What does the acronym NHRA stand for?

What does the acronym NHRA stand for? The answer is National Hot Rod Association.

The NHRA is a major sanctioning and governing organization for drag racing in North America. It was founded in 1951 by Wally Parks, an editor of Hot Rod magazine and a former dry-lakes racer. Parks wanted to organize hot-rodding around safety, sportsmanship and fellowship rather than uncontrolled street racing.

The association’s first national event was held in 1955 at Great Bend, Kansas. NHRA later developed a professional national series featuring categories such as Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle. These classes differ in vehicle design, engine technology and performance, but all are built around straight-line acceleration.

A common mix-up is confusing “Hot Rod” with “Hot Rodders.” The official name is National Hot Rod Association, not National Hot Rodders Association. NHRA also publishes National Dragster, its official magazine, and awards national-event winners a trophy commonly nicknamed “The Wally,” honoring its founder.