YORK, Pa. — Drag race fans can enjoy a full weekend of revving engines to kick off the countdown to the championship.
The 2024 Pep Boys National Hot Rod Association Nationals are taking place at the Maple Grove Raceway through this Sunday with a variety of car and motorcycle races.
"You have to be as aerodynamic as you can as a person on a motorcycle, because in less than seven seconds, you're going to be going 200 miles per hour," Chris Bostick, NHRA Pro Stock motorcycle rider, said.
Bostick says reaction time is extremely critical for drivers. Not only are they trying to be the first over the line, but motorcyclists also have to be focused on when it's time to shift through all six of their gears in the few seconds the race lasts.
"I may have a screw loose or a couple, but it's just, you know, motorcycles have been in my blood forever, and I love racing motorcycles," Bostick said. "My dad was at the very first NHRA Nationals event that was many, many years ago, so racing has always been in my blood. But I just always gravitated towards the motorcycle."
Some of the competition brackets include Fuel Funny Car, Pro Stock Motorcycle and Factory Stock Showdown. Sportsman Qualifying rounds took place on Thursday, and Sportsman Eliminations kick off today. The Midway also opens for the weekend at 11 a.m. on Friday.
This weekend is the start of the countdown to the championship. There are only six races left in the season until the top riders and drivers will compete for the championship in November.
Single-day tickets for the races from Sept. 13 - 15 can be bought online in advance. Each ticket also acts as a pit pass, meaning attendees can meet some of their favorite racers. The event is family friendly; kids 12 and under get in free. The Nationals will be held at Maple Grove Raceway, found at 30 Stauffer Park Lane in Mohnton.