Staging Duel Becomes Fight On The NHRA Start Line - Clay Millican and Doug Herbert's Epic Burndown!

Рет қаралды 322,012

Жыл бұрын

Twenty years ago, one of the strangest incidents in NHRA Top Fuel history took place at Maple Grove Raceway. Clay Millican and Doug Herbert engaged in the longest burndown ever seen in the nitro categories.
A burndown is when both drivers refuse to stage first for a drag race. It is rare to see a burndown go longer than a minute, and extremely rare to see one reach two minutes - let alone in nitro dragsters!
In this interview, ‪@claymillican25‬ remembers the crazy moment, and then talks about the tragic incidents that would later bring his and Doug Herbert's paths together again.
If you'd like to find out more about the BRAKES initiative (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe), go to putonthebrakes.org. Over 100,000 teens and parents have been trained in safe driving, making a huge difference on our roads.

Пікірлер: 380

@joecucch8261 Жыл бұрын

That has to be the saddest way for two people to become friendly. Bless both of your sons memories.

@Wikkus Жыл бұрын

Clay is such a genuine guy; anyone with that amount of smile lines around the eyes is straight up.

@nastychevys Жыл бұрын

Clay is probably one of the most genuine good people I've ever seen.

@mre1984 Жыл бұрын

Clay, you don’t need a nickname. You are a class act in my opinion and I wish you great success in NHRA!

@herehere3184 Жыл бұрын

then just call him "Class Act" :)

@hughobrien4139 Жыл бұрын

Nice statement!

@garylucier6817 Ай бұрын

Caring Clay Millican! You have earned that nickname by just participating in the Brakes program!

@nicolelongneckergallery Жыл бұрын

Over 40 years ago I lost my son due to a sailing accident. Every time you talk about your loss, I get a tear in my eye. It's GOOD and reminds me that life is but a gift on loan, so live every day as if it may be your last. Thanks for sharing your story with us and keep stomping on the loud pedal.

@scottsigmon926 Жыл бұрын

Sir, you are a down to earth, stand up guy! I wish all the guys that run in NHRA had the great attitude you have. Best wishes in all you do.

@69BigLou Жыл бұрын

I'll never forget that moment. Watched it live. The early 2000s were incredible for both NHRA and IHRA

@kurtfoulke5130 Жыл бұрын

Now it's unanimous, everyone likes Clay Millican 👍

@erickschulte4960 Жыл бұрын

Man that brings back memories. I had forgotten about the big burndown. Its amazing how tragedy will bring people together. Awesome video...honestly one of my favorites so far. Thank you !!

@LivingNitro Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it!

@GMitchell5150 Жыл бұрын

You 2 make me proud to be an NHRA fan. Handshake to both of you.

@lewiskemp5893 Жыл бұрын

I lost my son Sept 27 2020. This video brought tears to my eyes UNFORTUNATELY I can relate to your pain brothers. All we can do is move forward and TREASURE the memories. That's why I have this profile pic. It's my favorite pic of him. And my first car I painted

@Shiftheads Жыл бұрын

Sorry for your loss. Couldn't imagine one of my children dying before me. Hope you and your family are well

@lewiskemp5893 Жыл бұрын

@@Shiftheads Thanks. The 27 this month will be 2 years. I'm at as much peace as I will get.

@MackenzietheCollie Жыл бұрын

Has it REALLY been 20 years since this now?? This will FOREVER be one of the greatest staging duels/burndowns in all of NHRA history! One of the most memorable ones for me that I remember and know of beside for examples, Warren Johnson vs Dave Connolly at Denver in 2005 and Warren Johnson vs the late Scott Geoffrion in Houston in 1994.

@LivingNitro Жыл бұрын

Right? Time flies...

@MackenzietheCollie Жыл бұрын

@@LivingNitro Yeah, it sure does...

@waynewilliams8554 Жыл бұрын

Tragic way for two hardcore competitors to team up for a common goal. Good on both of you!!

@superhawk20002 Жыл бұрын

Tons of respect for both of you as fathers. What a history between two teams pushing cars to the limit. When you mentioned losing your son Dalton, it hit me hard. It brings all the memories of my 2 boys growing up, and all the things missed.

