Since 1968, the Hemi-powered factory Dodge Dart and Chrysler Barracuda behemoths have pounded the Lucas Oil Raceway quarter mile in Indianapolis in heads-up class eliminations battles, and over the last 10 years, this epic annual bout has become one of the feature attractions of the most prestigious drag race in the world, thanks to the support of Mopar and their backing of the Hemi Challenge.

And this year, Mopar has once again renewed its agreement with the NHRA to sponsor the 11th annual Mopar Hemi Challenge, to be held during Friday’s class eliminations at the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil, Aug. 31-Sept. 5 at the Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis.

The iconic Super Stock A/Hemi (SS/AH) machines will compete in a heads-up shootout for the record winners purse of $15,000 this year, with a total payout of $18,000 being offered at this popular race-within-a-race.

“We are excited to have the Mopar Hemi Challenge event return as part of the tradition-rich Mac Tools U.S. Nationals,” said Eric Lotz, NHRA director of field marketing and contingency program. “It has become an important part of the event and a must-see for all Sportsman racing enthusiasts. The increased purse from Mopar will add even more excitement to the competition.”

Jim Daniels is the defending winner of the Mopar Hemi Challenge, and is expected to receive plenty of competition from the likes of three-time winner Charlie Westcott Jr., inaugural winner Bucky Hess, Jim Pancake, David Barton, Tyler Hard, Wendell Howes, and a host of others.

“Grassroots racers who compete in the Mopar Hemi Challenge are the foundation of drag racing and the reason why Mopar is involved in the NHRA,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts, and customer-care brand. “These enthusiast drivers spend a great deal of time and money preparing their Mopar Hemi-powered race cars for battle and purchase many Mopar parts from their local Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or Ram dealerships. They have a passion for the Mopar brand that reflects positively throughout the drag racing world. This is why we recognize this passion supporting the Hemi Challenge.”