The 17th annual Holley National Hot Rod Reunion® presented by AAA Insurance got off to an exciting start today at historic Beech Bend Raceway. The action-packed day featured a diverse array of classic cars, intense side-by-side drag racing, and appearances by legends of the sport. This three-day event pays tribute to the rich history of American car culture and celebrates the passion that launched the hot rod movement.

"It was a fantastic first day," said Larry Fisher, executive director of the NHRA Motorsports Museum. "We couldn't ask for better weather. It's a picture-perfect backdrop for these beautiful cars and super-fast machines."

The gates opened early to welcome the Axalta Show 'N Shine car show participants who are competing for the chance to show their winning rides at the iconic Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis over Labor Day weekend.

The Reunion Road Tour launched from Tennessee early this morning with hot rods, street rods and customs making their way to Bowling Green along the scenic backroads to join fellow gearheads and hot rodders. With thousands of cars on site including more than 400 race cars, it's no wonder why the Holley National Hot Rod Reunion is a destination point for car culture lovers worldwide.

Powerful racing action ignited the senses as drivers in 16 different categories raced side-by-side in two rounds of qualifying. The Nostalgia Top Fuel and Nostalgia Funny Car classes put on a great show for fans as they ran speeds of over 250 mph.

In Nostalgia Top Fuel, current world champion Mendy Fry landed in the provisional No. 1 qualifying position with her run of 5.618-seconds at 234.25 mph. Jeff Arend is currently on top in Nostalgia Funny Car with his pass of 5.830 at 248.80.

The excitement at the Holley National Hot Rod Reunion® presented by AAA Insurance continues Friday and Saturday with gates opening at 8:00 am each day. Tickets may be purchased at the gate. Children 15 and under are free with a paid adult.

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— Competition Plus (@competitionplus) January 4, 2019