Alot about racing it is if it complies with the HNHRA rule book. If it doesn't fit into a certain race class or doesn't get passed tech for saftey, then you may not be able to take it down the track or race it.
It may be very very possible to rent a RV and tow dolly for the car and yourselfs on traveling across the states. Going from Cali. to Vegas is driveable, but I don't think you'll like driving the hot rod in the heat. It can get crazy ot there.