Bristol Dragway

151 Speedway Blvd.

Bristol, TN 37620

Elevation: 1,475 feet

Tickets: www.bristoldragway.com; 423-989-6900

Radio Frequency: 100.9 FM

 

Bristol Dragway is known as Thunder Valley not only because it cuts a path between mountains but also because it can be home to incredible performances. The facility hosted NHRA’s Springnationals from 1965 to 1967 and non-NHRA events until it was closed in 1996 for an $18 million renovation. It reopened in 1999 and was the site of NHRA’s all-star event that year and in 2000 before hosting its first national event in 34 years in 2001. The event is the final chance for Pro Stock teams to earn points toward making the field for the K&N Horsepower Challenge and another stop on the tour for Pro Mod racers.
 

2010 recap: Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), John Force (Funny Car), and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) collected victories at an event that produced a new points leader in Funny Car, a substantially tighter battle in Top Fuel, and additions to the all-important top 10s as the regular season headed down the backstretch. Force, the early season points leader, hadn’t been to a final round since winning in Las Vegas in April and not only got back to the winner’s circle but also got back his points lead.

 

How to Get There: Bristol Dragway’s Thunder Valley is on Highway 394. From the south, exit Interstate 81 at Tennessee Exit 69, then travel east on Highway 394. From the north, exit Interstate 81 at Virginia Exit 17 and take Virginia State Route 75 south to Tennessee 44 south to U.S. 421 north to Highway 394 south; or exit Interstate 81 at Virginia Exit 3 and take Highway 11E south to Highway 394.