Import Face-Off 2012: The Strip

October 28, 2012

Royal Purple Raceway, Baytown, TX

This would be our first time attending an Import Face-Off . We got there fashionably late, which meant the race has already started, and most of the games and events were about to wrap up; although awarding would happen later on that day.

Without any delays we immediately started snapping. First up would be the drag strip. I believe the qualifying round was already going on when we arrived. Cars were lining up to get their shot at getting the fastest quarter mile. There was a good variety of cars in the line-up.

A mass of people were gathered around the starting area, and some standing as close as a foot away from cars burning out. Although majority of the spectators were on the stands, enjoying the comfort of the bleachers and the cool breeze, getting up close was the best way to experience the mean machines.

Some cars had insanely loud engines that create eardrum-breaking noises (or music, if significantly toned down). Unfortunately, all the photos could capture is the copious amount of smoke.

This guy, right here, sprays water onto the tarmac so the drivers can warm their car's tires. Seems like a fun job.

There were a couple of bikes in the race - some very scary machines. 

These two Corollas ran pretty impressive times. I'm guessing rotary-powered. Looking good and clean on the outside is a bonus.

There were a couple of first-generation RX-7's in attendance, including this Savanna RX-7 waiting for its turn.

The view from the stands was gorgeous, with the sun glaring over the drag strip that was wrapped in blue. The weather was beautiful, and equally as cooperative to the cars racing.

Before the final runs, there was a burn-out contest. This zombie truck took the first place.

We left the strip right before the finals was about to start. So on our way back to the parking lot, all we could do was listen to the madly roaring engines - completely out of sight.

Photos from the car show will be posted up on a separate entry. There will be two classic Japanese imports featured, so keep an eye out for it.