NHRA's Allen Johnson DQ'd

UPDATE Statement from Allen Johnson: "I went to a late dinner last night with my family and had a few alcoholic beverages with my meal. I felt no ill effects from the alcohol I consumed. This morning, when I learned I had been chosen for a random alcohol and drug test by the NHRA, one of many I have taken and passed over the years, I took it immediately, even though I had 24 hours in which to take the test. Unfortunately, a trace amount of alcohol registered in my system, leading to my disqualification…. "I fully support the NHRA's zero tolerance policy in regards to alcohol and I understand their decision in this matter. I would like to apologize to the NHRA, my fans and to my sponsors for any disappointment that I have caused. I love drag racing and would never do anything to purposely disrespect the sport or its fans.

09/18/10 NHRA Full Throttle Pro Stock driver Allen Johnson was disqualified from this weekends O'Reilly Auto Parts Nationals at zMax Dragway in Concord, N.C. after he failed a breathalyzer test Saturday morning.

In a statement released Saturday by the NHRA, Johnson registered a .027 blood-alcohol level during the test administered at the track prior to when the third round of Pro Stock qualifying was scheduled to begin.

Under NHRA's rules, Johnson was subsequently barred from any further participation in the event and his previous qualifying times were thrown out.

Johnson had qualified seventh following Friday's first and second round of qualifying. He is currently second in the Pro Stock standings with one victory in three final round appearances in 2010.

Although Johnson's blood-alcohol level was below the limit to be considered legally drunk in North Carolina, per the NHRA rulebook, any driver or official who have a measurable blood-alcohol level during racetrack activities are banned from the event. Johnson could also face further disciplinary action from the NHRA.

Johnson was not available for comment following the announcement.
Pete McCole reporting from zMax Dragway