Knoxville Heads Up Drag Racing

Since Knoxville Drag Strip in Maynardville, Tennessee, got revamped a few years ago, I’ve been to the track a number of times, but I’d never attended one of its Heads Up races. The format is similar to the Bounty Race, with the exception of a couple classes. Knoxville always has a 4.70 index class, so I looked forward to seeing those cars compete along with the regular crowd of 7.0, 6.0 and 5.70 index racers. In addition to this Knoxville has Pro Street and Cheap Street classes, which always provide lots of excitement.

Anyone remember this car? This legendary Pro Modified campaigned by Rob Vandergriff is now a 4.70 index car, owned by Roger Sellers and driven by Tom Neubert.

New Looks for 2012

After visiting I-40 Dragway three times so far this season, I’ve noticed a ton of new paint jobs and several complete rebuilds. It’s normal for a couple of racers to revamp their cars over the winter, but 2012 seems to be the year for the new paint job! And while there are several brand new builds that will be debuting soon, I just figured I’d showcase these racers who have obviously put in some serious hours in the off season.

–Mike Farley campaigned this Camaro in the Pro Street class last year, using a roots-blown big block, but this year it has taken on a whole new look. Now with a reliable all motor big block, the car is set up to run the 6.0 index class, and features a fresh Hugger Orange paint job.

World Index Challenge Coverage

My home track, I-40 Dragway is known for its Bounty Race event, which is a monthly heads up race that always brings out a great crowd of racers and spectators to the eighth mile track. The Howe family has owned the track for 20+ years, and Jim Jr. is always creating new events to keep things fresh and exciting from year to year. For 2012, the highlight event for I-40 Dragway was the World Index Challenge, which offered up a $10,000 prize for 6.0 and 7.0 index classes. We’re talking guaranteed money here, so it drew racers from all over the country, and made for a HUGE event!