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March 1, 2014 Newswires No comments

2014 NHRA MELLO YELLO EVENTS

Anonymous

By Anonymous
Proquest LLC

1 OF 24

54TH ANNUAL

CIRCLE K NHRA WINTERNATIONALS

FEB. 6-9

Auto Club Raceway at Pomona

2780 Fairplex Drive * Pomona, CA 91768

NHRA.com

Elevation: 1,100 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Group Tickets: Contact Andrew Zamarripa, 626-250-2220; email, [email protected]

Radio Frequency: 104.7 FM

Every February since 1961, fans have flocked to Southern California forone of drag racing's grandest traditions: the unveiling of new cars, drivers, teams, and sponsorships at the season opener, where teams hope to use the season kickoff as a springboard in their pursuit of a spot in the Countdown to the Championship at the fabled Pomona facility known for its outstanding traction, smooth surface, and record performances.

2013 RECAP: The youth brigade of Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Courtney Force (Funny Car), and Vincent Nobile (Pro Stock) kicked off the new season with victories. Fans also witnessed great performances during the four-day event, including thethird-quickestTop Fuel elapsed time of all time by Langdon in his final-round win over Tony Schumacher.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is about 25 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. From Interstate 10 east, exit Fairplex Drive or White Avenue and go north; follow signs to Fairplex. From 1-10 west, exit Fairplex Drive and go north. The track is about one mile north of the interstate. Arrow Hig hway provides access from the north.

VISITOR INFORMATION: La Verne Chamber of Commerce, 909-593-5265; Pomona Chamber of Commerce, 909-622-8484

2 OF 24

30TH ANNUAL

CARQUEST AUTO PARTS NHRA NATIONALS

FEB. 21-23

Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park

20000 Maricopa Road * Chandler, AZ 85226

www.racewildhorse.com

Elevation: 1,100 feet

Tickets: www.NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Radio Frequency: 92.9 FM

NHRA's annual duel in the desert continues in its traditional spot as the year's second event. A Southwest fixture since 1985, the event offers teams a chance to redeem mistakes made at the opener. The facility is also known for record performances, such as Tony Schumacher's historic 330-mph quarter-mile blast in 1999. Under new ownership, major renovations have been made to the multipurpose facility.

2013 RECAP: Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel) scored the 70th win of his career in a finalround pedalfest with Morgan Lucas. He was joined in the winner's circle by Don Schumacher Racing teammate Ron Capps (Funny Car). After an offseason of uncertainly, Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock) won the second race of the year with a final-round holeshot against Mike Edwards.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is 10 miles south of Phoenix and minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor int'l Airport. From Phoenix, take Interstate 10 east to the Wild Horse Pass exit (162). From Tucson, take 1-10 west to the Wild Horse Pass exit (162).

VISITOR INFORMATION: Chandler Chamber of Commerce, 800-9634571

3 OF 24

45TH ANNUAL

AMALIE OIL NHRA GATORNATIONALS ^

MARCH 13-16

Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville

11211 N. County Road 225 * Gainesville, FL 32609

www.autoplusraceway.com

Elevation: 167 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Group Tickets: 352-377-0046

Skybox Tickets: 352-377-0046

Radio Frequency: 88.5 FM

The traditional East Coast opener and the season's first of 16 events for Pro Stock Motorcycle riders and first of 10 for Pro Mod racers, this event is one of the sport's most revered with a rich tradition of history-making performances. This hallowed dragstrip has entertained spring-break-loving fans for four decades with such notable occasions as the first 260-mph Top Fuel and Funny Car runs in 1984 and the first 270-mph and 300-mph Top Fuel passes, in 1986 and 1992, respectively. Its 675-foot concrete launchpad is one of the longest on the tour.

2013 RECAP: Mike Edwards set the Pro Stock e.t. record at 6.473 and ran the secondfastest speed of all time (214.31 mph), but the final round came down to Allen Johnson edging teammate Jeg Coughlin Jr. Antron Brown (Top Fuel) earned Don Schumacher Racing its 200th team victory with a setup by Funny Car winner Johnny Gray. Hector Arana Jr. broke a yearlong drought in Pro Stock Motorcycle.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is on County Road 225, eight miles north of Gainesville Regional Airport. If traveling north on 1-75, use Exit 382, Williston Road (CR 331 ), and turn left (east), Williston Road will become Waldo Road (State Route 24) after it crosses U.S. 441. Continue on Waldo Road to NE 53rd Avenue, turn left, then immediately right onto CR 225 and continue 3.5 miles to the track. From 1-75 north or south, use Exit 390, 39th Avenue (SR 222), go east to Waldo Road (SR 24), turn left, go to NE 53rd Avenue, turn left, then immediately right onto CR 225 and continue 3.5 miles to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Alachua County Visitors and Convention Bureau, 352-374-5231 or 866-778-5002, www.visitgainesville.com; Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce, 352-334-7100, www.gainesvillechamber.com

