rpm.espn.com: Cory McClenathan

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Tuesday, December 31
Updated: January 10, 3:26 PM ET

Cory McClenathan
By Bill Stephens
ESPN.com

Team: Henkelman and Baca (2002)

Cory McClenathan
McClenathan

STATS

Year
Rank
Wins
Final rounds
No. 1 qualifier
Round record

2002 5 1 4 1 33-22

Career 27 42 27 316-184

2002 recap
The good: Newly created Top Fuel teams rarely exceed expectations but McClenathan and his Henkelman and Baca crew easily surpassed what might have been predicted for them in '02. A top five finish in their freshman season was impressive.

Season highlight: Winning the year's final event after three previous runner-ups. When going into the sponsorship market in the off-season, winning the last race of the year doesn't hurt.

The bad: McClenathan sat out for almost the entire 2001 season and at times it showed on the starting line. Lost on a holeshot four times in '02, three of those to Darrell Russell, including the Denver final.

Season lowlight: Was No. 1 qualifier at the U.S. Nationals but lost in Round 2 to Tony Schumacher.

Key stat: Finished the year on the upbeat, advancing to two out of the season's last three final rounds, winning one.

2003 outlook
What needs to be done: The chances of McClenathan returning to Henkelman and Baca in '03 hinges on his ability to land a deal of his own. He's popular, marketable, a proven winner, and has developed a strong relationship with Berryman Products, a possible sponsor next season.

Prediction: A lot needs to happen before Cory's 2003 picture becomes more clear. But, with an adequate budget, capable tuner, and all the right chemistry, he can win races and build toward his first career championship.

Your take
Here are your thoughts on Cory McClenathan's prospects for the 2003 season.

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