29th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals
Feb. 22-24
Firebird Int’l Raceway
20000 Maricopa Road
Chandler, AZ 85226
www.firebirdraceway.comElevation: 1,100 feet
Tickets:
www.firebirdraceway.com; 602-268-0200
Radio Frequency: 92.9 FM
NHRA’s annual duel in the desert continues in its traditional spot as the year’s second event. A Southwest fixture since 1985, the event offers teams a chance to redeem mistakes made at the opener. Charlie Allen, a former Funny Car racer, constructed a track that makes people forget that it sits at 1,100 feet above sea level. The facility is also known for record performances, such as Tony Schumacher’s historic 330-mph quarter-mile blast in 1999.
2012 Recap: Robert Hight (Funny Car) rebounded from a disappointing first-round upset from the No. 1 qualifying position at the season opener by winning the event, defeating teammate Mike Neff in the final. Antron Brown upset teammate Tony Schumacher in the Top Fuel final to extend Schumacher’s winless drought. Pro Stock also featured an all-team final in which Jason Line scored the win against Greg Anderson.
How to Get There: The track is 10 miles south of Phoenix and minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Int’l Airport. From Phoenix, take Interstate 10 east to the Wild Horse Pass exit (162). From Tucson, take I-10 west to the Wild Horse Pass exit (162).
Visitor Information: Chandler Chamber of Commerce, 800-963-4571
