The bumper-dragging, header-smashing action returns Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, for the 31st edition of Byron Dragway’s World Power Wheel Standing Championships.
“Launchin’ Larry” Jeleniewski will gun for his third consecutive title and fourth overall in his “Bad Fish” ’67 Plymouth Barracuda. After ending a decade-long drought in 2023, Jeleniewski repeated in 2024 with a 680-foot wheelie, earning the $10,000 champion’s check and a custom-made commemorative lamp crafted by Dan Gardner.
Fierce rivals and multi-time champions Chris Pearce, known for his “Chinto” machine, and Brian “The Wheelie King” Ambrosini, driving his iconic orange Gremlin, are expected to challenge Jeleniewski for the $10,000 top prize.
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With vintage gassers surging in popularity, Byron Dragway has added a new category for these original wheelie cars — the Vintage Class. Entries are limited to 1966 and earlier coupes and sedans with stock or straight-axle front suspensions. Reasonable engine setback and any transmission are permitted. The longest wheelie in the Vintage Class will earn $2,500.
Rounding out the program will be Pro Mods from the Chicago Wise Guys, Midwest Top Sportsman competition, and vintage factory hot rods from the Midwest Pro Stock Association.
Gates open at 9 a.m. Sunday, with track action beginning at 10. The Wheelie Competition starts with Round 1 at 2 p.m. and concludes with Round 2 at 3:30 p.m. Admission is $35.
