The O’Reilly Thunder Jam presented by Torco and 1-800-SAFEAUTO, a Live Nation - Motorsports entertainment and drag racing series starring the biggest, baddest and most extreme exhibition race cars on the planet, will take over Ohio Valley Dragway Saturday, August 23rd, at 7 p.m.

“We’re looking forward to bringing the Thunder Jam to the great race fans at Ohio Valley Dragway,” series director Jim Marchyshyn said. “The Louisville area is an amazing market for motor sports so we are pulling out all the stops to put on an unforgettable show. This will be out first Thunder Jam in the area so we’re looking to make a huge first impression.”

Marchyshyn will bring a power-packed line-up to Ohio Valley Dragway. The “Battle of the Jet Dragsters” will pit Jill Canuso and her undefeated BIC Lighter Queen of Diamonds against Lou Perriera in The Terminator. The Great Lakes Nostalgia Funny Cars will also be in town for the Thunder Jam, bringing eight of the loudest, most-powerful throwback floppers in drag racing to the dance. The world’s only wheel-standing fire engine will also be on hand along with Mike Charlton’s insane supercharged V-8 motorcycle.

“Only in America can you experience the world’s most amazing racing vehicles including jet dragsters that shoot 20 foot flames and wheel-standers,” Marchyshyn said. “The Queen of Diamonds is one of the most recognizable vehicles in motor sports, and we look forward to bringing it to Ohio Valley Dragway.”

With the current economic situation and fuel crunch, Marchyshyn wanted to let fans know the Thunder Jam is a fun, family-friendly, affordable evening of entertainment.

“The Thunder Jam is a family show,” he said. “We know the economy has been a challenge and recognize our customer works hard for their entertainment dollar. Tickets to the Thunder Jam are always specially priced at $20 for adults and just $5 for children 12 years old and younger. Each ticket comes with free parking and an all-access pit pass so you can meet the drivers up-close. It is our goal to provide a great show at a fair price.”

You can also save by purchasing your tickets in advance at any area O’Reilly Auto Parts store. If you buy your ticket in advance your kid’s ticket (age 6-12) is free.

“O’Reilly Auto Parts is a great partner for the Thunder Jam,” Marchyshyn said. “They also recognize how much their customers appreciate more bang for their buck.”

You can also purchase your tickets in advance by calling Ohio Valley Dragway at (502) 922-0063 or by logging on to www.thunderjam.com.