@WindowtotheMagic 3 ай бұрын

Donation just made to BRAKES in honor of my own son. Sorry that you boys lost your sons. I cannot imagine. Thanks for helping kids learn to live.

@DragsterJeffCrider Жыл бұрын

You’re a great story teller Clay, thank you to you and RWR and Doug, and all your great Spenser’s ! I love your passion. Fron a 60 + year drag veteran.

@modacare4546 11 ай бұрын

That broke my heart when your son died. He was not only an awesome monster truck driver, but a carbon copy of you when it came to displaying an upbeat, positive attitude if he won or lost.

@imageskj1 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story Clay. Life's most difficult challenges have a way of humbling us and bringing us together. ❤️

@robertdinicola9225 Жыл бұрын

There are no true grudges in the racing community. Everyone is there for the same reasons. All good humans.

@KJP33 Жыл бұрын

First of all sorry for both family's losses, I can't even imagine the pain. Second everyone could benefit from the story you just told. We tend to take things for granted and hold onto things that don't ultimately matter. Very touching testimony!

@jamescantrell5021 Жыл бұрын

Well said Kevin,there's a video on you tube.Clay does an interview discussing the day he got that knock on door when he lost his son.It was gut wrenching,its always in the back of my mind.If you ever get a chance you need to go check him out in person.It amazing how he tames that 11,000 horsepower beast

@picklefart Жыл бұрын

I had a personal relationship with Chet Herbert for the last few years of his life. One of the very last cams he personally ground was one for a SBF I built for my 64 falcon. That cam is and I'm sure always will be the best dang cam I've ever had. That car had never had that much mph until he ground my cams. That man had forgotten more about horsepower than I'll ever learn in my life. I still have the car and 15 years later it is still running that solid roller cam Chet ground and his lifters.

@bradjohnson9671 Жыл бұрын

Clay, this is one of the most touching stories I've ever heard. Thank you for sharing with all of us. Class act you are sir..

@neilreid2298 Жыл бұрын

Clay- you are such a class act. Didn't know you lost a son. I remember the burn down and what a touching story about when Doug lost two sons. As a fellow father, I can't imagine the pain from that loss. Onward and upward. Hope to say hi to you in Dallas next month.

@hughobrien4139 Жыл бұрын

Amen to that!

@Skinkutter Жыл бұрын

Over the years I have kinda stepped away from the drag racing, but since meeting Clay and holding a conversation with him in I'm guessing around 2004, he is a constant for me. Outside of racing, he is still just one of my favorite humans. His positivity and authenticity are just above and beyond most. 💙

@jimmyk6336 Жыл бұрын

I put both my son and daughter through B.R.A.K.E.S approx. 10 years ago. To this day my kids will say I nearly got into an accident today but my B.R.A.K.E.S. training saved me again. I can't thank Doug Herbert and the B.R.A.K.E.S. Staff enough for a program that literally is keeping our kids safe. Clay, your a Class Act see you at the track...

@93da9tegsmom6 Жыл бұрын

This is what road-safety should be about. Bless y'all!

@rogerdavenport9618 Жыл бұрын

Have met both these guys, Doug built my engine in my old classic 57, they are both class at its finest. Good memories and good lesson.

@RealRickCox Жыл бұрын

Man... this was a great story. So sorry for the loss of both your sons. And letting bygones be bygones is a wise move for anyone who wants to live a joyful life.

@matthewb8229 Жыл бұрын

I met Rick Stewart in Denver after the Saturday races. He never reacted politely to a stand off like that. He was a very nice guy, and answered my two or three questions, but his thoughts were, "I'm the starter, you move in, you stage, you go. Anything else is holding up the show."

@garylucier6817 Ай бұрын

A carbon copy of his mentor Buster!

@OfficialNakatsuMegami Жыл бұрын

Clay Milican has his You Tube channel.. he is an awesome guy, very personable. He is a legend in my eyes.

@13699111 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the old school memories Clay many wildnight's in years past . I enjoy every burn out you and now can add your wife to the big time burn out fun . If you have anymore Elvis video I'm sure everyone would be grateful to see it. Your channel is a great families first channel .

