National Trail Raceway kicks off the IHRA Triple Crown, bringing top racers to the Buckeye Lake Region
June 4, 2026

HEBRON, Ohio — As racers begin their pursuit of Triple Crown glory and a potential seven-figure payday, IHRA and the Village of Buckeye Lake will officially kick off race weekend with an exciting Street Party beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday evening ahead of the highly anticipated IHRA Triple Crown event at Darana Raceway.

The free community celebration will bring together fans, racers, and local residents for an evening of race cars, live music, great food, and the scenic atmosphere of Buckeye Lake.

Fans will have the opportunity to meet many of the biggest stars in IHRA drag racing during a driver autograph session from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Attendees can also get up close to the race cars that will compete throughout the weekend while enjoying the restaurants, entertainment, and waterfront views that make Buckeye Lake one of Ohio’s premier destinations.

“This event is about bringing the racers, fans, and community together before the action begins at Darana Raceway,” said Doug Foley Jr., President of Drag Racing Operations for IHRA. “Buckeye Lake provides the perfect setting to showcase our sport while highlighting everything this incredible region has to offer.”

The Mayor of Buckeye Lake has played a significant role in this street celebration and welcoming IHRA to the area, and wanted to add “Welcome, IHRA fans and racers, to the waterfront village of Buckeye Lake, Ohio! I’m Mayor Linda Goodman, and we’re excited to be part of the inaugural Triple Crown event at Darana Raceway Hebron on June 19-20. Join us on June 18 for a special evening of fun in Buckeye Lake and experience where Lake Life meets IHRA!”

The Street Party serves as the official kickoff to the IHRA Triple Crown event, where competitors will begin their pursuit of Triple Crown glory and a potential seven-figure payday. With major incentives and significant bonuses on the line, the weekend promises some of the most exciting racing of the season.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early, meet their favorite drivers, collect autographs, enjoy live entertainment, and experience the excitement of IHRA drag racing before engines fire on Friday.

The IHRA Triple Crown event begins Friday at Darana Raceway and features the nation’s top professional and sportsman racers competing for Triple Crown honors and a shot at a life-changing payday.