Darlington Dragway is set to return to the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) in 2024, according to an announcement made on Saturday. The renowned quarter-mile drag strip, which Harold Brasington and Woodrow Hall initially constructed under the guidance of IHRA founder Larry Carrier, has a rich history as a prominent fixture on the IHRA schedule since its establishment in 1976.

Throughout the years, Darlington Dragway has played host to numerous IHRA national events, IHRA Sportsman Spectaculars, and the IHRA Division 9 (Raiders) Summit Team Finals. Recognizing its significance, the track was chosen for the IHRA Hall of Fame class in 2022. 

Darlington Dragway President Jeff Miles is thrilled to align with the organization’s direction under the leadership of IHRA owner Larry Jeffers and IHRA President Mel Roth.

“There’s a ton of shared history with Darlington Dragway and IHRA. I see what Larry and Mel are doing, and I want to be on board with it as well,” Miles explained. “The racers have been saying, ‘Hey, can we go back to IHRA?’ That’s what they love, and it made it an easy decision.”

During the Larry Carrier era of the IHRA, Darlington served as the traditional launch point for each new season. Some of the past winners at the famed Nascar track included “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, Dale Pulde, and Kenny Bernstein, in both fuel classes. Additionally, Darlington was the launch point for Mountain Motor Pro Stock racing in 1977 when Harold Denton defeated Roy Hill. The first official Pro Modified race was in 1990, with Ed Hoover stopping Tim McAmis in the final round. 

Larry Jeffers, the owner of IHRA, expressed his excitement over Darlington’s return and highlighted the venue’s significance within the racing community. He eagerly anticipates Darlington Dragway’s participation in programs such as the IHRA Summit SuperSeries, which stands as one of the most prestigious championships in bracket racing.

“We are thrilled to make this announcement that Darlington Dragway will be back with IHRA,” Jeffers remarked. “Darlington Dragway is truly one of the country’s most iconic venues, located in an area with such a deep appreciation for motorsports and home to so many great drag racers. We look forward to them again racing in the IHRA Summit SuperSeries and us being able to announce other great events at Darlington Dragway.”

Miles further praised the personal touch displayed by IHRA’s top officials, highlighting their dedication to grassroots racers and IHRA-member tracks. He noted their unwavering support, even during his recent hospitalization, as evidence of the organization’s commitment to the racing community.

“It’s a great fit for us. I was in the hospital three days last week, and Larry and Mel were calling every day to check on me,” Miles expressed. “Plus, we’ve seen all they’re doing to promote the local racers and tracks. That means a lot.”