October 17, 2003 - IHRA Drag Review
Gilliam, LA - In the Saturday Gambler's Race, Jr. Dragster winner Colton Chapman from Red River earned his way into the finals with a hole-shot advantage, sending San Antonio's Austin Cowan back to the pits with a semi-final trophy. In the finals, Temple racer Alesi Gerthe and Red River's birthday boy Colton Chapman hauled to the line with both of their teams screaming and cheering in the stands and on the starting line. They had close reactions, but Chapman had a slightly better bulb and he ran closer to his dial, giving himself an awesome birthday win. Colton's dad built his dragster and Colton has taken home seven wins this year. He thanks Jack Collier, Devon Brush, Mr. Lee Photography and his parents. Gerthe said, "I couldn't have done it without the support of my parents, RCI, George Gregory and Karen. Thanks to Linda Tomastik, the entire Temple team and my racing friends for cheering me on. My sponsors are RCI, Dad and Mom's retirement fund and my inheritance! Special thanks to John Harden for building me an awesome car and to Craig Blossom for making me go really fast!" Gerthe's team was wearing eye-catching jackets from RCI.