4 OF 24

15TH ANNUAL

SUMMITRACING.COM NHRA NATIONALS

MARCH 28-30

The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

7000 Las Vegas Blvd. N. * Las Vegas, NV 89115

www.lvms.com

Elevation: 2,100 feet

Tickets: www.lvms.com; 800-644-4444; 702-644-4444

Radio Frequency: 103.9 FM

As if Las Vegas weren't loud and ostentatious enough in its own right, the city hosts the fire and fury of the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Iwice each year, this event in the spring and the crucial penultimate stop on the schedule in the fall. Contested at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a crown jewel befitting this glitzy city, the event has become a pivotal stop on the tour. This event is the home of the eight-car Pro Stock bonus event, the K&N Horsepower Challenge, the winner of which receives $50,000.

2013 RECAP: Allen Johnson doubled down on his fortune by winning both the K&N Horsepower Challenge Saturday and the Pro Slock event Sunday. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel) defeated final-round opponent Antron Brown in an intramural battle. Cruz Pedregón (Funny Car) faced a lense moment when his car wouldn't go into reverse in the final, but he kept his composure and defeated Courtney Force for his first win of the season.

HOW TO GET THERE: From the Las Vegas Strip and downtown, follow Interstate 15 north to Speedway Boulevard (Exit 54). Follow signs to the main parking area.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, 702-892-0711, www.lvcva.com;www.lvms.com

5 OF 24

5TH ANNUAL

NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS^

APRIL 11-13

zMAX Dragway

6570 Bruton Smith Blvd. * Concord, NC 28027

www.zmaxdragway.com

Elevation: 630 feet

Tickets: www.zmaxdragway.com; 800455-FANS (3267)

Radio Frequency: 91.1 FM

The NHRA Mello Vello Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops at fabulous zMAX Dragway - the self-proclaimed "Bellagio of dragstrips" - with the spectacle of four-wide racing in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle. The site, which also has hosted an NHRA national event in mid-September since 2008, is famous for its fan amenities and side-by-side dragstrips.

2013 RECAP: Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) set the national e.t. record again at 6.471 seconds and closed the deal this time with a victory. Spencer Massey (Top Fuel) continued his team's run of success at this event. Matt Hagan (Funny Car) won with his new team far the first time over first-time finalists Blake Alexander and rookie Chad Head. Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) scored his second straight win.

HOW TO GET THERE: From Charlotte (south) or Greensboro, N.C. (north), take 1-85 to Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Boulevard/Concord Mills), then head east; parking is available on both sides of Bruton Smith Boulevard. From Charlotte, take 1-85 north to Exit 46A (Mallard Creek Church Road), turn right off the exit, then left onto Highway 29 North/North Tryon; parking is available on the left past Bruton Smith Boulevard. From South Carolina, take 1-77 north to Exit 1 (1485 east), then follow 1-485 to Exit 32 (Highway 29/North Tryon). Take Highway 29 north to the speedway; parking is available on the left past Bruton Smith Boulevard. From Statesville, N.C., take 1-77 south to Exit 25. Turn left on Highway 73 (Sam Furr Road), then right on Poplar Tent to Pitts School Road. Turn right onto Highway 29 south; parking is available on the right.

VISITOR INFORMATION: www.zmaxdragway.com

6 OF 24

27TH ANNUAL

O'REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA SPRINGNATIONALS presented by

SUPER START BATTERIES

APRIL 25-27

Royal Purple Raceway

2525 South FM 565 * Baytown, TX 77523

www.royalpurpleraceway.com

Elevation: 10 feet

Tickets: www.royalpurpleraceway.com; 281-383-7223

Radio Frequency: 87.9 FM

Royal Purple Raceway benefits from incredible atmospheric conditions because of its proximity to Trinity Bay, which feeds the facility cool air. The track's first NHRA national event, in fall 1988, established RPR as one of the sport's quickest with NHRA's first four-second Top Fuel quarter-mile pass and a new national record. Since then, the track has been host to a dizzying array of record runs, including the first sub-4.5second Top Fuel quarter-mile pass by Larry Dixon in 1999.

2013 RECAP: With live TV coverage and quick turnarounds adding drama to the event, Cruz Pedregón (Funny Car) jumped into the points lead with his second straight win. Bob Vandergriff Jr. (Top Fuel) upset Shawn Langdon in the final and took his traditional jog toward the starting line. Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) earned his third straight victory. Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Shane Gray ran identical elapsed times in the final, and Line's better reaction time earned him the win.

