IHRA: Settles goes down fighting – and painting

The unveiling of the two dragsters awarded to the two champs at the Summit World Finals at Memphis International Raceway as part of the Summit SuperSeries shootout is always eagerly awaited, especially to see what Jerron Settles, owner of Imagine That Customs, has come up with for the paint jobs.

Each year, Settles tries hard to top himself, and it isn't getting easier. Especially since this year, he had something else on his agenda, As he told us via a Facebook posting:

"I've waited a long time, and have been trying a long time, but it's finally official – I clinched the IHRA Division 1 Quick Rod championship. Now it's off to Memphis to try for the ultimate prize. I have to thank God first and foremost. Thanks to Jerry Langley for the opportunity of a lifetime and the best car out there. Thanks to my wife Monique Butler Settles for putting up with me being gone. Gotta also thank Racetech Racecars, Brett Nesbitt Performance, Wayne Rogers Trans, Hoosier Tire, Chris Simmons Photography, and all the friends who have supported me along the way!!!"

And we'll let his Facebook page tell us what happened:

"Well, my championship bid has come to an abrupt end by the current World Champion but I went out fighting with a .008 light, LOL. I ended up finishing ninth in the world and first in Division 1 so for only racing a total of four times this year, I guess I have to be proud. I have to thank my wife Monique for the continued support and Jerry Langley for the incredible opportunity to do this. Also to all the countless others who have well wished and supported me!!!"

Settles came up against reigning champion Vernon Rowland, who went on to lose narrowly to Dave Schmidt. But with his performance in the car, and his performance as a custom painter, Settles should indeed be proud.