In that same year, a small number of Boston-area enthusiasts formed the New England Timing Association (NETA) to promote the sport.

NETA based its organization and rules on those used by the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA), and began hosting drag races on an irregular basis at airports in Newington, New Hampshire; Beverly, Massachusetts; and finally at Sanford, Maine.

Sanford proved to be a popular drag racing venue that drew large spectator crowds and attracted the attention of numerous nationally known racers such as Don Garlits and Art Arfons.

Conflicts with pilots, limited control over the condition of the racing surface, and the lack of permanent facilities made it difficult for volunteer organizations to set and maintain a regular schedule for events.

In an effort to get a national event at the track, New England Dragway switched its sanctioning to the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) in 1992.

On July 11, 1998, World Champion dragster driver Shirley Muldowney was the first racer to top the 300-mph mark at the track when she ran 302.82 mph in match race competition.

Notable inductees include Frank Maratta, founder of the Hartford Autorama Car Shows and builder and promoter of Connecticut Dragway; Chuck Etchells and Al Hofmann, professional funny car drivers from Connecticut; Arnie "Woo Woo" Ginsburg, a radio personality who provided the musical soundtrack for the hot rod cruising culture in the 1950s and 60s; Moroso Performance, provider of aftermarket performance parts, and Marvin Rifchin, founder of the M&H Tire Company that provides specialty tires for drag racing.