Where the Rubber Meets the Road, Dragstrip Attracts Drivers

It was hot air with an occasional breeze that welcomed 65 competitors to the Hi-Line Drag Strip on Saturday and Sunday. Three cars were unable to compete due to breakdowns or various issues. Despite the heat being in the high 90s, there wasn't one disappointed look on the faces of the contestants or hosts. Cars came from across Montana, neighboring states, and Canada to compete for points, titles, and hardware.

Titus Carnahan, of Malta, a young and inspired driver was the winner in the Junior Dragster category on both days.

Cory Schultz from Swift Current, Canada, brought his '68 Camaro to race in the event. "This is the best place, EVER, to race!". The drag strip has two races to come; one is a three-day event over Labor Day followed by the final one for the season two weeks later.

John Carnahan, who has served as President of the Strip for 17 years was filling in this weekend for his son, Shane, who had a commitment out of town. "I did this for 17 years-it's just in my blood, it's GREAT!"

Warren Ayers, "that's A-y-e-r-s", of Lewistown, MT., took home the silver and gold trophy after winning the Super Pro category, with a wide and proud smile on his face. Though the crowd didn't quite fill the bleachers, they got their money's worth with the action. Firestone and Goodrich companies were probably as pleased.

Titus was able to hold off Cason Neset, of Tioga, ND., with a 12.50 to Cason's 12.58. In the eighth mile race, the young dragster hit a top speed of 47.07 mph. in the JUNIOR DRAGSTER division.

Winners in other divisions included races on Saturday:

SPORTSMAN: Ronald Stahl (Glasgow), Blake Lloyd (Glasgow); BOX SUPER PRO: David Crossley (Havre); Kenneth Darchuk (Scobey) and in the NO BOX: Stacey Klughland (Havre) and Tyler Zeller of Medicine Hat, AB.

Sunday the heat let up somewhat and some came up victorious and others changed placings. Category winners were:

JUNIOR DRAGSTER: Cason Neset (Tioga, ND) and Titus Carnahan (Malta); SPORTSMAN: Ronald Stahl (Glasgow), Garrett Lloyd (Glasgow); BOX SUPER PRO: Warren Ayers (Lewistown), Dan Johnson (Chinook); and finishing the day out, NO BOX PRO was Tyler Zeller, Medicine Hat, AB. and Stacey Klungland (Havre).