Vintage Drag Racing

RPM Nationals: A journey back in time with the world of vintage drag racing. Deep in history and nostalgia, this iconic event brings together a stunning array of hotrods. RPM Nationals is more than just a race; it's a tribute to the craftsmanship, dedication, and passion that went into creating these iconic automotive works of art that keep the spirit of old-school horsepower alive and well.

Now in its seventh year, RPM Nationals continues the magic of drag racing on the vintage airstrip at the Santa Margarita Ranch, nestled in the scenic southern part of the Central California coast. Just a mere 30-minute drive from the picturesque town of Morro Bay, this event is a hidden gem for automotive enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

At RPM Nationals Flathead Drags, the competition is fierce; with six distinct race classes, there's something for everyone:

4 Cylinder Street - licensed and street legal.
4 Cylinder Modified - featuring blowers and overhead conversions.
4 Cylinder Full Race - where anything goes.
V8 Street - licensed and street legal.
V8 Modified - boasting blowers and overhead conversions.
V8 Full Race - where the rules are minimal, and anything goes.

But that's not all. RPM Nationals takes authenticity seriously, ensuring that participating cars maintain the appearance and essence of the early days of drag racing. And with a flag start, it's a nod to the past that adds nostalgia to this remarkable event.

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RPM Nationals: Stories from the pit

Events like RPM Nationals play a pivotal role in preserving the legacy of these iconic hotrods, and this year's turnout demonstrates that their efforts are nothing short of spectacular. Enthusiasts and participants converge from all corners of the globe to be part of this extraordinary event. Among them, a remarkable group from Canada drew attention with their meticulously crafted flathead nitro dragster.

Owned by Davis Finch, this dragster is a labor of love. Davis hand-formed every body panel, and with the custom frame, this race car is a testament to his craftsmanship. The nitro-powered flathead engine built by Dale Finch unleashes a wicked symphony of power. Although this year marked the debut of their newly built dragster at RPM Nationals, this team is no stranger to the drag racing scene.

On its RPM Nationals maiden run, the car performed admirably. Still, like any mechanical marvel, it faced its share of challenges. A clutch issue emerged, prompting Davis, his crew, and a handful of friends to act. With remarkable teamwork, eight individuals formed an assembly line. Four carefully removed the engine, passing it to the waiting hands of the other four, who swiftly addressed the necessary adjustments before reinstallation. This spirit of camaraderie and dedication defines the heart of RPM Nationals.

With their history of building exceptional cars, we eagerly anticipate seeing this Canadian team return to the RPM Nationals in the future.

Davis Finch

Nitro Flathead Dragster

Davis's dragster, known as 'The Nitro Agenda,' was just one of the remarkable contenders in the full-race class at RPM Nationals. However, another gem that has been turning heads for the past couple of years at RPM Nationals is a '23 Model T. Painted in vibrant yellow, this car stands out from the crowd, but it's not just the intriguing color. What truly piqued my curiosity were the ELCO twin heads, sporting an astonishing 16 spark plugs—an uncommon sight for sure.

The proud owner of this unique machine that was originally built in the 40s is Tom Mchenry, who got the car from his dad, Tim, about 3-4 years ago. Tim, having been away from the car scene for some time, had acquired the Model T around 6-7 years ago and dreamed of working on it with his son. The car boasts an original Model T body and a shortened Model A frame; the hotrod was originally crafted for dirt track racing. In excellent condition upon acquisition, it sported a white paint job with a red front. However, Tom painted the car the attention-grabbing yellow racer it is today and installed new carbs, pipes, and seat; Tom also relocated the gas tank to gain more room inside the cab.

Tim's automotive expertise runs deep, with a history of repairing, building and restoring cars since he was sixteen. He even worked as a mechanic for the owner of one of the largest private car collections in the U.S., Linley Bothwell, at the Bothwell Ranch in Woodland Hills. There, Tom, the current owner of the '23 T, grew up and developed his own fascination with cars.

