The Tap It Brewing Impala body launches off of the Todd Lesenko-driven Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car during the third qualifying session at the 2012 Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals.
[Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #191, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November / December of 2024.]
An engine explosion blew the body off almost entirely intact, with the composite shell eventually landing on the return road next to the track. Lesenko, on the other hand, bounced around in the seat of the out-of-control chassis. Fortunately, the parachutes deployed to help Lesenko get the car stopped. The veteran Jim Dunn-led team thrashed to get the car repaired and made it back up to the starting line for the final qualifying session.
Photograph by Richie Coury/Primetime Video and Photo
In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip
Pomona, California
Saturday, November 10th, 2012
This story was originally published on January 15, 2025. 
