Drag Illustrated Issue 124, August 2017 | Page 61

DIALED IN STICK-SHIFT NATIONALS this event in every way, most notably with a hefty payout generated entirely from donations, which instantly sent the car count soaring. For the most recent running, Regenthal se- cured 85 sponsors, totaling more than $16,000 in donations – all of which goes into the purse. Amazingly, the Stick-Shift Nationals remains completely free to enter for car and driver. The main event winner is awarded $3,000 in cash, plus gift certificates, a custom trophy and their name written on Farmington’s Wall of Fame in the winner’s circle. The second chance race is likewise completely free to enter and pays $1,500 to win. The remaining payout structure is spread so deep that every single person entered in the race gets money, including those who lose first round in the second chance race. Each year since Regenthal’s involvement, spon- sorship money and entries have not failed to in- crease from the previous year’s levels. “I know it’s got to peak at some point, but I really feel like it’s still growing and I believe 2018 is going to be even bigger than this year’s event. We continue getting calls from people who’ve never been to the Stick-Shift Nationals, but express an interest in attending,” says Regenthal. As with anything that has enjoyed such ex- plosive growth, there’s a lot of work that goes into making it possible. Farmington Dragway’s staff always presents a great facility, along with special contributors like Leigh Anne Flint and Mike Boyles, who secure contingency sponsors. “I’ve got to give special recognition to my wife, Lisa, for everything she does to make this race possible, because without her I couldn’t do it,” adds Regenthal. DI DI DI DI DI DI DI DI DI DI August 2017 DragIllustrated.com | D r a g I l l u s t r a t e d | 61