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Pioneer Stories - Alf Hagon part 4.1st March: Today's Pioneer Story continues the history of British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Alf Hagon, told in his own words, which you can see at this link. Part four of Alf’s story sees him continuing with sprinting and building his JAP powered machine for the Dragfests. He recalls the help given to him by Don Garlits and the American bike racers. He began to ride at the newly opened Santa Pod and began his domination of the strip where he held the track record for an incredible eight years. As the times continued to fall development of the bike continued to evolve and he became the first rider into the nines and the first to top 200mph. 
Thanks to Alf for the loan of items from his collection, many of which are shown in the article.You can read many more stories of pioneers of UK drag racing at our Pioneer Stories page. 
Southern Swap Meet this Sunday.1st March: The NSRA Southern Swap Meet takes place this Sunday 3rd March at North Weald Airfield starting at 9:30am until 16:30. Access to the Swap Meet area is from Merlin Way, Epping CM16 6HR. Follow this link. The event has traditionally been a mart for hot rodding cars and parts. The event this year comes after an announcement in January that 52 acres of land the airfield was sold to Google for development for a new data centre, with no confirmed timeline for development. Whilst drag racing at North Weald taking place from the mid-1980, the only automotive activity on the site in recent years has been the swap meet. The North Weald Airfield Strategic Masterplan which you can download from this link shows the airfield will remain intact after the new development.  Flamholc racing at World Series of Pro Mod. 1st March: Expat Sweded Adam Flamholc will be racing at the World Series of Pro Mod at Bradenton Motorsports Park this weekend from 1st-3rd March. Adam has been sorting out the setup of his '58 Corvette (pictured). 
Adam said last weekend "We have changed 4-link setup, shocks, changed rods, did a valve job, went through the Tydrive and the Liberty gearbox. I feel Im missing something on the setup and will head up to Bradenton Sunday or early Monday, gonna keep at it, until we figure this car out! Thanks to the guys in my team that worked hard over the weekend to get the car done! We will give it all we have!"You can see the event live on FloRacing by clicking here. Various Youtube videos of testing are available by searching World Series of Pro Mod, and NC ProModer is posting live streaming of testing. On the grudge racing Rivals Night on Friday, Adam will be up against Puerto Rican Raymond Matos, who races a turbo 1970 Camaro and has gone as quick as 3.620/208 with it. Spy picture VII - solved. 1st March: Thanks to Adam Gleadow for this follow up on Spy picture VII posted on 17th February. Adam writes: “The spy picture was my freshly painted helmet, to match our recently finished paint on Motor Psycho. I'd like to say a massive thank you to Steve Kenny for the stunning paint job, photos don't do it justice". 
 "As always a huge thank you to Titan Speed Engineering for their support, good luck to Shawn & Krista at the March Meet this weekend in Nostalgia Top Fuel". 
Swift snippets. 1st March: Happy Birthday for today to Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator competitor and Santa Pod Raceway marshal Antony Wilkins and superfan Kerry McCartney Jeyes, we hope you have a wonderful day. SPRC Announcement - Used Drag Slicks. 29th February: Santa Pod Racers Club secretary Ian Marshall has annouced it's that time of year again, Santa Pod Raceway are looking for any used Drag slicks out there that Racers may want to get rid of, we are happy to pop and collect them, all you need to do is email by CLICKING HERE with what you have and some contact details, we will take care of the rest once we have a suitable number, a date will be set and we will come and collect them from you. Please note we can only use Drag Race Slick tyres, as street type tyres don’t work with our equipment, as ever thank you in advance, they all go to a good home on the back of our sled for track prep use. Funny Car Cup - West Ten Motorsport. 29th February: Santa Pod Raceway have annouced this Funny Car Cup latest news, thank you to Chris Hobson for allowing eurodragster.com to share this. 
Buckle up, race fans, because Kevin Kent, the reigning champion, is back in the driver's seat for the 2024 Funny Car Cup! After a hard fought victory in 2023, Kev is ready to defend his title with his usual focus and determination.Known as one of the best runners in the UK, Kev blazed a trail at Bug Jam last season, clocking in the fastest time in Europe with an astonishing 4.18 seconds over the 1000ft mark. That's not just breaking records; it's leaving them in the dust. With tuning responsibilities taken care of by American, John “Bodie” Smith, Kev will again be trying to break his own record. But the road to glory is never without its bumps, and Kev faced a wild ride at the Euro Finals. A broken axle and a wheel doing its own thing didn't stop the fearless driver. Instead, it fuelled his determination. Kev is upgrading his car to unleash even more power, showing that setbacks are just challenges to overcome on the way to victory. Behind the scenes, Kev's crew are the unsung heroes of drag racing. Widely regarded as the hardest working in the business, they're the gears turning behind the scenes, ensuring every bolt is tight and every engine roar is deafening. Get ready for a season of speed, spectacle, and sheer determination as Kevin Kent and his powerhouse crew fire up up for the Funny Car Cup at the first round (Festival of Power). With Kev at the wheel, you can expect nothing less than high-horsepower adrenaline and a dash of steel to keep the competition in the rearview mirror. The road to victory just got a lot more entertaining!  Spy picture X. 29th February: Eurodragster.com has been provided with this spy picture attached with comment: "No major running gear changes for 2024, but new paint means you won't miss me!" If you know more, or if you would like to send your own spy picture, then drop us a line at editor@eurodragster.com. 
Andy Willsheer at March Meet.28th February: Bon Voyage and good luck to photo journalist Andy Willsheer as he heads to Famoso Drag Strip, California for the historic March Meet. Andy will be sending photos from the event taking place from 29th February to 3rd March and from the Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals taking place at Gainesville Raceway from 7th-10th March. The March Meet features plenty of Nostalgia Nitro action, around 13 Top Fuelers qualifying for an 8 car field, a full 16 car field of Nostalgia Funny Cars, and 10 Fuel Altereds. We're not sure there will be streaming video on any of the usual channels, but check out the Facebook page of former Fuel Altered team member Frank Larrabee who has posted on Facebook Live from the stands. UK Nostalgia Superstock Awards Dinner. 28th February: Many thanks to Niamh Smith for the first UK Nostalgia Superstock Awards Night at the Kettering Park Hotel and Spa, Niamh writes: 
Racers, crew, family and extended racing family came together for a three course meal, followed by the awards presentation and a disco.Colin Theobald kindly agreed to be our MC for the evening and he did an excellent job, kicking the presentation off with a roundup of our 2023 season, some of the highlights including Chris Goodale’s latest car ‘Russo’s Rat’ joining the class and first-time racer Holly Butcher bagging the number one qualifier spot at the Nostalgia Nationals. "Then we got into awards, which we wanted to present to not just racers, but crew and those who make life in the pits fun and enjoyable!" Above and Beyond Award, which was awarded to Lorraine Brazier, Paul Singer’s Crew Chief, for always keeping the racer’s energy up in the pits with her delicious cakes. Another Above and Beyond Trophy went to Zoe Thompson and Adrian Stone who always do a great job organising our little bonus number one qualifier pot at events. The Chief Instigator Trophy was something to recognise Peter Walton who was one of the founding members of the class and the driving force behind it in the early days. Best Appearing Team - the Bossa Nova Team, headed by Simon Rickwood, who are always excellently decked out in their purple garb. Best Appearing Pits - The Watts Shop, Duncan Watts being the patriarch, who always have an impressive array of cars on display in the pits that are always turned out well. Most Promising Newcomer - Andrew Bishop who took over the reigns of the Bishops’ Barracuda last year and had a great season. The Spirit of the Class Award was voted on by ALL of our members, who submitted their votes to Don Scott. The overwhelming response was that Chris Goodale was the worthy winner of this, as someone who’s always supporting the class in any way he can, always happy to help with parts or advice, promoting the class wherever he can. Then of course to our magnificent valve cover trophies signwritten by Craig Ainge Traditional Signwriter… This year we had joint runners up in a weird twist of fate… in no particular order Lee Chiles and Ash Rawson both had great seasons and managed to bag the same amount of posts to become our runners up in the Lifestyle championship. 2024 Lifestyle Championship Award - Elaine and Dan Williams who did consistently well all year managing to come first out of over 70 very competitive racers! "We have to thank all of our sponsors for allowing us to do these fab things for our little (big) racing family, and Chris Goodale of Goodale American Speedshop again for hiring the Photo Booth so we could document the night in style." "The response from those who attended has been great, and we will for sure be doing it all over again next year… I’ve even checked with the hotel that they’ll have us back after the copious amounts of Tequila Rose and Baby Guinness shots we ordered! Swift snippets. 28th February: Happy Birthday to SPR commentator, VWDRC chair and racer, and European FWD promoter Luke Stevenson, Nitro FM producer and IT/audio technical wizard Julian Parsons, ACU bike scrutineer Les Harris and FWD racer Terry Newton. We hope you all have a great day. Fuel Funny Car team Speedghost Motorsport have announced that British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Peter Lantz has joined the team to be tuner to the Patrik Pers-driven car in 2024. You can read about Pete's storied career by clicking here. Expat Norwegian Top Alcohol Dragster racer Julie Nataas has competed in her first race of the season at No Problem Raceway ParkBelle Rose, LA, where in the Lucas Oil regional round, she went out in the semi final round to class newcomer and Pro Stock Bike legend Angelle Sampey. You can see Julie's 2024 schedule by clicking here on her web site. Nick Pettitt has added another 280 scans in two more galleries of Antony Billinton's photos to his website. click here. Both feature the year 1971, one from Santa Pod and the other visiting Blackbushe, Brighton and North Luffenham. Thanks go to Antony and also members of the Facebook groups 'British Drag Bike History' and 'UK & European Drag Racing Photos' for help with some of the captions. 
Rob Turner: Funeral Arrangements.27th February: Thanks to Steve Turner for announcing the funeral arrangements for Rob Turner, European and eight time British Top Methanol Champion: The funeral service will take place at St Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Higham Ferrers, NN10 8BT On Wednesday 6th March at 12 noon. Followed by a burial at Higham Ferrers Cemetery. Map view can be found by following this link. Then on to The Carriage House, 13 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, NN10 8DJ. Family flowers only but donations if desired for the British Lung Foundation may be sent to A. Abbott & Sons, Bedford Rd, Rushden, NN10 0LZ or given on the day. Overview of SFI Re-certification Periods. 27th February: Many thanks to Andrea Kloss & Constance Metzner from DMSB Drag Racing for announcing an overview of the different re-certification periods for SFI-certified components and equipment in Europe. But first a little excursion as to why this overview is unfortunately necessary: The page called “Tech Talk” on the German drag racing website for which our Chief Scrutineer Conny Metzner provides drivers and teams with valuable technical information. This article includes a list of SFI recertification periods within Europe, to view the list please Click Here. Since 2022, there has also been FIA regulations for sportsman classes, which are intended to serve as a guideline for all European countries and to make it easier for all drivers to comply with each countries specific regulations in drag racing. The idea was that all European countries would gradually adopt these regulations and that we would come closer to the goal of having uniform regulations for drag racing in all European countries. The German ASN (DMSB) adopted the FIA Sportsman regulations 100% from the get go, however the rest of Europe has not. In the FIA regulations for 2024, the re-certification periods for SFI-certified components or equipment have in some cases been extended or in other cases even suspended. For example the re-certification interval for SFI suits with the SFI 3.2A/15 and 3.2A/20 specification, which was previously 5 years is now no longer required. Every suit is subjected to a visual inspection during scrutineering and in the event that it is damaged and could no longer fulfill its protective function, the technical scrutineer would declare it as no longer permissible. The new SFI specification list was received positively by drivers in Germany, as it also reduced the cost of re-certification. Since not all European countries have incorporated these FIA requirements into their national regulations, there are now significant deviations in the applicable SFI recertification periods within Europe. For this reason, I have compiled an overview for you, of the regulations in this regard in Germany, Sweden, Norway, UK and France. Please make sure to familiarise yourself with the respective national regulations if you take part in any foreign events. For more information, please contact Andrea by Clicking Here. Swift snippets. 27th February: Happy Birthday for today to Top Fuel Bike guru Frank Brachtvogel and former Top Methanol Funny Car racer Jonas Staflund, we hope you have a great day guys. Pioneer stories: Four short stories. 26th February: Today's pioneer story is of four men who, although they were not racers, had a crucial part in the development of the sport in the UK. You can read their stories by clicking here. 
