Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals
» Friday, May 13, 2011
31st annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals
May 13-15
Atlanta Dragway
500 E. Ridgeway Road
Commerce, GA 30529
Elevation: 1,100 feet
Radio Frequency: 96.7 FM
One of NHRA’s long-established events — the race celebrated its 30th anniversary last season — this belle of the South has gained a reputation as one of the tougher events on the tour to win. With summer approaching, warm temperatures can turn the event into “Hotlanta” and throw crew chiefs a curve as they try to glue their charges to the facility’s 660-foot concrete launchpad. The event also includes Pro Stock Motorcycles and Pro Mods.
2010 recap: Larry Dixon in Top Fuel and Jeg Coughlin Jr. in Pro Stock scored very special wins and were joined in victory by Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle). Coughlin’s win was the 50th of his Pro Stock career, making him just the ninth driver to collect 50 Wallys in a Full Throttle class, and Dixon’s 52nd victory tied him in class wins with the great Joe Amato. Although the incoming points leaders left with their leads intact — and, in Dixon’s case, improved — plenty of shuffling occurred behind them.
How to Get There: The track is about 65 miles north of Atlanta on Interstate 85 at U.S. Highway 441. From Atlanta, take I-85 north to Exit 149 (Highway 441). Travel north on Highway 441 to Steven Tanger Boulevard. Go left on Tanger Boulevard, then right on E. Ridgeway Road, and follow the signs to the track (approximately a half-mile on the right).
Visitor Information: Atlanta Dragway, 706-335-2301; Banks County Chamber of Commerce, 706-677-2108; Banks County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 706-677-5265