Ohio Drag Strip Introduces High School Class For Speed-Loving Teen Drivers

Apr. 06, 2023 9:40 AM ET by Jarryd Neves Motorsport / 5 Comments

Young gearheads can now satisfy their desire to drive fast without endangering themselves or other road users.

Edgewater Sports Park in Ohio has introduced a new drag racing performance class aimed at providing car-loving teens with a safe and exciting outlet for their speed cravings.

The high school class, limited to teens attending high school in 2023, is a great addition to the roster, and will undoubtedly keep young drivers from speeding on public roads, endangering themselves and other road users. There are some ground rules that interested teen drivers need to follow if they want to partake.

Firstly, cars that cross the quarter-mile in 11.60 seconds or faster are not permitted, and vehicles that are faster than 13.99 require the driver to use a Snell-certified helmet from 2015 or newer. Of course, a valid driver's license is also required; temporary permits will not be accepted.

Edgewater Sports Park

Participating vehicles can only compete with DOT-certified street tires, and while the rules don't prohibit modifications, the regulations do state that things like nitrous, trans brakes, throttle stops, and delay boxes are not permitted. No reason is given, but this is most likely to ensure that things don't get too competitive in a class filled with novice drivers. After all, it's about fun.

Lastly, the car number and time need to be displayed on the side window, and neither the car nor the driver can enter other classes. Based on the picture, kids will roll up in whatever they can get their hands on, be it an older Ford Mustang or their mom's Chevy Impala.

This is a great idea, as it shows young drivers that they can have fun behind the wheel without taking to the street and indulging in illegal activities.

Hoonigan/YouTube

Street racing is a big problem in America, and in many cities, wannabe Fast and Furious cast members take to public roads, pulling off ridiculous stunts and racing at excessive speeds. To counter this, some states have introduced a zero-tolerance approach, with lawbreakers at risk of losing their vehicles if caught.

While this has worked to some extent, some motorists - even young, inexperienced ones - still think they are above the law. Recently, a 17-year-old driver was caught doing 108 mph in a 40 mph zone and even tried to escape police when they gave pursuit.

Initiatives like the new high school class at Edgewater Sports Park will let youngsters experience the thrill of speed without crossing any legal boundaries. We'd have loved to see something like this when we were in high school, and hope it spreads across the country.