On May 23, the first stage of the Khabarovsk Krai Drag Racing Cup, "Drag Kalinka 2026," took place at the Kalinka Airfield in Khabarovsk. The competition, which has been held for over 17 years, once again confirmed its status as one of the most exciting and spectacular sporting events in the Far East.
Pilots from three regions competed for the main trophy: Khabarovsk Krai, Primorsky Krai, and Amur Oblast. Athletes from Primorsky Krai traditionally demonstrated a high level of training, and their participation significantly increased the overall intensity of the competition.
The competition was held in several categories, with cars ranked based on their time completing the classic 402-meter distance:
• SL 14+ — cars slower than 14.00 seconds;
• SL 13 — from 13.00 to 13.99 seconds;
• SL 12 — from 12.00 to 12.99 seconds;
• FS 11 — from 11.00 to 11.99 seconds;
• FS 10 — from 10.00 to 10.99 seconds;
• FS 9.5 — from 9.50 to 9.99 seconds;
• UNLIM — the most powerful and fastest class for cars that cover the 402-meter distance in under 9.50 seconds.
In the UNLIM category, Primorye racer and FQ team driver Konstantin Katynkin took a convincing victory at the wheel of his legendary Nissan Skyline GTR. With approximately 1,200 horsepower, the car demonstrated phenomenal dynamics and flawless performance on the track, leaving no chance for its competitors.
Over the years, the level of organization at Drag Kalinka has improved significantly: a new traffic light system for precise starts, a modern timing system, equipped spectator stands, an LCD screen with up-to-date results, and an online broadcast, allowing those unable to attend in person to follow the events.
As organizers and experienced drivers point out, victory in drag racing depends on more than just purchasing an expensive, powerful car. Even the most advanced car requires skillful control: it's important to sense the starting moment and avoid false starts and breakouts. Interestingly, in some classes, it's not the most powerful cars that lead, but rather the lighter ones. For example, the Honda Accord and Honda Integra Type R, with naturally aspirated, high-revving engines, successfully compete with heavy turbocharged engines, proving that success is a combination of sound technical preparation and high driver skill.
You can watch the championship broadcast at this
link.
Congratulations to the winners and participants on a brilliant start to the season! We look forward to new records at the next stages of Drag Kalinka 2026!