DIALED IN
Both organizations put on a tremendous show during this action-packed Saturday . On Sunday , an unexpected rain storm moved across central Pennsylvania , forcing the event to be completely cancelled on Sunday . Monday ’ s weather was beautiful , though , and the aforementioned SBRA Bracket Series poured through the gates to compete on the final day of the event .
Track owner Mike McCracken was pleased with another big weekend of milestones and records , while also paying special attention to the younger generation of competitors that frequent Beaver Springs . Monday ’ s finale was heavily attended by a large and growing group of up-and-coming racers who enjoy participating in the many opportunities for young competitors .
In addition to the Jr . Dragster class , there ’ s also several classes of ATVs , one specifically geared toward young racers . “ In this part of the country everybody ’ s got an ATV , so it just made sense to offer a class for them ,” McCracken adds .
McCracken is so serious about younger racers remaining engaged in the sport , he actually pays the buyback for first-round losers to re-enter the race in round two . “ Those kids are our future and we want them to be involved in the sport ,” he says .
Beaver Springs also has a Teen Championship Racer class in which a young driver gets the opportunity to drive a full-size vehicle , with a licensed driver riding along . During Monday ’ s finale , young racers were also racing their mini bikes in various classes of competition , while adults were enjoying everything from snowmobiles on asphalt to driving a vast array of vehicles across the dial-in categories .
“ The family atmosphere is what I enjoy most ! I ’ ve had couples get married here , and also do their gender reveals here . It ’ s just amazing that this track will be a part of people ’ s lives forever in such an important capacity ,” says McCracken , who purchased this iconic dragstrip four years ago . Since then , he ’ s moved onsite , and along with his son and dedicated staff continues to make improvements and updates to the facility often . DI
64 | Drag Illustrated | DragIllustrated . com Issue 172