@brandygray5894 Жыл бұрын

Awesome story, you're such a great guy Clay!!

@ljkking622 Жыл бұрын

How can anyone not like Clay? Even if he beat me I’d be smiling.

@bigviking0001 21 күн бұрын

My stepson did the BRAKES class and I went to see it. About 2 weeks later there was an incident on the highway while my stepson was driving his mom. I am absolutely convinced that they would have both died had he not taken that class. As it was, he drove through the trouble without a scratch. Thank Doug and Thanks Clay!!!!!!

@scottgoodwin1073 Жыл бұрын

That story epitomises what I have always thought of you youre a class act Sir sorry for both of you losing your son / sons thats a hard road to travel for sure

@derrickcotton5492 Жыл бұрын

I followed Clay a lot in the IHRA as well the NHRA. He is really a great guy. He is always smiling and a positive racer. He had a very long reign in the IHRA. VERY sad to hear about his son. Awesome program! I love to see these guys give back to the community. I wish them all the best that God has to offer!

@5IMON5AY5 Жыл бұрын

Wow, really tugged the old heart strings with that story!

@chrisminter271 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing that story Clay,,, I'm tearing up now.. Respect

@walrus2796 Жыл бұрын

I have always been a Doug fan, watching you 2 in the IHRA, and then seeing this happen, HELL he is 3X your size, you have been my favorite driver. mad props

@zimmyman564 Жыл бұрын

I met you at Martin Michigan when you ran IHRA I rode the elevator with you and your wife at Covington Kentucky in 2005 At the IHRA World Championship Awards banquet. You are a class guy and a great racer. God speed to you and all you do you are a inspiration to what we love.

@jackg.2780 Жыл бұрын

Clay, love your videos. How kind you are to everyone. We said hello to you at Indy. You are a true gentleman!

@uncleben03 Жыл бұрын

Every time a little kid says he wants to be a race car driver when he grows up, I hope that kid grows up to be like one of these guys.

@pdr7159 Жыл бұрын

Ur an awesome guy Clay . I’ve talk to u several time at different tracks and always enjoyed ur kindness and down to earth personality. Keep the faith.

@scottquasebarth677 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for all you do for the sport and fans. So So sorry for your loss, I lost my son 2 1/2 years old in 1993. I just watched you in St.louis 2022 Midwest Nationals, and always enjoy your smile and energy. May God bless you and your family and crew.

@ASennaFan Жыл бұрын

Thanks for posting. Stories like this are why drag racing is so great.

@hjc5458 Жыл бұрын

I was at Phoenix when Doug got the call. Fast forward to 2 yrs ago I got the call.

@dakotaautosales9673 Жыл бұрын

🙏🙏

@reecetbobby5347 Жыл бұрын

Clay was my favorite driver in the IHRA before this even happened. This cemented him as my favorite top fuel driver of all time.

@tat2jaytee Жыл бұрын

A true class act and a good role model. I have always been a fan since he signed my hat in Ennis tx 30 years ago.

@LivingNitro Жыл бұрын

He is one of the best!

@hyabussa5747 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing, Clay.

@gilbzmusic7186 Жыл бұрын

NHRA has some of the most down to earth folks of all sports it seems. Bravo

@scottmaguire2560 Жыл бұрын

Dude that was one of the best stories so far. You both been thru so much. Great tail. Keep em coming and lets grab another wally

@jamesascher8147 Жыл бұрын

Much respect to you Clay. You're a great example of a gentleman driver

@rickpayne3915 7 ай бұрын

Never knew how Doug got his nickname. I did have the opportunity to work for Doug and go to Bristol as part of his drag racing team a few years back. Thank you Clay for sharing this video.

@stephenwayant2790 Жыл бұрын

Heartbreaking and uplifting at the same 3. Always nice to know there's good people out there

@rbeldenphotography122 Жыл бұрын

I am very fortunate that I have worked with both Clay and Doug (I am a photographer for a Drag Illustrated Magazine) and I can tell you for first hand experience that both of them a total class acts! I actually had a chance to shoot Clay again yesterday (Sept 23rd) and he is always in a great mood. Just an overall really good Dude!

