NHRA officials announced today that The Big Country Race Way near Abilene, Texas, has joined the NHRA Member Track Network as part of Division 4, the South Central Division.

“The Big Country Race Way will immediately become a major asset of the South Central Division,” said Division 4 Director Trey Capps. “It is a premier drag racing facility in west Texas and features amenities I’m confident racers, fans and sponsors will enjoy. I’m eager to get events planned at The Big Country Race Way.”

The Big Country Race Way is an eighth-mile facility located on Interstate-20 just west of Abilene. The facility, formerly known as Abilene Dragway, is owned and operated by Sterling Robertson with the help of track manager Ty Casey.

“I am excited about our next step in growing drag racing in West Texas, and I feel that partnering with the NHRA we will accomplish those goals,” Robertson said. “It should be a great year for the drag racing community in our area and we are definitely looking forward to 2016 and beyond!”

The Big Country Drag Way features an all concrete racing surface, including the burnout area. Over 2,000 feet of concrete barricades line both sides of the track, enhancing safety. There are over 10 acres of paved, lit and striped pit parking spots. There are concessions and restroom facilities on both sides of the track as well as a covered eating area on the pit side. The track is well lit for night racing, including a wide and lighted return road.

The track also has 1,000 covered seats for fans to relax in the shade and enjoy the races. There are excellent views of the entire track from all seats.  The stands are handicap accessible with close by handicap parking. A professional sound system feeds the stands, pits and parking areas with information, commentary and professionally produced sponsor information broadcasts.

The facility has numerous options for signage and displays to assist sponsors with the advertising and promotion of products and services. The track’s tower also features a VIP suite that is available for entertaining guests and clients.

As an NHRA-sanctioned track, the facility will be eligible to offer racers a variety of NHRA racing opportunities, including the NHRA Summit Racing Series, the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League, NHRA Jr. Street and the NHRA Drags: Street Legal Style presented by AAA.  Additionally, the track has the opportunity to host NHRA’s specialty events including the National DRAGSTER Challenge, NHRA Summit King of the Track, and NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League Challenge, where racers compete for the coveted Wally trophy.