We all have that unforgettable moment or place that ignites our automotive passion. For many of us, the journey began not in the family garage or a neighbor’s driveway but at a local dragstrip—the true mecca of speed. The visceral feeling of raw power, the intoxicating smell of burnt rubber, and the thunderous roar of engines are experiences that carve themselves into our memories, never to be forgotten.
This month’s Parting Shot column celebrates those unique dragstrips that launched countless dreams of speed and mechanics. For me, and undoubtedly for many others, it was Lions Drag Strip, nestled in Wilmington, California. Established in 1955, Lions, or “The Beach” as locals referred to it, quickly became a hallowed ground for hot rodders. On its opening day, an astonishing 10,000 spectators witnessed 400 eager racers tear down the strip, signaling that this place was destined for greatness. Over the next 17 years it wasn’t just a dragstrip, it was a vibrant community hub celebrating all things automotive. Dragstrips are more than just venues for competition; they are communal spaces where friendships are forged and passions are ignited. A trip to the dragstrip is often a rite of passage, a chance to share exhilarating experiences with friends and family. Each visit is rich with memories, creating a nostalgia that lingers well into adulthood.
Lions Drag Strip represents a pivotal chapter in automotive history. It wasn’t merely about the races; it was the culture surrounding them, the camaraderie among racers, the creativity in car modifications, and the raw emotions of competition. On any given weekend, the parking lot was a car show filled with cool hot rods and customs that sparked even more ideas and dreams to come true. Saturdays were for the pros, showcasing what was possible in the world of speed, while Sundays welcomed aspiring racers like me, eager to test our builds on the ’strip.
Unfortunately, as land values soared, the Harbor Commission ended its lease, closing the doors on this cherished piece of racing history.
The legacy of drag racing continues to inspire new generations. For many, places like Lions Drag Strip transcend mere tracks; they are vital chapters in the stories of their lives, forever etched in their hearts and minds. Though many original venues have faded into history, the spirit of hot rodding thrives at the ones still standing.
Lions Drag Strip was more than a raceway; it was the epicenter of American car culture and the heartbeat of local enthusiasts. That spirit has been rekindled with the Lions Drag Strip Museum (lionsautomobilia.org) opening on June 21, 2019, an idea championed by the late Rick Lorenzen, who brought this vision to life. Now a pilgrimage site for hot rodders of all ages, the museum serves as a living archive of how racing and car culture have shaped our community and sparked innovation in the automotive industry.
So, let’s take a moment to reflect on our origins, recalling the thrill of those early days, whether in the 1960s, 1990s, or just last week. We can still trace our journeys back to where it all began, a source of inspiration for generations of car enthusiasts. The indelible spirit of Lions Drag Strip lives on, inviting young and old alike to celebrate a legacy that continues to roar through our shared passion for the need for speed and innovation.
