Unveiling the Untold Tales: More Ghosts of Quarter Miles Past!

The History of Quarter Mile Racing

In the world of motorsports, few disciplines have as colorful a history as quarter mile racing. These heart-stopping contests of speed and skill have captured the imaginations of thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies for decades.

Quarter mile racing, also known as drag racing, originated in the United States during the early 1950s. An automotive trendsetter, Wally Parks, along with a group of passionate racers, established the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) in 1951 to give the sport a formal structure.

Since then, drag racing has evolved to become one of the most popular motor racing events globally, attracting millions of fans and talented drivers eager to push the limits of speed.

Lost Drag Strips II: More Ghosts of Quarter-Miles Past

by Scotty Gosson (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	106166 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Legends of Quarter Mile Racing

As the sport grew, so did the legends surrounding it. Many drivers became household names, leaving an indelible mark on quarter mile racing history. Their stories are fascinating and filled with triumphs, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments.

1. "Big Daddy" Don Garlits

Don Garlits is considered by many as the father of drag racing. He revolutionized the sport by introducing the rear-engine dragster, which significantly improved safety and performance. With over 140 career victories and numerous records to his name, Garlits remains an icon in the drag racing world.

2. Shirley Muldowney – "The First Lady of Drag Racing"

A true trailblazer, Shirley Muldowney overcame countless obstacles to become the first woman to receive a license from the NHRA to drive top fuel dragsters. Her tenacity and determination broke barriers for women in motorsports, inspiring generations of female racers to follow their dreams.

3. John Force – A Force to be Reckoned With

John Force is a driving phenomenon, holding the record for the most NHRA Funny Car championships with 16 titles to his name. With his charismatic personality and unmatched record, Force has become synonymous with drag racing success.

Classic Rivalries and Memorable Moments

The history of quarter mile racing is also filled with intense rivalries that captivated fans. These rivalries pushed drivers to their limits and showcased the true spirit of competition. Here are a few of the most memorable moments:

1. The Snake vs. The Mongoose

The rivalry between Don "The Snake" Prudhomme and Tom "The Mongoose" McEwen is legendary. These two drag racing icons battled each other in epic duels throughout the 1970s, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Their iconic sponsorship rivalry is immortalized in drag racing history.

2. Tony Schumacher's Dominance

Tony Schumacher dominated the Top Fuel category of NHRA racing for years. From 2004 to 2009, Schumacher won a record-breaking six consecutive championships, solidifying his place as one of the most successful quarter mile racers of all time.

3. The Ferocious Four-Wide Nationals

The Four-Wide Nationals held at the zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a unique event that streams fuel and adrenaline. This race brings together four cars in each lane, creating a spectacular display of power and speed that is unparalleled in the quarter mile racing world.

Ghosts of Quarter Miles Past

While the legends and rivalries of the past are still revered, the sport of quarter mile racing continues to evolve, and new heroes emerge. These modern-day racers carry the spirit of their predecessors, contributing to the rich tapestry of quarter mile racing history.

1. Erica Enders – Leading the Charge

Erica Enders, the first woman to win an NHRA Pro Stock race, broke down barriers and shattered stereotypes. Her passion for racing and her incredible talent have made her one of the most successful drivers in the sport today.

2. Matt Hagan – A Modern-Day Legend

Matt Hagan is known for his record-breaking performances and captivating personality. With three NHRA Funny Car championships under his belt, Hagan continues to heighten the excitement and push the boundaries of speed.

3. Leah Pruett – A Rising Star

Leah Pruett's incredible skill behind the wheel has earned her numerous victories in the Top Fuel category and the admiration of fans worldwide. Her fearless approach to racing and her determination make her one to watch in the future.

Continuing the Legacy

Quarter mile racing has come a long way since its humble beginnings, yet the allure of this high-octane sport remains as strong as ever. As new generations of racers emerge and technology advances, the ghosts of quarter miles past continue to inspire and push the limits of what is possible on the racetrack.

So, buckle up, embrace the roar of the engines, and dive into the thrilling world of quarter mile racing – where legends are made, rivalries shape history, and speed reigns supreme!

Lost Drag Strips II: More Ghosts of Quarter-Miles Past

by Scotty Gosson (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	106166 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Even more forgotten drag racing facilities from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s are showcased in this sequel to the best-selling book Lost Drag Strips: Ghosts of Quarter-Miles Past.

Lost Drag Strips II: More Ghosts of Quarter-Miles Past picks up where the first volume left off, covering additional tracks with archival photos of racing in the tracks' heyday, the cars that ran there, and the tracks as they exist today. This volume also includes some of the tracks that survived, those that fought off the economic demons and the urban sprawl and continue to run today.

Tracks in this volume include Fort Wainwright/Racing Lions Motorsports Park, Avenue G Drag Strip, Fremont/Baylands Drag Strip, San Fernando Drag Strip, Fontana Drag City, Inyokern Drag Strip, Kahuku Air Strip, Las Vegas Speedrome, Continental Divide Raceways, SRCA Drag Strip, Southwest Raceway, Willow Run Raceway, Minnesota Dragways, KCTA Drag Strip, Detroit Dragway, Niagara Airport Dragstrip, New York National Speedway, York US 30 Drag-O-Way, South Mountain Raceway, La Place Dragway, Yellow River Drag Strip, Thunderbolt Dragway, and more.

In the first volume, the author examined the birth of drag racing and its subsequent popularity that invaded every city and community across America. Unfortunately, after the initial explosion of popularity, it waned, and various drag strips closed for a myriad of reasons. Financial pressure for the real estate they occupied, suburban sprawl, and waning participation were all reasons for the change in fortunes for the small, and even not-so-small, racetracks. The first volume was great, but readers demanded more!

If you are an automotive history enthusiast, enjoyed Lost Drag Strips: Ghosts of Quarter-Miles Past, or are just a fan of racing in general, this is the perfect addition to your automotive library.