HOW TO GET THERE: Baytown is 25 miles east of downtown Houston. From downtown Houston, take 1-10 east to SH 146 (Exit 797) and go south to FM 1405 (approximately Iwo miles). Take FM 1405 east (left) to FM 565 and take another left. The racetrack will be one mile east on your left.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Baytown Chamber of Commerce, 281422-8359

7 OF 24

34TH ANNUAL

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA SOUTHERN NATIONALS *

MAY 16-18

Atlanta Dragway

500 E. Ridgeway Road * Commerce, GA 30529

www.atla ntad ragway.com

Elevation: 1,100 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884- (6472)

Radio Frequency: 96.7 FM

One of NHRA's long-established events, this belle of the South has gained a reputation as one of the tougher events on the tour to win. With summer approaching, warm temperatures can turn the event into "Hotlanta" and throw crew chiefs a curve as they try to glue their charges to the facility's 660-foot concrete launchpad.

2013 RECAP: Noncompliant weather forced the conclusion of the event until the following weekend, but the action proved worth the wait. Antron Brown scored in Atlanta for the fifth time and the third time in Top Fuel. Johnny Gray broke a slump of Iwo first-round losses and a DNQ since his Gainesville win to top the competition in Funny Car, Mike Edwards won in Pro Stock, in which Shane Gray reached his second straight final.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is about 65 miles north of Atlanta on Interstate 85 at U.S. Highway 441. From Atlanta, take 1-85 north to Exit 149 (Highway 441 ). Travel north on Highway 441 to Steven Tanger Boulevard. Go left on Tanger Boulevard, then right on E. Ridgeway Road, and follow the signs to the track (approximately a halfmile on the right).

VISITOR MFORMATION: Atlanta Dragway, 706-335-2301; Banks County Chamber of Commerce, 706-677-2108; Banks County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 706-677-5265

8 OF 24

26TH ANNUAL

NHRA KANSAS NATIONALS

MAY 23-25

Heartland Park Topeka

7530 S.W. Topeka Blvd. * Topeka, KS 66619

www.hpt.com

Elevation: 980 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Radio Frequency: 88.7 FM

Sprawling multipurpose Heartland Park Topeka has been a Midwest favorite since it opened in 1989, but its dragstrip has gained the majority of headlines. The event, originally in the fall, has featured numerous record performances, the most significant of which was the shattering of the quarter-mile four-second and 300-mph barriers in Funny Car in 1993. The event makes its return to Memorial Day weekend.

RECAP: Johnny Gray took the Funny Car points lead by completing back-to-back victories for the first time in his car and defeating a resurgent Robert Hight in the final. Shawn Langdon closed the deal in Top Fuel with a win over Tony Schumacher, who was runner-up during all three of Langdon's wins. Jeg Coughlin Jr. scored his first Pro Stock win of the season along with his 500th career round-win by defeating Dodge teammate Allen Johnson in the final.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is on Topeka Boulevard where it intersects Gary Ormsby Drive, four miles south of Interstate 470. From Kansas City, take the Kansas Turnpike (1-70) to the South Topeka exit and travel south on Topeka Boulevard to the track. From Wichita, take the Kansas Turnpike (1-335) to the South Topeka exit and travel south on Topeka Boulevard to the track. From 1470, take the Topeka Boulevard exit and travel south to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Visit Topeka Inc., 785-234-1030 or 800-235-1030, www.visittopeka.us

9 OF 24

45TH ANNUAL

TOYOTA NHRA SUMMERNATIONALS

MAY 29-JUNE 1

Old Bridge Township Raceway Park

230 Pension Road * Englishtown, NJ 07726

www.racewaypark.com

Elevation: 60 feet

Tickets: www.racewaypark.com; 732-446-7800

Radio Frequency: 87.9 FM

One of NHRA's original seven national events, this race is steeped in legend: a historic facility, some of the sport's more knowledgeable (and definitely most boisterous) fans, and a score of dramatic moments. The event, known again as the Summernationais, has shifted on the schedule from its original scorchingly hot and humid July slot to May and June, and upsets have become the norm.

2013 RECAP: Shawn Langdon scored his second straight Top Fuel win, this time in an exciting all-team final with Al-Anabi counterpart Khalid alBalooshi. In another intramural battle, Matt Hagan defeated teammate Jack Beckman in the Funny Car final. Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) scored his third win of the season. Michael Ray (Pro Stock Motorcycle) used a holeshot to earn team owner George Bryce his first win since 2008.

