It’s not the Cajun Nationals that was a staple in the NHRA schedules of the 1970s and 80s, but it’s a start.
The NHRA has officially announced the revival of the Laris Motorsports Insurance Cajun NHRA SPORTSnationals, a significant event in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. Scheduled for March 15-17 at No Problem Raceway in Belle Rose, La., this marks the return of the prestigious race after a hiatus since the 2015 season. The event, featuring classic crawfish artwork from the 1978 NHRA Cajun Nationals, aims to provide racers with an additional SPORTSnationals opportunity in 2024, complementing the JEGS SPORTSnationals scheduled for July 10-13.
Hundreds of sportsman racers representing all seven NHRA divisions nationwide are set to converge on No Problem Raceway for the Cajun NHRA SPORTSnationals. The competition will unfold across eight categories, offering a substantial purse exceeding $150,000, including more than $50,000 in contingency offerings. Beyond the racing, the event promises a distinctive atmosphere celebrating the unique facets of Cajun culture, creating a memorable weekend for participants.
No Problem Raceway Owner Nelson Hoyos expressed enthusiasm about the return of the Cajun SPORTSnationals after a decade, emphasizing the significance of Laris Motorsports Insurance as the title sponsor.
“We feel honored the Laris family has entrusted us to remake the Cajun SPORTSnationals into something truly special,” said Hoyos. “We can’t wait to show everyone why this race means so much to Louisiana and why it needs to stay at NPR for the long haul. It will be a one-of-a-kind party at the track.”
Racer appreciation meals featuring popular Cajun cuisine will be a highlight throughout the weekend, fostering camaraderie among participants. The Laris family, along with the Hoyos family at No Problem Raceway, will contribute to the hospitality, ensuring a seamless blend of racing and community engagement.
The Cajun NHRA SPORTSnationals will feature various attractions, including the Right Trailers Top Sportsman and Top Dragster Shootouts, Motorcycle Gambler, Super Shootouts, and more. Notably, winners of this event will be awarded a one-of-a-kind copper Wally, underscoring the prestige associated with emerging victorious in the Cajun SPORTSnationals.
For fans unable to attend in person, the event will be available for free streaming on NHRA.tv and the NHRA YouTube page.
Holden Laris, President/Owner of Laris Motorsports Insurance, expressed pride in the partnership with NHRA and No Problem Raceway, viewing the sponsorship as a demonstration of their commitment to giving back to the racing community.
“Laris Motorsports Insurance takes pride in giving back to the racing community. Our sponsorship of Laris Motorsports Insurance Cajun SPORTSnationals is just another way for us to show our appreciation and support of the sportsman racer,” Laris Motorsports Insurance President/Owner Holden Laris said.
NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber commended the collaborative efforts of Laris Motorsports Insurance and No Problem Raceway, expressing anticipation for an exceptional weekend.
“The Cajun SPORTSnationals is shaping up to be an incredible weekend for everyone involved, and we’re so thrilled to see the tremendous support from Laris Motorsports Insurance and everyone at No Problem Raceway to make this exciting event happen again,” Gerber said. “It’s such a fun and unique race, and Nelson and everyone at the track and Laris will do a great job making everyone feel special and have a memorable three days.”
