This past weekend (7-26 to 7/28/2024) I had the exhilarating experience of attending my first drag racing event at Sonoma Raceway, located at Sears Point in California. As someone who has always been fascinated by fast cars (my first car was a 1969 Camaro) this event was an awesome experience. Three days filled with a variety of racing spectacles, from drag racing and funny cars to motorcycles performing jaw-dropping stunts.
The Invitation
My brother, a longtime race fan, invited me to join him for this adventure. His enthusiasm for the sport is infectious, and I couldn’t wait to see what all the excitement was about. He came prepared with double ear protection—small earbuds and larger over-the-ear headphones—allowing us to tune into the race announcer for real-time stats and updates about all the events, cars, and standings.
A Smooth Start
From the moment we had our tickets scanned, everything went smoothly. We parked in Lot One at the top of the hill and took a small shuttle bus to the main area. The shuttle ride provided a great overview of the raceway, and we could already see the bustling activity below.
Seeing the drivers, their crews, and so many enthusiastic fans set the tone for an exciting day. Way off in the distance, one could see the RV lot filled with all types of campers where scores and scores of race fans stay during the weekend event.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere was electric and louder than I even expected. The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sight of brightly colored cars lined up for races created an unforgettable sensory experience. The crowd, a mix of hardcore racing fans and curious first-timers like myself, buzzed with anticipation.
There was a palpable sense of camaraderie among the attendees, all united by their love for speed and spectacle. I jumped out of my skin without any warning when the first race took place as I was taking my seat. I almost didn’t recover!
Drag Racing Thrills
The drag racing itself was nothing short of spectacular. Watching cars rocket down the quarter-mile track in mere seconds was thrilling. The sheer power and speed (over 300 mph in some cases) on display were awe-inspiring.
Each race brought its own unique excitement, with drivers pushing their vehicles to the limits in a bid for victory. The precision and skill required to control these powerful machines at such high speeds were evident, and I found myself holding my breath as each race unfolded.
Funny Cars and Motorcycles
In addition to the traditional drag races, the event featured funny cars—those wildly modified dragsters with their wild colors and body styles. These cars not only looked incredible but also delivered some of the most exciting races of the day. Their thunderous engines and rapid acceleration left the crowd cheering and on the edge of their seats. I loved seeing the moments before the race as the prep team went through their ritual of steps.
The motorcycle events were another highlight. Professional riders performed racing at top speeds that defied belief. Another particularly memorable act involved riders launching themselves off ramps, flipping and spinning through the air, and landing on a massive inflatable cushion. The precision and bravery required for these stunts were mind-boggling, and the crowd’s applause echoed across the raceway after each successful landing.
WATCH this YouTube Short: Upside Down and Around here!
Regular Cars Join the Fun
The event also included races featuring regular cars, which brought a different kind of excitement. It was fascinating to see everyday vehicles, like souped-up sedans and muscle cars, take to the track. These races showcased a more accessible side of drag racing, demonstrating that you don’t need a professional dragster to enjoy the sport.
Watching these amateur racers gave me a new appreciation for the dedication and passion that drives (pun intended) all racing enthusiasts.
More Than Just Racing
Beyond the races, Sonoma Raceway offered plenty of activities to keep attendees entertained.
There were food vendors serving up delicious snacks and meals, merchandise stands selling everything from racing gear to memorabilia, and interactive exhibits where fans could learn more about the science and technology behind drag racing.
For those looking for a break from the adrenaline-pumping action, these attractions provided a welcome diversion.
Even the weather cooperated—it wasn’t too hot, though we made sure to apply sunscreen. The pleasant conditions made the day even more enjoyable. And for many that come from outside the area, Sonoma, California is in the heart of the wine country!
Women in Racing
One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was seeing so many women drivers excelling in the various racing events. Brittany Force, a mere 5’2” dynamo, among others, showcased incredible skill and determination, proving that women are making significant strides in the world of car racing.
Their presence and success added an extra layer of excitement and pride to the event, highlighting the growing diversity and inclusivity in motorsports.
A Day to Remember
Attending my first drag racing event at Sonoma Raceway was an unforgettable experience. The variety of races, the incredible stunts, and the vibrant atmosphere combined to create a day of non-stop excitement.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer looking for a thrilling day out, I highly recommend experiencing a NHRA drag racing event. It’s a celebration of speed, skill, and community that will leave you eager for more. Experiencing this new world, so different from my usual tennis and pickleball activities, was incredibly fun and eye-opening.
Behind the Scenes: Teamwork and Dedication
There is more than meets the eye in the world of drag racing. The drivers, their teams, and sponsors all play crucial roles, helping each other before, during, and after each race. Their dedication to safety and improving their speeds and times is impressive. I learned that a driver’s reaction time at the starting line—where our seats were located—can often make the difference between winning and losing.
Watching these teams work together with such precision and determination gave me a deeper appreciation for the sport and the incredible effort that goes into every race.
Here are the unofficial point standings as of July 28, 2024 for the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals was 12th race of the 2024.
Here is a link to a post about a completely different vehicle experience!
Have you ever been to a professional auto racing event? If so, when and where? Please comment below.
Alice Gerard
What a day you had and how exciting! Thank you for taking me along for the ride! Your descriptions were wonderfully vivid. I felt as if I were there with you! Keep having fun and keep enjoying new adventures! I can’t wait to read all about them.
Anne Z
Thanks Alice – I had no idea what to expect- sure was fun!
Kebba Buckley Button
Anne, wow! What a zooming day! So now I know what it’s like to attend a NASCAR event. I love the funny cars! It gives us an idea of the volume level, knowing that your bro used both earplugs and earmuffs– tho it does make sense that then he was equipped to hear the announcements. Good stuff! Great day!
Anne Z
It was really fun! My brother was prepared! Always a good thing!