The World Footbrake Challenge returns to Thunder Valley July 17-19 for the third time with a new date, a new format, and a large contingent of racers ready to share in a $100,000 purse.

The World Footbrake Challenge is a1/8-mile event that will see racers depend on their driving skills to take home the top prizes. In footbrake competition, drivers are not allowed to use electronic equipment to help them achieve a better start.

Originally held in May, event organizers Jared Pennington and Steve Stites opted to contest the event in July to help attract more racers. According to Pennington, the response has been overwhelming.

The World Footbrake Challenge returns to Thunder Valley July 17-19 for the third time with a new date, a new format, and a large contingent of racers ready to share in a $100,000 purse.

The World Footbrake Challenge is a1/8-mile event that will see racers depend on their driving skills to take home the top prizes. In footbrake competition, drivers are not allowed to use electronic equipment to help them achieve a better start.

Originally held in May, event organizers Jared Pennington and Steve Stites opted to contest the event in July to help attract more racers. According to Pennington, the response has been overwhelming.

“It has been unbelievable,” he said. “We have 182 pre-entries and that just exceeds our wildest expectations. In the worst economy our country has ever faced, our supporters have stepped up and it is unbelievable. I’m surprised, but at the same time I’m not surprised. I know these people and I know their passion for the sport, so it really shouldn’t come as a surprise.

“The later date has helped our response,” he continued. “Bristol is a beautiful area that time of year. It is a desirable place to be, so I think that has helped. It has allowed people to plan vacations around it. It shows tremendous commitment and dedication to the sport with all the people that are coming from all over the country.” 

In addition, the format has been changed to entice more racers to take part. While prize money is not as large as it was last season, the entry fee is much lower. The move already appears to have been a good decision. 

“The race is $10,000-to-win on Friday, Saturday and Sunday,” explained Pennington. “We felt the need to do that because of the changes in the economy. We wanted to lower the entry fee to appeal to the average person. It appears as though that was a successful move. For those that still want the large prize, we have a $30,000 to win 64-car shootout. Our total purse is well over $100,000. It will be pretty cool.”

Not only will the event be cool for racers, spectators will have a lot to watch, including several of the best racers in the country.

“You can expect over 200 cars from more than 20 states,” Pennington said. “You’ll see NHRA World Champions, IHRA World Champions, hundreds of track championships will be going up and down the track. Guys will be racing for $60,000 in winner’s purse money throughout the weekend. For people that enjoy our sport, it will be a spectacle for sure.”

The event has shown growth during its first two seasons and Pennington admits the support he receives from Bristol Dragway will ensure that growth for some time.

“The area has been wonderful to us,” he said. “The facility is second to none. The staff at Bristol is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced we have ever worked with. It makes it real easy to come up there and race. Even though I live more than six hours away, it is starting to feel like home because everyone in the area treats us so well. It seems to get better every year.”

Gates open at 8 a.m. each morning.

Time Trials begin at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, with a Run for the Money at noon and eliminations at 2:30 p.m.

Saturday’s on track action begins with Time Trials for the $30,000 Shootout at 9 a.m., Eliminations follow. Time trails for the $10,000-to-win race start at 11:30 a.m. Eliminations will take place at 4:30 p.m.

A church service will take place on Sunday at 9 a.m. Time Trials and a Run for the Money are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Eliminations begin at noon.

Racers will begin parking on Thursday at 4 p.m. 

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