Speedway adding to public program for drag-strip racing

Friday, March 11, 2005 | 9:58 a.m.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway officials are adding another program at their drag strip in an attempt to combat illegal street racing.

In the wake of two illegal street-racing accidents in recent weeks, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 17 will debut "Thursday Night Street Wars" to provide a safer alternative to those who take part in illegal street races.

"Thursday Night Street Wars" is a takeoff on the popular "Midnight Mayhem" The Strip holds on various Friday nights throughout the year. The decision to hold the new program on Thursday was made because that night has become the most popular for illegal street racing, LVMS general manager Chris Powell said.

"We learned through the grapevine that Thursday is now the big night to congregate for illegal street racing," Powell said. "Initially, we planned to conduct this new program in the early evening on selected Thursdays, but were afraid we simply might be used as a warm-up session for the late-night 'illegals.'

"We adjusted the hours to run directly against the illegal street races, thus offering a safe alternative to this dangerous activity."

"Thursday Night Street Wars" will be held from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. on seven dates between March 17 and Sept. 15. Powell said more dates could be added if the demand is there.

Like "Midnight Mayhem," "Thursday Night Street Wars" will be open to any licensed driver with proof of insurance. All cars and motorcycles must be street legal, driven to the track and pass a safety inspection. As an added incentive, "Thursday Night Street Wars" will award $100 and a trophy to the drivers turning in the fastest speed and lowest elapsed time.

Gates will open at 7 p.m. for each event. The entry fee is $20 for racers and admission is $5 for spectators. Alcohol is not allowed at the events.

Metro Police sheriff Bill Young lauded the speedway for adding the new program.

"Las Vegas Motor Speedway has been a true community partner with Metro," Young said, "and they continue to step up, spending their time, effort and money to assist us in preventing this serious crime."

"Thursday Night Street Wars" will be March 17, March 31, May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11 and September 15. For more information, call Las Vegas Motor Speedway at 632-8213 or visit www.lvms.com or www.lvmsstrip.com