HOW TO GET THERE: Englishtown is about 20 miles south of Newark Int'l Airport, 35 miles south of New York City, and 55 miles north of Philadelphia. The track is on Pension Road, Iwo miles north of Englishtown, From the New Jersey Turnpike, use Exit 8 (Route 33) or Exit 9 (Route 18). From Route 33, travel east to Route 527 (Englishtown exit), then north to the track. From Route 18, travel east to Route 527 (Englishtown exit), then south to the track. The main entrance is on Pension Road, which runs off Route 527 west of the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Old Bridge Township Raceway Park, 732-446-7800

10 OF 24

14TH ANNUAL

FORD NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS PRESENTED BY TRI-CITIES AREA FORD DEALERS

JUNE 13-15

Bristol Dragway

151 Speedway Blvd. * Bristol, TN 37620

www.brlstoldragway.com

Elevation: 1,475 feet

Tickets: www.thundervaileytix.com; 423-989-6900

Radio Frequency: 100.9 FM

Bristol Drag way is known as Thunder Valley not only because it cuts a path between mountains but also because it can be home to incredible performances. The facility hosted NHRA's Springnationals from 1965 to 1967 and non-NHRA events until it was closed in 1996 for an $ 18 million renovation. It reopened in 1999 and was the site of NHRA's all-star event that year and in 2000 before hosting its first national event in 34 years in 2001.

2013 RECAP: Rodger Brogdon celebrated Father's Day by scoring the first win of his career when he defeated Erica Enders-Stevens in the Pro Stock final. Steve Torrence (Top Fuel) rebounded from a tough startto the season and became the 12th different driver Lee Beard put in the winner's circle. Funny Car legend John Force had a great race with daughter Courtney in the first round and ended the day with his 135th career Wally.

HOW TO GET THERE Bristol Dragway'sThunder Valley is on Highway 394. From the south, exit Interstate 81 at Tennessee Exit 69, then travel east on Highway 394. From the north, exit Interstate 81 at Virginia Exit 3 and take Highway 11E south to Highway 394. For an alternate northbound route, exit Interstate 81 at Virginia Exit 17 and take Virginia State Route 75 south to Tennessee 44 south to U.S. 421 north to Highway 394 south.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Bristol Chamber of Commerce, 423-9894850; Bristol Dragway, 423-764-DRAG (3724), www.bristoldragway.com

11 OF 24

2ND ANNUAL

AUTO-PLUS NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS a

JUNE 19-22

New England Dragway

280 Exeter Road * Epping, NH 03042

www.newenglanddragway.com

Elevation: 90 feet

Tickets: www.newenglanddragway.com; 603-679-8001

Group Tickets and Camping: 603-679-8001

Radio Frequency: 87.9 FM

The legion of fans in the New England states finally had an event to call their own when the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series made its inaugural visit to Epping, just north of the Boston metropolis, in front of a packed house last season. The long and stoned drag racing history in New England prompted the construction of this track in 1966, and recent enhancements, including an all-concrete racing surface, set the stage for the largest event in its history in 2013.

2013 RECAP: The inaugural event featured thrilling racing that included a father-daughter Funny Car final in which Courtney Force avenged her previous week's loss to father John. Spencer Massey defeated Shawn Langdon in the Top Fuel final, and Allen Johnson won Pro Stock on a holeshot over Shane Gray. New England native John Hall nabbed his first victory in Pro Slock Motorcycle.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is on Route 101 off Exit 8, an hour north of Boston and just 20 minutes from Manchester and the New Hampshire sea coast. From 1-95, take Exit 2 in New Hampshire. Travel weston Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn right. From 1-93, take Exit 7 in New Hampshire. Travel east on Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn left, and the track is straight ahead. From 1-495, take Exit 51 -B to Route 125 north. Travel east on Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn left, and the track is straight ahead.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Exeter Chamber of Commerce, 603-772-2411; Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce, 603-926-8718; Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce, 603-610-5510

12 OF 24

17TH ANNUAL

O'REILLY AUTO PARTS ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS presented by SUPER START BATTERIES

JUNE 26-29

Route 66 Raceway

500 Speedway Blvd. * Joliet, IL 60433

www.route66raceway.com

Elevation: 635 feet

Tickets: www.route66raceway.com; Ticket hotline, 888-629-RACE (7223); Route 66 Raceway, 815-722-5500

Radio Frequency: 88.5 FM

Stadium-like Route 66 Raceway, which opened in 1998 just outside of the Windy City, has regularly been the site of astounding performances. The event is the site of the JEGS Allstars, which pits the best NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series racers from across the country in individual and team competition. The event also Is the sixth of the season for Pro Stock Motorcycle riders.

2013 RECAP: Tony Schumacher won in front of his hometown crowd in spectacular fashion when his engine exploded going through the traps in the Top Fuel final while denying Clay Millican a long-overdue first win. Teammate Matt Hagan scored his third Funny Car win of the season ata race that featured four three-second Funny Car runs. Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) and Michael Ray (Pro Stock Motorcycle) scored their second wins of the season.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track Is approximately 30 miles southwest of Chicago on Route 53 (historic Route 66), three miles south of Interstate 80 in Joliet. From points north, take I-355 south to I-80 west to Route 53/Chicago Street (Exit 132) and proceed south to the track. From points south, take 1-55 north to Arsenal Road, then proceed east to Route 53 north to the track. From points east and west, take 1-80 to Exit 132 (Route 53) and follow Route 53 south to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 815-7275371; Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, 800-926-2262; Illinois Office of Tourism, www.enjoyillinois.com; Joliet Visitors Bureau, 877-4-JOLIET (877-4565438), www.visi1joliet.org

13 OF 24

8TH ANNUAL

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA NATIONALS.

