“Generational Legacy of Speed” - Cordova Dragway
In the heartland of Northwestern Illinois, just off 84 North, is a legendary drag strip that has etched its name into the very fabric of drag racing. Cordova Dragway, under the ownership of Dan Crownhart, stands as a historic gem as it carries the unique distinction of being one of the first purpose-built drag strips in the United States. Since 1956, the Cordova Dragway has witnessed legendary racers and pioneers in the sport. One can almost hear the echoes of the thunderous engines of drag racing titans like Dyno Don Nicholson and Hayden Proffitt, who awed eager spectators at Cordova six decades ago. Cordova Dragway's mantra, "we own the history," resonates with every revving engine on the strip.
As a World Drag Racing Alliance (WDRA) member track, Cordova Dragway hosts over 50 electrifying events each season. One of the most prominent and historic events at Cordova is the O’Reilly Auto Parts World Series of Drag Racing. The oldest drag racing series in the history of the sport, beating the US Nationals by just a week, the multi-day World Series of Drag racing features non-stop action of fire-breathing Jets, Nitros, Pro Mods, Wheelstanders, Pro Stocks, Gassers, Top Fuel and more. In late summer of 2024, Cordova Dragway will celebrate the 70th anniversary of this prestigious racing series which is a must see event for racers and enthusiasts alike. In a recent interview with Doug Herzog, owner of a ‘64 Chevy Chevelle wagon and a regular participant in Cordova Dragway's World Series of Drag Racing, when asked if he plans to attend the 70th anniversary celebration he excitedly shared, "absolutely! We plan to be there. Cordova holds a special place in my heart since I was 16. It's a fun track with great people, and the World Series is always a blast. I can't wait to catch up with some old friends at this nostalgic race."
Another must-see annual event at the Cordova Dragway is the Summer Nationals. This signature early summer event, presented by Twisted Shifters and 360 Steel, features Funny Car Chaos with a thrilling lineup of 30+ funny cars competing for the first place title, along with numerous additional classes of racing including Nostalgia Gassers, Super Shifters and the Sportsman Bracket Bash, to name a few. And to elevate the fan experience beyond the exhilaration of spectating these magnificent racing events, Cordova Dragway offers a Summer Nationals pre-party with rockin’ tunes, good food, and even better company. In addition, the Funny Car Chaos warm-up session features a Throttle Whack Contest where dozens of teams exhilarate fans with a quick hit of nitromethane to rumble the Earth and fuel the anticipation of the upcoming races.
Cordova Dragway is also a host track to the immensely popular Sick Summer Drag N Drive, where fans pack the stands to watch the nastiest street cars of the Midwest run their best time trials in the quarter as they make their 800+ mile journey across the country. And for drag racers with expert automotive knowledge and hot rod building talent, Cordova offers the Builder’s Brawl. This unique event is for those racers who either built their own engine, chassis or the entire car from the ground up.
Cordova Dragway, which operates from April to November each year and caters to both 1/4 and 1/8-mile racers, truly has races for every competitor. And with stadium seating accommodating 9,200 fans and standing room for up to 13,000 at major events, Cordova ensures an unparalleled viewing experience for fans to witness the thrill of the track’s countless high energy events. What sets Cordova Dragway apart is not just its racing legacy; it's a culture and community marinated in a shared passion for drag racing. The electrifying atmosphere draws crowds of fans from all over the country, making Cordova a must-stop on the drag season circuit.
As Cordova Dragway continues to script its illustrious story, new racers will undoubtedly emerge and etch their names in the record books. The track extends a warm invitation to racers and enthusiasts alike to be part of its ongoing legacy, where the passion for racing echoes through time. Plans for the future include facility improvements with a focus on upgraded amenities, such as new bathrooms and expanded pavement. Clearly, Cordova’s goal is to enhance the fan experience and continually grow car counts with an always evolving and growing events schedule and unparalleled spectator experience. Anticipation is building for the upcoming season as Cordova Dragway sets the stage for a season full of speed, competition, and new adventures. Cordova is a must-visit destination for all motorsports enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in the adrenaline-charged world of drag racing.
