26th annual O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Northwest Nationals presented by Super Start Batteries
Aug. 2-4
Pacific Raceways
31001 144th Ave. S.E.
Kent, WA 98042-4601
www.pacificraceways.com Elevation: 280 feet
Tickets: NHRATix.com; 800-884-NHRA (6472); 253-639-5927
Radio Frequency: 540 AM
After stops in Colorado and California, the Western Swing concludes at scenic Pacific Raceways. One of the tour’s most breathtaking environments, the facility is parked in the shadow of majestic Mount Rainier and surrounded by towering trees that add more than beauty at the last stop on the Western Swing: They emit tons of power-enhancing oxygen to feed the appetites of the high-horsepower machines, resulting in prime performances.
2012 Recap: Funny Car rookie Courtney Force won for the first time in her young career and shared the winner’s circle with Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock), who prevented Allen Johnson from sweeping the Western Swing in the semifinal round and finished off Jason Line in the final. Steve Torrence (Top Fuel) endured three pedalfests and one holeshot win in his third victory of the season.
How to Get There: The track is 10 miles east of Interstate 5 on Highway 18. From I-5, use Exit 142A (Auburn exit) and travel east 10 miles on Highway 18, following the signs to the track. From other points, use Highway 18 and exit S.E. 304th Street.
Visitor Information: Pacific Raceways, 253-639-5927; Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 253-833-0700; Kent Chamber of Commerce, 253-854-1770; Seattle-King County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 206-461-5800