JULY 3-6

Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park

1300 State Route 18 * Norwalk, OH 44857

www.summftmotorsportspark.com

Elevation: 853 feet

Tickets: www.summitmotorsportspark.com; 419-668-5555

Radio Frequency: 88.5 FM

This event, which makes its eighth appearance on the schedule at fan-friendly Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, begins the second half of the season and is the final one on the tour before teams head west for the Western Swing, The event features a large draw of Sportsman and exhibition classes and other promotions in addition to the competition in the always-enthralling Professional categories.

2013 RECAP: Sophomore Top Fuel driver Khalid alBalooshi scored the second victory of his career. Johnny Gray won a fantastic Funny Car final over teammate Ron Capps when both ran identical elapsed times. Mike Edwards extended his points lead with his fourth Pro Stock triumph of the season. Matt Smith shared the Pro Stock Motorcycle winner's circle with father Rickie, who scored in Pro Mod.

HOW TO GET THERE: From Cleveland and west-side suburbs, take Route 480 west to Route 10 (Norwalk exit). Follow Route 10 west until it becomes Route 20. Take Route 20 to Route 601. Turn left on 601 and drive south to Route 18. Turn right onto Route 18 and follow the signs to spectator parking. From the north, east, and west, take the Ohio Turnpike east (Cleveland) to Exit 118 (Route 250). Head south on Route 250 into Norwalk. Turn left on Republic Street and follow the red directional signs to the track on the left. From the south, follow Route 250 north. At the exchange for State Route 18, follow the green directional sign to turn right; exit immediately using Route 18 and turn right. The track is on the left.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, 419-668-5555; Erie County Chamber of Commerce, 419-625-6421, www.eriecountychamber.com; Lake Erie Shores & Islands, 800-255-3743, www.shoresandislands.com; Huron County Visitors Bureau, 419-6684155, www,visithuroncounty.com

14 OF 24

35TH ANNUAL

MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS.

JULY 18-20

Bandimere Speedway

3051 S. Rooney Road * Morrison, CO 80465

www.bandimere.com

Elevation: 5,860 feet

Tickets: www.bandimere.com; 800-664-UWIN (8946); 303-697-6001

Radio Frequency: 95.1 FM

The Mello Yello teams travel high and deep into the Rocky Mountains to more than 5,800 feet, where the altitude affects everything from engine tune-ups to aerodynamics, to kick off the traditional three-week Western Swing, Crews must make changes to established power-making combinations and battle lack of downforce to tackle the environs. The event is a testament to the skill and adaptability of the racers.

2013 RECAP: Allen Johnson displayed his prowess on the Mountain by driving his Dodge Avenger to victory in Pro Stock at sponsor Mopar's signature event for the second straight year and fourth time in five years. Shawn Gann broke a nine-year drought in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Spencer Massey (Top Fuel) and Cruz Pedregón (Funny Car) also received high honors in the high altitude.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is 10 miles west of Denver just north of the historic town of Morrison. From Denver, take Interstate 70 west to C470 and travel south to either the Alameda exit west to Rooney Road and go south to the track or take the Morrison Road exit west to Rooney Road and go north to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, 303-892-1112; West Chamber Serving Jefferson County, 303-233-5555; Greater Golden Chamber of Commerce, 303-279-3113; Rooney Valley Association, 303-233-5555, www.rooneyvalleycolorado.org

15 OF 24

27TH ANNUAL

NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS

JULY 25-27

Sonoma Raceway

Highways 37 and 121 * Sonoma, CA 95476

www.racesonoma.com

Elevation: 15 feet

Tickets: www.racesonoma.com/tickets; 800-870-RACE (7223)

Radio Frequency: 87.9 FM

In the heart of Northern California's wine country, the facility annually plays host to some of the tour's most dramatic moments. A $70 million modernization project was completed in 2002 that included a new 660-foot concrete launchpad and led to scores of new track records. The event is usually blessed with pleasant weather that, combined with a quality racetrack, has yielded impressive performances, such as the sport's second six-second Pro Stock Motorcycle pass in 2005. The event is the middle leg of the Western Swing.

2013 RECAP: Ron Capps scored his third win here in the past four years with a holeshot against John Force in the Funny Car final. Shawn Langdon dominated Top Fuel with low e.t. of all four eliminations rounds. Vincent Nobile beat four world champions en route to a Pro Stock victory. Hector Arana Jr. scored his fourth Pro Stock Motorcycle win of the season.

