Race week for the biggest Pro Modified event on the planet will get underway in fitting fashion Wednesday night as Drag Illustrated hosts its 20th Anniversary Party and World Series of Pro Mod Kickoff at Yard House Sarasota, just minutes from Bradenton Motorsports Park.
Set for Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m., the celebration serves as both a milestone moment for Drag Illustrated’s two decades in the sport and the official launch of the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, Feb. 26-28 at BMP.
Conveniently located near the track and the hotels housing racers and fans, Yard House has become a familiar hub during Winter Series events, making it a natural setting for the festivities. The evening, powered by Motorsports Travel Services, will included appearances by drivers and industry personalities, Kallee Mills and Billy Banaka’s Pro Mods on display, and a packed house of racers and fans ready to usher in Pro Mod’s biggest weekend.
“We love having parties. Everybody knows that,” said Drag Illustrated’s JT Hudson. “So why wouldn’t we throw one to kick off the biggest Pro Mod race in the world?”
Hudson also reflected on the significance of the milestone anniversary. “Twenty years ago we were just hoping somebody would talk to us. Now we’re 20 years deep in this industry. That means something. That’s loyalty. That’s family.”
Yard House’s Sarasota location — long a favorite hangout for DI staff and racers alike — will also unveil its new beer garden during the event, complementing more than 120 beers on tap, a full bar, and live music.
“And where else would we do it but Yard House? It’s basically Wes [Buck, DI founder and editorial director]’s favorite spot,” Hudson added. “I think we eat every single meal here during the Winter Series. It’s turned into the racers’ place. After a long day at the track, this is where everybody ends up.”
Hudson emphasized the relationship between the venue and the racing community. “This place became our spot. The people who run it and work here became our people. They’ve even come out to the track and help us. That’s real.”
Motorsports Travel Services, presenting sponsor of the party, earned praise for its behind-the-scenes role supporting teams and the DI crew throughout the season.
“When we need rooms, dates changed, last-minute chaos handled, they make it happen every time,” Hudson said. “They’ve been riding with us and that means a lot.”
With racers, fans, and industry leaders all expected to attend, the gathering is positioned as both a reunion and a launchpad — a chance to toast Drag Illustrated’s first 20 years while setting the tone for the high-stakes action to come at Bradenton Motorsports Park.
Event Details
Drag Illustrated 20th Anniversary & WSOPM Kickoff Party
Yard House Sarasota
115 University Town Center Dr.
Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.
This story was originally published on February 25, 2026. 
