Drag racing is an adrenaline-pumping sport that involves two cars racing side by side on a straight track. It can be traced back to the 50s, following World War II, when teenagers with vehicles organized underground racing circuits. Nowadays, in addition to traditional drag racing, there are classes that even the playing field. Known as bracket and index races, these handicap classes assign expected performance metrics, allowing various levels of cars to race competitively. 

How Does Traditional Drag Racing Work?

Heads-up drag racing refers to two cars racing each other on a straight track for a specific distance to the finish line. Whoever reaches the finish line first is declared the winner of the race. Reaction time and speed of the vehicle are the main factors that determine who wins the race.

What Are Bracket & Index Races?

However, other types of drag races, such as bracket or handicap, were designed to make the chances of winning more fair. In an ET (bracket) race, the driver estimates the time it will take them to reach the finish line and marks this “index” number in their window. The starting lights will signal to the slower driver first for an earlier start. If a driver exceeds the speed they designated, they’re said to “break out,” and they’re disqualified from the race. If both drivers exceed their speed, the one who breaks by the least wins the race.

Index racing is similar to bracket racing, but both drivers leave the starting line at the same time and an index number is assigned beforehand. The aim is to run as close to the set time as possible. For instance, if the index time is 6 seconds, and one driver finishes at 5.92 while the other drives at 5.96, the second driver would win. 

If you wish to experience the excitement of live drag racing, head to Brainerd Motorsports Park in Ringgold, GA. This premier motorsports park features 5K bracket racing and index class races, along with competitors of all skill levels driving classic muscle cars and customized street cars. Give them a call today at (706) 891-9831 to ask about the current lineups or visit them online for more information about their facilities and safety standards.