The sights and sounds of the history of NHRA Drag Racing came to life on the second day of the New England Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA Insurance Saturday at New England Dragway.
Nostalgic quarter-mile drag racing thrilled the fans with two sessions of Top Fuel being the highlight of the day. 2014 Nostalgia Top Fuel champion Tony Bartone claimed the No. 1 qualifier for eliminations with a 5.602-second pass at 235.64 mph. He will face Phil Burkart Jr. in the first round of eliminations on Sunday. Also included today were exhibition runs in Nostalgia Funny Car and Fuel Altered.

The event honorees were featured during the course of the day in numerous events at the track.  Grand marshal Al Segrini, and honorees Walt Merkert, Nick Marshall, Nick Vermilya, Jack Merkel, Charlie Seabrook and Walt Weney took part in an autograph session at the Dynamat Dynamic Legends Lounge located right near the tower. The highlight of the day for the honorees was the Hot Rod Reunion Reception, which paid tribute to the legacy of each honoree and their roots in the area. Also meeting with fans throughout the day was drag racing legend Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen, making his first appearance at New England Dragway in years.
 
Those in attendance were also able to tour the wide-ranging swap meet area and hunt for that unique souvenir or car part to add to their collection. The facility was packed to the brim with classic cars that would thrill any car enthusiast.
 
At the conclusion of the day, the world famous Cacklefest® lit up the sky as numerous fuelers sprang to life in a spectacle only seen at the Hot Rod Reunions. It was a fitting end to a fantastic day of racing and comradery.
 
The final day of action at the New England Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA Insurance continues Sunday with gates opening at 8 a.m. Tickets are $25.