MECHANICSVILLE, Md. — Maryland International Raceway and the NHRA Northeast Division announced an 8-car Junior Dragster Shootout as a special exhibition during the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals, scheduled for May 29-31, 2026, at the Mechanicsville facility.
The event marks the first NHRA national event hosted at MIR and provides an opportunity to feature local junior talent on a national stage. Due to the space and scheduling demands of professional teams and broadcast requirements, the shootout is limited to eight cars and designed as an exhibition rather than a full competitive class.
Qualification for the shootout relies solely on performance in the 2026 1320 Fabrication ET Series points standings. The top eight drivers with the highest cumulative points at the close of the Spring Blowout on Sunday, May 17, 2026, will receive invitations. Points will be finalized immediately after that event to determine the field.
Mark Dawson, NHRA Northeast Division Director, said, “The transition to NHRA is a big step for the track, but we wanted to make sure the local racers were part of the excitement. Hosting a National Event is a major production, but it’s important to showcase the strength of the weekly program here. This shootout rewards the racers who come out and support the track early in the season.”
Royce Miller, owner of Maryland International Raceway, said, “We have a great, well supported Hubble Motorsports Jr Dragster program here at MIR. I am excited to include this 8 car Junior Dragster Shootout at the NHRA Potomac Nationals, to showcase MIR’s talented young racers. What a memorable experience this will be for these Junior racers and parents.”
The Hubble Motorsports Junior Dragster program at MIR serves as the foundation for youth participation at the track, drawing competitors from Southern Maryland and surrounding areas. Junior Dragster racing allows drivers ages 5 to 17 to compete in quarter-scale replicas of top-fuel dragsters, using 7.5 horsepower engines and safety equipment to reach speeds up to 85 mph over a 1/8-mile course. The program emphasizes skill development, sportsmanship, and family involvement.
The NHRA Potomac Nationals represent a significant milestone for MIR, which has long hosted regional and divisional events. Adding a national event expands visibility for the facility, located in St. Mary’s County, and brings additional economic activity to the region through visitor spending on lodging, dining, and fuel during the three-day weekend.
Current 1320 Fabrication ET Series points standings, which determine eligibility for the shootout, are available on the track’s website. The Spring Blowout serves as the final points-earning event before the cutoff, providing junior racers throughout the season a clear path to earn a spot in the exhibition.
The shootout format ensures junior competitors experience the atmosphere of an NHRA national event, including professional-level staging lanes, crowd support, and timing systems, while preserving operational priorities for the main program.
