Carter all go for the Autosport Show!

For most Drag Racing fans the sport they love is seen as a Spring to Autumn pastime. For those of us involved in the sport however, it's a commitment that requires time and energy throughout the calendar year. FIA European Top Fuel Drag Racing is probably one of the most demanding of classes and this is particularly true for Carter Motorsport. Our on-going commitment to Lucas Oil and associate sponsors sees us running a heavy schedule of shows which enables us to showcase the companies outstanding range of products, to as wider audience as possible. This is why for us, preparation is key!
On a cold and wet December morning Andy, Ian, Phil, Richard, Dave and Gary gathered together to prepare the teams show car for its first appearance of 2008, Autosport International.

During 2007 we attended 13 shows on behalf of primary sponsor Lucas Oil. We had a great time talking to the public about Drag Racing and promoting the Lucas Oil product range. However, the shows and travel soon take their toll on a Top Fuel Dragster and the car was in need of a very through clean!

The 22 magnesium and carbon fibre body panels were removed from the car and we were amazed to find that dust had managed to lodge itself pretty much everywhere throughout the season. With Gary and Dave braving the December weather to wash all of the panels outside, the rest of the team worked in the comfort of the workshop to clean and oil the 300 inch long chassis. Dust and dirt had also taken its toll on the drive train, so time was spent cleaning all of the surfaces and wiping the cables and fittings. The freshly washed panels were then re-attached to the car which was then detailed with the excellent Lucas Oil 'Slick Mist', to give a high gloss shine which will look spectacular under the lights at the Birmingham NEC.

For us Autosport is always one of our favorite shows of the year. To represent European Drag Racing at one of the world's most prestigious motorsport shows is an honour and we always enjoy talking to fans and newcomers about our sport. Autosport International takes place on the 12th-13th January 2008, at the NEC Birmingham and again we have to say a a big thank you to Santa Pod Raceway for inviting us on to there stand. For more information see www.santapod.com or www.autosport-international.com.

We would also like to thank Midland Automatic Transmissions and Cottingham Engineering for their help and assistance throughout the day.

On behalf of the team, I would like to take this opportunity to wish our sponsors, fans and friends a very happy Christmas and a great 2008!

Gary Cottingham
Carter Motorsport

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