RIP Wally Parks

[ViperJeff]

NHRA founder Wally Parks, 1913-2007;
patriarch of drag racing dies at age 94 ​

Wally Parks, the driving force behind the formation of NHRA, has died at the age of 94. It was Parks’ vision, goals and unconditional commitment to the need for speed and side-by-side racing in a safer, more controlled environment that created what is today the world's largest motorsports governing body. "Today is a sad day in the world of NHRA and the sport of drag racing," said Tom Compton, president of NHRA. "Words simply can't describe the immeasurable impact Wally has had on the sport he created and the millions of people's lives he touched along the way. The name Wally Parks is synonymous with drag racing, and his vision and direction will guide NHRA for years to come. Everyone in drag racing, and the industries formed to service the sport, will forever be indebted to Wally, his vision, his focus and his desire to create, build and grow NHRA."

http://www.nhra.com/

 

[belgiumbarry]

it's a blessing for a racer to die at 94 ! :rock: RIP :rock:

 

[Prof]

I worked closely with Wally Parks for several years in the late 70's. I was the director of Media for the US Army Recruiting Command at Ft. Sheridan, IL. I had responsibility for Don "The Snake" Prudhomme, the Silver Eagles, a snowmobile racing team, and the Golden Knights when they performed at NHRA races.

Wally was a great patriot, and bent over backwards to make it possible for us to get Prudhomme, and the Golden Knights in contact with as many young people as possible for recruiting purposes.

RIP Wally, you gave most of us more thrills than we had a right to expect!

 

[mopower1958]

If not for Wally Parks, drag racing would not be as popular as it is today. He did a great job. Our prayers go out to his family.

 

[Django]

I just saw this............. This guy is a legend......

R.I.P. Wal'...................................

D

 

[Begood]

Very sad news, but he did live a long and fruitful life.

Bill.