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HOUSE SPRINGS, Missouri — Albuquerque Dragway is celebrating its 60th anniversary and also a return home to the International Hot Rod Association in 2023.

The 1/4-mile track located on an 80-acre property operated under IHRA sanction in the 1980s and early 90s. Decades later, the IHRA’s focus on grassroots, Sportsman racing fits in nicely with Albuquerque Dragway’s plans. It made it the perfect time to come back home.

“The IHRA Summit SuperSeries was really what lured us over,” track owner Robert Costa said. “We’re happy to send racers to compete for the world championship. I think our racers can compete with the best of them out there.”

Now, the IHRA-member track champions will contend at the IHRA Summit SuperSeries World Finals. In addition, Costa expects a strong contingent to attend the IHRA Division 4 (Renegades) Summit Team Finals.

 

It’s a place known for its rich racing history. Albuquerque is home of the famous Unser family with brothers Al and Bobby, and second-generation Al Jr. combining for nine Indianapolis 500 victories. On the drag racing side, Albuquerque Dragway was a site where legends like “Big Daddy” Don Garlits and Don “The Snake” Prudhomme came to test their mettle and machines.

The 2023 schedule is exciting beyond bracket racing, Albuquerque Dragway is set to host Funny Car Chaos for the first time. They also have the RODS (Real Outlaw Doorslammers) program which has been running for over a decade. It’s a good heads-up series for their local racers. The track has also hosted Jet Cars, Altereds, Super Stock and Motorcycles.

 

Albuquerque Dragway uses an Accutime system and PJ1 traction compound. They have a tire rotator, the original prototype built at Bandimere. In addition, they offer paved pit parking and a concession stand with the great flavors of the Southwest.

Like many other tracks, there is an emphasis to get racing off the streets and on the track. Costa joked that’s just not for the teenagers, but those even at an advanced age.

 

“It’s bringing the community together. It’s a great place for the racers to hang out,” Costa said. “It gives us a good place to be. I always say our mission is to get kids of all ages off the streets.”

There is a child-like joy often experienced at Albuquerque Dragway with the emphasis on creating a fun atmosphere. For more about this historic track, click here to check out the Albuquerque Dragway website.