By Darr Hawthorne West Coast Editor
Photos by Ron Lewis, Tim Marshall and James Drew

Pomona, California...The cradle of drag racing civilization is near by the Pomona Fairgrounds, where local weekly drags lead to the spectacular  national events of today some sixty years ago,  Pomona Raceway is the sole Southern California survivor of that innocent time and to many, including myself, even though Pomona is used only twice a year, it is hallowed ground.

As the National Hot Rod Association enters the 60th year celebration, the reflection of years past is once again dusted off, pulled out of the vault and the reverence for the our rich history was s rolled out for the season-opening Winternationals.

Going into the 51st Winternationals, it seemed as though it was against all odds, once again the local and national weather reporters were pointing at the SoCal maps indicating a total washout for racing at Pomona.  Friday was a washout.