Mike Ashley will drive a nitro Funny Car in at least five races during the 2008 season. The two-time Pro Modified world champion and defending NHRA U.S. Nationals titlist will make his re-debut next weekend during the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis, Mo.

“We’ve only been running the second car at select events,” Ashley said in a Saturday press conference. “I’m looking at doing this at least up until Norwalk.”

He added there were two strategic factors in his decision.

“It’s important the way our team has progressed that we have two cars out here gathering data,” Ashley said. “We must come up with a master plan to master the combination. It’s no secret there have been significant changes to the chassis this year.” Mike Ashley will drive a nitro Funny Car in at least five races during the 2008 season. The two-time Pro Modified world champion and defending NHRA U.S. Nationals titlist will make his re-debut next weekend during the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis, Mo.

“We’ve only been running the second car at select events,” Ashley said in a Saturday press conference. “I’m looking at doing this at least up until Norwalk.”

He added there were two strategic factors in his decision.

“It’s important the way our team has progressed that we have two cars out here gathering data,” Ashley said. “We must come up with a master plan to master the combination. It’s no secret there have been significant changes to the chassis this year.”

Gathering data is a primary objective, but that may pale in comparison to another major desire. Ashley wants to drive a nitro car again.

“It’s no big secret that I miss driving,” Ashley said. “I’ve having fun driving the Pro Modified car, but I do miss my time with the Funny Car.”

Ashley added the team is still lacking major funding for the second car and once the funds are secured, Frank Hawley will return to competition.

“We were not planning on driving these races, so that’s why I am returning to drive the car,” Ashley explained.

Melanie Troxel will continue to drive the car tuned by Brian Corradi and Mark Oswald. Ashley will be tuned by Aaron Brooks.

“We’ve mapped out a strategic plans and I’m confident after five races we’ll have a good handle on this program,” Ashley said. “I think we’re already closer than it looks.”

Ashley said whether or not his driving stint lasts longer than five races will depend on their points ranking.

“It’ll also depend on what my wife and family says, too” Ashley added.

Ashley also revealed a grand scheme for the future which could include a third Funny Car team and even a Top Fuel dragster. All would be contingent on proper funding.

“I feel pretty good about some of the things we are working on,” Ashley said.

Would Ashley ever drive the Top Fuel car? Most likely not, Ashley said, because in his assessment, they create a more claustrophobic setting than a Funny Car.

“I would have a hard time driving a Top Fuel car,” Ashley admitted. “I’m a drag racer, so you never know. I’ll still be driving a Pro Modified while driving this Funny Car.”