WHPMP Friday Night Drags is bringing drag racing back to the people

September 15, 2017

Thomas R. Throssell

Gila River Indian News

Nothing compares to the awe and excitement of the drag strip, with vehicles launching themselves forward down the raceway pulled by engines capable of incredible power and speed. Whether you are looking to race your own vehicle or just want to view the action close up, the Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park (WHPMP) has the cure for your need for speed.

On the evening of Sept. 8, WHPMP held the Advance Auto Parts-Friday Night Drags season opener, which included a special ceremony called “Salute our Fallen Heroes.” During the ceremony the racetrack was briefly shut down in honor of the men and women who served in the United State Armed Forces.

Darren Pedro, WHPMP Promotions and Special Events Coordinator, said Friday Night Drags is the type of event where participants “Run what you brung”.

“You can bring any street car that you want,” said Pedro. “It could be your Honda Civic, or souped-up Top Fuel Car, it could be your Toyota Odyssey, your BMW or Mercedes. So you can go ahead, as long as you pass the tech, you can race it down the drag strip.”

Passing the tech, Pedro explained, is an inspection where vehicles are checked to make sure they are safe and ready to run down the drag strip. He said among other requirements, vehicles must have good tires, no leaks, no broken or missing lug nuts, a battery that is securely mounted, working brake lights, and a valid driver’s license.

If you can get through the inspection, you can even race your daily driver down the drag strip. The types of cars that run down the strip are varied, and come in all shapes and sizes.

“We have people bring all kinds of cars, we have guy who… has a Tesla and he drives it down the drag strip, there is a lady who runs her Mercedes down the drag strip, and I have seen old model Volkswagen Bugs, like Herbie the Love Bug, a little Datsun truck, and even a station wagon,” he said.

So if you’re looking to test your vehicle’s mettle, or just want to have a good time witnessing the thrill of a good ol’ drag race, come on down to Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park’s Friday Night Drags and cure your need for speed.

All Gila River Indian Community members receive 50 percent off any WHPMP events. Friday Night Drags general admission is $15 for spectators and free for all children 12 years old and younger, as long as a paying adult accompanies them.

The next Friday Night Drags will be held on Sept. 22, Oct. 6, Oct. 27, Nov. 10, Dec. 1, and Feb. 16.

For more information contact WHPMP at (520) 796-5601.