When DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals thunder into Wine Country in late July, the stage will be set for a spectacular weekend on and off the track. With two big events, fans will get the chance to interact with drivers and give back to the local community. Karting For A Cause and the 16th Annual Eric Medlen Nitro Night promise not only heart-pounding fun, but also a heartwarming mission as all proceeds benefit local children and families in need through Speedway Children’s Charities, Sonoma, the charitable arm of Sonoma Raceway. 

 

Karting for a Cause  

Kick off NHRA weekend with a high-speed, adrenaline-fueled morning at California’s most exhilarating kart track at the ever-popular Karting for a Cause. Join NHRA stars, including Top Fuel Drag Racers Justin Ashley, Austin Prock and more to be announced, and feel the thrill of racing against top-notch professional racers while contributing to a great cause. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-time karter, this event is open to all participants ages 13 and up, with no prior karting experience required. 

Event Details 

Date & Time: Thursday, July 25 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 

Location: Sonoma Raceway Karting Center 

Participants: Open to the public ages 13 and up. 

Special Guests: Top Fuel Drag Racers Justin Ashley, Austin Prock and more to be announced at a later date. 

How to Register: Online at SCC Sonoma’s Website 

16th Annual Eric Medlen Nitro Night 

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 16th Annual Eric Medlen Nitro Night held at the luxurious Turn 11 events center at Sonoma Raceway. This event offers an incredible opportunity to mingle with NHRA drivers and feel the energy ignite as the live auction begins. Fans will be able to bid on memorabilia plus one-of-a-kind, signed bottles of wine custom blended by drivers at Three Fat Guys Winery.  The evening also features a delicious BBQ dinner, refreshing drinks, a raffle and indulging in the late Eric Medlen’s favorite delectable, ice cream – about which he always used to say, “No one can be sad eating ice cream.” Tickets are available for individuals and sponsored tables, all donations are tax-deductible. 

Event Details 

Date & Time: Thursday, July 25 from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 

Location: Turn 11 at Sonoma Raceway 

Participants: Open to the public 

Special Guests: NHRA stars to be announced at a later date. 

How to Register: Online at SCC Sonoma’s Website 

Tickets: Starting at $175 per individual, with increasing tiers that can be found here 

“It’s always a pleasure to be able to honor the legacy of Eric Medlen and get our fans out on the karting track,” said Speedway Children’s Charities Sonoma Director, Courtney Kiser. “These events not only allow us to make a difference in children’s lives but also showcases the best parts of this racing community.” 

Weekend passes for three full days of NHRA Drag Racing action, music and entertainment at Sonoma Raceway start at just $155. Single-day tickets are also available for adults starting at just $65 with kids 12 and under for only $25. Visit SonomaRaceway.com for complete details, schedules and ticket information. Call (800) 870-7223 [RACE] for ticket information.