Meltdown Drags 2014
United StatesSaturday, July 26, 2014
A group of likeminded friends, many from High School, and some new friends met along the way created the Meltdown Drags. Discussions for the event had taken place about 10 years ago, but it took a spark from a conversation 5 years later to actually bring the drags into existence. The 1st year there were 30 race cars, the 2nd 120, (even in pouring rain, they kept rolling in). The 3rd year saw 250 cars, the 4th year 325, and this year’s 5th annual event brought 503!!!
The Meltdown Drags Association (MDA) focuses on providing a place for vintage racers who “get it” to come and match race. This is NOT an event for bracket racers, or for serious money racers since the event offers neither. This event is for guys who want to relive their childhood, remember times with their fathers, brothers, and family the way it used to be done. With cars attending this year’s event from Canada as well as nearly all 50 states including; California, Utah, Texas, Virginia, and the Carolina’s… it is easy to see that the brother hood of vintage racers is STRONG! So many of these guys have saved and tucked away their cars from the 50s and 60s…many are now restored, and many are not! Either way, with period correct wheels, and the correct look, they are all welcome as long as they are 1966 and earlier.
This year’s event show cased; Gasser Wars Magazine, ED ISKENDARIAN & BONES BALOUGH, the original Stone Woods & Cook 40’ Willy’s coupe, and Jack Merkel’s ORIGINAL 33’ Willy’s (unseen for 25 years)…as well as the original Silver Bullet dragster of Stan Johnson, and Tim Ivo’s four engine Mach 4 Mustang were also in attendance…just to name but a few.
The Great Lakes Gassers, Nostalgia Gasser Racing Association (NGRA), and the South East Gassers were in attendance for several shootouts. The NGRA won their shoot out, and they pass a group trophy each year. The first North vs South Shootout was a battle similar to “Fredericksburg” (if you know your history, a major North defeat)… the South took home the trophy! (Boys from the North, better not bring a knife to a gun fight next year).
Spectators PACKED the stands and the car show and swap meet were great also. The car show had 350 + cars over the weekend, and the swap meet was not huge, but had cool vintage speed equipment that many a racer needed throughout the weekend to keep racing!
Thanks to ALL the sponsors, shops, and helpers…as well as the MDA for their dedication to the event. A huge thanks also to the Byron Dragway for their hospitality, and CLEAN and cool facility! To participate, you MUST pre-register your car… it’s free, but requires a photo, your name, and address. All cars MUST meet requirements to race. You can find details at www.meltdowndrags.com, or follow us on Facebook for constant updates and pics!!!
Until next year…keep the wrenches turning, and we’ll see you at the 6th annual Meltdown Drags!!!
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