ENNIS, Texas – After a spring of quarantine and events held at empty facilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Drag Racing League is kicking the summer off in the Lone Star State with Dragpalooza at the Texas Motorplex June 5-6.
With the efforts made by both the facility and ADRL to promote social distancing and spectator safety, the race is open to fans thanks to a recent executive order by Governor Greg Abbott.
“We’re very thankful to Governor Abbott and his decision to allow us to open this event to the people,” said ADRL President Mel Roth. “We as a nation have been through a lot in recent months and we hope the ADRL can provide a safe and fun release for those who have been quarantined during the pandemic.”
Texas Motorplex General Manager Andy Carter and his staff have been working closely with the governor’s office throughout the spring. They have provided invaluable information on how the venue could be opened to fans while promoting safety and a healthy environment for racers, crews, facility staff, and spectators.
“Governor Abbott’s leadership throughout this time has allowed us to be the first motorsports venue in Texas to allow fans to watch the sport we love and we are extremely appreciative of what he’s done for us and the state,” Carter said. “We’re taking every precaution to provide a healthy outlet for fans and racers who have been at home the last two months and we’re looking forward to a great race here.”
More than 30 Pro Extreme cars are expected on the property for ADRL’s first event of the year, including Texans Frankie Taylor, Brandon McKinney, Jeff Jones, Brandon Pesz, and former IHRA champion and NHRA nitro pilot Terry Haddock. Pro Extreme provides some of the quickest eighth-mile drag racing on the planet. Other ADRL classes featured at Dragpalooza are Big-Tire No Time, Small-Tire No Time, 5.0 Index, 6.0 Index, Pro Jr. Dragster, and Top Jr. Dragster. Both days of racing will finish under the lights with jet cars and fireworks.