NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Coming up with titles remains incredibly difficult … unless you’re part of a race team. Those people can’t help but name everything, including seasons. This is the season of no excuses for Mike Salinas, who returns for his second full-time season with the services of legendary tuner Alan Johnson at his sole disposal. 

That puts Salinas in the best position he will ever be in (probably) to make a run for a championship, or at least for his first race win. Salinas reached one final round in 2018 and made strides with “consulting support” from Johnson. Things are different this time around. Brian Husen and the entire team that crewed Brittany Force to a 2017 title are on Salinas’ car in 2019. 

“It’s a huge change and a big relief for me,” said Salinas. “Last year, you know, we had stuff falling off the car and there were times I’d get into it and just not feel totally comfortable. I don’t have to worry about that at all with these guys because you watch them and their process and they’re just so professional putting the car together.” 

They’ve also been together for a long time. That continuity between the team members, between Husen and Johnson, and the entire crew put together, makes for a very cohesive unit. So, when the team pulls up to the line for the Winternationals, Salinas expects to know exactly what Scrappers Racing has in the tank. He also knows that puts pressure on him to not mess it up.

“If I get my driving where it needs to be,” he says, laughing. “Seriously, it just takes away excuses. I have no excuse. Brian has no excuse. Alan has no excuse. We just need to do our jobs and I think we’re going to go out there and do some very good things this year. That’s exciting, but it does also add pressure.” 

Salinas also brought on board his first sponsor - Global Electronic Technology. That name will be familiar to those around NHRA Drag Racing. Global is the primary sponsor on Shawn Langdon's Funny Car and found a home on the rear wing of Salinas' Top Fueler. 

“Joining Mike Salinas' Scrappers team as an associate sponsor is an honor," said Salinas. "Not just because of the car, but of the man himself. I am proud to work with a man who shares my ethics and commitment to honor. The Global Electronic Technology Family is excited for the success ahead in the 2019 season.” 

With every opportunity comes expectation – neither have been higher at Scrappers Racing before now. A couple of strong passes on a brand-new chassis built by Morgan Lucas Racing has Salinas feeling confident with plenty of more testing still to come.