The earth was shaking in Dos Palos in California’s Central Valley at the 3rd Annual Hot Rod Gathering at Eagle Field. Pre-73 cars from all over the state converged on a dusty 1/8 mile strip at this World War II era airfield. No lights or timing, just a wild flagman and that’s it. According to Speedhunters, it was about as bare bones and old school as drag racing gets.
The selection of cars that ran was varied and eclectic. Willys gassers, super fast altereds, vintage rails, and event organizer Rocky Philip’s double mill dragster. The featured guest for this event was Tom Scradina in his historic gasser Hudson, originally built in the ’60s and raced all over the west. Most were low-fi, home built racers. Even a slew of hopped up mini-bikes raced.
In addition to the races, Eagle Field is home to a museum with an interesting collection of military vehicles including Jeeps, staff cars, tanks and airplanes.
By all accounts this was a laid back affair full of burn outs and vintage speed. It was also an opportunity to see cars run that might not pass tech at a larger event. A great way to spend a fall day in California.
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