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Exciting Announcement: Sox & Martin and McCandless Collection to Sponsor 2024 NHRA Hemi Challenge

We are thrilled to announce that Sox & Martin, alongside the McCandless Collection, will be proudly sponsoring the 2024 Hemi Challenge at the 70th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals. This prestigious event, held at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, is the world’s most significant drag race and will take place from August 28 to September 2. The Hemi Challenge holds a special place in NHRA history as the longest-running continuous specialty race, captivating fans for over twenty years. This event showcases thrilling heads-up, wheel-standing, side-by-side racing featuring Hemi-powered ’68 Super Stock Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas. These “Hemi Package Cars,” created specifically for Super Stock competition, have been integral to drag racing for more than five decades, establishing the Sox & Martin legacy. The Sox & Martin Hemi Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection aims to elevate this celebrated event with a stronger emphasis on social media and marketing, bringing greater recognition to the dedicated SS/AH racers and their incredible Hemi-powered machines.

A Legacy of Excellence

Buddy Martin, a Mopar legend, expressed his excitement about the sponsorship:
“I’m thrilled to have the Sox & Martin brand sponsor the Hemi Challenge at the 2024 NHRA U.S. Nationals, especially during the 60th anniversary of the 426 Hemi engine. Ronnie [Sox] won numerous races and championships with Hemi-powered Plymouth race cars starting in 1965. To be a part of this monumental event is a great honor.”
Buddy Martin will serve as the Grand Marshal and Honorary Starter, while Herb McCandless will be in the pits and the tower, engaging with racers and fans. McCandless, a Mopar icon, reminisced about the impact Sox & Martin had on his career:
“If it wasn’t for Sox & Martin, there’d be no Hemi Challenge, no McCandless Collection, or even a Herb McCandless. The Hemi Challenge is an event I eagerly anticipate each year.”

Honoring a Historic Engine

Mike McCandless, founder and CEO of the McCandless Collection, shared his perspective on the event:

“Thanks to NHRA, my father made a career in drag racing and the motorsports parts industry. Sponsoring this event, especially during the 60th anniversary of the 426 Hemi, is a fantastic way to give back and honor the legacy of this iconic engine.”

The Sox & Martin NHRA Hemi Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection is set for Friday, August 30, at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Open to all NHRA SS/AH competitors, this event requires one Grade Point from a NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event or National Open before entering. SS/AH racers are encouraged to submit their entries by Friday, August 23.

Join Us for the Big Go

Brad Gerber, NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer, expressed his enthusiasm:

“The Hemi Challenge has always been a highlight of the U.S. Nationals weekend. Having Sox & Martin and the McCandless Collection involved makes it even more special. These names are iconic in our sport and perfect ambassadors for the Hemi and Mopar brands.”

Fans can purchase tickets to the 70th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals at NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will receive free general-admission with a paid adult.

We look forward to seeing you at this monumental event, celebrating the rich history and exciting future of Hemi-powered drag racing!

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