I was there and saw the whole Deal!
You definitely were a pretty good size healthy and intimidating guy in those
day and if you had connected with him = He would probably
still be in the Hospital or worse 30 years later.
Even now = There is not anyone I know at the Track that would be eager to
take you on even at your advanced age today!!
As I recall the Nova was kind of a rough deal with a straight axle and struggling
to go 11's.