The legendary California Hot Rod Reunion kicks off this weekend at Famoso Dragstrip, and the action just got even more intense thanks to Automotive Racing Products (ARP). The industry-leading fastener manufacturer is stepping up once again to support grassroots nostalgia drag racing, announcing a bonus program for competitors at the Bakersfield event.ARP is putting serious cash on the line for the winners in the quickest classes. A $1,000 bonus awaits the champions in Top Fuel, Nitro Funny Car, and the wild AA/Fuel Altereds. To sweeten the pot even further, ARP will award a $250 bonus to every single Eliminator Class Winner throughout the weekend. It’s a huge boost for the sportsman racers who form the backbone of the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series.

But the bonuses don’t stop there. ARP is also recognizing dedication and showmanship with three unique $250 awards. One will go to the Sportsman competitor with the Longest Tow to the event – a nod to the hardcore racers who travel cross-country for this race. The other two $250 bonuses will reward the drivers who pull off the Longest Gasser Wheelstand in both the D/Gas and Hot Rod classes during eliminations. To qualify for any of the ARP bonuses, racers just need to make sure they display the ARP Special Event Participant Sticker on their car throughout the weekend.ARP’s Robert Florine emphasized the company’s dedication, stating, “ARP has always stood behind sportsman racing. The Hot Rod Reunion is the perfect finale for the Heritage Series, and we’re proud to help challenge the best of the best.” Darr Hawthorne of BANGshift.com added to the excitement, noting, “2025 has been incredibly competitive in the Hot Rod Heritage Series, in all classes. I can’t wait to hand out those big ARP checks after qualifying and eliminations wrap up!”

With extra money and bragging rights on the line thanks to ARP, the competition at this year’s California Hot Rod Reunion is sure to be fiercer than ever. It’s the perfect way to cap off the nostalgia drag racing season.