Many consider ET bracket racing is the foundation/grassroots of drag racing. It is a drag race where two vehicles race head-to-head in a straight-line for one eighth-mile. Racers line up at the starting line in front of an electronic countdown system known as the Christmas Tree. 

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In ET bracket racing, drivers are handicapped based on their predicted elapsed time, or Dial In time – the estimated time it will take them to complete the race. In a side-by-side race, the car with the slower Dial In time will leave the starting line first.

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As the race begins, electronic timers track the driver’s reaction time and how long it takes to cross the finish line. Top speed is recorded, but it doesn’t impact the outcome of the race.

 

The winner is the first racer to reach the finish line without exceeding their Dial In time. This format makes bracket racing accessible to virtually any vehicle, from full race cars to everyday family vehicles. With good reaction times and consistent driving, anyone has the chance to be a track champion, regardless of their vehicle's speed or financial resources.