HOW TO GET THERE: Sonoma Raceway is 35 minutes north of San Francisco at the junction of highways 37 and 121. From Sacramento, take Interstate 80 to Highway 12 toward Napa/Sonoma to Highway 29 north. Follow Highway 29 to Highway 121, then head southwest to the track. For quick access, avoid using Highway 37 westbound from Vallejo to Highway 121. From East Bay cities, take 1-580 west across the Richmond/San Rafael Bridge to Highway 101, then travel north to Highway 37 east and turn left onto Highway 121. The entrance to the track is on the left,

VISITOR INFORMATION: Sonoma County Visitors Bureau, 866-996-1090, www.sonomavalley.com

16 OF 24

27TH ANNUAL

O'REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA NORTHWEST NATIONALS

PRESENTED BY SUPER START BATTERIES AUG. 1-3

Pacific Raceways

31001 144th Ave. S.E. * Kent, WA 98042-4601

www.pacificraceways.com

Elevation: 280 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472); 253-639-5927

Radio Frequency: 540 AM

After stops in Colorado and California, the Western Swing concludes at scenic Pacific Raceways. One of the tour's most breathtaking environments, the facility is parked in the shadow of majestic Mount Rainier and surrounded by towering trees that add more than beauty at the last stop on the Western Swing: They emit tons of powerenhancing oxygen to feed the appetites of the high-horsepower machines, resulting in prime performances.

2013 RECAP: Morgan Lucas completed his turnaround with a Top Fuel win in warm conditions. Matt Hagan stretched his Funny Car points lead with his fourth win of the year. Vincent Nobile (Pro Stock) remained undefeated on the West Coast with his third win in the Pacific Time zone. Shawn Cowie scored an inspiring Top Alcohol Dragster win in his return following a 27-month recovery from a devastating motorcycle accident.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is 10 miles east of Interstate 5 on Highway 18. From 1-5, use Exit 142A (Auburn exit) and travel east 10 miles on Highway 18, following the signs to the track. From other points, use Highway 18 and exit S.E. 304th Street.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Pacific Raceways, 253-639-5927; Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 253-833-0700; Kent Chamber of Commerce, 253-854-1770; Seattle-King County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 206461-5800

17 OF 24

33RD ANNUAL

LUCAS OIL NHRA NATIONALS

AUG. 14-17

Brainerd Int'l Raceway

5523 Birchdale Road * Brainerd, MN 56401

www.brainerdraceway.com

Elevation: 1,200 feet

Tickets: www.brainerdraceway.com; 218-824-RACE (7223); 866-4444455

Radio Frequency: 105.3 FM

NHRA's version of a weeklong campout, this event is a popularstop due to the area's recreational opportunities. Avid anglers often spend the days before the event trolling the area's many lakes for walleye, bass, and northern pike, and a huge onsite campground known as "the Zoo" provides nightly camaraderie for racegoers who sit around fires discussing the day's action. A 700-foot concrete launchpad, one of the longest on the tour, helps boost performances atthe second-to-last event at which teams can secure positions for the Countdown to the Championship.

2013 RECAP: Ron Capps recovered from a body-launching Funny Car explosion Saturday to win the event Sunday. Spencer Massey, who had never won a round in Brainerd, recovered from a first-round engine explosion and won the Top Fuel title. Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) cut great lights and defeated three Dodges en route to victory.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is six miles north of Brainerd on Highway 371 north. From Minneapolis, take Highway 10 north to Highway 371 north; go north to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Brainerd Int'l Raceway, 218-824-7223 or 866-444-4455; Brainerd Lakes Chamber, 218-829-2838 or 800450-2838; Visit Brainerd, 218-825-0410 or 8004 50-7247; Nisswa Chamber of Commerce, 218-963-2620 or 800-950-9610

18 OF 24

60TH ANNUAL

CHEVROLET PERFORMANCE U.S. NATIONALS

AUG. 27-SEPT. 1

Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis

10267 E. U.S. Highway 136 * Indianapolis, IN 46234

www.lucasoilraceway.com

Elevation: 700 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Group Tickets: Contact Andrew Zamarripa, 626-250-2220; email, [email protected]

Radio Frequency: 87.9 FM

Each Labor Day weekend, NHRA racers and fans descend on Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis for the biggest, oldest, richest, and most prestigious drag race in the world. They say that no career is truly complete without a win at this, drag racing's grandest event. The stakes are high with this event being the final race of the regular season and setting the 10-driver fields for the upcoming six-race Countdown to the Championship. The NHRATraxxas Nitro Shootout special events take place in Top Fuel and Funny Car.

