Entries have now closed for the Australian Nationals with 280 confirmed competitors in what is shaping up to be a blockbuster of ANDRA Drag Racing Series and Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series action.

Calder Park Drag Racing Promoter Peter Pisalidis released the following statement thanking competitors and ANDRA members for their support:

“I couldn’t be more happier that the drag racing fraternity has stepped up and supported this iconic event returning to Melbourne.

“When it was proposed to hold The Australian Nationals at Calder there were a lot of people all over the country betting it will never happen and we wont get the support from the Group 1 categories to be able to run the majority of brackets. We had some major hurdles to overcome and with the support of some great people around the country we have full fields in categories we never thought we would and a Top Fuel show thanks to Santo “Rapisarda Autosport” – and thanks to all the entrants!

“Its well-known Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia and with some luck going our way weather wise – we will get decent spectator numbers and make the Australian Nationals return to Calder a hit. I know the track is good enough for all teams to run decent numbers and the rest is up to the variables that make our sport so unpredictable and exciting. We are getting great feedback from our Radio and TV advertising already from fans which gives us some confidence we are being noticed.

“Just like every track in the world we still have some improvements to make and with the support of the Australian drag racing community we stand in a good position to overcome them and progressively get Drag racing back to a level it deserves in Melbourne and Nationally. I thank the Bob Jane Corporation for their support and all the ANDRA members and fans in particular.

“We have several classes pitting on the infield again like we used to, which will give us some logistical complexities however this is what gives us the atmosphere of having the fans and crowd in constant view and interaction with competitors in pit lane and in view, which cant be replicated in this country and makes it all worthwhile.

“Again, a BIG THANK to all for your support and hope to see everyone here on Saturday and Sunday!”

The Australian Nationals return to Calder Park Raceway for the first time in 15 years January 23-24. Qualifying is from 9am-9pm on Saturday January 23 and eliminations from 9am Sunday January 24. For more information please visit: www.calderparkdragracing.com.au

To view the Entry List, please click here