Racers took victories in different categories at the track which recently renewed its International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) sanctioning agreement. They included Bracket race winner Kamaka Kamanu, Bike class winner Tanya Davis, Junior Dragster winner Tabitha Kamahele and Harry Kerr High School Drags winner Sean Ibarra.

For others, there are other opportunities to put their names on the list of winners at the 1/4-mile drag strip south of Hilo, Hawaii. The Hawaii Drag Racing League literally has events scheduled every month throughout the rest of 2023 at the top-notch facility.

Originally opened in 1978 as Pana’ewa Drag Strip, it’s a busy motorsports venue that now includes a motocross track, kart track and dirt oval track. The facility has had major renovations in recent years. With the racers in mind, the drag strip was repaved and work was done on the timing system. For the spectators, new bleachers were installed and the facility was made more friendly for disabled fans.

Their efforts are appreciated with reviews which praise both the track, the crew and a long shutdown area. There are concessions on both sides of the track and clean restrooms. The community offers great support, as seen by a track cleanup in early January. When many of the renovations were done, around 60 volunteers showed up to mow and clean up the grounds.

The exciting schedule of HDRL events include the 4th annual Reynold M. Crivello Memorial Day Drags on May 27-28 and the 8th annual Uncle Gary Arita Shakedown in H-Town on July 1-2. One of the most anticipated events is the King of the Track on November 4-5.

In addition, the Big Island Auto Club also offers an exciting schedule of races from now until December. It is part of a strong car culture on the island and extends a history of drag racing in Hawaii that dates back to 1954 at Kahuka Point Airfield on Oahu.

Click here to check out the Hilo Drag Strip Facebook page and keep up to date with upcoming events at this great facility.