When, in the summer of 1960, the U.S. Navy prohibits the use of a closed airfield in San Diego for drag races, racing fans organize a protest for August 20.

A crowd of about 3,000 people fills three blocks of El Cajon Boulevard, one of the city’s major thoroughfares. Cars drag race down the boulevard, with just enough room between the crowds.

At 1am, police officers move in to disperse the gathering with tear gas and clubs. A riot ensues. Protestors throw bottles and rocks at the police. Two officers are injured over the next three hours. Over 100 people, including juveniles, are arrested. The next night, drag racers cruise through the city, taunting the police in "motorized tag" and prompting over 100 more arrests.

By 1964, two official drag racing strips will open in San Diego.