We were in the right place at the right time in Pomona, California, at the season-opening NHRA Kragen O'Reilly Winternationals. John Irving provided the first moment of excitement of the season after only three pairs of cars had run in the Stock class. As soon as Irving hit the throttle in his Dodge stocker, the studs on the left rear tire sheared and launched him in the direction of the Tree. Irving's truck climbed into the Tree before landing on the barrier and severely damaging the driver door and the side of the vehicle. The activities of the morning were halted for almost an hour as track personnel replaced the Tree and cleared the debris created by shattered bulbs and wiring along with a few pieces of Mopar. For Irving, it was a very early end to his weekend and his first national event of the season.