The Final Mile High Nationals, outside of Denver, Colorado made history in 2023 and will be remembered as an epic weekend of NHRA drag racing! The event sold out completely and spectators witnessed a new track speed record. It was incredible!
The Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colorado operated for 65 years but sadly 2023 marked the end of the motorsports location. The Bandimere family provided the Front Range area with an amazing drag strip for both locals and national legends, but as they say “All good things must come to an end”.
Let’s not get too down dwelling on the track closing, but instead remember all the good times that were had! I have made some great memories at Bandimere with friends and family and even set some personal records in my 2002 WRX wagon.
Before we jump into the photos, here are the winners from the final Mile High Nats:
- Clay Millican – Top Fuel Winner (3.872 ET @ 299.60 MPH)
- Matt Hagan – Funny Car Winner (4.135 ET @ 304.25 MPH)
- Troy Coughlin Jr. – Pro Stock Winner (6.933 ET @ 196.64 MPH)
- Gaige Herrera – Pro Stock Motorcycle Winner (7.103 ET @ 187.73 MPH)
Top Fuel Dragster Photos
The top fuel class contains the fastest and most aerodynamic machines on the drag strip. These beauties are pumping out upwards of 12,000 horsepower as of 2023 and 2024.
Additionally, attendees witnessed Brittany Force set a new speed record for the track at 337.33 mph!
Check out these photos:
Nitro Funny Car Photos
The funny car class is just as exciting to me as top fuel and features legendary drivers like John Force who are still racing and hitting over 300 mph in his 70s!
You are never too young to do what you love. 👍
Pro Stock Car And Motorcycle Photos
The Pro Stock class at the Mile High Nationals includes cars that can run 6 second ETs at over 200 mph. Furthermore, these puppies crank out over 1,300 hp.
“Pro Stock cars are some of the most technologically advanced machines in drag racing. Built around a sophisticated tube chassis and four-link rear suspension, Pro Stock cars must conform to precise measurements and weigh no less than 2,350 pounds.”
nhra.com
The Pro Stock bikes make passes under 6.8 seconds at over 195 mph. Additionally the class includes both V-Twin and four-cylinder motorcycles.
Mile High Nationals Pits Photos
I spent some time in between sessions walking around the pits and admiring the cars and the teams as they tore down and rebuilt their monster engines before the next pass.
Scenic Track Photos
Built into the side of the hogback ridge in Morrison, Colorado just 5,800 feet above sea level, Bandimere’s main seating sections provided a great view of the track with Denver and the surrounding townships in the background. It really was a special place to race for 65 years.
More Details About The Final NHRA Drag Racing Event In Morrison, Colorado
A great cinematic video put out by NHRA
A full list of race results put out by competitionplus.com
Lastly, Interesting Facts About Bandimere Speedway
- The track hosted over 130 automotive and racing events every year.
- Additionally, Bandimere could hold 28,500 spectators.
- It might be obvious to some, but the quarter-mile drag strip sits at an elevation of 5,800 feet above sea level. Denver is the “Mile High City” and Morrison is just a little west of Denver.
- There have been only 2 NHRA sanctioned tracks to have an all-concrete race surface and 350-foot beyond the finish line. Bandimere was one of those tracks. (before they closed)
- The track contained a special track cooling system under the concrete launch pad. Chilled water runs under the track (a 345 feet long stretch) and connects to two 12,000 gallon tanks underground. As a result, this unique design allows for 20 to 30 degree reductions in surface temps. In other words, cooler temps means more traction.
- The track featured an all fiber-optic setup for the drag racing timing system.
- Firstly, Bandimere Speedway ran an on-site fuel store. Secondly, they had 13 choices of fuel!
- The location was established in 1958 by John Bandimere, Sr.
- The last official event at the track was the 2023 Christmas in color drive through light show.
Read More Articles About Events At Bandimere Speedway
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Founder and Executive Editor for Motor Speed News.
Current Garage:
2002 Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon (302 whp)
2005 Toyota Tundra Limited
1986 Yamaha Virago XV1100
