Fuller named Bracket Racer of the Year at Firebird banquet

National Dragster, Jan 17, 2003

FIREBIRD RACEWAY, Boise, Idaho (Nov. 23) - Firebird Raceway crowned its 2002 champions at its 35th annual awards banquet, which was held at The Grove Hotel in downtown Boise, Idaho, and attracted a capacity turnout of enthusiasts.

The evening was packed with awards, which included more than $10,000 in cash and prizes from Boise Muffler and Spangler Bros. Auto Body in the Gold Cup Championships, Woody's Pro Snow/Bike Series, and Meadow Gold Jr. Series. Also recognized were winners in the High School Series, which was presented by the United Dairymen of Idaho, Smoky Mountain Pizza, and the U.S. Marines; Lyle Pearson Acura Import Survival Series; and Club Championships, which was backed by Taco Bell and Fairly Reliable Bob's.

Dennis Fuller was chosen by his peers as Bracket Racer of the Year. Fuller won his first Firebird Super Pro track championship this season, which included an unprecedented four consecutive Gold Cup Super Pro victories in April and May.

One of the highlights of the evening was the 16th annual presentation of the Racemaster Award, which honors an individual who has lent unequaled support to Firebird Raceway and the drag racing community. This year's award was given to Ed "the Outlaw" Jones, one of Firebird's most popular racers, who has performed quarter-mile wheelstands for Firebird fans over the last 21 years.

Honored at the event were Fuller (Super Pro), Matt Jessel (Pro), Rose Shaw (Sportsman), Richard Pedraza (Pro Snow/Bike), Gregg Jorgensen (High School), Ty Bull (Alumni), Sean Shaffer (Jr. Dragster Lightning), Andy Stote (Jr. Dragster Thunder), Sergio Aguirre (Import), Melba Outlaws (Silver Club Cup), Stateline Racing (Bronze Club Cup), Hot Shots (Copper Club Cup), Borah High (AAA Series), and Middleton High (AA Series).

Other awards were presented to Brian Losness (Hemi), Shaw (Lady Driver of the Year), Jorgensen (Rookie of the Year), Van Wassenhove Racing (Best Appearing Race Car), Bill Jones (Outstanding Perseverance), Ron Liese (Goodguys 2002), B&H Racing (Outstanding Crew), Darin Bussert (Most Improved), Dan Shawver (Staff Member of the Year), and Tessa O'Donnell (Official of the Year). - Firebird staff