Heat is on and off the track at NHRA US Nationals BROWNSBURG, Ind. (WISH) — Drivers and race fans braved the hottest day so far this year on Friday at Indianapolis Raceway Park for the start of the National Hot Rod Association’s U.S. Nationals. “This is our biggest race; this is our Ind y 500. This is our Daytona 500,” said Krista Baldwin of Krista Baldwin Racing. NHRA racers and fans prepared for the high-octane action and the full experience the U.S. Nationals offers. “The sights, the sounds, the smells. If you’ve never been to an NHRA drag race, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. I promise you,” said Jordan Vandergriff of John Force Racing. “I love the heavy shootout. I love the funny cars. It’s just a great time,” said longtime racing fan John Wright. Every year, the NHRA Nationals gives fans a chance to meet drivers and see the 12,000-horsepower hot rods up close. “It’s going to be an experience you never forget,” Vandergriff said. “Kids 12 and under get in free. Every ticket is a Pit Pass. So, if you don’t make it out here, I don’t know what you’re doing.” In the heat of competition, drivers and fans dealt with scorching temperatures on and off the track. Temperatures reached the upper 90s Friday at the park. “The racetrack is so hot, we have to tune, like almost detune these race cars in order for us to get down the racetrack,” Baldwin said. “It’s gonna be a tough one.” “The heat is a little bit much, but we’re going to take it,” Wright said. Racers and fans say they are trying to stay hydrated and use shaded areas to keep cool. With the heat expected to last all weekend, many plan to face the weather so they do not miss the biggest race of the year. “Everybody ought to come out. I know it’s hot, but it’s a great time,” Wright said. “When I go ahead and put on my 30 pounds worth of gear, believe me, I’m sweating a lot,” Baldwin said. “But the second that car starts up, everything goes away, and you’re laser-focused on that racecar.” NHRA U.S. Nationals continues through the weekend, with final races Monday, Sept. 7. More information and the complete schedule are available online. ...read more read less