Sat, 21 Aug 2010, 06:42 AM 2011 NHRA Arizona Nationals Now Part of Series' Points Countdown

Courtesy of Bill Mayhall 2011 Event Now Scheduled for Oct.14-16, 2011 at Firebird International Raceway

CHANDLER, Ariz. -- Already one of Arizona's premier annual motor sports events, the 2011 NHRA Arizona Nationals has now been granted "play-off" status.

Firebird International Raceway and the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) confirmed the 2011 NHRA Arizona Nationals is now one of six events during the 2011 season to be selected for the series' points countdown. Traditionally this event is held annually in February, but will now be scheduled for Oct. 14-16, 2011 at Firebird International Raceway.

"The prestige that accompanies being one of six events in the Countdown, NHRA's version of the playoffs, is an awesome opportunity for us and for our drag race fans here in Phoenix," said Firebird President and owner Charlie Allen. The inclusion of the 2011 Arizona Nationals into the Countdown means metropolitan Phoenix becomes one of only three communities nationwide - Dallas and Charlotte being the others - to host both NHRA Countdown and NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship races.

In addition, Firebird confirmed the 2011 race will debut action in NHRA's motorcycle class, joining the Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions.

With the new dates for the 2011 NHRA Arizona Nationals solidified, Firebird Vice President Franki Buckman said the track plans to announce its entire 2011 events calendar by mid-September. Information on the 2011 schedule will be posted at www.firebirdraceway.com upon its confirmation.