Brian Holmes, David Kipling, John Greenwood and John Hill were all fascinated by drag racing and had skills to apply in various aspects of the organisation and facilities in the mid 1960s. All gave their stories to John Hunt, which were edited by Nick Pettitt who also supplied images from his British Drag Racing & Hot Rodding Archive for publishing on Eurodragster.com
You can read many more stories of pioneers of UK drag racing at our Pioneer Stories page.British Drag Racing Historians is open to anyone who writes about the history of British Drag Racing and has been published through the internet or print media. John Hunt founded the group by contacting those in the group and others in early 2020 asking if it was a good idea to operate under one banner as a group of like minded individuals who are dedicated to the History of British Drag Racing. The group aims to discuss and share information on a mutual basis and meets occasionally and informally. Our most recent meeting was at Allard Sports Cars on. The Group aims to promote the history of our sport through websites, Facebook, books and magazines. The group operates as an association and is not formally registered as an organisation. Straightliners The Speed Show Gallery and Report. 26th February: Thanks to ADImages for sending a report and gallery of photos from the Straightliners The Speed Show at Elvington Airport at the weekend: It was a cold and foggy start to the Straightliners Speed Show at Elvington airfield near York, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the visitors, exhibitors or racers, who turned out in force after what has felt like a long winter! There were four marquees filled with cars, bikes, sidecars, karts and more. Outside there were flame shows from Julian Webb’s ‘Spiderman’ jet dragster, fire ups and a couple of burnouts from Mark Flavell in the Mustang funny car, huge burnouts from the ‘Burnout King’ Dodge Charger, a Merlin engine fire up and passenger rides available in the ‘Blade’ monster truck, as well as the “dash for the cash” 100m drag sprint. It’s hard to pick out any favourites from the show, as the quality of everything on display was exceptional, but the four below really grabbed my attention. Becci Ellis’ turbocharged Suzuki Hayabusa ‘Odyssey’ has achieved a very impressive top speed of 252mph from a standing start on runway 26 at Elvington. Helped on its way by a Garrett GT35 turbo, Motec M400 ECU, low compression Wiseco pistons and Carrillo conrods, Upperton lock-up clutch, Airtech fairings and two years of build and development. Becci tells me there is a new charge cooler being fitted in the next few weeks, to help lower the air intake temperatures and generate more power. She is aiming to set new records for both fully-faired and naked bike categories for a woman over the standing half mile, mile and mile and a quarter distances in 2024. 
Graham Sykes’ ‘Force of Nature’ steam rocket bike is always popular, whether on static display or on track and that was no different here. It was great to catch up with Graham and hear his plans for 2024 as he continues to chase 200mph over the 1/8 and is looking to find an estimated 50% power increase with more efficient thrust nozzles and pressure vessel amongst other upgrades. Another standout was the blown VW Corrado of Stuart Hodgson, which was originally built by Chris Isaac for Spencer Tramm in 2004. It was later sold and ended up in Germany where it raced with an NA motor, running down into the low 8s. Stuart's wife, Kim, has always loved the look of the car, so when it came up for sale, they made the trip to Germany and bought it minus its engine. It now has a blown 468ci, with 730bhp at 6lbs of boost, and a 2-speed Reid power glide. There are still some jobs to finish on the car, but Stuart hopes to have the car at Santa Pod in August 2024. Initial plans are to get used to the car, before turning it up to 900bhp and running in VW Pro and Super Gas. Stuart would also like to thank Kim for her continued support, Ben at EDA, Graham Rawlings and Luke Stevenson. 
Finally, a car I haven’t seen before, in the form of the 4th Dimension dragster which was built in the early 70s by Ken Cooper for Andy Swaffield. It is reported to be the last of the original cars built by Ken Cooper and is thought to be the only original car still racing. It currently runs a 283ci small block, but future plans are to fit a blown methanol flathead. It also features a sit-over LDV rear axle, rubber exhaust bobbin/fibreglass disc damper front suspension and a handbrake only. Its best so far is 12.01 @ 120mph. The Speed Show is fast becoming a regular calendar fixture and is a great way to get excited for the upcoming season. Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. Malta: track developments, new committee and new classes. 26th February: On Thursday, the Malta Planning Authority gave the green light to the Malta Motorsport Federation to upgrade the Malta Drag Racing Association Raceway in Hal Far. 
This means that the control tower and the start will be moving 60m back to achieve the full length as per international standards, upgrading the safety walls along both sides of the track to increase the safety of drivers and introducing safety fencing and better seating for spectators.A new modern, fully equipped tower, with an international standard motorsport control room including a media room and other facilities, a fully equipped area for scrutineering, club facilities, areas for drivers briefing, proper storage for equipment and materials, and new timing equipment and displays. The project includes showers, sanitation facilities, and proper water and electricity supplies in the paddock. The facility will have all the necessities to organise events at the FIA level, be homologated, and be the best drag racing facility in the Mediterranean. Jonathan Bruno, Secretary of the Malta Motorsport Federation, said that today, the Hal Far Motorsport Hub, which will incorporate The Drag Racing Strip, the Karting track, and the circuit, started a new phase. Preparatory work on the Karting track and the new circuit is also progressing with good momentum. We send our congratulations to Duncan Micallef, President of the Malta Motorsport Federation for this significant step forward. New Committee The committee of the MDRA have been confirmed for 2024 as:
New classes The MDRA have announced a new doorslammer class, plus the division of the popular Open FWD category into two brackets for 2024, 10.00 ET and 9.00 ET.The new class, for six cylinder/20B rotary or four cylinder/13B rotary will be called The Wild Class and features tyre size maximum 28"x10.5", maximum turbo 88.9mm and all fuels permitted. The factory shell and stock wheelbase must be retained, with modifications for a 10.5" tyre and lightening of body panels allowed. AWD will be permitted, and wheelie bars only permitted on 26"x10" or smaller tyres. The minimum weight for six cylinder/20B rotary is 1300kg and for four cylinder/13B rotary combinations 800kg. Swift snippets. 26th February: Happy Birthday for today to Santa Pod Raceway Race Track Manager Darren Prentice, fuel Funny Car racer Kevin Kent, UK & European drag racing photos administrator Dave Turner, Super Twin Top Fuel racer Willem Been, Outlaw Street racer Rob Leyman, and Sportsman ET racer Connor Holt. We hope you all have a great day. Happy Birthday to Eurodragster.com - 26 years old today and still going strong! A reminder for those who intend to race in Street Weekend Sweden that Registration opens on 27/2 at: 10.00 at nitroz.se. The event, which regularly sells out to Drag N Drive racers, takes place from 7th-13th July commencing at Mantorp Park on Sunday 7th,with runs at Dala-Järna airport on Monday 8th, Sundsvall Raceway on Tuesday 9th, Söderhamn Airport on Wednesday 10th, a travel day on Thursday 11th, Salmon on Friday 12th and back to Mantorp on Saturday 13th July. Full details can be seen at the new website by clicking here, with a list of the 55 priority entries already received. We fear the reports on Facebook that Holley is closing the long-established Hilborn fuel injection division of its business are true. For a full report on this sad news, read an article by Caleb Jacobs on The Drive website. New sponsor: JaysonD Designs Custom Paint & Airbrush. 25th February: We welcome JaysonD Designs Custom Paint & Airbrush as home and news page sponsor from March 2024. Jayson writes: 
"JaysonD Designs is based in Hampton, London and by appointment in Farnham Surrey. With over 25 years experience in auto custom painting and airbrushing, I'm a perfectionist, I get creative, with attention to detail and take pride in my work."Although my main love is motorcycles and scooters, I have also painted and airbrushed Helmets, Car Parts, X Box Cases, Laptops and lately, Chrome projects. I also would like to carry out custom paintwork on Dragsters and Hot Rods. Basically if it stands still long enough I can paint it! If you want a one off bespoke custom paint scheme then JaysonD Designs can meet all your requirements and turn your dream artwork into reality. 
"I use only the highest quality paints, materials and tools. For the paints it's either House of Kolor, Inspire or Auto Air Colors for the custom work or Lechler for OEM colours. Airbrushes are Iwata and paint guns, Sata"."I take pride in every piece of work and all my work is guaranteed. Whether it be a one off bespoke design, full custom paint scheme or new artwork to your car or motorcycle. Take a look at the full Custom Work and Airbrushing services on my website. "Call me now to discuss your next project on 07426 209071 or email jaysonddesigns@gmail.com JaysonD Designs can be found on Facebook by clicking here and Instagram by clicking here. Swift snippets. 25th February: Happy Birthday for today to twin Super Pro ET racers Elodie Dubois and Fabien Dubois, Kieran's mum Ali Jenkins, longtime fan of the site and Tierp Arena crew member Carl Zettervall, and Clastres photographer Stéphane Cousin. We hope you all have a wonderful day. Martijn de Haas retires. 24th February: FIM-E Super Twin racer and 2015-17 Champion Martijn de Haas has announced his retirement from the sport. He said: 
"30 years of drag racing, what a ride! However now I feel it’s time to retire from the greatest sport on earth. Still in good health, just older, I want to enjoy other stuff in life"."I can’t thank my team enough for all the effort and sacrifices they made, so I could compete in Nitro Harleys, which I still think are the greatest bikes there are. Brother Joeri de Haas, who dragged me to the strip when is was in my late teens. Brother from another mother Ronald Van de Werken, not just for being a team member but also a great friend. And off course love of my life Colinda Lugten for supporting me in every stupid and crazy idea I have! "Thanks colleague racers an drag racing enthusiasts in Europe for making this sport what it is!" Martijn will be sorely missed as he was a regular competitor at the Main Event and Euro Finals from 2009 onwards, winning seven events, four runners up, and 6 no.1 qualifying positions. His PB of 6.505 and 209.94 came in the 2022 FIA/FIM-E European Finals. Thanks to Kirstie for the 2022 NitrOlympX photo, Andy Marrs for supplying the statistics, and www.drdb.eu for the best times. 
Andy Willsheer at Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum.24th February: During his visit to California and Las Vegas last November, photojournalist Andy Willsheer managed to squeeze in a visit to the Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum at 2790 E Del Amo Blvd, West Rancho Dominguez, CA. You can see a gallery of 220 of Andy's pictures in a gallery at this link. Included are shots of iconic drag racing vehicles, the legendary recreated startline, many hot rods and description boards for most of what he saw. So grab a coffee and enjoy Andy's photos. If you wish to visit Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum, follow this link, where you can find all information including details of special events. Swift snippets. 24th February: Happy Birthday for today to UK Nostalgia Superstock organiser and SPRC class champion Don Scott, Super Gas racer Tim Moore, Scarlett & Sons team member Mark Scarlett and Irwindale Raceway announcer and Great American Auto Scene host Bob Beck, we hope you all have a great day. Pioneer Stories - Alf Hagon part 3. 23rd February: Today's Pioneer Story continues the history of British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Alf Hagon, told in his own words, which you can see at this link. 
Part three of Alf’s story sees his Speedway career continue as his business expanded and he began to specialise in developing shock absorbers with the acquisition of stock and machinery from Girling. He continued to compete in various differing motorcycle events and, with the encouragement of Len Cole, built his first sprint bike using one of his speedway frames. This Triumph powered machine was soon setting records. The photos in this part were taken at Hagon Products by Dave Dick during our recording of the interview. All Pioneer stories can be seen by clicking here. VP Racing Joins Ida Zetterström for 2024. 23rd February: Thanks to The Maynard Family Racing for announcing when 2023 FIA Top Fuel champion Ida Zetterström begins her campaign for NHRA’s 2024 Rookie of the Year, she will have the support of VP Racing, one of the motorsports industry’s most recognizable brands of race gas, additives, and lubricants, in her corner as she embarks on her inaugural season competing on U.S. soil. 