@taylormade710 Жыл бұрын

Much respect to both drivers, humbling story.. lessons learned, life is more important than any issues in life

@mesaman3000 Жыл бұрын

Love your stories! Always entertaining and never dull! I am truly sorry for the losses you and Doug have been dealt. Keep that positive vibe, and keep the content coming!!!!

@kennethjacobs725 Жыл бұрын

Clay, you posted this four weeks ago but I'm just now seeing it. I lost my oldest son back in 2006 to a work related car accident. I'm sorry for your lost and for Doug's lost as well. I have a new respect for you both based on this story. I hope I get to see you and talk with you at the Fall Nationals here in Texas this weekend if I'm able to make it. If not, good luck to you and your team.

@williamforbes7156 Жыл бұрын

long and sort of what I took away from this was the humbling story of these two men, and the good work the continue to do.

@jamescantrell5021 Жыл бұрын

Your good man Clay,met you in Pamona last year was a guest through Mainline.I watch all your videos had no idea how much I didn't know about drag racing life lessons and maintaining a good attitude.It today's world, it's nice change of pace knowing there still good people out there.

@colinwhite5355 Жыл бұрын

All else aside, that was a really nice fella talking, there. Maybe our politicians could learn a little by watching this.

@waybad Жыл бұрын

At that moment I tested up. You have always been my favorite driver. Even in IHRA. thank you 👏👏👏

@shardhoney Жыл бұрын

You are so humble. Thank you for sharing this. ♥

@stanleymartin1613 Жыл бұрын

Wow, what a great and heartfelt story. Thanks for sharing your story.

@tedsmith3061 Жыл бұрын

That's life! And after today's story of yet another...That's life! I am enriched...yet a little more today. Sharing your sons is a noble and, yet humbling thing to do. Thank you so much for sharing.

@theboat9311 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for an amazing story, rivals come to an understanding and teaching kids to drive

@pauloehmen1665 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing the history with us. Stay safe

@ldtenenoff Жыл бұрын

Clay with his welcoming personality has truly become well has been the class of the field in Nitro top fuel racing

@blobcsgo7190 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing, and helping drivers.

@lagh84 3 ай бұрын

The both of you show what a "Real Man" is.

@magnusopump Жыл бұрын

Great video. And thank you for reminding me to register my son for BRAKES, which I forgot about.

@ericstromberger5229 Жыл бұрын

Heartbreaking and yet fills your heart. Thanks for sharing this story.

@ridetilludie1 Жыл бұрын

One of my favorite memories from racing was being at joe Byrd’s house with clay and dalton for the group class we did before he started racing for joe, I’m so sorry dalton passed and especially for the way it happened, he was such a nice kid and an amazing competitor to race against.

@THEVROD64 Жыл бұрын

Class ACT....CLAY ! Awesome story I have never heard. Thank you. 59 and have ALWAYS been a fan of your addictive smile and positive attitude.

@ralpheckis7142 Жыл бұрын

Incredible story. Thank you! Continued good luck to you.

@porschetech72901 Жыл бұрын

thank you sir for sharing what has to be an almost unbearable loss and the story of the end result from what started as a simple grudge match showdown

@toddnance454 Жыл бұрын

Love you sharing this thx!

@Ras7685 Жыл бұрын

Clay ...thanks for sharing your story !

@danielcarroll5667 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing this very touching story and my condolences on the tragic circumstances...............

@albertaaron5113 Жыл бұрын

Thanks guys for the memories. God Bless you and your family's.

@anthonyestevez118 Жыл бұрын

This is one of the greatest stories I've ever heard! Thanks for sharing!

@LivingNitro Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it!

@magnummike5056 Жыл бұрын

Wow, great story. I have a similiar one I pray I can share with you some day. Keep them coming and this is you and the teams weekend. Win lights :)

@FredFukkinBear Жыл бұрын

I hung around the drag boat racing scene for many years. I had family directly involved in the racing, promotion of the sport, RESP (Racer's Emergency Support Program), RFC (Racers for Christ) and other events and charities. It was amazing how all the racers, crews and all the families were supportive of each other. If you needed a part and didn't have one, chances are one of the other race teams did and would gladly give it to you. There was plenty of teasing and good natured fun, but I've never been around more people that were laid back and friendly in my life.

