Auto Club Famoso Raceway Bakersfield, CA. October 21-23, 2011 Story and Photographs by: Roger Rohrdanz

Can you believe this was the 20th Annual California Hot Rod Reunion at the Auto Club Famoso Raceway? Where has the time gone? Spectators filled Auto Club Famoso Raceway to enjoy wonderful weather, racing royalty, cool cars, and amazing nostalgia drag racing. Over 300 racers including 20+ Top Fuel Dragsters, and over 40 Funny Cars participated. There was a lot to do aside from racing, with vendors, a big swap meet, lots of good food, and 100’s of cool street rods in the “Famoso Grove”. The “Cacklefest” was spectacular. Over 60 classic Top Fuel dragsters produced a sight and sound like no other. This “Living Museum” was an explosion of hot rods, nostalgia cars, racing, friends, and drag racing legends. "This has been our largest-attended Reunion ever. We are thrilled with the support of the sponsors, spectators and participants.” said Tony Thacker, Executive Director of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. This Reunion brought out some big names in the sport to come play including NHRA President Tom Compton, Auto Club President Thomas K. McKernan, who proudly sponsors and participates in the Reunion every year, and NHRA drivers John Force, Robert Hight, Jack Beckman, Del Worsham and Ron Capps. It was a special treat for fans but for the NHRA pros, the Reunion was their time to enjoy some nostalgia drag racing and meet some of their heroes like Tom McEwen and Don Prudhomme. 

This year’s Grand Marshal was Steve Gibbs. Honorees included Harry Hibler, Wayne King, John Peters, Dwight Salisbury, and the late George Santos.
If you missed it this year, don’t miss the 21st.  Thanks for the Show!!