Story and Photos Mashie Mihalko

The 22nd Nostalgia Nationals was held at historic Beaver Springs Dragway which is located midway between Lewistown and Selinsgrove, PA. This three day event began with a test and tune session on Friday. Saturday’s schedule started with two time shots before eliminations among the nostalgia racing groups attending. NEATO, MANDRA, East Coast Gassers, and the Backseat Drivers competed in their respective Eliminators.

A Gamblers Race plus test and tune vehicles were also incorporated during the elimination rounds contested. The spectators made sure they were in the stands to view the Funny Car Match Race. The 1977 Mustang II “Frantic Ford” ran against the 1970 “Super Camaro” driven by Joey Pirrone.

The alcohol fueled funny cars made two passes to the delight of the nostalgia drag racing fans. Pirrone won both rounds defeating Drew Sweetman piloting the “Frantic Ford“Mustang.

           

Sunday’s Show had a different lineup with Stock/Super Stock, Modified Production, and Competition Eliminator being added to the run schedule. Three of the nostalgia groups stayed over to compete in another day of racing.

A “wheelie” and backup person contest was also part of Sunday’s program. The car show participants enjoyed another day of displaying their prized vehicles. The three days of racing and other activities enjoyed plenty of sunshine and no rain which hasn’t happened in many weeks.

Hopefully when the Nostalgia Nationals are held in 2026 Mother Nature will bring similar weather conditions.