John Haas and Speed Sport Special went from zero to 237.5 mph Sunday - in less than 5 seconds - to capture first place in Sunday's final round of the 22nd Augusta Southern Nationals.

"It nosed over a little at the start, but went on to do what it was supposed to do," the Michigan Top Fuel Hydro drag boat racer said, after covering the quarter mile in 4.943 seconds to defeat Hot Licks Bullet, driven by Jarrett Silvey of Kansas City.

In the Top Alcohol Hydro division, Kent Price of Gardner, Kan., - driving Black Draggin - was the champion; and California racer Steve Westerfield, driving All Lit Up, won the Top Alcohol Float division after opponent Don Ermshar's boat, Mako Force, jumped out of gear at the starting line.

The final round, which drew a larger gallery, was blessed by cool weather and safe racing.

During the final day of the 2006 contest, Haas' boat was destroyed in a violent crash; and a severe storm ended the 2005 race prematurely as high winds damaged tents and equipment.

"This is probably the best attendance we've had in at least five years," race chairman Dayton Sherrouse said. "We did a lot of advertising out of town, and a lot more advertising here in town, and I think it really paid off."

No figures were available, but Convention & Visitors Bureau estimates from 2006 indicated 22,000 people attended.

"We love Augusta. We come every year," said Darin Watson, a mechanic from north Atlanta who also plans to attend next weekend's race in Gadsden, Ala. "You'll see a lot of the same people there."

Norman Bolen of Barnwell - an Elvis impersonator and nightclub owner - was among the few first-timers on hand.

"It was amazing," he said. "I can tell you this will be a yearly event for me."

Reach Rob Pavey at (706) 868-1222, ext. 119, or rob.pavey@augustachronicle.com.