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

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  • čas přidán 14. 09. 2022
  • 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.
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Komentáře • 379

  • @joecucch8261
    @joecucch8261 Před rokem +275

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

  • @Wikkus
    @Wikkus Před rokem +40

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

  • @nastychevys
    @nastychevys Před rokem +116

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

  • @mre1984
    @mre1984 Před rokem +201

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

    • @herehere3184
      @herehere3184 Před rokem +7

      then just call him "Class Act" :)

    • @hughobrien4139
      @hughobrien4139 Před rokem +3

      Nice statement!

    • @garylucier6817
      @garylucier6817 Před 20 dny +1

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

  • @nicolelongneckergallery
    @nicolelongneckergallery Před rokem +26

    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
    @scottsigmon926 Před rokem +82

    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
    @69BigLou Před rokem +9

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

  • @GMitchell5150
    @GMitchell5150 Před rokem +2

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

  • @lewiskemp5893
    @lewiskemp5893 Před rokem +3

    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
      @Shiftheads Před rokem

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

    • @lewiskemp5893
      @lewiskemp5893 Před rokem

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

  • @erickschulte4960
    @erickschulte4960 Před rokem +79

    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 !!

  • @RamblinRambley
    @RamblinRambley Před rokem +22

    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.

  • @waynewilliams8554
    @waynewilliams8554 Před rokem +2

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

  • @robertdinicola9225
    @robertdinicola9225 Před rokem +2

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

  • @WindowtotheMagic
    @WindowtotheMagic Před 2 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @superhawk20002
    @superhawk20002 Před rokem +12

    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.

  • @modacare4546
    @modacare4546 Před 10 měsíci +2

    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.

  • @jimmyk6336
    @jimmyk6336 Před rokem +5

    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
      @93da9tegsmom6 Před rokem

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

  • @picklefart
    @picklefart Před rokem +34

    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.

  • @imageskj1
    @imageskj1 Před rokem +9

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

  • @DragsterJeffCrider
    @DragsterJeffCrider Před rokem +16

    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.

  • @bradjohnson9671
    @bradjohnson9671 Před rokem +6

    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..

  • @KJP33
    @KJP33 Před rokem +9

    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
      @jamescantrell5021 Před rokem +1

      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

  • @hyabussa5747
    @hyabussa5747 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing, Clay.

  • @ASennaFan
    @ASennaFan Před rokem +1

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

  • @chrisminter271
    @chrisminter271 Před rokem +1

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

  • @blobcsgo7190
    @blobcsgo7190 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing, and helping drivers.

  • @neilreid2298
    @neilreid2298 Před rokem +10

    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.

  • @pdr7159
    @pdr7159 Před rokem +1

    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.

  • @shardhoney
    @shardhoney Před rokem

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

  • @rogerdavenport9618
    @rogerdavenport9618 Před rokem +3

    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.

  • @brandygray5894
    @brandygray5894 Před rokem +9

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

  • @jackg.2780
    @jackg.2780 Před rokem +1

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

  • @Skinkutter
    @Skinkutter Před rokem +12

    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. 💙

  • @scottmaguire2560
    @scottmaguire2560 Před rokem +1

    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

  • @theboat9311
    @theboat9311 Před rokem

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

  • @stephenwayant2790
    @stephenwayant2790 Před rokem +1

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

  • @scottquasebarth677
    @scottquasebarth677 Před rokem

    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.

  • @scottgoodwin1073
    @scottgoodwin1073 Před rokem +5

    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

  • @stanleymartin1613
    @stanleymartin1613 Před rokem +1

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

  • @mesaman3000
    @mesaman3000 Před rokem +1

    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!!!!

  • @taylormade710
    @taylormade710 Před rokem +1

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

  • @bigviking0001
    @bigviking0001 Před 2 dny

    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!!!!!!

  • @13699111
    @13699111 Před rokem +6

    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 .

  • @Ras7685
    @Ras7685 Před rokem

    Clay ...thanks for sharing your story !

  • @pauloehmen1665
    @pauloehmen1665 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing the history with us. Stay safe

  • @albertaaron5113
    @albertaaron5113 Před rokem

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

  • @walrus2796
    @walrus2796 Před rokem +3

    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

  • @ericstromberger5229
    @ericstromberger5229 Před rokem

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

  • @anthonyestevez118
    @anthonyestevez118 Před rokem

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

  • @jamieday6602
    @jamieday6602 Před rokem

    What a great story! Thank you Clay!

  • @danielcarroll5667
    @danielcarroll5667 Před rokem

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

  • @matthewb8229
    @matthewb8229 Před rokem +8

    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."

