Drag racing is a dangerous sport, which is why it’s illegal except on tracks. Even on a designated track, there is usually a list of rules, regulations, and barriers designed to keep racers and spectators safe. While the racing is just as intense, being fully strapped into a car with with lots of safety precautions does take a big of the edge away from the sport. No longer are the days of a lap belt and an open strip. 

However one drag strip, George Ray’s Dragstrip, in Paragould, AR takes a step back to the nostalgic days of drag racing.

Theres an old wooden bridge above the starting line and no concrete barrier separating cars from spectators. But there is two layers of fencing. While we aren’t sure on the safety regulations for the driver, having a helmet or pants doesn’t seem to be a concern in the video. 

The video shows a white 1967 Chevelle lining up against a black second gen Camaro. The cars both launch and take off, heading down the strip. The Chevelle is a little loose but manages to keep the car on the track. In the blink of an eye the transmission explodes, locking up the rear wheels and sending the car off the track. The Chevelle’s nose bounces off the fence and he spins back around completing a full 360 degrees. 

The driver hops out unharmed but obviously distraught that his Chevelle blew up and now has a crunched front end. What makes the video crazy is that he hops out in shorts, a t-shirt and no helmet. Even the most basic street drags usually require a helmet. Looking up other videos of George Ray’s, we see other racers wearing helmets so it’s unsure if thats a rule or not. Luckily nobody was harmed, except the drivers pride.