Prior to relocating to Brownsburg, Indiana from the Åland Islands of Finland last month, Zetterström enjoyed tremendous success competing on the FIA and FIM series circuits in Europe. In addition to her 2023 title, Zetterström is also a two-time champion in the Super Street Bike category. She won her first Super Street Bike crown in 2019, becoming the youngest competitor and first female in the category to do so. Her accomplishments caught the attention of VP Racing, prompting the market leader in high-performance racing fuels to present her with the organization’s ‘Special Award,’ which recognizes a racer who had an exceptionally standout season. With the rising young upstart on their radar, it was simply a matter of time before Zetterström and VP would come together to partner in an official capacity.“I’m so excited to now officially be working with VP Racing as I begin my NHRA journey,” said Zetterström, who is slated to compete in a minimum of six NHRA Mission Foods Series events in 2024 before running a full-season campaign alongside her JCM Racing teammate Tony Schumacher in 2025. “I’ve had a relationship with VP since 2019 and we’ve worked together on various projects while I was racing in Europe, so it’s incredibly gratifying that it has developed into now hitting the track this year with an official partnership in place. “VP Racing’s product line is superior, and the VP Racing brand is synonymous with drag racing, so it’s truly an honor to be aligned with them as I begin this next chapter in my racing career,” she added. “We’ve got our sights set on a major goal this year – putting ourselves in the best possible position to compete for the Rookie of the Year award – and even loftier goals for 2025 and beyond. It’s a major feather in my cap to know that I will be pursuing Wally trophies and championships with the support of such a well-respected brand.” VP Racing joins Zetterström and JCM Racing as an associate partner. VP Racing branding will appear on Zetterström’s 12,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster, firesuit, and team crew shirts, and she will wear a custom-designed VP Racing-branded helmet during all events on her 2024 schedule. Additionally, the VP logo will be featured on Schumacher’s Leatherwood Distillery Top Fuel dragster throughout the entirety of the 21-race NHRA Mission Foods Series season. “We’re excited to be part of Ida Zetterström’s historic quest in the 2024 NHRA season,” said Bruce Hendel, Senior Vice President - Global Sales for VP. “Ida has impressed us for several years, winning VP’s Special Award 2019 for her outstanding performance racing Super Street Bikes in Europe. Joining her as she enters the NHRA’s premier professional series is fitting for the global leader in performance racing fuels, motor oils, and additives.” The 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season kicks off with the NHRA Gatornationals, March 8-10, at historic Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville, Fla. Zetterström’s debut NHRA event will be announced at a later date. About JCM Racing: Established in 2022, the Maynard family’s JCM Racing organization is a multi-car NHRA team founded by Joe Maynard and his late wife Cathi. JCM Racing takes pride in operating as a family unit with Joe Maynard serving as the head of the organization while Maynard’s son, Joe C. Maynard, and daughter-in-law, Andrea Maynard, also have executive roles at JCM. The executive staff operates out of Clarksville, Tennessee, while the team’s racing headquarters is located in Brownsburg, Indiana. JCM Racing owns seven national event wins to date. Tony Schumacher, the winningest Top Fuel driver in NHRA history, drives the organization’s full-time entry in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Piloting JCM Racing’s second Top Fuel dragster is Swedish transplant Ida Zetterström, the 2023 European FIA Top Fuel champion. In 2024, Schumacher will compete for his ninth Top Fuel championship title, while Zetterström will battle for the honors of NHRA’s Rookie of the Year during her inaugural season racing on U.S. soil. Zetterström is scheduled to run a full season campaign alongside Schumacher in 2025. Also competing under the JCM Racing banner are Joe C. Maynard and Helby Maynard. The father/son duo will make their NHRA debut in 2024 with Joe C. racing an A/Fuel Dragster in the Top Alcohol Dragster category, while Shelby will compete in the Jr. Dragster ranks. In an effort to support future generations of drag racers, JCM Racing operates a Driver Development program, which currently lends support to Sportsman racers, and one Jr. Drag Racer from each of NHRA’s seven divisions. 
Spy pictures IX.23rd February: Eurodragster has been provided with this spy picture devoid of comments. If you know more, or if you would like to send your own spy picture, then drop us a line at editor@eurodragster.com. Swift snippets. 23rd February: Happy Birthday for today to rocket bike legend Eric Teboul, Super Pro ET racer Billy Gane, Sportsman ET racer Georgina Smith, Vegas Hustler slingshot racer Mark Bishop, and Outlaw Street racer Rod Atkinson, have a fantastic day all. Qualifying results for Light Out 15 at South Georgina Motorsports Park can be see by clicking here. SFI Inspection 2024 Dates. 22nd February: Many thanks to SFI President Jennifer Faye for announcing the 2024 schedule, slight change making the first stop in Santa Pod on the calendar due to the Festival of Power falling on an early date this year. Hopefully this helps racers have as much time as possible to prepare for their first event after having their parts inspected. "We trust that most racers will be able to utilize the location that is closest to them and this will be much more convenient than shipping parts long distances for recertification". 
The SFI inspection process is an important procedure for ensuring that certified parts are in safe working condition for the upcoming season. As a reminder, we are unable to inspect Weld wheels due to the special equipment that is not portable, however, we have added ME Racing Service in Sweden as an inspection site for Weld wheels. Details may be found in the list of inspection items. For each stop listed below, the host name can be contacted for pricing in local currency and to arrange parts delivery or attendance at each inspection day. ME Racing requires pre-registration, which may be found on their website.Stop 1 England (Santa Pod, SPRC) Tuesday, 12 March, 10:00am-4:00pm Santa Pod Raceway Hospitality Suite Airfield Road, Podington, NN29 7XA. Stop 2 Netherlands (DHRA) Thursday, 14 March, 8:00am-12:00pm Hotel Ibis Amsterdam Schiphol Schipholweg 181 Bedhoevedorp 1171PK. Stop 3 Finland (FHRA) Friday, 15 March, 8:00am-12:00pm FHRA Office Teollisuustie 2 01800 Klaukkala. Stop 4 Sweden (ME Racing Service AB) Saturday, 16 March, 11:00am-5:00pm ME Racing Service AB Svetsgränd 10 781 72 Borlänge. USAutomotive.co.uk to Support U.S. Drag Team. 22nd February: Many thanks to Tony Thacker for contacting eurodrasgter.com with this news article. USAutomotive has announced that they will be supporting the 2024 U.S. Drag Team and the return of the Dos Palmas Machine Spl. and the Mooneyes. 
USAutomotive chairman Stewart Bassett said, “USAutomotive has been involved with American autos and racing since our inception in 1997. As the UK’s leading importer of American auto parts, it seemed only natural to get on board with logistical help for the 2024 U.S. Drag Team.“In 1964, the first U.S. Drag Team was organized by Bob Keith, driver of the Dos Palmas Machine Spl., a leading Gas Dragster out of San Jose, California. After being lost for 40 years, the dragster was found and restored by NASCAR/TV personality Ray Evernham. Thankfully, the car was acquired by a consortium of Brits including myself, Nick Davies of ICE Automotive, Mick Jenkins of Mick’s Paint, Geoff Stilwell and Tony Thacker. “Tony, along with Scott Campbell, has been instrumental in resurrecting the car and getting it running at Mick’s Paint in California.” Stewart went on to say: “Now with the support of Keith Bartlett and Santa Pod Raceway, we’re shipping the car to England for the 60th Anniversary of the 1st British International Drag Festival in 1964. Dos Palmas was the first American car to run at that event.” Joining Dos Palmas will be the Mooneyes dragster that was the first American dragster ever to race in the U.K. in 1963. It was the car that really ignited British drag racing. Both iconic dragsters will be on display at Santa Pod’s Dragstalgia event on July 5-7. Also on the team will be American Randy Bradford and his nitro-burning Fiat Fuel Altered. Randy runs one of the last but fastest classic Fuel Altereds in the U.S. and he will be racing Nick Davies in Havoc at Dragstalgia. “This is fantastic news,” said Nick Davies of ICE Automotive, “Havoc has been parked for some time as we really don’t have any similar cars to race but having Randy come over means we’ll load some nitro in the old Bantam and hopefully put that Fiat on the trailer.” “USAutomotive ships all types of American auto parts with regular air freight shipments from our US base in Atlanta, Georgia,” said Tony Thacker, “and having them give the 2024 U.S. Drag Team logistical support is a huge help.” About USAutomotive.co.uk: USAutomotive.co.uk stocks over 20,000 product lines covering the most popular applications from the classics of the fifties up to current models and they update their inventory regularly to follow market trends. They supply parts from the most respected American manufacturers including: Fel-Pro gaskets, Clevite Engine Bearings, Sealed Power and Speed Pro engine components and provide full technical support not only for their product range but also for American vehicles in general. For more information, please visit: www.USAutomotive.co.uk or, see us on Facebook by clicking here. About Dragstalgia Santa Pod Raceway, Northamptonshire, UK, July 5-7, 2024. A vintage lifestyle weekend dedicated to race cars, bikes and hot rods from a bygone era. See vehicles from Santa Pod’s illustrious history return to the strip whilst enjoying Championship racing, live music, Jet Car, Show & Shine with the NSRA, Cracklefest, beer festival and much more. Camping available onsite so come for the weekend. For more information and to book, please CLICK HERE. Huxley Motorsport hiring. 22nd February: At HUXLEY MOTORSPORT a position has become available. We are a small but growing business that’s been going 15 years. we specialise in V8’s, American and historic race cars. We cover a wide range of services: General race car maintenance, chassis building, axle building, bespoke exhaust, intercooler and radiator systems, trackside support, motorsport parts sales, restoration and much more. 
Applicants do not need to have all knowledge on everything listed, as some duties can be taught in-house, most importantly passion for what we do and everything motorsport-related is key.Main Job Role Duties:
You can see the Huxley Motorsport team on their Youtube channel by clicking here. Swift snippets. 22nd February: Happy Birthday for today to Nitro FM presenter Paul 'Oz' Wright, former Top Methanol Funny Car racer Dez Krivan, Outlaw Flat Four Racer Nigel Hull and Willys Wars racer Guy Davenport. We hope you all have a fantastic day. Reis Race Retro 2024 - Cancelled. 21st February: It is with great sadness Clarion Events Ltd and Stoneleigh Park announces the cancellation of this year`s highly anticipated Reis Race Retro event. Following extensive discussions and in consultation with the Warwickshire District Council Safety Advisory Group and Warwickshire Police, it has been determined that adverse weather conditions, particularly extensive flooding, rain forecast through to the weekend and road closures render it unsafe to proceed with the event as scheduled. Show Director Lee Masters said: “As a team, we are devastated to be forced to cancel Reis Race Retro 2024. While this decision was unavoidable, the safety and well-being of our attendees, participants, staff, and local residents remain our top priority. We understand the disappointment this may cause, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience. “We are committed to delivering an exceptional experience for motorsport enthusiasts and will focus efforts on making Reis Race Retro, 21-23 February 2025 a huge success. We extend our gratitude to all involved parties for their understanding and cooperation during this exceptionally challenging time.” The Iconic Auction will still be running an auction – please visit their website for further details. Visitor tickets already purchased will automatically be carried over to Reis Race Retro, 21-23 February 2025. However, full refunds are available if visitors would prefer. Information on how to request a refund can be found on the event website by clicking here. Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. Outlaw Anglia Award Winners. 21st February: Many thanks to site sponsor Outlaw Anglia co-ordinator Colin Millar for sending in an account of another successful 2023 Outlaw Anglia awards and party last Saturday. 
The Kettering Park Hotel and Spa was yet again the venue for this year’s Outlaw Anglia Awards Presentation and Party just Saturday past, a great turn out by all with some making it a long weekend so they could use all the facilities at the pool and the wonderful Spa treatments on offer, perfect venue with friendly staff and a wonderful location within the Rutland suite.Colin states it was "Fab night with everyone!! 🍾🏆", The Outlaw Anglia party was a huge success and please see below all the wonderful winners of the various categories: 
A huge thanks to everyone who made the effort to come along and all the people in the background who help to make it what it is, thanks to all the supporters, fans Marshalls and tracks who allow Outlaw Anglia to do what they do best. We also raised essential funds for the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, total amount raised will be announced soon. Thanks again and see you all soon 
Swift snippets. 21st February: Happy Birthday for today to Super Pro ET racer and team manager Nick Good, Nostalgia Funny Car crew member Joseph Harris and Norwegian Super Gas racer Christer Uhlin, we hope you all have a great day. Juan Wolf of Malta Drag Racing Association has announced that due to low entry, with great regret the Open Street Challenge planned for Hal Far Raceway this Sunday 24th February has been cancelled. However, the Test & Tune in preparation for the March Winternationals (scheduled for 8th-10th March) will still be taking place this Sunday. The Spotted Motors Youtube duo of Michael Castle and Dale Ackworth have produced a video about the entry list for Street Weekend at Santa Pod Raceway and Melbourne Raceway on the weekend of 14th-16th June. They say "In this video we pick some of our favourite cars that have entered...Street Weekend 2024 looks to be a fantastic event and every car that has entered will make it special." You can see the video by clicking here. Hi and a belated Happy Birthday to former Shakespeare County Raceway RWYB photographer Peter Donaldson whose big day was on Monday. Back in the day, Peter took and posted many photos from Shakey. You can see the best of his shots by going to his Facebook photo albums page by clicking here. Photographer Richard Smith has updated his Zenfolio page with no less than 300 photos from the FIA/FIM European Finals 2023. You can see Richard's European Finals gallery by clicking here. Richard's galleries of pics go back to 2010, and in the interest of cost, some of the earlier galleries, although archived, can be applied by one viewer click to be restored. Fans of Flo Drag Racing online subscription streaming service are reminded that one of the biggest radial tyre events, Lights Out 15 will be taking place from today to Sunday 25th February at its usual venue of South Georgia Motorsports Park. As well as full streaming from 19:00 GMT today keep an eye out on Floracing's Youtube channel by clicking here for some teaser coverage. On a more downbeat note, it has emerged that Floracing will not be a streaming partner with Funny Car Chaos for 2024 and we look forward to an alternative streaming provider being announced soon. Franklyn Borg. 20th February: We were shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Franklyn Borg in Malta on Saturday; he was aged only 41. 
