US 60 Dragway: Reliving the Glory of Drag Racing
US 60 Dragway, a renowned icon in the world of drag racing, was established on July 31, 1964, by Hardinsburg resident and future Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame member, Keenan O’Connell. The inspiration for the track came from a visit to the old Owensboro Dragstrip, where O’Connell recognized the potential of a profitable venture fused with promoting the sport of drag racing to the Breckinridge County area.
Before US 60 Dragway’s inception, O’Connell owned a go-kart track. The strategic location of this track was deemed perfect for the dragstrip, and thus, the journey of US 60 Dragway began. On the opening day, the sight of cars lined up in both directions, eager to enter the racetrack, confirmed O’Connell’s belief that US 60 Dragway was destined for greatness.
The Golden Era of Drag Racing
During its early years, the US 60 Dragway became a hotspot for the sports’ top drivers. Pro Stock superstar Bob Glidden, Super Stock ace Herb McCandless, Top Fuel driver Dale Funk, Top Gas star Gordon Collett, Modified and Comp eliminator driver Joe Williamson, Funny stars Randy Walls, Bruce Larsen, and Kelly Chadwick, among others, made notable appearances.
The track also hosted the first 1/8 mile Nationals, attracting cars from 37 states. Such events amplified the popularity of US 60 Dragway, making it a central hub for unforgettable drag racing showdowns.
The Changing Tides
O’Connell operated US 60 Dragway from 1964 to 1974. The track was then leased to Dallas Jones, who now owns and operates Beech Bend Raceway. Over the years, the track has been leased to several operators before being sold to J.D. and Judy Snead, who continue to operate it today. O’Connell reminisced about the joy and heartaches of running US 60 but maintains that it was a great experience and he still holds a deep love for racing.
The Revival: US 60 Dragway Under New Ownership
The US 60 Dragway is under new ownership and ready to become the drag racing place to be. The new management is committed to bringing back the glory days of the track and making it a top-tier drag racing destination.
Location and Contact Information
US 60 Dragway is located at 325 North Myers Rd., Hardinsburg, KY 40143, USA. For any queries or information, you can reach out to them at (502)-957-6755. More information about the track, its history, and upcoming events can be found on its official website here.
Upcoming Events
US 60 Dragway is all set to host a series of exciting events in the coming months. However, due to varying weather conditions and track conditions, the race dates are subject to change. It’s recommended to check with the track directly via their individual website to confirm actual racing schedules before you plan your visit.
Conclusion
US 60 Dragway is more than just a drag strip; it’s a tapestry of unforgettable memories, high-octane showdowns, and the rich legacy of drag racing. Under its new ownership, the track is all set to usher in a new era of drag racing. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newbie, a visit to US 60 Dragway promises an adrenaline-pumping experience like no other.
