After completing one of the most dramatic seasons in its history, NHRA and its teams gathered in Hollywood on Monday evening to celebrate. The event, which was held at the Grand Ballroom at the Hollywood & Highland Center, honored the series champions and several specialty awards were handed out. Popular ESPN anchor Dave Rieff emceed the Full Throttle Series portion of the ceremony for the first time, taking over for the retiring Bob Frey.

Three first-time Full Throttle Series championship winners — Antron Brown, Jack Beckman, and Allen Johnson — were among those honored during the banquet, along with three-time champion Eddie Krawiec.

The winner of the $20,000 Automobile Club of Southern California Road to the Future Award was Courtney Force, who raced to one victory in four final rounds. She also claimed two number one qualifying positions, one of which was at the prestigious U.S. Nationals.

Popular NHRA announcer Bob Frey was presented the prestigious Don Prudhomme Award for his many contributions to the sport of NHRA Drag Racing throughout the years. Frey, who recently announced his retirement, received a standing ovation from the crowd when he accepted the award.

Drivers in seven categories in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series also were recognized as 2012 world champions: Jim Whiteley (Top Alcohol Dragster), Frank Manzo (Top Alcohol Funny Car), Bruno Massel (Competition Eliminator), Jimmy DeFrank (Super Stock), Brad Burton (Stock Eliminator), Alan Kenny (Super Comp) and Jeff Lopez (Super Gas).