The IHRA Revival: Calm Before the Storm at Darana Raceway
- Logan Morris
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
By: Logan Morris
The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) kicked off its 2025 campaign on Wednesday, July 9th, with Pro-Am qualifying events at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, approximately 30 miles East of Columbus. The drag strip, previously named National Trail Raceway, has played host to many historic moments in drag racing. 16-time Funny Car Champion John Force’s first U.S. win came here, and this track played host to the Spring Nationals for decades. The track first hosted racing in 1964, and a lot has changed since then, but what hasn’t changed is the passion for racing. There have been several big names that have made a mark just outside of Columbus, so it’s fitting that the IHRA would relaunch into the national event scene at such a historic track.
Wednesday’s action had the feel of a calm before the storm. The day kicked off preparations for the IHRA’s Outlaw Nitro Series, which takes place Friday and Saturday. The culmination of a new era of IHRA led by new series owner Darryl Cuttell.
There was a notable buzz in the humid air as the anticipation built for this weekend. Fans will be treated to an appearance by “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, the undisputed Godfather of the sport, and Shirley Muldowney, the First Lady of Drag Racing. She’s no stranger to Darana Raceway. In 1976, she became the first woman to win in the Top Fuel category on the property. In 1982, she and Lucille Lee took part in the first all female final. So, given that history, it’s only fitting that she be here for IHRA’s revival.
IHRA’s return is also notable because Terry Haddock is returning to defend his Funny Car championship. Haddock will be putting No. 1 on his car this weekend, as he was the series’ last Funny Car champion in 2008. Jack Wyatt and Dale Creasy Jr. are other two notable IHRA alums returning.
The day was marred when Marvin Blaney suffered an explosion during the second qualifying session of the day. Blaney appeared alert as he was stretched from the remains of his car and into an ambulance. There’s been no update on his condition at this time. The IHRA released an "Incident Statement" on social media following the explosion, stating, "During the second round of Top Sportsman qualifying at the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series on Wednesday at National Trail Raceway, Marvin Blaney’s Top Sportsman ’63 Corvette suffered an engine explosion after the burnout. Blaney was removed from the vehicle and transported to a local medical facility for further evaluation."
IHRA’s return continues tomorrow with Pro-Am eliminations beginning right after a fourth and final qualifying run at 8:30am ET on Thursday, July 10th.
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