DIALED IN
Dragway 42’s
New Look
Storied Ohio drag strip grows into its upgraded layout
By Van Abernethy
F
or those who fondly remember
the vintage contours of Dragway 42,
you might have difficulty recognizing
the place if you haven’t been there in a
few years following its extensive reno-
vation. Originally constructed in 1957, this
historic quarter-mile facility in West Salem,
Ohio, underwent the equivalent of a “frame-
off ” restoration after new owners Ron and
July 2019
Mary Ann Matcham bought the track from
Jack Ehrmantraut at the conclusion of the 2013
season. “We ran the Hangover Nationals in
January 2014, then shut the track down for
reconstruction,” says Ron Matcham.
The renovations lasted two and a half years,
with the facility reopening in 2017. Even after a
major remodeling there’s several more updates
the Matchams would like to perform in the com-
ing years, although the initial facelift is nothing
short of astounding. Most notably, the racing
surface was redirected to run in the opposite
direction, as an extensive excavation measure
was put in place to remove many tons of dirt.
The track was then positioned in a valley with
high, grassy banks that now frame each side of
the track, making it a spectacular place to enjoy
races from a fan’s perspective.
DragIllustrated.com
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