Unfortunately, health issues have sidelined Tim, preventing him from working on the car, and that’s when Tom stepped in, taking the reins of the Model T and deciding to showcase it at RPM Nationals after discovering the event online. Since owning the car, Tom has taken it to RPM Barona Drags and TROG Flabob Drags in Riverside, keeping the spirit of the '23 Model T alive in the racing scene.

Ford Model T Roadster

ELCO Twin Heads

RPM Nationals saw the debut of numerous first-time race cars taking to the track over the weekend. Among them, one standout was John Fuller, the proud owner of a 1927 Ford Model T Roadster. John's journey to RPM Nationals began when he stumbled upon an article about the event, promptly adding it to his bucket list. While many of us casually toss around the term 'bucket list,' John was relentless that he would not miss the opportunity to race at RPM Nationals.

At 82, John achieved an impressive feat by winning five out of the first six races he entered. However, he encountered some engine issues, which he tirelessly attempted to resolve. Unfortunately, those challenges prevented him from reaching the finals. Nevertheless, John's Model T Roadster, painted in a vibrant orange, with exhaust pipes crossing the doors, caught the eye of many.

John's Model T story is not just about racing; it's a testament to his love of the hotrod culture. He initially placed the Model T body on a Model A frame. Then, he sought the expertise of world-famous track car builder Marty Strode. Under Marty's guidance, the car underwent a transformation, installing the body on a Marty Strode custom-built frame. John put in the Flathead engine, wired the car, and applied the finishing touches with a fresh coat of paint. The result was a machine built for racing.

John's passion for cars dates back to his teenage years when he acquired his first T Roadster, fitting it with an Oldsmobile engine. Over the years, he raced 240Zs and found immense joy in racing the speedsters.

The Model T Roadster is just one gem in John's collection. He also owns a 1934 Ford Truck, a stunning black 1950 Mercury, a Henry J, and a 240Z that has seen its share of racing action. Adding a unique touch to the Model T, the words 'Fullers Coffee Shop' adorn its hood—a nod to John's role as the proprietor of a local hotspot in Portland, Oregon. Established in 1947 by John's father, this iconic coffee shop has graced television and movie screens, becoming a beloved gathering place for hot rodders and locals alike.

Despite his remarkable journey and accomplishments, John Fuller maintains a humble outlook. When asked about his experiences, John simply expresses gratitude for being here today. Just two years ago, during a flight from Oregon to California for Hot August Nights, John faced a life-threatening moment in mid-flight. Today, he stands before me, sharing his incredible story. I can wholeheartedly attest that John Fuller is indeed a remarkable individual.

John Fuller

'27 Ford Model T for the win

RPM Nationals: A tradition of passion

RPM Nationals isn't solely about those attending for the first or second time; it holds a special place in the hearts of participants who return year after year. For these loyal attendees, the event transcends mere competition; a tradition, a reunion, and a celebration of passion fuels this gathering. Their commitment ensures that RPM Nationals' legacy remains a living tribute to the golden age of hotrods, where friendships are forged on the track.

RPM Nationals continues to captivate every year. It's a spectacular hotrod drag racing event and a celebration of classic cars in the ever-expanding car show area on both sides of the track behind the starting line alongside some of the pit cars. The car show keeps growing in size and quality.

One of the unique aspects of RPM Nationals is the accessibility of the pits, allowing spectators to get up close, chat with owners and builders, and truly immerse themselves in the world of these racing marvels. Plus, with food trucks, a swap meet, convenient bathrooms, and ample parking, every need is well catered to.

For those planning to attend, consider arriving on Friday and check out the cruise and get-together in downtown Santa Margarita, setting the stage for a fantastic weekend. There are nearby towns like Atascadero and San Luis Obispo, just a 25-30 minute drive from the Ranch, where you can get a hotel, or if you are a participant, you can bring a motorhome or pitch a tent at the Ranch. To extend the enjoyment, turn it into a three-day weekend and venture over to Morrow Bay on Sunday, just a scenic 30-minute drive away.

Picturesque Santa Margarita Ranch

RPM Nationals is undeniably an event worthy of your bucket list or an annual tradition. Whether you attend as a spectator or a participant, rest assured you're in for a fantastic time.

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