Crampton looking for Countdown comeback in Dallas

Australia’s Richie Crampton, driver of the GEICO/Lucas Oil Top Fuel Dragster, is confident of returning to victory lane in the NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex this weekend.

The US Nationals winner stumbled in the first round last weekend in Charlotte, but Crampton hopes the second race of the Countdown to the Championship will yield better results.

"I'm sure we'll bounce back in Dallas. There's no reason why we can't pick up where we left off in Indy and put Charlotte behind us,” Crampton said.

"The Dallas racetrack can be very good, so obviously we're going to try our best to qualify in the top half and get lane choice for race day.

Crampton remains the leading contender for the NHRA rookie of the year award with victories at the US Nationals and Englishtown in June.

He is the only Top Fuel rookie to make the Countdown and he was eighth in the points heading into Charlotte.

The Adelaide born racer knows success at the FallNationals is crucial to keep his rookie title quest on track and feels the Morgan Lucas Racing provides all the elements for a win.

"Dallas is definitely going to be a pivotal race in the Countdown for a lot of us," Crampton said.

"I couldn't have wished for a better team to start my driving career with. It has such great equipment and staff. To have the success that this team has had this season in my rookie year is just amazing.”

"I'm very grateful for GEICO and Lucas Oil and Toyota giving me this opportunity,” he said.