A seasoned motorcycle drag racer in Malta for many years, Franklyn first came to the attention of an international audience in 2017 by competing in FIM-E Super Street Bike on a bike owned and tuned by Simon Giordmaina with build advice coming from US Pro Street Bike legend Rodney Williford. In his first race in Kunmadaras, Hungary, Franklyn qualified #1 and winning the event. Competing in all four rounds that year, he ran a new European quick ET of 6.916 at 204.21mph again qualifying #1 but was unable to back it up for a record.In 2018 the team was only able to compete at Kunmadaras and the main event, as Franklyn was by then getting a taste for Funny Bike racing in his native Malta. He ran his machine to 7.565 at the opening event and developed the machine so that he broke into the sixes in 2020 and ran a 6.862 in 2021. The Malta Drag Racing Association said "Franklyn Borg was a fearless dragbike rider who made Malta proud all over Europe... Godspeed Frank, you will never be forgotten. Condolences to all his family especially to our President Gabriel Briffa, Franklyn's cousin, and to Franklyn's uncle Joe." We would like to add our deepest condolences to Franklyn's family, team members and all his friends. Photo courtesy Alex Buttigieg Two Much at Dragstalgia. 20th February: 
We would like to thank Nigel Charman for contacting eurodragster.com with this update:"With the sudden passing of Norm there has been so much to sort out, firstly, Norm is to be cremated tomorrow, but there will be no service as he requested. I will however go to Dragstalgia with at least the Two Much Dragster and have a Book of Condolences for anyone to sign, there will be casual get together at our pits in his honour." "Norm and I had discussed should this day come that either of us would continue drag racing. This was our passion and we believed that this enthusiasm should be passed on to future generations to continue our sport at whatever level." "Two Much will be at Dragstalgia, once I have rebuilt the clutch and box. Gotavit is ready with its tired old engine as I am awaiting parts for Mike Lewis Racing to continue Machining the new Santos/Rocket block." Norms partner Mary and I would also like to thank each and everyone of you for the calls, messages and offers of help from all over the world. It's been amazing and what a community we are all part of. We at eurodragster.com send our condolences once again and wish Norm's family and friends all the best. Stilwell wins Land Speed Racers award. 20th February: Congratulations to landspeed racer and Nitro Revival sponsor Geoff Stilwell who has won the Gary Brauer award for his 223.362, the first Brit to be awarded the trophy (pictured). Geoff said: 
"News of the award from club vice-president Charlie Davis came as a total surprise; unfortunately, I couldn’t make the LSR Awards Banquet last night in Los Angeles. I would like to thank the “Land Speed Racers” for adopting this English guy who wanted and continues to want to set land speed records. The club has been amazing and I’m so honoured to represent them in our sport, which drives us all crazy from time to time. Gary Brauer was a member who died of cancer at age 62; he was crew chief for the Brauer & Sons Fuel Roadster which set several records."Huge thanks go out to my team, especially Nick Davies, Rob Loaring, Scotty Barnes, Scott Campbell and Marc Greenall, to Mick Jenkins and all the guys at Micks Paint for building me a fantastic Hot Rod and Tony Thacker for doing all the running around plus all the work he puts in behind the scenes to help make this happen. "As you know my son passed away last March aged 26 from cancer. Some of his last words to me were “Just get the job done dad”. Well, Matty, I’m trying. Hopefully, in 2024 I will get the job done. "Finally, I need to thank the LSR club and everyone there especially Charlie Davis and Kiwi Steve for their support and for letting me be part of the family. It is truly appreciated. "Let’s hope for dry salt and sunny skies in 2024." SPRC Festival of Power - entry reminder. 20th February: Santa Pod Racers Club secretary Ian Marshall has contacted eurodragster.com to reminder ALL racers that the closing date to enter the Festival of Power is Friday 8th March. 
Current entry list can be seen by clicking here.Please follow this link to enter. Please remember as of 2024, Entry fees must be paid 3 days prior to commencement of the race event entered. There will be a small fine applied to late payments (late being asked for your payment in the signing on office) this will be £25 for the first offence and £100 for future failings within the race year, to help we are looking at emailing all those that chose BACS payment 1 week prior to the event as a gentle nudge to pay the entry fee, this will be a blanket email, so please don't be upset if you have already paid. Swift snippets. 20th February: Happy Birthday for today to Super Twin Top Fuel Bike racer Jaska Salakari, German Top Methanol Dragster racer Silvio Strauch, Junior Dragster dad Stuart Fagg, Pro Modified racer still-in-waiting Steve Rawlings, Top Doorslammer racer Anne Britt Nilssen and Netherlands based Comp Bike racer Thurtny Martina. We hope you all have a great day. Best wishes for a speedy recovery to Supercharged Outlaws racer and crew chief Dave "Fuzzie" McKenzie who is very poorly in hospital. We send our best wishes to the whole McKenzie family for Dave’s speedy recovery. Pioneer Stories - Denis Jenkinson. 19th February: Today's pioneer story features the legendary motorsport journalist Denis Jenkinson or 'Jenks' as he was affectionately known. You can read the story at this link. 
Denis Sargent Jenkinson was a motorsport enthusiast and journalist who, amongst many other achievements, gained fame as navigator for Stirling Moss in the 1955 Mille Miglia 1000-mile race. He was known as DSJ or “Jenks” to the readers of Motor Sport magazine where he was Continental Correspondent for more than forty years.When the 1964 Dragfests arrived Jenks, already a fan of Sydney Allard’s pioneering efforts to introduce the sport to the UK, not only wrote enthusiastically about the events, but competed himself on his home built NorBSA motorcycle, and driving an Allard Dragon. This article was written by Tony Madgwick of the VMCC Sprint Section who became custodian of two of Jenks' motorcycles, including his 1965 Dragfest bike which he restored himself. Editing, further research and compilation was carried out by Chris Dossett of Trakbytes. The car is located with Paul in Chesterfield, so if you're local to that area then that's handy, but again not essential. If you're interested, or know someone that would be, please contact Jordon via his Facebook page by clicking here. 
Spy picture VIII.17th February: The offices of Eurodragster.com received this spy picture which has a comment: "A taster of the car's new paint job" If you know more, or if you would like to send your own spy picture, then drop us a line at editor@eurodragster.com. Swift snippets. 17th February: Happy Birthday for today to Pro ET racer Amy Watkins, former Pro Stock racer Thomas Lindström and former Top Methanol Funny Car racer Trace Froome. We hope you all have a fantastic day. Chief Santa Pod Raceway Timekeeper David Anniwell has written in with his reaction on being awarded the John Ledster Memorial Trophy at the recent Santa Pod Racers Club Trophy Evening: "This was most unexpected. I had a great deal of respect for John growing up and to get an award in his name is an honour. I'd like to dedicate this to my incredible team for their tireless work (and for putting up with me), previous recipient Steve Horn for his many years of mentorship, all of my colleagues at Santa Pod, and to the wider drag racing family, not least of all my dad Nigel whose 40-odd years of service has been a template for my own." Long-time photographer Colin Donisthorpe has updated his Flickr page with a large number of photos from Santa Pod's 2023 events which you can see here. Colin's Photos include pairing lane and spectator banking shots. Colin's collection, organised mainly by event, goes back over 40 years and is well worth a look. Pioneer Stories - Alf Hagon part 2. 16th February: Today's Pioneer Story continues the history of British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Alf Hagon, told in his own words, which you can see at this link. 
Part two of Alf’s story covers his time as an established star of international Speedway and Grass track, riding at meetings in the UK and abroad as far as Australia, including a memorable trip behind the Iron Curtain.He continued to put his engineering skills to use, providing products and bikes for many of the sports leading competitors. He began working at Ford in Dagenham but his skill in engineering and frame building was becoming more widely known, and this led to him opening his first shop to cater for the growing demand for his products. Thanks to Karl Fiala for supplying images from speedway media of Alf during the 50s and early 60s. You can read all the pioneer stories by looking at their index page by CLICKING HERE. Outlaw Anglia Party and Awards Ceremony. 16th February: Many thanks to site sponsor Outlaw Anglia co-ordinator Colin Millar for contacting eurodragster.com to announce The Annual Outlaw Anglia Party and Awards Ceremony this coming Saturday at Kettering Park Hotel and Spa, its always a great night especially now everyone's hopefully been paid in January and finally have some pennies in their pockets to let their hair down. I’m pretty sure they will manage a few tipples before, during and after the event. 
Colin say's "A good turnout this year with a quite a few arriving on the Friday evening, where we will all meet up and get ourselves in the mood for Saturday night, the Spa is being well used on the Saturday during the day (one of the main reasons Lynn always looks forward to the trip) even if it’s an 8 hour drive, hopefully during our “couples massage” I can actually stay awake this time and refrain from snoring!"The championship may well have already been decided but there are another four trophy categories still to be won, good luck on these participants. This year we continue to raise funds for our nominated cause which is Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, hopefully this will help in a small way to ensure they continually give a great service and God forbid if us racers ever need them, they are there for all of us. Time is moving on and for the group our first event which is Springspeed Nationals sounds scary if you put it in this context, let’s hope there is lots of background activity and everyone can be ready to race. We need this rain and wind to disappear and some of that lovely sun to appear ready to make the track nice and sticky. Take care everyone and see you at the track. 
Time Warp Racing - Crew Needed.16th February: Thanks to Chris Eyre to announce the Time Warp Racing Team are looking for additional crew people to join the team. Experience is great, but the willingness to learn and be a team player is just as important. Being local to Santa Pod Raceway is key, to be able to help service the car between rounds. You should also be available for all the rounds of the NFC championship (other dates may be added). In return you will get entry to the attended events, team t shirts, food, and drinks. Please email timewarpracing@hotmail.com to express your interest. Thank you! Swift snippets. 16th February: Happy Birthday for today to crew member for Micke Gullvist Motorsports Fredrik Westerlind, 9.50 Bike racer Dion Hartley, Lithuanian Topolino racer Giedrius Jurevicius and former Wild Bunch racer Pete "Eddie" Yates. We hope you all have a great day. Rob Turner. 15th February: We were shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of European and eight time British Top Methanol Champion Rob Turner on 13th February. Jerry Cookson writes:
Rob, with brother Steve and girlfriend at the time Carmel, raced quite often at Long Marston with the Jaguar powered 'Straight Shooter' altered, starting in 1980s and running a fuel altered of the same name in the late 80s.Shortly afterwards in 1990 Rob and Steve imported the ex Cory McClenathan 'Mac Attack' chassis to contest the British and European Top Methanol Championships racing at Avon Park, Santa Pod and many European and Scandinavian race tracks on the European tour to become the quickest and fastest team to beat in the Top methanol Dragster class. In the late nineties the team acquired a new Bob Meyer chassis which led them to competing in some of the NHRA tour races. 
Rob went the Funny Car route in 2010 and raced in the UK FIA rounds until 2013 with a car previously owned and campaigned by US racer Jeff Carroll.
The team, with brother Steve again as Crew Chief and Carmel and Vicky Reid as crew, then made their US TAFC debut in 2015 at the Las Vegas autumn Divisional race. In 2016 and 2017 they ran a five-race programme involving all four Las Vegas races and the Pomona final. In 2018 they ran the last three TAFC races of the year, the two Las Vegas events and Pomona, and continued competing occasionally until Rob's final race at Las Vegas in November 2022. A clip of Rob's superb car control at Las Vegas in 2018 can be seen by clicking here.
