The Ferguson Enterprises Pro Mod Challenge races into Thunder Valley July 19-20 with the same heart-pounding action fans have come to expect from the wild Pro Modified racing machines.
The event features three rounds of Quick 8 Outlaws Pro Mod racing on Saturday that will provide the fans in the stands a fantastic show.
Ric Fleck, president of the Quick 8 Outlaws, says fans should expect a big show during the exhibition race.
"We have one rule, you can't have a powerglide (transmission)," Fleck noted. "You can have any engine, any power adder, any horsepower, there is no tire size and no weight limits. We currently own the 1/8th mile record in three different classes.
"We're a fast group and bring 20-25 cars to each event. At this event, we're hoping to bring about 12. We want to have a full show in Bristol next year, so we're going to qualify 8 cars next weekend to give the fans a taste of what we bring."
The Pro Mods are set up to run 1/8th-mile passes, something a little different for fans accustomed to seeing quarter-mile runs in Thunder Valley.
"I hope the fans come out and enjoy the race," he continued. "I hope they see the excitement of the 1/8th-mile. We're out there for the fans. We want to have fun and put on a good show, and with Bristol's reputation, we can't wait to get there."
"You mention Thunder Valley and people start drooling. It is known as one of the top facilities, and all the racers are excited to get to come run at Bristol."
Fleck says these Pro Mods, known for their outrageous paint schemes and unique body designs, will be available for fans to view and photograph while in the pit area.
"We love for the fans, especially the kids, to come to the pits," he said. "Most of us have hero cards to autograph, and if we aren't busy, we like to let the little ones sit in the car and take pictures. We love for people to come around and talk with us."
Along with every power adder imaginable, the cars on the Quick 8 Outlaws circuit feature several distinctive body styles, including: a 1957 Chevy, a 1953 Corvette, a 1963 Corvette, a Studebaker, late-model Camaros and a 1970 Nova.
Six bracket racing classes highlight the weekend, with the new 4.70 Index Class running on Sunday. Racer entry fees and purse information can be found on the Bristol Dragway website. One free crew pass will be given for each tech card purchased.
Gates open at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday with time trials beginning at noon. Eliminations begin at 4:00 p.m. with the Ferguson Pro Mod Challenge getting under way at 5:00 p.m. The Pro Mods also will run at 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. The Ferguson Enterprises Contractor race also will take place during the evening.
On Sunday, gates open at 8:00 a.m., with church service scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Eliminations begin at 11:00 a.m.
Spectator admission is $15 on Saturday, with $5 discount coupons available at Appco Convenience Stores. Sunday admission is $10. Children 12 and under are free.
For more information about the Ferguson Enterprises Pro Mod Challenge, please call (423) 764-DRAG, or visit www.bristoldragway.com.