@hatchetman6962 Жыл бұрын

BLUE THUNDER was one my favorites!! Love the content keep up the good work! love these types of videos. Nothing like reminiscing it's good for the soul!

@FishfryOGMcTaco Жыл бұрын

I worked at a cabinet shop next door to Clays place when that went on. Clay and Mike were always so down to earth and let us check out the equipment in between races. Clay dominated IHRA in those days hands down!

@jamieday6602 Жыл бұрын

What a great story! Thank you Clay!

@Doogie1954 Жыл бұрын

Wow very touching story, thank you for sharing . I have two boys as well and your story really hits home.

@tgafire87 Жыл бұрын

Hell of a story. In less than 10 min you made me laugh and tear up. Thank you for sharing.

@rickpayne2941 Жыл бұрын

That is very nice of you to share this information. I got to go one of the classes that BRAKES puts on and see first hand on how the class helps teach the teens it has touched.

@wyattyeary8050 Жыл бұрын

Some of the most wholesome humble people I have ever met are racers. Just built different

@billanderson6826 Жыл бұрын

Great story, Thanks for sharing!

@Bobbyd0052 10 ай бұрын

WORDS TO LIVE BY,PEOPLE ! THANKS CLAY !

@scottcarter4388 Жыл бұрын

What a great great guy! My nephew and I watched Clay film a commercial for Coke in person in the mid 2000's at Commerce Dragway then saw the commercial the next day during the finals. Crazy how life brings rivals together for a common cause!!

@aSinisterKiid Жыл бұрын

As far as I'm concerned Clay certainly has a nickname. Clay "Class Act" Millican

@tye-gehring Жыл бұрын

I love that story. Godspeed to both of you and your families.

@rogerholloway8498 Жыл бұрын

Great story, thank you for sharing it with us.

@randywl8925 7 ай бұрын

What a story. 🤣 Ive never thought about the "who stages first" in my life. You're a really fantastic man. Youre story telling is a bonus. ...........oh, and that noisy thing you drive is cool too. 🤣 Thank you for telling this story . I never knew about your own son. Happy new year and a great 2024 season.

@garylucier6817 Ай бұрын

I only think about getting in before the time out and getting down to that 3rd bulb at the correct repeated staging RPM. And shaving it close on the green side is the forever hope.

@garylucier6817 Ай бұрын

You talked about hearing the crowd over a fuel engine. My very first Stk Elim. Pass on the National Event stage I remember pulling into the water box and looking up at a sold out standing room only crowd in Pomona at the 1995 Winternationals and thinking WOW, the big stage (as they were doing some track prep for the pair in front of us). And I so far cannot remember a single time I have ever while in the car from leaving the lanes to completing any passes either Qualifying or in Eliminations, at any event since ever even seen the crowd ever again (or lack of it), it is me, my car, the process, the track, the tree, the starting line crew, and the other car and driver in the other lane...total tunnelvision, and the work at hand...there can be a packed house or empty stands...I just don't remember seeing any of it beyond that very first time. And at every National Event I always after my race day is done personally visit the grandstands area to remind me that I was once long ago before the mid 70's was a Top Fuel fan and a grandstands seat kid! And that it was what drove me to race as an adult. Since I started racing in 1975, except on TV, I don't think I have ever witnessed a full fuel session again. It is like the crowd I just don't see it anymore when you are a part of the show. Too focused on the job at hand praying for that very elusive day where 6-7 rounds or more go your way leading to holding up that famed Wally at the end of my very far and few days left on earth! I will attempt in November at Vegas to get by your pit and finally say hi to my internet and fuel hero Clay! Just a chance for 1 of the slowest to meet one of the fastest in the game!

@randallburgess46 Жыл бұрын

I have a great respect now for this man. God bless you and your family Clay.❤️. 📕

@drakenobrim901memphis3 Жыл бұрын

Clay is one of the most down to earth great man. I had the experience of living down the street from him and seeing him at the store from time to time. He is just a great guy. RIP to Dalton millican… he was on his way to true stardom