Whereever the brothers raced Turner Racing was a force to be reckoned with as their impressive list of championship achievements echo that testimony: the 2001 FIA Top Methanol Dragster championship and ten British Drag Racing Top Methanol Championships (1993, 1997-2002, 2005, 2006 and 2008), plus numerous event wins and records along the way. Rob was in the top 10 of the FIA Championship from 1991 through to 2013. We send our heartfelt condolences to Carmel, Steve, family and friends. Photos courtesy Alan Currans and Greg van den Bosch Greece: 2024 dates and 2023 motorcycle champions. 15th February: AMOTOE, the Greek motorcycle drag racing regulator, has announced its provisional competition calendar which you can see by CLICKING HERE. Panhellenic Dragster Championship: 
Congratulations to the confirmed 2023 Greek Motorcycle Drag Racing Champions, information kindly supplied by Diakakis Nikos. You can see the full final order of the 2023 Greek Motorcycle Drag Racing Championships by clicking here (results in reverse class order). Diakakis, better known as Diak Nick, is keen to hear from any racers from other countries who want to compete at Agrinio or Serres - you can contact him at diakakisnick@yahoo.com Exciting News from Funny Car Cup. 15th February: Thanks to Chris Hobson from the Funny Car Cup Facebook page for letting us share their news. Get ready for an adrenaline-packed season at Santa Pod Raceway. We are thrilled to announce that five phenomenal Funny Car racers are set to light up the track at the 1st round of the series during the Festival of Power event over the Easter weekend in 2024. Meet the lineup: Mark your calendars for the round dates: 
 These incredible racers are gearing up for the 2024 title, having made significant upgrades during the closed season. Don't miss out on the nitro fuelled, tire-smoking action, and the pursuit of glory! Get your tickets now and join us for a weekend filled with speed, power, and unforgettable moments! Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. Licence Fees for ACU and FIM E Riders. 14th February: Santa Pod Racers Club secretary Ian Marshall has announced the licence fees for FIM E competitors in the UK have been released after many months of negotiations with the FIM E and ACU are as follows: Top Fuel Bike, Super Twin Bike, Pro Stock Bike and Super Street Bike licences for the season will be £246.00, and for one event £136.00. Junior Drag Bike licences for the season will be £164.00 and for one event £113.00 This includes insurance and start permission as per normal. Call out for Junior Dragsters to N.I. 14th February: Edel McDonald, administrator of the British Junior Dragster Club Facebook page has issued a call out to Junior Dragster racers, and other sportsman racers willing to make the trip to Northern Ireland to make demo runs in 2024: 
"How many of the juniors would be interested in racing at Bishopscourt Airfield on 8th June 2024? We are trying to organise an event similar to what was run at the Melbourne Straightliners event in 2022, where we had prize money and trophies on offer.
"Even if junior drag racers are not definite on being able to attend, if you would just give us an idea of how many are interested in the idea. We would try to obtain cut price ferries from Holyhead to Dublin and from there, it's about two to three hours drive to Bishopscourt drag strip and there will be camping allowed on the weekend of the event. "Additionally, the promoter is trying to arrange ferry deals from Liverpool to Belfast which would be 27 miles to the track from Belfast port. Racers would have no need to submit carnet papers as they remain within the UK. "The idea is to bring junior dragsters to the kids in Ireland, both North and South, by having a good few juniors running and showing the public what we do, and encouraging the locals to get involved. This would hopefully increase the overall junior dragster numbers that would eventually come to race at Santa Pod and Melbourne raceway. Our ultimate aim is to have a round of the British Junior Dragster championship in the North of Ireland and to bring some European juniors over to make a big event in the junior calendar. "So if you could help kickstart Dragracing in the north of Ireland it would also help the sport in the South of Ireland as well!"Edel can be contacted by Facebook messenger or via the British Junior Dragster Club Facebook page by CLICKING HERE. Picture: Liam McDonald at Bishopscourt courtesy Lee Child. American dragsters and personalities for Dragstalgia. 14th February: Nitro Revival sponsor Geoff Stilwell has revealed that two of the most iconic dragsters will shortly be on their way to the UK to be displayed at Dragstalgia on 5th-7th July 2024. Also attending will be well known personalities and legends of US drag racing. 
As well as the already announced Dos Palmas, owned by Tony Thacker, will be joined by the reproduction of the Mooneyes Dragster which in its original form took part in one of the first UK drag racing events at Silverstone on 10th September 1963.Beforehand, Dos Palmas will be on display at the Lucsas Oil NHRA Winternationals at the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip on 21st-24th March. We are yet to find out whether other historic cars will be with Dos Palmas, but expect the event to be stunning, following the racing in Florida preceding the event. Dragstalgia will also be graced by personalities closely involved in the history of the sport in the US, also keeping the nostalgia drag racing movement alive. Nitro Revival co-organiser Cindy Gibbs will be attending along with former Freight Train AA/GS racer Bob and Sharon Muravez. Bob, also known as Floyd Lippencotte Jr., won over 600 sanctioned drag racing events before his retirement in 1971 and is now a member of the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame. Santa Pod have announced that US Fuel Altered legend Randy Bradford will be making a return to Santa Pod Raceway in his Fuel Altered to take on Nick Davies in 'Havoc'. And we understand there may be other legends and Fuel Altered racers on hand, to be announced in due course. To get up to date information keep your eyes on Eurodragster or visit the Santa Pod website by CLICKING HERE. Photo courtesy USAutomotive Swift snippets. 14th February: Happy Birthday for today to the Marras, Wild Bunch racers Pete and Rob Brown, FWD racer Scott Nobby Lewry, Santa Pod Raceway marshal John O'Shae and German Pro ET racer and photographer Clarissa Czekalla. We hope you all have a lovely day. 
Roger Gorringe funeral arrangements. 13th February: Thanks to Robin Jackson for announcing the funeral arrangements for Roger Gorringe, distinguished drag racing photo journalist and honoured Member of the British Drag Racing Hall of Fame. Roger’s funeral will be held at 2.30pm on Thursday 29th February at Huntingdon Crematorium, Sapley Road, Kings Ripton, Huntingdon PE28 2NX, telephone 01480 410388. The service will be followed by a wake at 3.30pm at the Black Bull Pub (next to the memorial), 32 Post Street, Godmanchester, Huntingdon PE29 2AQ, telephone 01480 433074. Parking at the pub is limited. Anyone wishing to attend the wake is asked to inform Hall of Fame chair Lesley Wright at lesley@britishdragracinghof.co.uk by Thursday 22nd February so that buffet numbers can be arranged. Roger’s family has requested that no flowers be sent. Instead, donations in Roger’s memory will be welcomed to The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and/or to the British Drag Racing Hall of Fame Benevolent Fund. Donations may be made via This Link. Roger Gorringe RIP. Spy picture VI - solved. 13th February: Jack Petley has contacted eurodragster.com regarding the Spy picture VI posted on 7th February. Jack mentions they have just picked up the 68 Chevelle from Jedd Guys (Shortys fab shop) with thanks to Dave Gane of Billy Gane Racing for providing the transport. The car was bought by Jack and his dad Gary Petley just before COVID lockdown, with the aim to get back into street eliminator after dad’s nearly 30 year absence! The car was owned by David James and Peter Thompson ownership and it is an ex super modified car. The plan is to install an all-steel twin turbo LS with power plant coming from Stefan Rossi of Ace Racing engines in California and gearbox is a Th400 by Hughes. The car has undergone work from Jedd since October last year and now the car is back at our garage for stripping down. It is planned for the Chevelle to be sent to Darren Scannell’s for paint. Then back for final prep by John Atkinson. Hopefully it might make a late season appearance in street eliminator. 
Swift snippets. 13th February: Happy Birthday for today to Old School Stocker racer Dan Blight and former slingshot racer Mike Oates. We hope you have a great day. Pioneer Stories - Movin' Mike Hutcherson, part 2. 12th February: Today's Pioneer Story is the second part of the history of Top Fuel Dragster racer Mike Hutcherson which you can read by CLICKING HERE. 
1969 saw the debut of Houndog 4 and the Cadillac motor was getting quicker and faster. Mike had a thrilling race with Wild Bill Weichelt in Dos Palmos through the Piccadilly underpass then sadly in 1971 he had a top end crash, writing the dragster off.A new dragster was built for 1972 and Roy Phelps gave the Houndog team a 354 Dodgehemi which they managed to break. The following year Roy gave them the 392 Chryslerhemi from Firefly. A longer chassis was built and with bigger boots fitted and Mike got theslingshot into the sevens. The beautiful new rear engined dragster Houndog 8 debuted in July 1974 and Mike wassoon into the sixes. He also surprised everyone after its first burnout when he reversed backto the line. This was the first fueller in the UK to be fitted with a reverse gear. Mike's story was produced by John Hunt and Nick Pettitt and published by Eurodragster.com editor Simon Groves. Spy picture - solved. 12th February: The engine photo in Spy picture VII on 8th February came courtesy of Pro Modified and Super Pro ET racer and sponsor John Tebenham. JT says "So we now have the great I.C.E. doing both my motors. We are ready for Easter with the Super Pro ET Pop - another new pair of slicks, one pair a meeting. I am absolutely trying to win the door slammers with the blue car. I ran a 5.99 with a.01 light against the Voodoo Hemi". "If you ever think racing is tough, come and play at the Doorslammers. A massive thanks to Keith who has the passion to race. We are going to put a video up of Keith starting my baby". Swift snippets. 12th February: Happy Birthday for today to Junior Drag Bike mum Kerryanne Frazier, Comp Eliminator crew Dave Hancock, supporter and former Alky FC racer Tom van der Wijden, former Top Doorslammer racer from Sweden Thomas Dahlblom. We hope you all have a great day. Swift snippets. 11th February: Happy Birthday for today to Santa Pod Raceway Events Coordinator Max Frost, Super Comp crew and wife Angela Hudson, Nostalgia Super Stock wife Bev Tyrell, Nostalgia FC crew Stuart Bradley and '55 Chevy racer Iain Shurey. We hope you all have a great time. SPR's Dial In Day in four weeks' time. 10th February: Santa Pod Raceway have announced that the hugely successful Dial In Day returns for 2024 on Saturday 9th March. Graduates from the previous events have gone on to achieve great things in the National Drag Racing championships in classes such as Sportsman ET, the VWDRC and beyond. There have been multiple event wins, number one qualifiers, perfect ET’s & reaction times and even a couple of championships won by those who started it all by attending the dial in day. 
If you’re thinking about getting involved with drag racing, or just want a little insight into the world of participating, the dial in day will not disappoint. Starting at 8am when the SPR gates open, it’s a no obligation day that consists of classroom-based sessions before track-based mini events allowing you to experience full qualifying and eliminations. You do not need a race-based vehicle; in fact, we restrict the day to vehicles completing the ¼ mile in 12 seconds and slower (9.00 for bikes) to reinforce the accessibility of drag racing as a sport. Only the RWYB rules apply so in most standard road cars, that means you need to bring nothing more than yourself, your car and your driving licence. The reason that the extremely popular ET Bike classes are busy means that the SPR also welcomes bikes to the dial in day! The classroom-based sessions will be applicable for both riders & drivers and there will be a separate bike class on track.You can book your Dial In Day participation found by CLICKING HERE. Adult participant entry is £83 (inc £3 booking fee), adult spectators £20 (inc £3 booking fee), kids 5-15 £6 (inc £1 booking fee) and kids under 5 are free. All tickets and sign-on procedures are Pre-Booking Only – No tickets will be available on the gate. Full T&Cs can be found by CLICKING HERE. The Dial In Day follows SPR's first RWYB on Sunday 3rd March which will be covered by Eurodragster.com with a gallery and video from Kieran. Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. 
