ENNIS, Texas – People thought Billy Meyer might just be crazy when construction started for the first all-concrete facility dedicated to drag racing. Construction had not even begun when he signed an agreement with NHRA officials to host a national event in the fall and his plans for the facility seemed to be something out of a fairy tale.
After all, it was 1986. No other “stadium” for drag racing had been created. That’s what makes the Texas Motorplex, and its 25th anniversary, so special. Without the Motorplex, who knows how long it would have taken to create other tracks that have been built specifically for the quickest and fastest form of motorsport?
“It’s exciting to be part of the growth of the sport and be connected to a special time in the sport’s history,” Meyer said. “Since the Motorplex was built, the quality of the facilities has greatly improved and it’s nice to be part of that and help the progression of building bigger and nicer places for the sport.”
Fans have been thrilled by the action on the track for 25 years with the nation’s top drivers and racing series. The awe-inspiring milestones didn’t take long to start piling up. During the first NHRA event, Darrell Gwynn turned in a 5.280-second run, setting the record in Top Fuel.
Since then, eight national records have been set at the Texas Motorplex – in Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle alone.
John Force – 14-time NHRA Funny Car champion – has made the Motorplex his personal playground, earning seven national event victories here.
“Texas Motorplex fans have seen some of the best racing by some of the most accomplished drivers,” Texas Motorplex General Manager Gabrielle Stevenson said. “Our fans get to see the NHRA’s best drivers, the ADRL’s top performances, they get to race in the Fast Friday series, be part of the bowtie party during the Super Chevy Show weekend and so much more.
“The Motorplex caters to racers, fans and sponsors. It’s top-notch entertainment for the entire family nine months out of the year and we certainly are proud of our annual schedule of events.”
The 2010 season, however, will be even more special as fans will benefit from a season of anniversary celebration activities. There is a series of collector mugs that will be given out to fans highlight four events: The Lucas Oil Divisional, the VW Bug In, the Super Chevy Show and the NHRA Fall Nationals. The collector set of four mugs will be available during the Fall Nationals.
There also will be extensive giveaways that will include suite passes, meet-and-greets with drivers and other exclusive opportunities.
The Texas Motorplex was the first all-concrete stadium-style drag racing facility ever constructed. Built in 1986, The Texas Motorplex has been the place of many drag racing milestones and world record performances. The Billy Meyer-owned facility hosts a number of racing and car show events between March and November each year and also features the Champions Club – an 11,000 square-foot facility – that serves fully catered events throughout the year.
