O'Reilly Auto Parts Route 66 NHRA Nationals
» Thursday, July 07, 2011
14th annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Route 66 NHRA Nationals
July 7-10
Route 66 Raceway
500 Speedway Blvd.
Joliet, IL 60433
Elevation: 635 feet
Radio Frequency: 88.5 FM
Stadium-like Route 66 Raceway, which opened in 1998 just outside of the Windy City, has regularly been the site of astounding performances. The event, which this year moves from May to weather-favorable July, is the site of the JEGS Allstars, which pits the best NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series racers from across the country in individual and team competition. It is also the sixth event of the season for Pro Stock Motorcycle riders.
2010 recap: Larry Dixon and Mike Edwards continued their winning ways, Matt Hagan set the new national record and ended Robert Hight’s three-race Funny Car winning streak, and rookie sensation LE Tonglet broke through for his first Pro Stock Motorcycle win. Dixon posted two of the best runs of the year and padded his Top Fuel points lead after driving to his fifth win in 10 events.
How to Get There: The track is approximately 30 miles southwest of Chicago on Route 53 (historic Route 66), three miles south of Interstate 80 in Joliet. From points north, take I-355 south to I-80 west to Route 53/Chicago Street (Exit 132) and proceed south to the track. From points south, take I-55 north to Arsenal Road, then proceed east to Route 53 north to the track. From points east and west, take I-80 to Exit 132 (Route 53) and follow Route 53 south to the track.
Visitor Information: Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 815-727-5371; Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, 800-926-2262