FIM Europe 2024 bike rules announced.10th February: The page of the FIM Europe website relating to drag bike racing information has been updated. Included are a list of dates from all classes which we published on 2nd February (link), FIM Europe Drag Bike General Rules, FIM Europe Drag Bike European Championship And Cup Rules, FIM Europe Standards For Drag Racing Tracks, FIM Europe Technical Rules For Drag Bikes. Changes to last year's rules are marked in red. The page also displays a list of FIM-Europe records as compiled by Andy Marrs and a link to ACU Drag Bike championship rounds. An entry form link will be arriving soon. You can see all the detail by clicking here. As ever, comments should be directed to FIM-E Drag Racing Commission member Job Heezen. Swift snippets. 10th February: Happy Birthday for today to Pro Stock Bike crew chief and wife Cindy Newbury, Junior dad Andrew Willcox, FWD racer Matt Davison, and later owner of Twin Jynx Dave "Twolanes" Armstrong. We hope you all have a great day. Looking back to Sick Week, the Youtube Channel DragDriveRepeat interviewed Supercharged Outlaws racer Joel Kerr about his adventures in the event, and you can see the entertaining result by clicking here. Joel Kerr, known for his Stiff Shifter Pontiac Starchief teamed up with US racer Lonnie Tibbs to make a deal that he would co-pilot if Joel got in to Sick Week. Well, Joel got the call to participate days before the event started! You can hear the interview involving the guys purchasing a car sight unseen before the event and running it without tools or trailer. "Congratulations to US Funny Car racer Bob Tasca and his team for an amazing barrier breaking run of 341.68 in 3.840s at Bradenton Motorsports Park. The run was made during the final qualifying session in the PRO Superstar Shootout. Eliminations being held today can be seen on Floracing live by clicking here. The link includes a video of the record breaking run." Pioneer Stories - Alf Hagon part 1. 9th February: We start a five part story of the history of British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member Alf Hagon today which you can see at this link. Alfred Joseph Hagon will be best known to readers of these pages as the dominant force in motorcycle Sprint and Drag Racing in the 1960s. Many will also be aware that his prowess in designing, building, riding and racing bikes in many different areas of motorcycle sport was equally prolific. Add to this his success as a frame, engine and bike builder and his accomplishments as a business man catering for the two-wheeled market, and it’s no surprise that his name is still known and revered throughout the motorcycling world today. Our five part interview and review of Alf's long career includes archive media. Thanks to Alf for taking part, and to Chris Dossett for his research and transcribing Alf's story.
Part one of Alf’s story covers his early life and his first experiences with motorcycles and their modification. His first jobs began with carpentry and glass work before finding his place in engineering, which led to him constructing his own bike frames in his lunch breaks. He recalls his first competition outings in trials, scrambling, motocross and grass track racing before becoming involved in Speedway, a sport where he would gain a highly regarded reputation as a top competitor and bike builder during a relentless and punishing schedule where he was very much in demand. Alf’s first impressions of the idea of Drag Racing were less than favourable but he soon became involved in sprinting, appearing at meetings alongside the master of the sport George Brown, before accepting a ride on Gordon Calquhoun & Charlie Rous’ Vincent that caught the attention of the established sprint fraternity. Buying a case of 12 quarts of oil automatically qualifies you for the scheme with proof of purchase and if you are the highest placed contingency participant at any event in your class throughout the year will win the same case of oil as purchased along with a £25 VP Racing voucher redeemable through Williams Bros Racing who are the official importer and distributor of VP Racing Lubricants. In the event of a tie at the race meeting the prize will be awarded to the higher placed racer in qualifying. For the scheme to be activated at each event a minimum of 3 participants are required to compete in that class. At the end of the season the highest placed rider/driver in each class will win an additional £50 VP Racing voucher and any racer in the scheme that goes on to win their respective championship will receive a £100 voucher and a case of oil. With regards to racers double classing at any event you will only be eligible to win the contingency prize in one class unless 2 cases of oil are purchased to cover double classing. The sooner you join the scheme the sooner you can start winning, you will be required to carry VP Racing decals on your car or bike without any overlapping of any other decals and share your success on your social media platforms and would require images of you and your team with the logos for our Facebook, Twitter and other marketing outlets. More details and rules for the well-organised competition are at the FLC website and can be found by CLICKING HERE. Reviewing 2023, the champions and records established for each class were, by class: Full details of results of each round and championship points are posted on the FLC website. Records established for each category are: Fuerza Libre Competición commented "We are making sure that both spectators and participants enjoy every second. Our events take place at both professional motorsport circuits and national airports. Since, 2010 FLC has proclaimed itself as the best organization of Drag Racing in the country, taking a type of motorsport that was almost non-existent in our country to having a National Championship today with hundreds of participants from all over Europe, a unique modality that both the public and the participants enjoy for several days at each championship event. In Fuerza Libre Competición the driver is the protagonist, as shown by the best media equipment, professional videos, direct monitoring, interviews with pilots before, during and after each test, live broadcasts and prizes. There are two categories dedicated to direct competition, one category dedicated to beginners and a category dedicated to the show, where the pilot will have his unique moment to give his best. For the first time a driver will be able to officially participate in two categories in the same championship!" Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. 
Spy picture VI.7th February: We have a new spy picture with the comment "The project has been in development for a couple of years, good to see it coming on! Hopefully it might make a late season appearance in street eliminator. If you know more, or if you would like to send your own spy picture, then drop us a line at editor@eurodragster.com. Swift snippets. 7th February: Happy Birthday for today to Nitro Funny Car racer Rob Elsom, Willys Wars racer Mark Puddick, Swedish Top Fuel Bike racer Thomas Pettersson, Pro Modified wife and crew member Belinda Nicholson expat Pro ET racer Colin Felstead, now based in Ohio. We hope you all have a great day. KB's speech at SPRC Trophy Presentation evening. 6th February: We are grateful to Santa Pod Raceway CEO Keith Bartlett (pictured) for sending a copy of his speech given at Saturday's SPRC Dinner Dance and Trophy Presentation: 
A very good evening, ladies and gentlemen and might say fellow racers.I am always happy to be able to have the opportunity at this dinner dance say a few words to you and hopefully be able to outline some key points and issues regarding Santa Pod and the forthcoming year and our calendar of events. I will try my best to keep it shorter than normal – if not, I know I am in trouble with a few people – not least my family. At last year’s dinner dance, I spoke about how Santa Pod had survived the covid crisis and the then current downturn in the economy because of the pandemic and of course the various international conflicts affecting the supply train and other various economic impacts such as bank interest rates, and the cost of living etc. In 2023 things did not get any easier which I am sure many if not most of you are fully aware. The economy is still difficult and business across all sectors has been hit as hard in 2023 if not harder than in 2022. I am of the view It is not likely to be any easier in 2024. Just the governments increase in the minimum national wage in April by around 10% will have a huge impact across all business sectors. Santa Pod will also be affected when you take into consideration how many seasonal staff we employ throughout the year - it’s in the hundreds. But a rise in the minimum national wage is only part of the story. Once that raise is implemented then other staff, will quite naturally look for similar reward. So, if you have a wage bill of nearly 2 million pounds a year (which Santa Pod certainly does) you are looking at £200k+ increase for no extra output or profit on turnover. That is without mentioning the skilled labour shortages that seem to affect everyone currently. Staffing is the biggest issue we face today and not just in our business that is across all business sectors. Today getting the right staff is one of the biggest challenges to face. My own view is that today you should prioritise character over resume. Qualifications are not everything in today’s world, despite the general approach to recruiting. I often think that you should not hire anyone who you would not give a lift to at 2am in the morning… judgement of character! For Santa Pod, the real issue is that we are not like a retail store selling goods that can have price increases added at any time or as the cost of their raw goods increases– such as a food store or household goods store and car dealerships, plus many more. We set our ticket prices in or around November of the preceding year. So, if the costs of running your business and things like inflation, salaries, interest rates, materials, fuel oil & diesel all increase at the beginning of the beginning of the year (as they have done for 2024) we have already published our ticket prices and are selling tickets for the year ahead and cannot like so many other businesses change our pricing structure so simply as in other business sectors. With that said the whole leisure industry and sector is going to have to re-think this structure and method of pricing its offering – and that includes Santa Pod Raceway. In summarising on this particular topic, I will add that it is a fine balance between a competitive pricing structure that helps fill your venue up and create a brilliant atmosphere, or an increased income based on a lower attendance whereby you risk not having that atmosphere which in my opinion is vital to people having a great day out – and that is the reputation that Santa Pods has today - it’s a great day out at a reasonable price for the whole family….and the drag racing not bad either! Most of you in this room have witnessed that. We pride ourselves that Santa Pod is seen as the best venue across the whole of Europe to go drag racing - be it as a spectator or a racer and we have worked very hard to achieve that over many years. 
Turning to the 2024 drag racing season I must start with making a few comments about our chief starter Ian Marshall. As you will all know by now, Ian is intending to step down at the end of the season as our chief starter. Ian is not leaving the SPRC and or Santa Pod but will take a wider role over track prep and maintenance and the overall SPRC marshal at events.I would like to take this opportunity of saying a few words about Ian as a Chief starter. I have been fortunate enough to regularly travel the world and attend or be involved in International and national drag racing event across the globe. I can safely say that Ian Marshall is probably in the top 5 chief starters in the world and that includes the USA, Australia, and the ME to name a few countries. In Europe Ian is the No1 chief starter by a long way - and that is no mean feat! We have been very lucky at Santa Pod to have had Ian on the start line for so many years gaining so much experience and helping Santa Pod to have such high level drag racing events. I would like to say that Ian can be an awkward sod at times, always wanting reasons as to why on anything he is not sure off or needs proving - that’s why Ian is always looking to improve things - that goes for most things where Ian is involved. But on behalf of TBR and Santa Pod thank you so much Ian for what you have done for Santa Pod in that role of chief starter over so many years – you will be an almost impossible act to follow! Which talking of we look forward to David Warren trying to do just that fill Ian Marshall’s huge boots. I am sure that David will shine in that role too as he has had a good teacher…. The 2024 season is as action packed with so many great events at Santa Pod Raceway. My little baby the ‘Door Slammers’ continues to grow, and I am still talking to US teams (in fact seeing some next week in the USA) to try and persuade them to come and race at the Door Slammers where I might add they are not likely to have it all their own way. We are delighted with the Street Weekend going into its second year where we have seen the entries go from 80 last year to 200 this year. We sold out on entries in less than 2 hours. I know my team have some great things in store for this year’s Street Weekend plus we have the interest of FORD UK in this event. In 2024 we will be looking to begin developing the new 7.60 heads up class which Jeff Bull got of the ground in 2023. I will add that in conversations that I have had with 3-4 of the Swedish Pro Street teams (who also run on a 7.60 index) they are keen to run in our 7.60 class this season at least some of the rounds. Following on from 2023 it seems that in 2024 the cost of going racing is for ever getting more and more expensive and when you then look at the FIA and FIM European Championships and all the travel involved it sure isn’t a cheap hobby! Together we all need to keep abreast of our own inflation within the sport of drag racing. Just taking the TF class in the FIA Championship the current teams and car owners are struggling to continue racing – mainly because of the increased costs today to go TF racing. When I ran the ETFA and the ‘European Top Fuel Series’ between 1991 and 1995, we had around 10-12 TF cars competing with regular 8-car fields at each round – those days are gone. Today it is not only the increased costs that have reduced us to under half that number of TF cars competing, but what worries and concerns me far more is where are the skilled crew chiefs and crew persons coming from, where are they today and how are we going to attract young people to take up such roles on our sport. The current people involved in TF racing today are mostly from my generation the ‘older ones’ – I’ve been racing with most of them for over 30 years and in some cases far more. That cannot continue we need young blood into our sport of drag racing and by that I do mean just drivers. Motor sports will always find drivers (I have a few of my own indoors), especially those with money to buy their drives – but skilled crew chiefs and mechanics and other crew persons - do not grow on trees, especially when you consider that most of the crews are not paid any salary for working on the cars, have to take their holidays to work the events and basically are amateur crew people with a hobby called drag racing. 
