Famoso Dragstrip

Located just north of Bakersfield in McFarland, California, Famoso Bakersfield Raceway is a name deeply etched into drag racing history. More than just a racetrack, it stands as a symbol of nostalgia drag racing, preserving the legacy of classic machines and legendary races.

Recognized as the home of the iconic March Meet, this dragstrip has long been a destination for those passionate about traditional drag racing, hosting some of the most memorable races in motorsports history. Whether it’s the thunderous roar of nitro-fueled engines or the gathering of racing legends, the atmosphere here is unmatched.

A Track with Military Origins

Long before it became a racing hotspot, this site served a very different purpose. Originally built as Poso Auxiliary Field during World War II, it was used as a training base for pilots stationed at Minter Field. Once the war ended, the field was abandoned, leaving its fate uncertain.

It wasn’t until the 1950s that a group of drag racing pioneers from Bakersfield, known as the Smokers, saw its potential. Purchasing the west portion of the airstrip, they converted it into a dedicated drag racing venue, making the adjustments necessary to host organized races. Their vision became a reality when the track held its first-ever March Meet in 1959, an event that played a crucial role in legitimizing the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA).

Today, while the eastern portion of the former airfield remains in operation as Poso Airport, the dragstrip has evolved into a hallowed ground for nostalgia drag racing.

Major Events That Keep Tradition Alive

The March Meet - An Iconic Nostalgia Racing Event

No event is more closely associated with this track than the March Meet. Originally conceived as a high-profile drag race that helped establish the NHRA’s credibility, it has transformed into a nostalgia-only event, celebrating the golden age of the sport.

This race draws classic Top Fuel dragsters, Funny Cars, and front-engine machines that harken back to an earlier era of racing. For fans of historic nitro racing, it’s a must-attend event that showcases restored vintage race cars in action.

California Hot Rod Reunion - A Tribute to Drag Racing’s Past

In October, the NHRA Motorsports Museum brings the California Hot Rod Reunion to Famoso, another must-see event for enthusiasts of classic drag racing. This multi-day festival features not only exhibition runs and side-by-side vintage racing but also car shows, swap meets, and honors for legendary figures in the sport.

Beyond the racing, this event is a celebration of the community, bringing together those who played a role in shaping drag racing history.

A.N.R.A. Racing - Preserving Nostalgia Drag Racing

The American Nostalgia Racing Association (A.N.R.A.) also calls this dragstrip home, hosting specialized nostalgia races throughout the year. These events keep the spirit of classic drag racing alive, giving owners of gassers, front-engine dragsters, and other vintage race cars a chance to compete on a historic strip.

High School Racing Series & Local Competitions

Beyond the big nostalgia events, Famoso Bakersfield Raceway is dedicated to grassroots racing. The high school racing series provides young drivers an opportunity to develop their skills in a safe, controlled environment, helping shape the next generation of racers.

Additionally, the dragstrip hosts various regional and club-level drag races, offering amateur racers the chance to experience the thrill of competition.

Changes Over the Years

While nostalgia racing remains the track’s main attraction, it has gone through some changes in its lineup over the years.

In the 2000s, Saturday Nitro events introduced Fuel Altereds and, later, Nostalgia Funny Cars around 2010. These thrilling races added variety to the schedule, but after a tragic accident involving a driver, these non-sanctioned events were eventually discontinued.

Today, the venue remains under the management of the Kern County Racing Association, Inc., with significant sponsorship from the Automobile Club of Southern California, which also supports major NHRA and NASCAR events across the region.

What Makes This Dragstrip Unique

What sets Famoso Bakersfield Raceway apart is its dedication to nostalgia drag racing. Unlike modern NHRA-sanctioned tracks that focus on cutting-edge technology and contemporary classes, this venue celebrates the roots of the sport, keeping the spirit of classic hot rodding alive.

The combination of historic significance, legendary events, and a strong connection to the early days of NHRA racing makes it a destination that every drag racing fan should experience at least once.

For those who appreciate the history and evolution of drag racing, Famoso Bakersfield Raceway offers a one-of-a-kind experience. From the thunderous nitro-fueled nostalgia dragsters at March Meet to the community-driven celebration of the Hot Rod Reunion, this is a place where the past and present collide in spectacular fashion.

Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan, a vintage car enthusiast, or a young racer just discovering the sport, this dragstrip remains a living testament to the golden age of American motorsports. Plan your visit, explore the history, and witness firsthand the raw power and tradition that define this legendary venue.