NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Irwindale Drag Strip, an NHRA Pacific Division Member Track, will remain open and in full operation under a new multi-year agreement with a group of motorsports enthusiasts led by Tim Huddleston and Justice Brothers and the property owners at Irwindale Event Center.

Last July, Team 211 Entertainment, the operators of the 63-acre motorsports and entertainment facility, were informed by the land owner, Irwindale Outlet Partners LLC, that their lease would not be renewed and, that Jan. 31, 2018 would be the last day of operation for the multipurpose facility. 

In late November, however, Irwindale Outlet Partners switched course and offered a new lease to the track, but the Team 211 declined to renew, opening the door for Huddleston and Justice Brothers to step in and save the treasured facility, which opened in 1999 and hosts one of just two dragstrips serving the area. The facility hosts a regular Thursday night program and is an active patrician in NHRA’s Street Legal Style presented by AAA, NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League programs.

“Having a track in the Los Angeles area, or anywhere in Southern California, is a vital need,” said Pacific Division Director Mike Rice. “The track’s Thursday night program and Street Legal Drags, as well as their participation in the Summit Series and Jr. Drag Racing League, gives everyone a great avenue to enjoy their cars in a safe and controlled environment.”

Huddleston is a former three-time Irwindale Late Model series championship whose son, Trevor, has won the last three series titles. Justice Brothers has a long history of involvement in all forms of motorsports, including drag racing.

(lead photo courtesy of Angel Nieves)