As Rocky Mountain Race Week enters its fifth day, the excitement and adrenaline among racers and fans alike show no signs of stopping. Today’s destination: Mo-Kan Dragway, nestled on the border between Kansas and Missouri. This leg of the journey promises both challenges on the track and scenic beauty off it as racers cover ground from Thunder Valley Raceway Park to this historic venue.
Mo-Kan Dragway, renowned for its rich history and enthusiastic crowds, provides the perfect backdrop for the next track of this grueling yet exhilarating race week. The drive itself offers racers a chance to plan out their final average day as they traverse through picturesque landscapes, crossing state lines and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with this unique road trip.
For those unfamiliar with Rocky Mountain Race Week, it’s more than just a series of drag races—it’s a test of endurance and skill. Participants aren’t just competing against each other; they’re battling the elements, the road conditions, and the mechanical challenges that inevitably arise during such a demanding event. Each day brings new hurdles, both literal and figurative, yet the spirit of competition and the shared passion for speed and performance keep everyone pushing forward.
At Mo-Kan Dragway, racers will have the opportunity to make one last pass that counts towards their average for the week. This means that competitors are determined to run a number that bumps them up to either the top or at least a few spots in the class.
I got to talk with Carl, the track owner, quite a bit as racing was going on. He mentioned that the track had been open since 1962, and he had been the owner since 1999. He also mentioned that the starter had been the starter there for 48 years!
Rocky Mountain Race Week isn’t just a race—it’s a journey and the chance to dive deeper into the world of drag racing. And as day five draws to a close at Mo-Kan Dragway, it’s clear that the racers are not ready for this week to be over.
Tomorrow we drive from Mo-Kan back to Tulsa. Stay tuned for overall results, along with a pretty special galley of the “Faces of Race Week.”
This story was originally published on June 29, 2024. 
