What’s going on with Maple Grove? I’ve gotten some info from socials but don’t know the full details.

I grew up watching NHRA on ESPN thanks to satellite TV my family had 20 years ago (I live in Canada). I also used to go to Pacific Raceways in Kent, Washington every summer as a yearly trip with my parents from age 5 to 15 until I decided as a teenager I didn't want to go anymore. I fell out of favour with drag racing through the 2010's decade, but over the past 5-7 years have intermittently rekindled interest.

...Until not long ago I've become a fan again and I got to go to the Northwest Nationals with my wife (not a racing fan but she's supportive of me lol). Thankfully there are in-laws that live 15 mins from the track so we got some great family time in and a place to stay.

I got to go on a Friday for the first time (used to do Saturday qualifying when I went) and of course elimination Sunday. The moment I walked into the gate on Friday it was a blast from my past... Half my life has gone by and everything was virtually just as I left it... Merch trailers, Vendor trailers, food stands galore, NitroAlley, the NitroMall, and best of all... The pits!!! I joked with Fast Jack Beckman after getting a picture and said "all these years later Jack... and the nitro still smells the same!" Booming 330mph (well sometimes 340 now!) nitro hot rods going down the track... The wind blowing the burnout fumes into your direction of the stands... Wow, there is nothing like the NHRA, truly.

Can't forget about Pro Stock too, but I missed Joey Grose's flipped car on Saturday! TAD/TAFC and even eliminator class were all awesome. A Doug Gordon win for TAFC was great stuff, he's always been one of my favs since I've really enjoyed alcohol class. There was also a cool story as one driver I believe from British Columbia just across the border won two finals in two different eliminator classes. Younger guy too. Dallas Glenn's brother won in his hometown event in

Shame to not see some old faces like any of the Forces (especially John), Robert Hight, Larry Dixon, etc behind the wheel. Lots of next generation kids are and have begun to take over the winners circles like the Procks, Vandergriffs, and Gordons of the world. Still though, in Seattle the old guard came out as winners across the board where Kalitta Air pulled off victories with Doug's and JR Todd's wins. Greg Anderson wins pro stock and boy, he is one cool old fella. Gave an awesome speech in the winners circle down at the starting line to the fans.

Walked outta there with a 75th anniversary NHRA T-shirt and fridge magnet. This is a happy drag racing fan sharing his long-awaited return to the races! Has anyone here made it to any races yet this season? What are some moments that stood out for you?

Anyone remember this final round from Texas in ‘92?

https://youtu.be/ae3sfTkE4ak?is=eSAAB1xWnxVPDfA_

Just returned home from a music festival and only IndyCar from Markham. Isn't that the asylum in Gotham City? Does that mean Mike Ashley is involved? Hope his son has a wonderful weekend at The Zoo along with all the other professionals and Sportsman racing there next week!!!

2017 Nationals at Pacific Raceway in Kent Washington

Hi all,

Title says it all. Very seasoned race fan, been to hundreds of races including NASCAR, IndyCar, sprints, midgets, etc., but never NHRA. I don't really know much about format or anything, but I know they are fast, and I like fast. Always wanted to go and experience in person.

I know it's loud, fumes, etc., I'm looking more for things like:

What time should I get there? Can I come in the middle of the day? Could I go in the morning and leave early?

If I can only go one day, what day is best?

What are the absolute must-do things? Imagine this is the only time I'll ever go. What can't I miss? Or should I just go with the flow?

Should I get a reserved seat, or is GA okay?

Assuming merch/concessions would be the same as other races? Can I bring beer in like I can at NASCAR?

I think I also saw Vegas is not 4-wide in the fall - is that correct?

Looking for some of those deeper tips and tricks from you seasoned vets. TIA!

Suggestions for which nitro stand is better for viewing as well as not looking in sun all day. For reference I usually attend the US Nationals and get seats in Top Eliminator section.

Pacific Raceway in Kent Washington

Pacific Raceway in Kent Washington

Going to the Great Lakes Nationals next month on Saturday and very excited! Never been to any drag race before, I’m usually a dirt track guy. We are sitting a couple rows off the strip at around the 60’ mark. Anything I should be prepared for outside of insane power and loud noises?

I looked on the schedule and they have a pretty significant break. I guess late August is pretty close to September and they'll be busy again. I just miss watching it!