The Harlow Sammons Pro Stock team, led by the McGaha brothers, Chris and Mason, has been on a transformative journey since April. The team's absence from the NHRA Mission Foods tour was not a mere vacation but a strategic decision to address performance issues. With a history of success, including Chris's eight national event final wins, the team faced a challenging start to the season. Early struggles, including DNQs and poor performance, prompted a much-needed break and a comprehensive review of their approach.
Chris McGaha, reflecting on the team's situation, emphasized the need for change. He stated, 'I was just tired of seeing us getting our teeth kicked in.' The team's decision to take time off was a turning point, allowing them to reassess and address the underlying issues. During this period, they worked tirelessly to improve every aspect of their performance, with a focus on addressing horsepower concerns through multiple dyno sessions.
Despite initial setbacks, the team's efforts paid off. Chris noted, 'We ran a motor on the dyno the other day and it didn't make the power we wanted to, but when we pulled up the data from two years ago, the same engine made the same power and we ran 6.52 in Seattle.' This realization highlighted the team's potential and their ability to overcome technical challenges.
The team's current strategy involves a return to basics. They have pared down to just one car, the Silver Bullet Camaro, driven by Chris. This decision is a nod to their past success with a single car setup. Chris believes that this approach will help them regain their footing and focus on the fundamentals.
Looking ahead, the team is already preparing for the 2027 rules package, which introduces hood scoops and a new fuel injection and intake package. Chris is confident that these changes will bring noticeable improvements. He stated, 'Next year will be better. We’ve been working on that for quite a while now, and I can tell you these cars will be fast.'
The team's future plans remain flexible, with a focus on competing in the B/Altered category at NHRA events. They aim to bring the Comp car to Indy and showcase their competitive spirit. Chris's belief in their resilience and determination is evident, as he states, 'We might be closer than we think and we might be further off. Personally, I think we’re closer but we’ll see this weekend.' The McGaha brothers' approach to racing, marked by adaptability and a commitment to improvement, positions them as a force to be reckoned with in the NHRA Pro Stock category.
