Topeka, pre-race: Fourth place points holder, Tim Wilkerson is a rare powerhouse in the Funny Car ranks in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing world. With one-third of the season completed, the beautiful Levi, Ray & Shoup Chevrolet Monte Carlo is the only Funny Car that has qualified in the top half of the field at every event. This feat is impressive enough in itself. But when you take into account that Wilkerson is a single car team in a multi-car world and that he is the team owner, tuner and driver; what Wilkerson and his talented crew has accomplished this season becomes even more outstanding.

With the competition being so very intense and the corporate sponsorship involvement so strong, many teams are growing and diversifying. They have a highly paid team owner, a highly paid crew chief, a highly paid driver and several race cars for R&D and to fill the coveted 16 car qualifying field. But Springfield, Ill. native, Wilkerson has shown the racing world that if you work smart and hard, have the right talent and the right sponsors, you can compete at the big team level leaving them wondering how you do it.

"We are having such a great time this year," explained Wilkerson. "The car's performance is pretty awesome. We've won a race, been a No. 1 qualifier, been going rounds and we're fourth in points. Wow, I can't believe it. I'm enjoying tuning because the car is reacting to what we tell it, Fred (Mandoline) and I are working well together and the team is doing a great job. And I'm enjoying driving this Monte Carlo. We've got great sponsors in Levi, Ray & Shoup, White Night, Craftsman and Summit. They're not just sponsors; they're friends. I know I'm speaking for the whole team when I say how much we value their support and friendship. And the entire team and I also have very understanding and supportive family and friends that help make all of this possible. We know it's still early in the season, but we don't what it to end."

What makes Wilkerson more appealing is that he isn't superhuman. He's just a hardworking guy who goes to work everyday, loves his wife and kids and appreciates what he has. He tries to have a moment for his fans, always has a smile on his face and his hand extended for a friendly handshake. But inside the man is a burning dedication and commitment to take what he has and shine brightly in a crowded Funny Car world.

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