SPARKS, Nev. – Drag racing is making a comeback to Hot August Nights. News 4’s Mackenzie Warren had the exclusive on the big announcement Tuesday morning on News 4 Today.
Hot August Nights cruises into Northern Nevada in less than one month. And to celebrate its 25th anniversary Hot August Nights is turning over a new leaf, make that engine–the event is bringing back the drag races.
Drag racing went away ten years ago and Hot August Nights diehards wanted it back ever since. The event used to be at the Reno-Stead Airport. For many racers that was too far away to drive. Another reason the popular event disappeared was the liability, especially after 9-11 when FAA regulations at the airport became more strict.
This year drag racing is coming back louder and faster than before. It’s also moving location. Bringing back the drags meant bringing in two key players: Full Throttle Performance and John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks.
Full Throttle Performance is organizing the races and the Nugget will provide the venue.
Charlie Carter, co-owner of Full Throttle, says it’s not all pedal-to-the-medal the racing takes some serious skill and finesse. Stephen Ascuaga, Chief Operating Officer of the Nugget, says it’s an honor to host the races and it took him just 30-seconds to say yes.
Racers will finish the course in five seconds.
For all you adrenaline junkies out there here are the details:
The drag race event consists of approximately an eighth of a mile track and will take place in the West parking lot of John Ascuaga’s Nugget from 12 p.m. -to- 10 p.m. From Wednesday, August 10th through Saturday, August 13th.
Hot August Nights Volunteers and Car Participants will gain free entry into the event. The gate fee for the general public is $10 daily.
To enter your car in a race, vehicles must be 1972 or older, with an American or European make. The cost to race is $25 per vehicle, per day for registered car participants and $45 per vehicle, per day for non-registered car participants.
Tires must be D.O.T. Approved (no slicks), no nitro/nitris and no racing fuels allowed. Daily prize for the fastest overall time will be awarded.
For more information on Hot August Nights please visit: www.hotaugustnights.net
