The fastest machines and drivers on wheels come to Raceway Park this week.
The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) will hold its 47th Summernationals at the famed quarter-mile drag strip on Pension Road in Old Bridge from June 9-12, with cars surpassing 300 m.p.h.
One of NHRA’s original seven national events, the Summernationals are steeped in legend: a historic facility, some of the sport’s more knowledgeable (and definitely most boisterous) fans and a score of dramatic moments of which you can expect more to be added.
Fans can expect to see the best that drag racing has to offer.
In the Top Fuel Division, Doug Kalitta, Antron Brown (who holds the elapsed time record at the track at 3.729 seconds) and Brittany Force (daughter of the legendary John Force) have been the top drivers this year.
In the Funny Car Division, Courtney Force (also John Force’s daughter), Jack Beckam and Tim Wilkerson with veteran Ron Capps are leading in the points chase. There is always is the presence of the 16-time NHRA champion John Force and the possibility of father-daughter duel.
Pro Stock is led by Jason Line, Greg Anderson and Bo Butner.
Motorcycles get into the action as well. Eddie Krawiec and Andrew Hines are the top Pro Stock cyclists.
There will be a qualifying round for Sportsman cars June 9 from 10:15 a.m.-6 p.m. On June 10, qualifying for Pro Stock and Nitro will run from 12-9 p.m. On June 11, racing runs from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. with more qualifying rounds along with the first round of eliminations for Pro Mod. On June 12, the semifinals and finals are held, with racing starting at 9 a.m. and concluding at 3:55 p.m.
There will be special fan events at the Summernationals. On June 11, there will be a Mello Yello Autograph Session at the Mello Yello display featuring the stars of the NHRA Mello Drag Racing Series.
For tickets or additional information on the Summernationals, call 732-446-7800 or go to www.racewaypark.com.