Pacific Raceways’ Friday Night Qualifying Gets the NHRA Northwest Nationals – Motor Sports Weekend Started..
SEATTLE, WA – June 15, 2024 – (Motor Sports News Wire) – For the first time in its history at Pacific Raceways,
fans will experience night racing featuring the high-octane action of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series during the 35th annual NHRA Northwest Nationals, set for July 19-21.
The NHRA Northwest Nationals, marking the 11th event of the 2024 season, will debut night qualifying to kick off an
electrifying weekend. Spectators can expect to witness nitro-fueled cars, including Pro Stock Motorcycle and the
return of Pro Stock, blazing down the track under the lights in their 330-mph, 11,000-horsepower machines. This
event represents the first time all four NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series classes will compete at Pacific Raceway during the same weekend.
The weekend begins with a fan fest at Auburn Outlets Collection on Thursday, July 18 at 5 p.m. PT, offering fans the
chance to meet their drag racing heroes. On Friday, amidst qualifying sessions, fans can participate in a Seal Master
Track Walk and an autograph session in the pro pits. The highlight of Friday evening will be the “nitro at night”
qualifying session, where fans have the opportunity to win a distinctive wristwatch from Ben Bridge Jewelers TAG Heuer.
Saturday’s lineup includes the popular Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge, leading into eliminations on Sunday,
making it one of the most anticipated race weekends in Pacific Raceways history.
Last year’s winners—Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car), and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock
Motorcycle)—will aim to defend their titles. The event will be televised on FS1 and FOX, with Sunday eliminations airing on FOX at 4 p.m. ET on June 21.
Torrence, a four-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, clinched victory over Doug Kalitta in the finals last year. He faces
strong competition from current top contenders including Justin Ashley, Shawn Langdon, and Tony Schumacher.
Wilkerson, having handed driving duties to his son Daniel this season, must navigate a competitive Funny Car field featuring Austin Prock, John Force, J.R. Todd, and Matt Hagan.
In the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, Gaige Herrera continues to dominate, undefeated in 2024 and matching
NHRA legend Bob Glidden’s record for consecutive wins. Other riders to watch include Matt Smith, Richard Gadson, and Angie Smith.
The return of the Pro Stock class adds to the excitement, with Greg Anderson and Erica Enders among the notable
contenders. Dallas Glenn, currently leading in points, brings strong competition to the field.
The event also features thrilling action in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, showcasing top-tier drivers.
Highlights include the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout and Drag & Drive Shootout, adding to the weekend’s festivities.
Fans at Pacific Raceways can enjoy special pre-race ceremonies honoring drivers competing for the prestigious Wally
trophy on Sunday. The event includes the popular SealMaster Track Walk hosted by NHRA legend Don “The Snake” Prudhomme, followed by the winner’s circle celebration where fans can meet the event champions.
Throughout the weekend, the Nitro Alley Stage offers Nitro School, meet and greets with drivers, music, and more
. Spectators also receive exclusive pit access to witness teams in action, interact with drivers, and explore NHRA’s
Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway featuring interactive displays, merchandise, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Qualifying for the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series includes two rounds on Friday, July 19 at 3:30 p.m. and
8:15 p.m. PT, and two rounds on Saturday, July 20 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. PT. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. PT on Sunday, July 21, with television coverage airing on FS1 and FOX.