Phoenix: Pre-race notes, schedule

WHAT: 23rd annual Checker Schuck's Kragen NHRA Nationals presented by Castrol, the second of 23 events in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. Professional competitors in three categories earn points leading to 2007 NHRA POWERade Series world championships. Sportsman competitors in five categories earn points leading to 2007 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series world championships.

WHERE: Firebird International Raceway, Chandler, Ariz. Track is located off Interstate 10 from the north at exit 162A (Maricopa). From the south, take exit 162 (Maricopa). Follow the signs.

WHEN: Friday through Sunday, Feb. 23-35

PURSE: Cash and contingency awards of more than $1.5 million

SCHEDULE:

FRIDAY, Feb. 23
Sportsman qualifying begins at 8 a.m.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFYING SESSIONS at 1:30 and 4 p.m.

SATURDAY, Feb. 24
Sportsman eliminations begin at 7:30 a.m.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFYING SESSIONS at Noon and 2:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, Feb. 25
Pre-race ceremonies, 10 a.m.

FINAL ELIMINATIONS begin at 11 a.m.

TELEVISION:
Sunday, Feb. 25, ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD will telecast one hour of qualifying highlights at Midnight (ET).

Sunday, Feb. 25, ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD will telecast NHRA Race Day at 11 a.m. (ET)

Sunday, Feb. 25, ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD will telecast three hours of final eliminations at 7 p.m. (ET).

2006 WINNERS: Rod Fuller, Top Fuel; Tommy Johnson, Jr., Funny Car; and Warren Johnson, Pro Stock.

TICKETS: For tickets call Firebird International Raceway, (602) 268-0200. Tickets also are available at ticketforce.com.

GENERAL ADMISSION (includes pit pass) - Friday: Adult, $31; Junior (6-12 years), $15. Saturday: Adult, $43, Junior (6-12 years), $15. Sunday: Adult, $47, Junior (6-12 years), $15. Child (5 years-under), admitted free with paying adult in general admission and pit access areas each day.

RESERVED SEATS (includes pit pass) - Friday: Adult, $41-55; Junior (6-12 years), $25; Child (5 years-under), $20. Saturday: Adult, $53-75; Junior (6-12 years), $25; Child (5 years and under), $25. Sunday: Adult, $57-85; Junior (6-12 years), $27; Child (5 years and under), $22.

-credit: nhra