If you are planning on competing in the Junior Dragster class this year please be aware of the few significant rule changes that have been implemented for junior competition this season. The first new rule concerns "auto start" and staging. As opposed to previous seasons, "auto-start" will be used in all junior dragster classes. Previously it was not used in the Beginner class. Also, if either car rolls deep after "auto start" has been activated, the competitor accepts the deep staging and will not be pulled back. Pullbacks in the case of complete overstaging will be permitted one time if time permits, but if the auto start system cycles during the pullback the run will stand. If a car deep stages accidentally there will be no pullback.

Another new rule this season concerns licensing and licensing runs. First off, licensing runs will not be made at national events. All licensing passes for either a new license or a license upgrade must be made prior to the national event. San Antonio Raceway and Cordova Dragway Park will host a "test and tune" session Friday night, before the Junior National event, where licensing passes may be made. Also, if you are looking to upgrade your license you must make the required passes. In the past a junior driver could upgrade according to age, but now licensing upgrade passes must be made to upgrade your license.

The 2006 IHRA Rulebook states: "Competitors must make six passes to obtain or upgrade IHRA license (2 launches, 2 half track and 2 full passes within ET range for respective license).

Finally, all Junior Dragster entries must have a mechanical shutoff switch to ground the spark plug located within easy reach of the driver.

For more information on the IHRA Junior Dragster national event series, please see the 2006 IHRA Rulebook and refer to pages 111-115. Three national events are scheduled for the 2006 season:

March 4-5 at San Antonio Raceway

July 8-9 at Cordova Dragway Park

Aug. 12-13 at Maryland International Raceway

If you have any questions regarding licensing or entry, please call Donna Harper at the IHRA office (419) 663-6666.