|
AHRA Resurrection - Eyes Canadian Options
Bruce Biegler - November 4, 2009
While still a bit bruised and shaken from IHRA's recent announcements (the loss of IHRA "National Event" race status for Canada) there may be a new glimmer of promise for the Canadian drag racing scene. It seems that a "ghost" sanctioning from a very long time ago has been resurrected and that development may eventually help impact the drag racing scene north of the 49th parallel.
The AHRA, which was originally founded way back in 1956 before being dissolved from the national scene during the 1970's is charting a comeback. Based from Spokane WA, and with new regional offices in Florida, Ohio and Alberta -- there is apparently some big things in motion.
The AHRA news story does include a Canadian dimension, which is being spearheaded by Drayton Valley Alberta's Brad Janishewki -- arguably Canada's most famous Jet Dragster driver. The 2010 AHRA drag racing series is planning a "Reunion Tour" that will include various drag strips in North America. Cayuga Dragway at Toronto Motorsports Park is on that season radar.
"Our Reunion Tour event at TMP is July 2-3," revealed Janishewki, V.P. of Canadian Operations. " We will be presenting Nitro Funny Car and Top Fuel eliminators, and we are working at putting together other Pro Classes."
"The AHRA has always been known as the friendly sanctioning body," Brad added. "Many Canadians through the years such as Hall of Fame members, Gordie Bonin, Terry Capp, Geoff Goodwin and Ron Hodgson have raced in the AHRA. Recently AHRA has announced it's first reunion tour dates for the 2010 season. That tour will field Professional classes as well as other popular classes unique to each market. There will be a very high level focus at AHRA to develop and host a well organized Sportsman Series in Canada. Our objective is for that to be economical and fun for its> participants. We will be adopting many local programs to order to include as many participants as possible for each of our event. Over the next several weeks the AHRA will be making announcements as to all the the tracks and dates."
Janishewki did confirm that the AHRA are interested in and have been in contact with some other tracks in Canada.
The official AHRA rulebook will also be made available in the near future.
Current news and future updates can be viewed at their new website: www.ahradragracing.com
Questions or suggestions can be directed to: bradj@ahradragracing.com
| 
