Beckman Crowned Governor’s Cup Champ

CIFCA Race Report

Submitted by: Jim Maher

September 18, 2004 (Sacramento Raceway): There are certain races that are “a must” each year. One of those events that brings out the best and raises the performance bar is the annual Sacramento Governor’s Cup. This year’s event featured front engine nitro dragsters, CIFCA funny cars, blown doorslammer, jets and a slew of sportsman categories.

Dennis Murphy had his Jack Beckman driven Omni funny car dialed in as this lethal duo sliced their way thru the 16-car field. Beckman first round win came as a red light from Jesse Acala. During the quarters, Beckman was victorious over the Perma-Cool Burnout Challenge winner Stephen Romanazzi. The Ground Zero Omni then got a $100 richer when Beckman cut a .403 light (Enderle Quick Reaction Time) against Charles Ware. His 7.58 was good for the win light over Ware’s 7.52 advancing him into the final round.

The AMP Motorsports team was making hay on the other side of the ladder. After a major trans failure during qualifying, this SoCal team rebounded with parts assistance from Michael Irwin. With Paul Peterson at the wheel and Mike Motter on the wrenches, AMP sent Jim Scott packing during first round action. Peterson then received a red light gift from Jamie Leppanen much to the delight of team owner Tom Abbott. Another early start by Andre Pegues in the semis placed AMP into their third final of the year.

The final was held before curfew thanks to fine organization by the Sacramento Raceway’s staff. Beckman was second off the line but was able to drive around Peterson at the 1000’ mark. His 7.52 was only .049 seconds ahead of Peterson’s 7.61 at the stripe.

The Good Vibrations Best Package was awarded to Ware while Jim Maher pocketed the Bar’s Leaks Revolving Qualifier bucks. This was the 35th running of the Governor’s Cup and once again it played a crucial role in CIFCA points standings. With 2 races remaining on the DragParts.com series, Murphy and Peterson are nearly tied for 2nd while Dennis La Charite holds a narrow lead on top.