After years of drag racing experience, I occasionally find events that reignite my passion for the sport. One such occasion was the recent “King of the South” event at Shadyside Dragway over Memorial Day weekend. Arriving at the packed venue, I was struck by the vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a family reunion, with around 5,000 attendees enjoying the camaraderie. The Buff family has maintained this unique charm since 1982, with grandsons Seth and Zach Buff carrying on their grandfather Ronnie’s legacy.

The event featured a packed pit area filled with RVs and tailgaters, creating an overall festive feel. Despite the large crowd, the atmosphere was friendly, with Zach Buff actively engaging with fans, sharing the track’s history and ensuring their comfort. The day was marked by smooth operations, despite some inevitable logistical challenges like full trash cans and long food lines.

On the racing side, the competition was fierce, with notable racers vying for a $75,000 prize. Promoter Corey Stamper successfully blended different racing styles, allowing for thrilling action without excessive downtime. The weekend culminated in an exhilarating final race, with Larry Larson narrowly defeating Lyle Barnett. As I left the event, I was already anticipating next year’s race, eager to be part of the Shadyside family once again.



Source: dragillustrated.com