Drag Racing: Pedal to the metal at Vernam’ this Sunday!

Drag racing,a very popular form of motorsport in Jamaica, has for some time now adopted the shape and profile of the Jamaican economy – growing in reverse! Myriad reasons will account for drag racing’s invisibility in recent times, but dark clouds do have silver linings and even tunnels have lights. Thankfully, the wake up call was heard and interested parties took action.

The NDRC, the organization which stepped in and initiated measures to save the dying sport, should, in the first instance, be commended for the bold move, but the individuals at the helm of the body must also be reminded that they have a duty once they assume such an important role.

Drag Challenge#1, as stated here, left a lot of smoke in the air, as disgruntled patrons tried to figure out – what the hell just happened! The complaints were heard and if posts, allegedly made by Stephen Gunter are true, then the experience will not recur. So, in giving them the benefit of the doubt, I endorse wholeheartedly, the current effort.

Drag Challenge #2 will be blazing rubber at Vernamfield, this Sunday and if all goes well, we should expect to see the best drag racing machines that Kingston, Clarendon, St Ann, Westmoreland and other parishes have to offer. Some teams that did not get their chance to shine, last time around, will be revving to improve on their performance inorder to claim their share of the dollars being offered, which essentially guarantees intense action.

I passed through the Test and Tune session on Sunday (6th) and the machines present, when compared to the test session for Drag Challenge #1, left a bit to be desired. But, I am also recognizing the financial reality of the current era, so I remain steadfast in my view that the exciting machines will all come roaring out of the woodwork, to rep on the fabulous concrete quarter mile!

The ‘Wild Mustang’ was at TnT. It would be a real treat if he could keep the beast restrained and clinch a newsworthy et. 8 seconds?

If events unfolding at the dyno on Dunrobin Ave are anything to go by the paddock should be interesting on Sunday. All reports I have heard indicate – “Dyno full last night!” It’s a ‘good look’ thus far.

If you missed episode 1, the brief clip below is your reminder.

Drag Challenge#1

So, mark the date and as the music selectors would say – “Don’t be late!” NDRC’s Drag Challenge # 2 – Vernamfield this Sunday (13th)! Pedal to the metal!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer