After a couple of warmup weekends, drag racing officially returns to Michigan’s fastest track this week when US 131 Motorsports Park plays host to reigning track champions Keith Shafer, “Double-O Donnie” Hagar, Kyle Wanamaker, Evan Muchler, Parker Novak, Ethan Russell and a host of others in the opening round of the 2024 Lane Automotive Bracket Series.

Gates open Friday at 4 pm for a test-and-tune session (5-10 p.m.) leading into the first two rounds of the Lane Bracket Series on Saturday and Sunday.

Hagar, the Hudson firefighter and EMT who won the 2023 World Drag Racing Association No Box Championship and last year’s Million Dollar Drag Race at St. Louis, among others, is expected to launch his bid for a third straight US 131 track championship on Saturday.

In addition to the Box and No Box (box being a delay box), categories in which drivers will be racing for a $2,000 top prize, opening week champions also will be crowned in the Sportsman class (in which Wanamaker is the defending champ) and three Jr. Dragster classes – Master, Advanced and Beginner.

Admission for Friday’s test session is $12 for adults and $5 for children 6-12.  Those under six are free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.  Admission to Saturday and Sunday’s races is $15 per adult per day with children 12 and under free.  Gates open Saturday and Sunday at 8 am with time trials starting at 9 am Saturday and 9:30 am Sunday following non-denominational chapel services at 8:30 am.

-www.us131msp.com-