“Thunder at Altitude” - Albuquerque Dragway
Nestled in the high desert landscape of New Mexico, Albuquerque Dragway has been a haven for speed enthusiasts since its inception in 1963. Under the stewardship of owner Robert Costa since 2008, the drag strip has become more than just a racing venue; it's a repository of racing history, with an elevation that sets it apart from the rest.
In its early years, the dragway witnessed legendary battles between big-name Nitro stars, adding a touch of prestige to its legacy. Icons like Dickie Harrell in "The Super Hugger" and Gene Snow in "Rambunctious" faced off in a memorable showdown back in 1969. As time progressed, the likes of Neil Morgenstern's “Thunderbolt” and Pat Hayes' blown Chevelle added their own chapters to the dragway's story in the late eighties.
Albuquerque Dragway boasts a quarter-mile track, offering both 1/4 and 1/8 mile races. It caters to a diverse racing community, featuring 12 bracket races, 4 heads-up events, and numerous street car-style races, including 30 Test and Tune events annually. Notable among these are several big street car events, Funny Car Chaos, 4 Pro Mod races, and a thrilling no-prep event.
A unique feature that sets the dragway apart is its elevation, standing at a lofty 5400 feet above sea level. The corrected altitude can reach a staggering 10,000 feet in the midst of summer, presenting a challenging atmosphere for racers and adding to the uniqueness of the experience.
The 80 acre property accommodates spectators with both grandstands and a spacious tailgate section, boasting a capacity for about 3000 people. The pits, currently surfaced with asphalt millings, are on track to be completed in 2024, enhancing the overall racing experience for up to 200 race teams that can be accommodated at any one event.
Albuquerque Dragway's future plans are as thrilling as its storied past. Last year, the dragway rejoined the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), opening the doors for local racers to compete for world championship titles. In 2024, the dragway will play host to a spectacular lineup of events, including Funny Car Chaos, Pro Mods, Jets, and more. Notably, it will welcome the IHRA Sportsman Spectacular for the first time, promising an exhilarating experience for participants and fans alike. Albuquerque Dragway also features the Real Outlaw Doorslammers (RODS) program for raw heads-up racing action.
The dragway's commitment to the racing community is evident in its purses for big races and special events. Monthly bracket races see larger payouts with increasing car counts. The highlight of the year will be the big-dollar Sportsman Spectacular, with payouts reaching the $2500 to win range for both Electronics and Non-Electronics categories.
Photo Credit - Cherry Bomb Photoworks
As the 2024 season nears, the question looms: Can Reyes Romero secure a historic 4-peat in the Sportsman Championship, or will challengers like Harley Bull or Gabriel Montoya disrupt the status quo? Perhaps a newcomer will emerge, ready to ascend the ranks and claim the coveted title. The anticipation is palpable, echoing through the high desert air, as Albuquerque Dragway continues to be a beacon for speed, skill, and racing passion.
The one thing we know for sure is that once the engines roar and the race unfolds, new champions will emerge, etching their names in the record books alongside the legends who have graced the Albuquerque Dragway for the past 60 years. 2024 is about to start and fresh rivalries will ignite on the asphalt, each race a new battle in the pursuit of glory. Competitors are sure to push the limits, vying for victory.