2013 RECAP: Ina repeat of Sunday's NHRATraxxas Nitro Shootout final in Top Fuel, Shawn Langdon defeated Steve Torrence for the double-up win. Robert Hight ended the longest dry spell of his career in the Funny Car final by defeating Jack Beckman two days after Beckman won theTraxxas Nitro Shootout in Funny Car while blowing the body off his car in the final. Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) won and became the only driver to score three holeshot wins in the history of the event. John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle) scored the second and biggest win of his career.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is in Brownsburg, one mile west of Clermont on Highway 136. From Indianapolis, take Interstate 465 to Highway 136 (Crawfordsville Road). Go west toward and through Clermont. The main entrance is on the south side of the road, one mile past Clermont. From west on Interstate 74, take Exit 68 (Ronald Reagan Parkway), then head south. At the light, turn left and travel east, and the track will be on the right.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis, 317-2914090; Hendricks County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 317-718-8750 or 800-321-9666

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7TH ANNUAL

NHRA CAROLINA NATIONALS

SEPT. 12-14

zMAX Dragway

6570 Bruton Smith Blvd. * Concord, NC 28027

www.zmaxdragway.com

Elevation: 630 feet

Tickets: www.zmaxdragway.com; 800455-FANS (3267)

Radio Frequency: 91.1 FM

In addition to the spectacular four-wide event in the spring, one of the newer facilities in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series hosts a crucial spot on the schedule as the first event in the Countdown to the Championship and the race at which teams battle for traction in their title bids. The event is the first of what will be a grueling four straight weekends of Countdown racing that last until the first week of October.

2013 RECAP: A gutsy call to debut his first in-house chassis at the start of the playoffs earned Morgan Lucas a Top Fuel win from the No. 1 qualifying position. Robert Hight scored his second straight Funny Car win with a holeshotover Matt Hagan. Jeg Coughlin Jr. won on a holeshot over Jason Line in the Pro Stock final. Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle) put one on the board despite missing the Countdown field.

HOW TO GET THERE: From Charlotte (south) or Greensboro, N.C. (north), take 1-85 to Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Boulevard/Concord Mills), then head east; parking is available on both sides of Bruton Smith Boulevard. From Charlotte, take 1-85 north to Exit 46A (Mallard Creek Church Road), turn right off the exit, then left onto Highway 29 North/North Tryon; parking is available on the left past Bruton Smith Boulevard. From South Carolina, take 1-77 north to Exit 1 (1-485 east), then follow 1485 to Exit 32 (Highway 29/North Tryon). Take Highway 29 north to the speedway; parking is available on the left past Bruton Smith Boulevard. From Statesville, N.C., take 1-77 south to Exit 25. Turn left on <location>Highway 73 (Sam Furr Road), then right on Poplar Tentto Pitts School Road. Turn rig ht onto Highway 29 south; parking is available on the right.

VISITOR INFORMATION: www.zmaxdragway.com

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29TH ANNUAL

AAA TEXAS NHRA FALLNATIONALS

SEPT. 18-21

Texas Motorplex

7500 W. Highway 287 * Ennis, TX 75119

www.texasmotorplex.com

Elevation: 500 feet

Tickets: www.texasmotorplex.com; 800-668-6775

Radio Frequency: 88.7 FM

Texas Motorplex is one of four all-concrete dragstrips on the schedule (the first of its kind when it opened), which allows crew chiefs the opportunity to achieve national record performances. The event, which is the second chance for Countdown to the Championship teams to earn points, takes place justa week after the Charlotte event, making for a quick turnaround for the championship-hungry teams.

2013 RECAP: Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta ended a three-year drought and put himself atop the points standings with a dominant victory. Cruz Pedregón (Funny Car) and Jason Line (Pro Stock) completed sweeps of the Texas events in Houston and Dallas. Reigning Pro Slock Motorcycle world champion Eddie Krawiec earned his first win of the season.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is on Highway 287, Iwo miles west of Ennis and eight miles east of Waxahachie belween interstates 1-35 east and 145. From Dallas, take 1-35 east south to Exit 403, then Highway 287 south (east) 10 miles to the track, or take 145 south to Exit 251B, then Highway 287 north (west) five miles to the track. From Fort Worth, take Highway 287 south (east) eight miles past Waxahachie to the track.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Texas Motorplex, 972-878-2641; Ennis Convention and Visitors Bureau, 972-8784748, www.visitennis.org

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3RD ANNUAL

AAA INSURANCE NHRA MIDWEST NATIONALS

SEPT. 26-28

Gateway Motorsports Park

700 Raceway Blvd. * Madison, IL 62060

www.gatewaymsp.com

Elevation: 455 feet

Tickets: www.gatewaymsp.com; 855-RACE-TIK (855-722-3845)

Radio Frequency: 92.7 FM

Multipurpose Gateway Motorsports Park, In the shadow of the tamed St. Louis Gateway Arch, returned to the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series schedule in 2012 aftera one-year hiatos with a new event in the Countdown to the Championship. The track previously held events in the summer beginning in 1997 that were known for surprise winners.

