Eight hardcore race fans will be a part of history Sunday at the zMax Dragway in Concord, North Carolina, September 20, when they will be presented the opportunity to stand behind the starter during the NHRA Carolina Nationals.

"Fans are the backbone of this sport and we felt they needed to be a part of this history-making exhibition," Speedway Motorsports, Inc. president Marcus Smith said. "Those eight lucky fans will definitely have the experience of a lifetime Sunday as they fill 32,000 horsepower at point-blank range at zMAX Dragway."

zMax Dragway and NHRA officials announced earlier this month that modern Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars will race four lanes, four wide for the first time in NHRA history at the Carolinas Nationals this weekend.

Hardcore race fans who want a chance to be up front and center on Sunday can sign up at specially marked booths During Friday and Saturday's events.

Names will be randomly selected and eight lucky fans will be announced during pre-race activities on Sunday morning.

Tickets to the NHRA Carolina Nationals are still available and fans can call the Lowe's Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-800-455-FANS or visit online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

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