Discover the full-throttle legacy of Lions Drag Strip—Southern California’s most iconic drag racing venue—in Lions Drag Strip: 1955–1972. Born from a collaboration between hot rod pioneers and civic leaders to curb illegal street racing, Lions opened in Wilmington, California, in 1955 and quickly became the heart of quarter-mile action. Under the leadership of Mickey Thompson, “the Beach” introduced innovations like staging lights and night racing, drawing record crowds. Legends including Don Garlits, Tom McEwen, and Evel Knievel made history here in explosive match races and wild exhibitions. Though it closed in 1972, Lions’ legacy roars on. Author and Lions Automobilia Foundation Museum volunteer Lou Hart delivers a vivid, year-by-year tribute filled with rare photos and firsthand stories in this essential chronicle of American drag racing’s golden era.