Street Machine Drag Challenge 2024: Five Days, Five Races, One Car

The Street Machine Drag Challenge is an exhilarating event where participants push their cars to the limits across five days of intense racing. The unique aspect of this challenge is that competitors not only have to race but also drive their cars between different drag strips, covering a minimum distance of 1500km during the week.

Taking place in Victoria and South Australia, the Drag Challenge 2024 kicks off at Calder Park Raceway on October 29, followed by races at Sunset Strip Mildura, Dragway at The Bend, and Heathcote Park Raceway, before culminating back at Calder Park Raceway on November 3. The competition is not just about speed; it involves a mix of on-road driving challenges where participants must adhere to a specified route, encountering various real-world obstacles like traffic, potholes, and wildlife.

Safety is paramount, with mandatory checkpoints along the route where each entrant must take a photo of their car to present to event officials. Scrutineering is a crucial aspect, ensuring all vehicles meet the required tech inspection standards at each track. The competition is sanctioned under the IHRA, with provisions for ANDRA license holders to participate.

Participants have the freedom to make multiple passes at the drag strips each day, with sessions organized by class and subject to change based on conditions. To stay in the competition, each competitor must complete the track day within specified times, ensuring their car stages under its own power and takes the green light. In case of unforeseen circumstances like rain, alternative arrangements are made to accommodate missed races.

Protesting against rule infractions is allowed, with a formal process in place to address any disputes. Entrants must adhere to specific class regulations and are not allowed to switch classes once the racing commences. The winner is determined based on the lowest combined elapsed time (ET) throughout the event, with average miles per hour used as a tiebreaker.

The Drag Challenge not only tests the performance of the cars but also the endurance and skill of the drivers. It is a celebration of automotive passion, bringing together enthusiasts to showcase their custom-built machines and compete in a challenging yet rewarding environment. The event’s legacy is evident through its Hall of Fame, highlighting past champions and their remarkable achievements.

In conclusion, the Street Machine Drag Challenge is more than just a race; it is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of car enthusiasts who push the boundaries of speed and endurance in a thrilling competition that captivates both participants and spectators alike.