Road to the Future award goes to the top-performing rookie in the NHRA.
Crampton’s debut year has seen him take two victories, at the 60th annual US Nationals in Indianapolis and 45th annual NHRA Summernationals in Englishtown, New Jersey.
He was also the number one qualifier on the weekend at the 50th annual NHRA finals in Pomona, setting the second quickest Top Fuel pass in the sport’s history.
"This whole experience is still surreal to me," Crampton said.
"I've said it before but I am a truly spoiled rookie. To be able to be in the equipment I am in and surrounded by the people I am, doesn't get any better. I am truly blessed and honored to be in this position."
Taking over the reins of the GEICO/Lucas Oil Top Fuel dragster when Morgan Lucas stepped aside to spend more time with his family and take on a more crucial role in the family business, Crampton was free to track the dream that he had always aspired to follow.
"Of course, none of this would even be possible if the Lucas family and all those involved had not put their faith in me and given me this chance," Crampton said.
"I just want to give a huge thank-you to Forrest, Charlotte, Morgan, and Katie Lucas, who gave me the opportunity of a lifetime.
"I also thank GEICO, Lucas Oil, and Toyota for allowing me to represent them week in and week out on the track. Without any of them and everyone else along the way, I would have never been in the position to follow my dreams."
