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Famoso Dragstrip YES Program!

Updated: 2 days ago



Join us for our first YES Program put on by NHRA at Famoso Dragstrip on February 27th, 2026!



Who: All students welcome. S.T.E.M. Classes Encouraged!


What: NHRA YES Program The NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) YES (Youth & Education Services) Program can show your students a new perspective on S.T.E.M. by taking what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real world experiences. These programs open student’s eyes to the possibilities of what is available to them. They cannot get this kind of experience in the classroom behind textbooks or a lecture. Enjoy a thought-provoking presentation from business, racing, and educational professionals, interactive vendors, and a FREE NHRA drag racing race ticket to all YES participants.


When: Friday, February 27th, 2026


Where: Famoso Dragstrip - 33559 Famoso Rd, McFarland, CA 93250


Why: This is a FREE program that focuses on the importance of goals and continued education; additionally, it allows students to learn about and explore various career opportunities. The NHRA Youth & Education Services Department was founded in 1989 and is the only full-time education program in motorsports that provides quality programs and activities for schools and youth organizations nationwide.


How to Register: Simply Register at www.nhra.com/virtualyesprogram


John Baadilla

Director, National Event Marketing Operations

National Hot Rod Association

Email: jbaadilla@nhra.com

Cell: (562) 455-9142 (PST)


Date: Friday February 27, 2026

 

Timeframe: 10:00 AM-1:00 p.m. (Structured Elements) & 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM (Ontrack Test & Tune On-Track Racing)

 

Location: Famoso Dragstrip (33559 Famoso Rd, McFarland, CA 93250)

 

Event Details: 

 

8:30 AM- 9:00 AM - Students Arrive (Enter Gate 2 and Check In) All in attendance are provided with a wristband to attend “Match Race Madness” Event (February 27th- 28th).

 

Students will be able to visit the YES Program Interactive Midway located inside “The Grove” area of Famoso Dragstrip to view various Race Cars on Display and various interactive displays to learn about career opportunities.  Prior to being directed over to Grandstand 1 for the opening of the program

 

9:00 AM- 10:00 AM – Opening Introduction from Tim Huddleston of Famoso Dragstrip  Followed by guest speakers including NHRA Racing Drivers, YES Program Partners, & Famoso Raceway Partners.  This Panel Presentation will feature key speakers taking turns highlighting their roles within the industry and discussing career opportunities as well as STEM in Drag Racing.  In addition, several High School Program Student Racers will speak Showcasing the Summit High School Program and how interested students can take part in the program. Lastly a “Drag Racing 101” discussion. 

 

10:00 AM- 5:00 PM Test & Tune for Match Race Madness Cars running on Track. Students can watch these exciting cars make runs from the grandstands.

 

10:00 AM- 12:00 PM Free Exploration of the active pits will be open for students to see the NHRA Race Cars up close as well as interact with drivers and race teams. They will see and learn about cars and the NHRA industry. The YES Program Midway located in the Grove will also remain open with Displays with Tables and booths for students to engage with participating organizations that are displaying to learn about career opportunities in the Automotive Industry and various trades.

 

Lunch: Food Vendors and Concession Stands will be open to attendees so they can purchase lunch, snacks, and beverages. Also, Schools have the option to bring their own Lunches, beverages, and snacks to the event for the day.

 

12:00 PM- 12:30 PM Students will be brought back into the grandstands to watch the Cacklefest. 

 

12:30 PM- 1:00 PM Students will then make their way over to see a Burnout Box Demonstration (Located across from the Grove)

 

1:00 PM Closing Remarks: Students will be invited to enjoy the rest of the day at the track.  Including watching on track racing that will continue until 5:00 PM as well as enjoy interacting with teams in the Pit Area.

 

Students will be advised that they can use their wristbands to come back the following day on Saturday February 28th 2026 for day 2 of Match Race Madness at Famoso Dragstrip. 

 

Some schools may begin to load back on the busses to head back to the schools.  While other schools may stay for various lengths of time based on their own school’s dismissal schedules and policies. 







 
 
 
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