Cruz Pedregon begins his 30th year of professional competition with a new team and a completely rebuilt car sporting a new paint scheme as the NHRA readies to fire up the 2021 season at this week’s Gatornationals.
“Our eyes are on the prize of being a top contender this year,” Cruz says. “There’s so much energy that comes with a new season, especially with the good news of Crew Chief John Collins coming on board and the renewal of our contract with long-time primary sponsor Snap-on. That energy has translated into a lot of long days for the team working on this stripped down, rebuilt Dodge Funny Car. As an owner, I’m doing everything I can to provide all the tools they need for us to consistently be in the late rounds and win our share of races this year.”
Cruz invested in the equipment from Collins’ and his team’s former cars that produced a second place points standing at the end of last season. With Collins as chief and Rip Reynolds as assistant crew chief, Cruz says he can stay focused on driving with the tuning in such capable hands. The team put its off-season work and strategy for the future to the test March 5 – 7 at West Palm Beach International Raceway and will do so again in Gainesville before the Gatornationals.
The Snap-on Dodge® will have two new Hellcat SRT bodies, with the primary paint scheme showcasing a call to the Makers and Fixers of the world to share their stories at makersandfixers.com. The scheme features a silver metallic hood that transitions into iconic Snap-on red and black. Cruz is known for naming his Funny Car bodies, and this year the primary body will be known as “Gato Malo,” which translates to “bad cat.”
“We have lofty goals for the year, but it will take a few races to get into the groove,” says Cruz. “With a top-notch crew, great parts, and respected sponsors, we expect to be in the winner’s circle multiple times.”
Pedregon Racing PR
