The Last Mile High Nationals and Dodge’s Departure
This weekend marks the final NHRA Mile High Nationals at Bandimere Raceway in Denver, concluding both a historic racing venue and Dodge’s long-standing event sponsorship. For over three decades, Dodge has proudly backed this premier drag racing event, which first graced the NHRA calendar in 1978. The closure of Bandimere Raceway, set for October, signals a significant shift in the drag racing landscape and an end to a storied partnership.
A Sad Farewell to Drag Racing Icons
As Bandimere Raceway prepares to close its doors, the broader trend of drag strip closures becomes even more apparent. From Phoenix to Houston, iconic tracks are vanishing, eroding the heart of drag racing’s heritage. The Bandimere family, guardians of this beloved track for 65 years, hopes to find a new location in the Denver area, though rising land values pose a challenge.
Looking Ahead: New Opportunities and Future Tracks
Despite the loss of Bandimere and Dodge’s sponsorship, the NHRA remains hopeful and is already eyeing the future. New tracks like Flying H Dragstrip in Kansas City and Pine Valley Raceway in Texas are joining the NHRA circuit, bringing fresh opportunities for drag racing enthusiasts. These developments aim to sustain the sport’s momentum and offer new venues for the racing community to rally around.