We are still a long way off from the USA and the NHRA National Championship (which they like to call the World Championship, which it is not), where the crew chief’s and crews in the Pro classes are full time and paid a salary to go racing. In 2024 Ida Zetterstrom will be working full time on a paid salary with a US Top Fuel team, driving at selected events, and her partner Kim Hilander will be working full time as a crew person. Full time for 20 races and a lot of testing to boot and, with just two weeks holiday – welcome to the real world of professional drag racing in the USA folks….We must start to find a structure whereby we can bring young people - or at least not as old as me and my lot - into our sport to keep out sport growing at least with the pro classes. The national and sportsman classes are as healthy as ever, in fact you are all contributing to that growth and its fantastic. But I am sure you all agree it’s the pro classes that bring in the big spectator attendances and those people are the ones who pay the bills and help the sport and Santa Pod I might add survive – that is of course along with the bank of KB! Last year at this dinner I briefly (that is if I can do anything briefly) outlined the role of DRE (Drag racing Europe AB), and the role it plays in the FIA and FIM Championship. We now have a new contract with the FIA and FIM after much negotiation over the past 24 months. As the Chairman of DRE, we are determined to develop DRE and the FIA and FIM Championship over the coming 3 years to be a high brand championships that will attract the right investment and sponsorship to help the sport of drag racing in the UK and Europe go to the next level. Today that product the FIA and FIM Championships are not good enough to attract such investment but with the plans that we have maybe, just maybe, that will change in the next few years. If we are successful, all of you in this room will benefit…. And it’s not just DRE that is looking forwards either, at Santa Pod we are expanding and looking to develop the business over the coming 3-years. What we see as our main priority is to future proof the business going forwards. That means recruiting more staff training them into our specialist world of drag racing promotions and management. We are also improving our product as we always try to do. But one must always be prepared for the unexpected to happen and curve balls to be thrown at you all the time – which they are. Santa Pod must improve as we go forwards and that means the actual site and facilities along with the management of our business day to day. If we stand still and do not adopt change, we too will slowly wither away, which would affect us all. By the FOP at Easter, you will see some subtle improvements to the site. New fencing all along the staging and pairing lanes, some new units, a café that has had improvements to how we serve you. What will not be seen is the drainage improvement we have done to some of the parking fields – costly but vital for our customer experience. We are resurfacing the Live Action arena – not cheap but essential to maintain the show…and there will be hopefully more works as we progress on through the year – that is if we manage to make any money in these difficult times…. Also, we will be having large screens at the two FIA & FIM Championship events (ME and EF) for a better TV and live stream production but mainly again to improve the customer experience. On the racing side we may even have 4/5 AAFC racing at 4 rounds this year – could even be that we have more FC than TF – theirs a first! I have many people over the last year ask me are you going to stop doing this and what will happen to Santa Pod and the FIA/FIM Championships when you and if you stop. Let me say this as I have explained tonight, we are putting things in place to future proof the business for both Santa Pod and the FIA & FIM Championships. We are looking to plan for life without KB. When Bernie Ecclestone ran F1, and I have always had a good relationship with Bernie he riled as the individual ring master and controlled or was involved in all aspects of the F1. He had built F1 since the early 1970’s into what it became. When he stepped down it took over 6 people to carry out all his duties. I see my situation as quite similar other than he had zillions more noughts in his bank account – I will be replaced with more than one person…. As to me personally I have been involved in this sport for over 50 years and full time for the last 33 years – I am too long in the tooth and too committed to stop now or in the future. As long as I have my health I will be doing what I do now an have been doing for so many years – when I am far to old (some say that is already now), and dribbling, unable to walk properly, can’t see the finish line, I will still be saying get me to the start line I want to see the racing – that is me and I am not about to change anytime soon….I will be in drag racing till I drop, because I love our sport and the adrenalin rush that it gives me and the people within the sport – well at least most of them! Thank you for all for the support that I get from you all. Brad Head to race SSB in ACU and FIM-E. 6th February: UK 8.50 Bike Championship runner up in 2023 Brad Head has announced he will be moving to Super Street Bike in 2024, and competing in both the FIM-E and UK ACU Drag Bike Championships. Brad wrote: "I’m so excited to get going in my first season in SSB! It will be a challenge, but one I’m really excited to get going with!" "I would like to thank Jake Mechaell at. JKE Race Works for continuing to sponsor me for another year his help, knowledge and work is second to none and I’m so lucky to have him on board! Thank you also to Kathy Taylor, Robin Read, Colin Millar and Lyn Purvis from Flyin Fyfer Racing for coming on board to help this year. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate it, I’ll do my best to make you proud! If anyone else would like to help with sponsorship please PM me on Facebook or Instagram, so we can have a chat about how you can help. Anything small or large is appreciated fully and I’ll do my best to give you the best exposure possible. 
Brad's full schedule is:Photo credit: Jan Sunek at Hockenheim
Swift snippets.6th February: Happy Birthday wishes for today to NSS racer Claire Johnson, Wild Bunch racer Wayne Colliver, former Junior Dragster race Skye Collier, and long time drag bike racers Turbo Tim Boutle and Pete Le Gros, we hope all of you have a great day. Pioneer Stories - Movin' Mike Hutcherson, part 1. 5th February: Our latest pioneer story is from driver of the Houndog dragsters in the 1960s and 1970s, Movin' Mike Hutcherson which you can read by clicking here. 
Mike Hutcherson started out working for Lotus Cars in the early 60s testing brand new Lotus Elans, lapping the Mira test track at 135mph. He then got a job at Jack Oldings in 1965 where he met Nobby Hills and saw the unfinished Cadillac powered dragster Houndog 3 with front mounted blower. Nobby was looking for a new driver and after hearing about Mike’s experiences at Lotus asked him if he’d like to drive it? Mike wasted no time saying yes.
They ran the dragster at Santa Pod when it opened in 1966, constantly developing it getting quicker times and faster speeds. Mike enjoyed the engine development side of it and helped with making parts for the car, machining blower pulleys, splining driveshafts etc.Mike also recalls memories of other racers at the time including Alan Blount, Ken Cooper and Walt Ithell...Mike's story was produced by John Hunt, Nick Pettitt and published by Eurodragster.com editor Simon Groves. Grand National Roadster Show gallery. 5th February: Many thanks to Nitro Revival sponsor Geoff Stilwell for sending a gallery of photos from the weekend's Grand National Roadster Show held at Pomona County Fairgrounds, California. You can see Geoff's gallery by clicking here. 
Following torrential rain on Thursday, Geoff's 7707 Land Speed roadster and the Dos Palmas dragster were set up in Hall 4, one of seven halls of 100,000 square feet, accommodating approximately 600 hot rods on display. Geoff thanks Mick's Paint, Tony Thacker and other friends.Pictured at the foot of the gallery are some visitors from the worlds of Hot Rodding, Drag Racing and Land Speed Racing who were eager to visit and have a seat in either 7707, Dos Palmas or both. Drag racers Bob and Sharon Muravez visited for photos with Wes Tomakashi, one of the late Bill Schultz's "Over the Hill Gang" (pic 102), bearded pinstriper Johnny Martinez and his similarly attired son were also on the stand (pic 109 and 110). Harry Hibler can also be seen in pic 85/88 and Gregg Plahy, part of the "Flashpoint" Landspeed car team in pics 104-105. On Sunday Geoff attended the 85th SCTA Awards Banquet, for which 7707 was the poster car, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel, Pomona. Geoff commented "We meet so friends from far and wide, New Zealand to the U.K. and even Sweden. Thank you for travelling so far". Huge thanks go to everyone at Mick’s Paint for making my race car look so good to Tony Thacker for all the hard work behind the scenes to make this work. Massive thanks also to our video guru Nestor for putting together our videos we are running on the booth. "The 7707 Team are very proud to support and promote the SCTA as well. Thank you to Ron Main, JoAnn Carlson, Jill Iverson and everyone else there for their support". "Finally, I hope everyone we managed to get a sit in the race cars enjoyed their time." Drag racing returns to Bishopscourt, N.I. 5th February: Thanks to Lee Child who has announced a new drag racing event in Northern Ireland at Bishopscourt airfield: Drag racing returns to Bishopscourt airfield Northern Ireland, one of the longest established venues for ¼ mile racing for Northern Ireland and Ireland under different promoters. The new land owners reached out to Lee Child after a recommendation from the previous promoter, as they want to run their own events now.After a successful two day meeting at the venue, Lee Child is now working for the enthusiastic but feet firmly on the ground, Land owner consortium team. The role for Lee is drag racing operations, race director, promotions, track development and advertising. With 14 days of planning for motorsport, this is the beginning of the only permanent drag racing venue for Northern Ireland and Ireland. 
The first drag race event will be Saturday 8th June and will be a no prep timed run what you brung. Camping will be available before, during and after the event so everyone can have an enjoyable time. For racers that want to join the extreme hardcore Irish racers on this day, we are reaching out to Stenaline Ferries for discounted crossing prices. Bishopscourt is located just ½ mile from the beach and 27 miles from the Belfast ferry port.A small amount of work needs to be done to the surface (repairs and leveling) to make it race ready. The ex bomber runway has really stood the test of time allowing it to run ¼ mile with a 700 metre shutdown area, that can be extended in the future. The first event as mentioned is a no prep event but traction compound will be allowed. There is a plan when funds are available to invest in track preparation equipment. With the venue just 9 metres above sea level, with track prep, it can be a super fast venue. To get to that moment Bishopscourt needs to be supported by racers attending the events that would be really appreciated. The response from companies to support the venue has been really good. Keep updated with facebook. Bishopscourt Drag Racing Northern Ireland for the time being while websites, instagram, twitter, tik tok and youtube channels are being worked on. Swift snippets. 5th February: Happy Birthday to Super Gas racer, Sportsman ET class sponsor and SPRC Committee Member Andy Dibley, to UK Funny Car legend Gordon Smith, to Eurodragster.com sponsor and Top Methanol Funny Car owner Danny Bellio, and to Funny Bike racer Nick 'Shaggy' Daniels, have a great day all! SPRC Perpetual Awards winners and gallery. 4th February: Congratulations to the the winners and runners-up in the 2023 Motorsport UK at a packed Dinner Dance Trophy Presentation Evening last night. British Drag Racing Championship, SPRC National Drag Racing Championships, ACU UK Dragbike Championships and SPRC Club Championships were presented with their trophies at the Santa Pod Racers Club Dinner Dance and Trophy Presentation in Milton Keynes last night (Saturday). Each National Champion was presented with a Victory Trophy incorporating a picture of their respective vehicle. The winners of SPRC's Perpetual Awards, for whom Eurodragster.com readers had the chance to vote, were also presented with their trophies. Congratulations to the SPRC Perpetual Award winners:  Thank you to everyone who submitted votes for the SPRC Perpetual Awards. In his traditional speech in support of racers and workers at Santa Pod Raceway, Keith Bartlett kept his speech to a limited size and struck an upbeat note on the financial times over the last few years and his optimism for the coming year. Keith also spoke about the opportunities available at Santa Pod Raceway for sport and entertainment in the coming year. We will be reporting Keith's speech in the next update. The Trophy Presentation gallery has now been posted. Photos are watermarked, meaning it is ok to copy and post them on social media; if you want to obtain free-of-charge originals please contact editor@eurodragster.com or via Facebook messenger. 
Memories of Norm Wheeldon.4th February: Norm Wheeldon, who sadly passed away on Thursday, was known for running the first UK 6 second/200mph pass in Pro Comp in May 1980, and a consummate constructor of dragsters in a career that spanned 50 years. Norm's first car in 1974 was a competition altered, named "The Wheel Thing" using Stripteaser as inspiration, using a Minivan and Chevy powerplant. This was replaced by a 3.8 Jaguar powered Model T with the same name, an Allan Herridge-made billet flywheel and American cluctch used to get the car into the 11s by the end of 1976, Norm winning the RAC Junior Comp altered class championship that year. 
Norm then had the first of a long line of Chevy small blocks, using one in a lengthened Model T chassis for a few meetings in Super Comp. But the heads up Pro Comp class was where Norm's ambitions lay, and teaming up with Tim Claxton in 1979, Norm constructed his first dragster, rear engined, which made its debut at Blackbushe in August. The car, with an engine built by US SBC expert Dale Hall, went quick immediately and Norm came out the winner against a 16 car international field at the 1979 World Finals at Santa Pod.In 1980, the car, with new transmission and sponsorship from Rifle Jeans, became the first UK Pro Comp car to run a six at over 200mph at the Main Event with a 6.98/201mph, however engine breakage resulted in the partnership with Tim Claxton coming to an end and Norm sitting on the sidelines for a couple of years. His brief return in 1983 was with a new slingshot named Plan-X. This ran 6.94/201mph at the SPR Summer Nationals and set a NDRC record in October. However after that Norm had a break from participation in the sport when he worked for F1 teams March Engineering and Benetton, however he kept an eye on the sport and even ran a second, rear engine Plan-X in the early 1990s. 
