Project X Promotions – the powerhouse organization co-owned by visionaries Matt Plotkin and Jason Flores – is gearing up to celebrate an extraordinary decade of no prep racing excellence with the highly anticipated Bounty Hunters 9 No-Prep Nationals. This milestone event makes its electrifying return to the legendary Penwell Knights Raceway in Odessa, Texas, on March 21-22, promising two days of heart-stopping action that will leave spectators on the edge of their seats.
While this marks the ninth installment of the prestigious Bounty Hunters series, it represents a remarkable 10-year journey for Project X Promotions in the world of no prep drag racing. The event would have reached its landmark tenth edition if not for the unprecedented circumstances of 2020 when the race was canceled due to Covid. However, like the resilient spirit of the racing community itself, the organization has not only persevered but continued to flourish. Their decade-long commitment to excellence and innovation in the sport stands as a testament to their dedication, something that Plotkin reflects upon with immense pride and gratitude.
The spotlight of this adrenaline-fueled weekend will shine brightest on the Small Tire class, featuring an impressive $15,000 total purse that has attracted the finest drivers from across the nation. Plotkin enthusiastically shares that the lineup is absolutely stacked with competitors from every corner of the country – including speed demons from California, South Dakota, Wyoming, Mississippi, and naturally, the heart of racing culture, Texas. Adding to the excitement are seasoned veterans like Eric Bain and Chris Varni, who have been integral parts of the Bounty Hunters no-prep legacy since its inception, bringing their wealth of experience and competitive spirit to the track once again.
The 2025 edition brings an electrifying addition to the racing program with the introduction of the Lil Gangstas class, which has recently exploded onto the scene, capturing the imagination of racers and fans alike. In a strategic partnership that promises to elevate the competition to new heights, Project X Promotions has joined forces with class innovators Michael Poland and Tom Gunner to bring this exciting category to the high-octane atmosphere of Odessa. The collaboration has been further strengthened by Nitrous Express stepping up as the class sponsor, demonstrating their commitment to supporting grassroots racing. The winner’s purse currently stands at an impressive $6,500, but Plotkin’s enthusiasm is palpable as he reveals that, given the overwhelming response and expected car count, that figure is likely to see a significant boost by the time the engines roar to life on race day.
The Bounty Hunters 9 No-Prep Nationals isn’t just about a single class – it’s a celebration of diverse racing categories that cater to every type of competitor and spectator. The event will showcase an impressive array of classes, each bringing its own unique brand of excitement to the track. The Big Tire class will thunder down the strip with a $5,000 prize awaiting the victor, while True Street racers will prove that everyday vehicles can deliver extraordinary performances. The Full-Size Truck category promises to bring raw power and intense competition, while the precision-focused 6.0 and 7.0 Index classes will demonstrate the perfect blend of skill and strategy.
The action-packed program continues with the crowd-favorite King of the Tailgate competition, which never fails to draw cheers from the stands. The Daily Driver and Weekend Warrior classes offer opportunities for grassroots racers to shine on the big stage, while the Jr. Dragster category provides a glimpse into the future of the sport as young talents showcase their developing skills.
Adding to the weekend’s intensity, both the Small Tire and Lil Gangstas classes will kick off the festivities with an exhilarating Cash Days event on Friday night, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of no prep racing excellence. This additional competition layer adds extra stakes and excitement, giving racers multiple chances to claim victory and spectators more opportunities to witness the raw power and skill that defines the sport of no prep drag racing.
The 10-year celebration of the Bounty Hunters no-prep event holds profound significance for Plotkin, both professionally and personally. His recent decision to step down from his esteemed position as an NHRA Regional Tech Director marks a pivotal transition in his career, driven by the joyous arrival of his first child with his wife, Mady. This life-changing moment led him to realign his priorities, and his continued involvement with Project X Promotions has proven to be the perfect solution, allowing him to maintain his influential presence in the no prep drag racing community while dedicating quality time to his growing family.
“It’s super important for me, because number one, never forget where you came from,” Plotkin reflected with genuine emotion. “These no prep racing events are what gave me my personal jumpstart in motorsports, providing me with a platform to have a voice and make a meaningful impact. The trust and respect we’ve earned over a decade of dedication to the sport is something we’re committed to preserving and building upon. The Bounty Hunters no-prep series has become more than just racing events – they’re gatherings that bring together passionate individuals who share our vision for the future of the sport.”
Understanding the importance of making no prep drag racing accessible to everyone, Project X Promotions has maintained remarkably affordable ticket pricing. Spectators can experience the heart-pounding action for just $20 on Friday and $30 on Saturday, while true enthusiasts can opt for the value-packed weekend pass at $40. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP Pass upgrades are available at $40, offering exclusive access to premium viewing areas including specially designated starting line and grandstand sections. In a move that emphasizes their commitment to nurturing the next generation of racing fans, children aged 12 and under can attend free of charge, making it a perfect family entertainment option.
“We’ve always believed in providing exceptional value for our customers,” Plotkin emphasized, his pride in the event’s accessibility evident. “It’s truly remarkable that after a decade of hosting these high-octane events, our ticket prices have remained unchanged – something I don’t think any other promoter can claim. Despite our operating expenses nearly tripling over the years due to rising costs and our commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment, we’ve stood firm in our mission to keep the Bounty Hunters no-prep experience within reach for families of all income levels. We want everyone to have the opportunity to witness the raw power and incredible skill displayed at our events without breaking the bank.”
The commitment to accessibility extends to the ticket purchasing process, with multiple convenient options available. Spectators can secure their spots at the gate on event days, perfect for those making last-minute decisions to join the action. For those who prefer to plan ahead, online tickets are readily available through the official ticketing platform at https://tickets.thefoat.com/projectxpromotions/Bounty+Hunters+9+No-Prep+Nationals/tickets/id-6YKEdwFm3Reo/. This streamlined process ensures that nothing stands between fans and their opportunity to experience the electrifying atmosphere of no prep racing at its finest.
As the countdown to this milestone celebration continues, the anticipation within the racing community continues to build. The Bounty Hunters 9 No-Prep Nationals isn’t just another event on the calendar – it’s a testament to a decade of dedication, innovation, and community building in the world of no prep racing. With its perfect blend of competitive racing, family-friendly atmosphere, and unmatched value, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that honors the past while blazing a trail into the future of the sport.
Bounty Hunters 9 No-Prep Nationals at Pennwell Knights Raceway