  • @jamesascher8147
    @jamesascher8147 Před rokem +1

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

  • @jamescantrell5021
    @jamescantrell5021 Před rokem

    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.

  • @RealRickCox
    @RealRickCox Před rokem +3

    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.

  • @5IMON5AY5
    @5IMON5AY5 Před rokem +2

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

  • @waybad
    @waybad Před rokem

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

  • @mikeacker8644
    @mikeacker8644 Před rokem

    Great pod cast!!!

  • @williamforbes7156
    @williamforbes7156 Před rokem

    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.

  • @porschetech72901
    @porschetech72901 Před rokem

    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
    @toddnance454 Před rokem

    Love you sharing this thx!

  • @ralpheckis7142
    @ralpheckis7142 Před rokem

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

  • @TimsInsanity
    @TimsInsanity Před rokem

    You are an amazing human!!! Well done sir.

  • @billanderson6826
    @billanderson6826 Před rokem

    Great story, Thanks for sharing!

  • @derrickcotton5492
    @derrickcotton5492 Před rokem +2

    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!

  • @THEVROD64
    @THEVROD64 Před rokem

    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.

  • @zimmyman564
    @zimmyman564 Před rokem

    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.

  • @rogerholloway8498
    @rogerholloway8498 Před rokem

    Great story, thank you for sharing it with us.

  • @tye-gehring
    @tye-gehring Před rokem

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

  • @OfficialNakatsuMegami
    @OfficialNakatsuMegami Před rokem +7

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

  • @rickbullock4331
    @rickbullock4331 Před rokem

    A wonderful lesson hard learned by these two competitors with hopefully happy endings for others.👍👍

  • @brandonreeves5979
    @brandonreeves5979 Před rokem

    What an awesome story that turned into a great friendship!

  • @Doogie1954
    @Doogie1954 Před rokem

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

  • @Bobbyd0052
    @Bobbyd0052 Před 10 měsíci

    WORDS TO LIVE BY,PEOPLE ! THANKS CLAY !

  • @tedsmith3061
    @tedsmith3061 Před rokem

    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.

  • @scottcarter4388
    @scottcarter4388 Před rokem

    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!!

  • @tazsnoop1044
    @tazsnoop1044 Před rokem

    Respect to the both of you

  • @scottchristie9586
    @scottchristie9586 Před rokem

    Well said Clay! You are a class act!

  • @martinj9251
    @martinj9251 Před rokem

    I am truly Humbled by this🏁 ❤️🏁

  • @timmurray7639
    @timmurray7639 Před rokem

    One of the great things about racing and a very inspirational story

  • @hatchetman6962
    @hatchetman6962 Před rokem

    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!

  • @tat2jaytee
    @tat2jaytee Před rokem +2

    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.

  • @ljkking622
    @ljkking622 Před rokem +5

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

  • @magnummike5056
    @magnummike5056 Před rokem +3

    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 :)

  • @tgafire87
    @tgafire87 Před rokem

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

  • @rickpayne2941
    @rickpayne2941 Před rokem

    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.

  • @chrisroseborough5256
    @chrisroseborough5256 Před rokem

    Seen both of you guys race at RMR in west valley city Utah.....love both of you guys...

  • @cranjismcbasketball946

    Been there as well. Wouldn't wish it on anyone. Great video!

  • @jesusmontoya9879
    @jesusmontoya9879 Před rokem

    Beautiful story Clay ❤️

  • @LimiterLifestyle
    @LimiterLifestyle Před rokem

    Wow. What an incredibly sad but heartwarming story. glad I watched this.

  • @kurtfoulke5130
    @kurtfoulke5130 Před rokem +2

    Now it's unanimous, everyone likes Clay Millican 👍

  • @hjc5458
    @hjc5458 Před rokem +3

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

  • @ridetilludie1
    @ridetilludie1 Před rokem +1

    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.

  • @rbeldenphotography122

    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!

  • @rickpayne3915
    @rickpayne3915 Před 6 měsíci

    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.

  • @reecetbobby5347
    @reecetbobby5347 Před rokem +1

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

  • @da_SpiffR
    @da_SpiffR Před rokem

    Well said, sir.

  • @randallburgess46
    @randallburgess46 Před rokem +1

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

  • @kennethjacobs725
    @kennethjacobs725 Před rokem +1

    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.

  • @davidallen3873
    @davidallen3873 Před rokem

    Clay had completely forgot about that moment I was one sitting in the stands at reading when you did that I was greatest moment my life and you gave somebody a great name you are a true class act don't ever forget it