Gary Scelzi, the newly anointed jet-setter in the NHRA Funny Car division, spent his time last weekend going in circles at Madera Speedway in Merced, California. Scelzi completed the evening as the second place finisher out of fifteen entries within the Spectator Racing Series.

"I should have had a donut sponsor because I was making so many laps around here in practice," admitted Scelzi.

Gary Scelzi spent the off-weekend racing in circles.

"I should have had a donut sponsor because I was making so many laps around here in practice," admitted Scelzi.

Scelzi donated $1,000 or his prize winnings to the American Cancer Society.

"Man, that was a lot of work," said Scelzi after the race. "I am used to racing for just 4.7 seconds."

The Madera Spectator Racing Series program is brand new for 2008. The program gives fans without any racing experience the opportunity to drive a racecar at the Madera Speedway and even compete in an actual event as part of a Saturday night program. The Madera Speedway provides all the equipment including helmet, fire suit, neck brace and of course the car!

The cost for hitting the track in one of the special Sunday afternoon sessions is only $49.95 and full participation in a Saturday night event - including practice, qualifying and a 15-lap race - is only $299.95.