Quick 8

Quick 8 is a motorsport competition format, most commonly used in drag racing, where the eight fastest cars from qualifying rounds compete against each other in a separate elimination bracket to determine a winner.

In drag racing, drivers first participate in qualifying sessions where they make timed runs down the track. The goal during qualifying is to post the quickest elapsed time possible. Once all qualifying runs are complete, race organizers look at the results and identify the eight cars that recorded the fastest times. These eight vehicles then move forward to compete in what's called the Quick 8.

The Quick 8 format works like a tournament bracket, similar to what you might see in basketball or other sports. The eight qualifiers are paired up based on their qualifying positions, with the fastest qualifier typically racing against the eighth-fastest, the second-fastest against the seventh-fastest, and so on. Winners advance through multiple rounds until only one car remains as the Quick 8 champion.

This format is especially popular in Pro Modified drag racing, which features heavily modified cars with large engines and aerodynamic body styles. However, you'll also find Quick 8 competitions in other drag racing categories, including small tire events and outlaw racing series. Some drag strips host special Quick 8 shootout events as standalone competitions or as featured attractions within larger race weekends.

The appeal of the Quick 8 format lies in its simplicity and excitement. Spectators know they're watching the absolute fastest cars in attendance compete directly against each other. Unlike bracket racing where cars of different speeds can compete using handicap starts, Quick 8 races are typically "heads-up" competitions, meaning both cars start at the same time with no handicaps applied.

Rules for Quick 8 competitions can vary depending on the organizing body or specific event. Some races may have strict technical requirements about engine size, tire width, or vehicle weight. Others might be "run what you brung" style events with minimal restrictions. Prize money and prestige associated with winning a Quick 8 race often make these highly competitive events that attract top-level racers.

If you're attending a drag racing event and hear announcers mention the Quick 8, you'll know that you're about to watch the fastest machines at that particular race compete for bragging rights and often significant prize money. It represents the pinnacle of competition for that specific event or racing category.