The roar of
nitro-smokin' engines, the unmistakable smell of melting rubber and exploding
fuel, speed records being shredded into little pieces....this is the power
driven, gut-busting world of top class US drag racing.
In
1997 the multi-million dollar NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series was fought out
over 22 spectacular events and here you can check out the speed, danger and
sensational action that marked out the best heats and finals of the season.
’97 also
provided the launch pad for some exciting new names, most notably that of
rookie Top Fueller Gary Scelzi, and was the first year that drivers had the
chance to clinch NHRA Winston titles at Houston’s superfast Raceway Park.
But that
was then, this is now! So strap yourself in, turn up the sound and prepare for
two hours of breathtaking highlights from America’s hottest championships:
Top Fuel:
Cory McClenathan went all out in his bid for the title but the pressure from
Scelzi pushed the outcome to a memorable climax (Cory did however become the
first drag racer to break 320mph). And it was time to say a sad farewell to
two-time Top Fuel champion Scott Kalitta, retiring after 16 hard-fought years.
Funny Car:
After a lean start against Whit Bazemore and Tony Pedregon, a sensational late
season charge brought a seventh series win for multiple champion John Force,
This is the class that takes drivers up to 315mph in a quarter mile and in ’97
the crowds also witnessed some historic speed smashing by the likes of
Etchells, Capps and Pedregon.
Pro-Stock:
Houston’s Raceway Park provided a sensational backdrop for Jim Yates, looking
for his second consecutive Pro-Stock victory in the McDonald’s Pontiac Firebird
up against a barrage of stiff competition led by old hand Warren Johnson
Pro-Stock
Bikes: John Myers was the closer pursuer in this power-packed two wheel class –
but the brilliant Matt Hines still took the title with an impressive lead over
his nearest rivals.
This is
action where one hundredth of a second can mean the difference between winning
and losing; where the power beneath the hood creates enough sound and fury to shake
an entire stadium.
This is
your unique, official video record of the 1997 season - miss it and weep!