Once again NHRA is considering shortening the race surface distance for T/F at least and possibly the A/FC as well.
due to the DSR dragster running an outstanding 325 in qualifying at Las Vegas on a 1000 foot track -the specter of speed related accident's has again reached critical mass.
We at NHRA cannot wait for another accident to act in this matter.
not wishing to take performance related technology from the engines or alter current clutch/traction/ or down force (wing and canard) configuration's, shortening the racing distance again loom's as the viable place to look for the safety issues.
NHRA feel's the wing and canards cannot/will not be made larger to ensure down force, rather under consideration is to decrease the useful area of down force created by both.
This leaves just one area under the control of NHRA to be considered, the length of the racing surface.
NHRA feel's because there are many racks currently running 1/8th mile tracks ( 660 feet), many racers being used to that as an alternative distance.
testing the premise of a final reduction to 1/8th mile track for T/F is under way , and will be implemented at the start of 2011 season.
if the funny cars attain speeds of 310 MPH , they will also be mandated to run the 660 foot track.
it is felt this would be the final track length adjustment required for the car's.
as safety is the #1 consideration for drag racing, we know racer's, sponsors and fans will support NHRA's decision in this matter.
this will also reduce the cost of race operation's for the fuel and related part's attrition.
crew's will adjust to the 1/8th concept readily.
NHRA will lift the ban of fuel % when this is implemented.
