In Landmark Move, ADRL Set To Move To 1/16-Mile Races For Foreseeable Future

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O’FALLON, MO (April 1, 2011) - In a move that was deemed necessary and exciting by American Drag Racing League (ADRL) executives, the ADRL is thrilled to announce it will be now running 1/16-mile races instead of 1/8-mile.The landmark move will go into effect for the rest of the 2011 season, in part because of the added safety measures that running only 330 feet will provide.In addition to becoming the first drag racing league to offer amazing two-second passes, the ADRL will now look forward to becoming the preeminent 1/16-mile drag racing league in the world.“This is a wonderful move for the ADRL and it will continue to keep us ahead of the racing curve. By having our races be 1/16-mile, we will be able to provide a more compact show for our fans,” ADRL Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune said. “In addition, we can also save two seconds per run, which will allow us to cut staffing hours by nearly 23 minutes for each event. We understand it may put competitors in a bind for our upcoming events, but this move couldn’t wait any longer.” After considerable discussion with fans and drivers, the ADRL had hoped to make the announcement before the first race of the 2011 season.While CarSafe Dragpalooza VII presented by LenMar Motorsports was an unequivocal success, ADRL executives are sure this new direction is what its fanbase wants to see.In addition, the ADRL had lengthy discussions and negotiations with its attorneys and insurance company, becoming even more confident this was the proper direction for the organization.“Drag racing provides a lot of amazing entertainment, but we want to make sure it is safe as possible for these drivers,” ADRL attorney Ryan Autumn said. “We had initially hoped to make each race only 60 feet, but we are satisfied with this compromise.“With growing insurance rates, anything greater than a 1/16-mile drag race would put the ADRL at too big of a risk. It might take fans and drivers time to adjust to a shorter race and a shorter event, but this is a step we had to take.”As insurance premiums continue to skyrocket in the drag racing world, Tri-Power Insurance is also on board - at least for 2011 - with the ADRL’s decision.“Our ultimate goal is to have these cars and motorcycles be remote and radio-controlled to eliminate all potential risk for teams and competitors, but this is at least a step in that direction,” Tri-Power President Simon Gminski said. “In all honesty, as an insurance company, we cannot have these cars going 3.5 seconds at more than 210 miles per hour.“It is took big of a risk for Tri-Power and we hope the ADRL continues to shorten its races in the future.”

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