Vancouver, BC ...... Vancouver's Bob Wilson continues to pursue his vision of becoming one of Western Canada's premier Top Alcohol racers.After an eight-year involvement in the sport of drag racing, most recently driving a late model Alcohol dragster chassis combined with relatively outdated driveline components, Wilson has revealed the next phase of his racing program, which will come to be in 1997.

"For the last two years we ran a late model Alcohol dragster with a 1957 model Chrysler Hemi," Wilson revealed. "We combined the new car with some new, some old, engine and driveline parts. The end result was many frustrating and expensive runs. But despite some disappointments, I accomplished my primary season goal of completing my Advanced ET license runs, at Mission Raceway, during August. Unfortunately, on my last licensing pass, we split the old iron block in three places and that effectively ended my long association with the venerable 392 Hemi."

"When the smoke cleared, the obvious decision was made and we decided to really bite the bullet for 1997. We'll be going with a new KB powerplant, equipped with Brad Anderson heads and a high-helix blower. My 1993 Brad Hadman chassis will also be back-halved during the off-season."

Wilson reported that he has struck an association with fellow area Top Alcohol standouts Bob Haffner and his crew chief Leo Grocock (Abbotsford, BC). They will help out with parts, a tune-up and race day advice. Wilson is confident that with their assistance, he and crew chief Tom Mohan will quickly exceed the 6.30 secs. Advanced ET limit, to complete a license upgrade.

But Wilson's determination extends beyond the 1997 season. In 1998 and early 1999 he has firm goals to complement his regional NHRA Alcohol competition with a promotional tour of Australia. An eventual permanent base of operations would be established in Brisbane, Queensland with a switch to the Top Fuel class being his ultimate goal.