American Drag Racing: The Invention of the Christmas Tree
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Discover the origins and impact of the Christmas Tree in American drag racing. Learn how this unique starting system revolutionized motorsports.
In the world of American drag racing, the term "Christmas Tree" doesn't refer to a festive holiday decoration. Instead, it describes the iconic column of lights that signals the start of every drag race, progressing from red to yellow to green. This innovation has played a crucial role in modern motorsports.
The Birth of the NHRA and Organized Drag Racing
In 1951, Wally Parks, the editor of Hot Rod magazine, founded the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) with a mission to promote safety, sportsmanship, and structured competition for drag racers—many of whom were self-proclaimed "hot-rodders." Before the NHRA, drag racing was often an illegal activity, conducted on empty roads by enthusiasts eager to test their modified cars.
The Challenge of Fair Race Starts
Before the Christmas Tree, races were started manually by a flagger, who signaled the start with a flag. However, this method was inconsistent and often led to disputes, as drivers complained that they weren’t fully prepared when the flag dropped. A solution was needed to ensure fair and precise race starts.
The Introduction of the Christmas Tree
In the early 1960s, NHRA Eastern Division Director Ed Eaton collaborated with electronics technician Lew Bond to develop an automated system: the Countdown Starter, later known as the Christmas Tree. Officially debuting at the 1963 U.S. Nationals, the system featured a vertical pylon with a sequence of amber, green, and red lights that illuminated in a predictable manner.
How the Christmas Tree Works
The Christmas Tree consists of a set of vertically arranged lights on each lane:
- Amber lights signal the start sequence, allowing drivers to prepare.
- Green indicates the start of the race.
- Red signals a false start.
This innovation eliminated human error, ensured equal starts, and significantly improved the fairness of drag racing.
Evolution of the Christmas Tree
Over the years, the Christmas Tree has undergone modifications, including adjustments to the light sequence timing and automation improvements. Today, it remains a crucial component of professional and amateur drag racing, ensuring consistent and competitive starts.
A Lasting Legacy in Motorsports
The Christmas Tree revolutionized drag racing, making it a more structured and respected motorsport. Whether at a professional NHRA event or a local drag strip, this innovative starting system continues to play a vital role in the sport, proving that sometimes, the simplest ideas make the biggest impact.
Next time you're at the drag strip, take a moment to appreciate the Christmas Tree—an invention that changed motorsports forever.
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