"Today is a sad day in the world of NHRA and the sport of drag racing," said Tom Compton, NHRA president. "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."

Parks founded NHRA in 1951, and played a pivotal role in the establishment of an entire industry devoted to the automotive aftermarket parts and accessories.