A fresh chapter in the world of drag racing is set to unfold as Small Tire Pro Stock, a new racing series, prepares to make its debut at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. This naturally aspirated class will take center stage during the Sick at the Rock event scheduled for April 10-12. Spearheaded by a group of passionate racers and industry professionals, including David Theisen, this series aims to bring together enthusiasts of high-horsepower racing while fostering growth through six races across the United States. With support from sponsors such as 10K Technology and others, this series promises to highlight not only driving talent but also the craftsmanship behind powerful engines and meticulously tuned race cars.
David Theisen, one of the key figures behind this initiative, expressed excitement about uniting competitors under the banner of Small Tire Pro Stock. After the National Muscle Car Association (NMCA) ceased operations, there was a clear desire among NA 10.5 racers to continue their tradition of competition. Collaborating with Joe Clemente, Robbie Blankenship, Dwight Ausmus, and John Langer, Theisen spearheaded efforts to create a platform where naturally aspirated racers could showcase their skills. His own Firebird, powered by an advanced 500-cubic-inch DRCE engine crafted by Uratchko Racing Engines, exemplifies the cutting-edge technology that defines this class.
This high-octane series features vehicles propelled by both big-block and small-block engines, all rolling on 10.5 slicks. Beyond pure speed, these races emphasize teamwork and technical expertise, celebrating the contributions of engine builders, chassis designers, tuners, and crew members. The inaugural event at Rockingham Dragway marks just the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating season. Sponsors like Pen and Paper Strength App, Dolce and Clemente’s Market, V & J Inc., BES Racing Engines, CFM Carburetors, and Exstreme Fab and Beadlocks have already committed to supporting this venture, ensuring robust payouts and visibility for participants.
The calendar for Small Tire Pro Stock includes stops at iconic venues across the country. Following the North Carolina launch, the series moves to Beech Bend Raceway Park in Kentucky for Sick on the Green on May 30-31. Further races are planned at Milan Dragway in Michigan on July 4-5 and August 1-2, before culminating at Cecil County Dragway in Maryland for the Outlaw Street Car Shootout on September 26-27. Additionally, fans can look forward to a unique eighth-mile racing experience at Jackson Dragway in Tennessee on August 29-30. Each stop offers opportunities for racers to demonstrate their prowess and attract new supporters to the fold.
As the curtain rises on this exciting new series, the potential for expansion and collaboration looms large. By bringing together seasoned veterans and emerging talents, Small Tire Pro Stock aims to redefine the landscape of drag racing. With each event, the series hopes to cultivate a vibrant community centered around passion, innovation, and performance. Through strategic partnerships and shared goals, the future looks bright for this burgeoning endeavor in the motorsport world.