Billy Glidden has confirmed that he will compete in the first five NHRA POWERade events in 2008. What may not be commonly known is that Glidden will be running Dick Maskin horsepower at those events.

Sources have told Torco's CompetitionPlus.com that the avenue of distribution for nitromethane could be headed for a drastic change thanks to increased involvement from the Department of Homeland Security. Don't be surprised, from what we hear, if there is an armed guard on the grounds where nitro is sold and the traditional 55-gallon drum downsized to 40. Could this be the result of the diminishing supply of nitromethane thanks to major plants being closed in China? Or, could the Department of Homeland Security have justification for this?

Sources indicate that former world championship tuner Jim Oddy could be returning to action soon but not in his usual team owner role. Torco's CompetitionPlus.com has learned that Oddy could return as a tuner for the NHRA world champion Josh Hernandez and the AMS-Rage team. This remains a rumor for now, but we are told a press release is forthcoming.

Sources have told Torco's CompetitionPlus.com that G2 Racing will be announcing the combination of a new rider and sponsorship as early as the end of this week. We are told this rider finished in the Top 20 and they have experience aboard a Buell. Let the speculation begin.

While much emphasis is being placed on the changes to the Countdown to the Championship, will the next major adjustment in the NHRA program surround the Friday evening qualifying session? Will racers now have a better chance of qualifying on Saturday in less than spectacular conditions if their Friday effort is squandered? Will the Friday evening session start times at some events be adjusted? Time will tell.

Sources close to AAA Motorsports tell us the recent announcement of the company leaving NASCAR will have little, if any affect on the drag racing side of thing. Those close to the company have assured us that AAA is pleased with R.O.I. provided by drag racing and John Force Racing.

A source close to the team has confirmed with Torco's CompetitionPlus.com that veteran Buell rider Chip Ellis will officially become a Suzuki rider for Don Schumacher Racing as early as last week. An official release is said to be in the works, but what isn't being publicized is once the new Hyabusa engine emerges there could be a second rider added to the mix.

Sources indicate that recent rookie of the year candidate Craig Hankinson will soon be announced as the new crew chief for former Funny Car driver turned Pro Stock competitor Johnny Gray. This is still in the rumor stages and we've yet to confirm with Hankinson or Gray.

Word has it that a multi-car nitro team will be adopting a previously single-car operation to their program for the 2008 season and beyond. This one should be a big surprise with huge potential. The finishing touches should be put on the merger by the end of 2007. 

Sources indicate that displace G2 rider Chip Ellis will be riding a Pro Stock Motorcycle in 2008. No one is speaking specifics on the record, but another source has confirmed that he's agreed to a deal with a major team and has subsequently resigned his position at George Bryce's shop.