Norm's twin engined slingshot "Two Much" made its debut in 2009 and ran at both Shakey and Santa Pod. The car, powered by blown small block Chevys on Methanol has made an enormous impact for its sheer noise and spectacle. His other builds include the Bond, Hannis and Osborne Nuthin' 2 Fancy slingshot, the Pro ET Just 4 Fun dragster run by Liz and Iain Malcolm and team mate Nigel and James Charman's Gotavit blown small block Chevy slingshot.Norm's larger than life personality and machines will be missed at the strip - but his engineering creations will hopefully live on to entertain UK drag racing fans in the future. With acknowledgments to Keith Lee from Custom Car's Auto Focus article - available in print at this link or online via issuu.com. European class winners at Sick Week. 4th February: Congratulations to Swede Stefan Gustafsson and the UK's Richie Webb for winning their classes at Sick Week taking place Monday to Friday at Orlando, Bradenton, Gainesville, South Georgia Motorsports Park and back to Orlando for the final day on Friday. 
Stefan's Brillko Engineering Corvette won the Unlimited class in a field of nine cars of which only five were able to complete the course. After a best of 6.498/220.69 at Bradenton, Stefan ran consistently and scored an average of 6.74540/ 210.1060 over the five days of competition.
Stefan's average was third quickest in the entire competition, because American Brett LaSala's radial-shod 2012 Ford Mustang running in Modified was average quickest of all at 6.3402/227.230. The quickest time on a single pass was Jeff Lutz's 6.155/247.38 in his '69 Camaro at Orlando, but Jeff suffered mechanical issues, making a rebuild on day 3 but withdrawing after further problems at SGMP.Also withdrawing from the Unlimited Class, but after an awesome 6.288/238.81 pass on day 1 at Orlando was Swede Magnus Frost who again ran his '73 Opel Ascona. Richie Webb was the winner in the interestingly named Gassers vs Hot Rods class which included nine aircooled VWs. Richies strategy was to run the turbo'd 2600cc turned down and this paid dividends with an average of 10.20940 134.4740 and best of 9.758 138.70 at Bradenton. You can see Richie's pass and an interview courtesy 1320video on Youtube. Not so luck was Supercharged Outlaw racer Joel Kerr who ran a Corvette in DYO. Joel did manage to run all five days for an average of 13.19140 111.2940, but his average was hurt by first day problems, with his best time of 11.591/127.17 coming on day 4 at SGMP. 2023 Pro ET Bash. 3rd February: Thank you to Debbie Clarke and Brett Featherstone for their write up from the Pro ET Awards Night on Saturday 27th January 2024 Thank you to everyone who attended the 2023 Season PRO ET awards bash, so many kind words of thanks and support for our first attempt at organising this event, 136 guests made the effort worthwhile. Thank you to the following sponsors whose generous contributions made it possible to put on this event for PRO ET: Maverick Diagnostics, Nemesis UK, B & H Construction, SG Commercial Vehicle Repairs Ltd, Bean & Ballantyne Properties, SIB Plumbing, Buddy’s Paint Shack, Supercharged Outlaws, CSK Building Ltd, Team Nova Scotia, RMC with RDR Carburettors, Three Brothers Brewery Limited, Hauser Racing, Tig & Cath Napier, Independent Scaffolding, UK Scaffolding (SE) Ltd, Jon Turner Upholstery.  The evening kicked off with my usual pit ramblings only this time a very nervous speech in front of way more than the usual bunch of racers who exchange words of friendly abuse! If I forgot to mention anyone, sorry my pages of speech became a blur. So, the nominated awards voted for by anybody who read our Facebook post and racers WhatsApp group were up first: So best rehearsed plans by John & Kim Bean and Debs and I went straight out the window as we planned to kick off the raffle by asking each winner to pull a ticket out of the box as they were presented a trophy, Whoops!! I forgot that almost immediately, sorry team. Anyway, we got sort of back on track after a small oil down and random members of the audience started receiving their prizes as kindly donated by Pete Dodd, Warren Watts, Belinda Bull, Team Nova Scotia and the PRO ET Sponsorship Scheme. We then went into the buffet before the second round of awards. Over the years of watching and now participating in PRO ET with such large numbers of regular entries I decided that it was a massive achievement to make it into the top ten final standings. This year was no exception 63 teams listed as getting points and 50 plus gaining points from more than two events. Extra trophies were needed and once again Elaine Southworth at “Cool Art and Engineering” was contacted and her imagination was put to the test 18 bespoke trophies all handmade coated and posted within the time frame and as a side addition to the trophy a framed photo handpicked by ourselves from julianhunt.net, big thank you Julian & Claire for the picture tweaking to make the pictures more personal to PRO ET. So, stand up Colin Theobald and show me how it’s done as each racer 10-1 walks up to a nominated song played by the DJ and Colin tells it how it is and pulls no punches. I think he knows us better than we do, a familiar face greets each racer with a smile and hug as opposed to the usual “get into the pairing lanes now.” Thank you, Caroline, for agreeing to hand out the top ten trophies. 
Then more organised chaos as the remaining raffle prizes are handed out with Colin doing his best trying to keep us rabble in line. Thank you, Colin. So, it was time for the party and everyone to talk some shit and before we knew it the event had finished. Hopefully, everyone enjoyed their evening, all tips for improvement would be gratefully appreciated before next year. Can I please congratulate Sammie & Tom Watkins new addition to the family, Ernest-Eric Walter Watkins born 05.26am on Sunday 28th January weighing 6lbs 15oz I guess he was just a bit shy to arriving in front of 134 people! May we wish you all the best from PRO ET. See you all at Easter! Brett & Debs Team Nova Scotia Thanks to Graham Watkinson for his help in coding today's update. Swift snippets. 3rd February: Happy Birthday for today to Super Pro ET racer Daniel Giles, 8.50 Bike racer Stacey Reed, Sportsman ET racer Steve Mellors, former 9.50 Bike racer Dave Bowe and Outlaw Street racer Paul Knifton. We hope you all have a great day. 
Norm Wheeldon.2nd February: Nigel Charman has written to eurodragster.com with much sadness of the sudden loss of Norm. He was taken ill in the early hours yesterday and passed on later in the afternoon. This has been a great shock to us all and our thoughts are with his partner Mary at this very difficult time. Norm was involved from the 70s to the present day in drag racing at a high level with a very high standard of fabricating, constructing as well as driving the cars. In the past few years, we built the cars under the Wheeldon and Charman name which we intend to continue in the long term, I know this is his wish. However, at this present time as you can imagine this has come as a great shock to us all, so can I please ask you to respect Mary's privacy. Rest in Peace. We at Eurodragster.com send our deepest condolences to Norm's partner Mary, teammates and friends Nigel and James Charman, and to Norm's many racing friends and colleagues. Pioneer Stories - Wally Parks' involvement in British Drag Racing - Part 5. 2nd February: You can read the fifth and final part of our excerpts from NHRA founder Wally Parks' memoir by clicking here. 
This part includes the letters Wally wrote to his wife Barbara with some of his humour and affection finding their way into them. "I’m sure you’ll flip over this place – it’s
too much! This coming weekend up at Southport is supposed to be the real cold one. I
bought some pyjama’s so I can wear the bottoms under my pants if it’s really that cold.
"Last night I had dinner with the Allard’s at their home. Mrs Allard is a really nice person and had cooked us a meal that I expected was typically English. We had roast beef, oven-brown potatoes, carrots, green beans, some sherry, apple pie with cream and coffee in another room. It was delicious and the company was most enjoyable. I seem to be getting a lot of wrinkles over here. Don’t know what it is, but this country must age a person more rapidly. We are really making history over here.."The story was produced by Richard Parks, photos, images chosen by Nick Pettitt and John Hunt and published by editor of Eurodragster.com Simon Groves. We all thank Jim Miller of the American Hot Rod Foundation for scanning the photos and adding captions. Unusual Car Sale UK sponsor Street Weekend 2024. 2nd February: Unusual Car Sales UK admin Nigel Taylor has announced that Unusual Car Cales UK are the proud sponsor of this year's Street Weekend 2024, with some members clubbing together and donating £20 each into the prize pot, which is looking like a fair bit already.  Nigel explains we understand people and companies would like to get involved but can’t afford to offer big prize money. So as Unusual Car Sales UK is a big follower of British drag racing, we have come up with this idea where those people and companies will get a mention on our site. The site has a following of 37,000 and over people for contributions of £20 into the prize pot. Unusual Car Sales UK Kenzie Taylor will be following the Street weekend antics and no doubt he will have his camera with him (Kenzie has had some good teaching from Santa Pods own Callum Pudge) so will represent Unusual Car Sales UK and will witness who wins what and where. If you would like to get involved in the contributions, please head over to the Unusual Car Sales UK Facebook page click here. New members will need to answer all the application questions to join the site, if you are already a member then look out for the Street Weekend 2024 posts. If you need any information, please contact Nigel via the Unusual Car Sales UK Facebook page. Samu Kemmpainen’s new Top Fuel bike. 2nd February: FIM-E racer Samu Kemmpainen has contacted eurodragster to confirm a new Top Fuel bike which is on display at the MP-24 Motorcycle Show, Helsinki being held from 2nd-4th February. elements of the powerplant on the new bike will be displayed on the Honda 6P48 stand. “This year we will test at local tracks as the bike is new and different to what we have used before. Maybe Tierp if all goes well, we still have the twin bike if needed. We will race FIM soon when the bike is fast enough and we have more spare parts. the bike was made here in Finland by our team, good friends and sponsors”. 
 Samu has been working 22 years at Honda and it was easy to a pick name for this project. 
FIM-E Junior Drag Bike.2nd February: Job Heezen has announced the confirmed dates for the FIM-E Championship. Junior Drag Bike will run at rounds 1,4 and 5. Top Fuel Bike, Super Twin, Pro Stock Bike and Super Street Bike will run at all 5 rounds. Swift snippets. 2nd February: Happy Birthday for today to Supercharged Outlaws racer Jake Clayton, Comp Bike racer Dave Thomas and US Funny Car legend Ed 'The Ace' McCulloch. We hope you all have a great day. SPRC 2024 Entries Open. 1st February: SPRC Webmaster and committee member, Peter Walters has been in touch to announce the entry system for 2024 is now open. Festival of Power is available to enter now, with the other events being added over the next few weeks. www.santapodracersclub.com.  The system has had a revamp and there are a few changes. For 2024 you are required to add a vehicle and fill in your SFI details (car only) before entering events. You only need to do this once, and the system will prefill your information on future event entries, where you can amend any information as appropriate. We have also added a notification and notice board service to the website. So all members we'll be alerted by email when a new notice is added. Notices will include entry announcements, running orders, final instructions and more. Please remember as of 2024, Entry fees must be paid 3 days prior to commencement of the race event entered. There will be a small fine applied to late payments (late being asked for your payment in the signing on office) this will be £25 for the first offence and £100 for future failings within the race year, to help we are looking at emailing all those that chose BACS payment 1 week prior to the event as a gentle nudge to pay the entry fee, this will be a blanket email, so please don't be upset if you have already paid. Entry for the Festival of Power closes on Friday 8th March 2024. Eurodragster.com event coverage 2024. 1st February: We have posted our event coverage plan for 2024 which you can see at this link or by clicking on 'Event Coverage' in the main menu at the top of the page. As ever, the usual caveats apply: event coverage is dependent on weather and track conditions and team availability. The event list has increased from previous years and we are thankful to our team for setting aside their time to make in some cases lengthy journeys to attend events. We are again scheduling events at Dakota Raceway, Smeatharpe, Devon, also, as a sponsor of Melbourne Raceway, we are pleased to announce coverage of all events at the track this year, with former editor Tog attending all but one. For the first time we will be carrying galleries of events from Clastres, France and Rivanazzano, Italy thanks to Kieran. At Santa Pod Raceway we are covering all championship events, both SPRC National and FIA/FIM-E as well as several lifestyle events and RWYBs. We will carry coverage of events at Tierp and Hockenheim, although it is likely to be at the end of day rather than live. Thanks to Julian and Kieran for giving their time for overseas trips and to Kieran for allowing us to embed video footage into the galleries. Swift snippets. 1st February: Happy Birthday for today to Super Pro ET racer Martyn Jones, former Sportsman ET racer Ian Jackson, Straightliners administrator Helen Greathead, Estonian administrator Kristjan Veedler and photographer Jon Spoard. We hope you all have a great day Sick Week results can be seen by following these links: Day Two. / Day Three. Earlier news |
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