2013 RECAP: Reigning Top Fuel event and world champion Antron Brown returned to the winner's circle two races after suffering a surprise DNQ. John Force won in Funny Car for the first time since a midseason crew chief swap with Robert Hight. In the third race since sponsorship salvaged her season, Erica Enders-Stevens scored in Pro Slock. MattSmith endured a bout with food poisoning while finding the winner's circle in Pro Stock Motorcycle.

HOW TO GET THERE: Five minutes from downtown St. Louis, the track is on Interstate 55/70 at Exit 4. From St. Louis, take 1-70 south to 1-55/70 and travel east to Exit 4.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Southwestern Illinois Tourism and Convention Bureau, 800442-1488; St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission, 314421-1023

22 OF 24

30TH ANNUAL

NHRA NATIONALS

OCT. 2-5

Maple Grove Raceway

30 Stauffer Park Lane * Mohnton, PA 19540-7751

www.maplegroveraceway.com

Elevation: 548 feet

Tickets: www.maplegroveraceway.com; 610-856-9200

Radio Frequency: 91.3 FM

Maple Grove Raceway has a long history of record performances, including the first side-by-side quarter-mile four-second and 300-mph Top Fuel passes, and the cool October climates continue to offer more of the same. The event is the fourth in four weeks and marks the beginning of the second half of the Countdown to the Championship.

2013 RECAP: John Force made his team's first three-second run and recorded the fastest pass in Funny Car history (323.50 mph) while scoring his second straight win. Shawn Langdon took command of the Top Fuel points lead with his sixth win of the season. Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) earned the win and the points lead with holeshot victories over Jason Line and Allen Johnson in the lastlwo rounds. Points leader Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) won his second straight race.

HOW TO GET THERE: The track is 10 miles south of Reading and 65 miles west of Philadelphia. From Reading, take Route 176 south to the Green Hills exit, then go south (left) six miles on Route 10 to Alleghenyville Road and turn right, following signs to the raceway. From Philadelphia, take the Pennsylvania Turnpike west to Exit 298, then take Route 10 north six miles to Alleghenyville Road and turn left, following the signs. From Harrisburg, take the Pennsylvania Turnpike east to Exit 286, Route 222. Follow Route 222 north to Route 568 east, then follow the signs.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Greater Reading Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.readingberkspa.com, 610-3754085 or 800443-6610

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14TH ANNUAL

NHRA TOYOTA NATIONALS

OCT. 30-NOV. 2

The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

7000 Las Vegas Blvd. N. * Las Vegas, NV 89115

www.lvms.com

Elevation: 2,100 feet

Tickets: www.lvms.com; 800-644-4444; 702-644-4444

Radio Frequency: 103.9 FM

As the next-to-last event that will decide the season's NHRA Mello Yello world championships, plenty is at stake in Las Vegas at this event. Every run will be important because a slip at this point could be worse than snake eyes at the other Strip's craps tables. The venue is the same as in the spring, but the weather may be different, making for high drama atan event where previous world championships have been decided.

2013 RECAP: John Force (Funny Car) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each clinched the championship with their third straight wins. Antron Brown stayed in contention in Top Fuel with his second win in three races, and semifinalist Shawn Langdon pulled into a comfortable lead. Shane Gray defeated V. Gaines in the Pro Stock final to break a Iwo-year dry spell.

HOW TO GET THERE: From the Las Vegas Strip and downtown, follow Interstate 15 north to Speedway Boulevard (Exit 54). Follow signs to the main parking area.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, 702-892-0711; www.lvms.com

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50TH ANNUAL

AUTO CLUB NHRA FINALS

NOV. 13-16

Auto Club Raceway at Pomona

2780 Fairplex Drive * Pomona, CA 91768

NHRA.com

Elevation: 1,100 feet

Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472)

Group Tickets: Contact Andrew Zamarripa, 626-250-2220; email, [email protected]

Radio Frequency: 104.7 FM

The season concludes where it began with an event traditionally laced with drama. The historic racetrack typically enjoys seasonably cool temperatures that translate into perfect racing conditions and a spectacular, no-holds-barred battle for the prestigious NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series world championships. It's a good bet that the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle world titles will still be in doubt at the beginning of the season's final day.

2013 RECAP Shawn Langdon wrapped up his first Top Fuel title Saturday and showed why with a dominating Sunday performance that bookended his season with wins. The Pro Slock title was awarded to Jeg Coughlin Jr. in the second round, and the day ended with Rickie Jones scoring an emotional first victory. With the Funny Car (John Force) and Pro Slock Motorcycle (Malt Smith) championships a foregone conclusion, Matt Hagan ended the season with a substitute crew chief tuning him to his fifth win in an exciting final over Force, and Eddie Krawiec earned his third Pro Stock Molorcycle tille at this event.