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| Frank Maratta Honored |
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Written by Randy Fish |
 Recently, your old editor saw fit to honor the late Frank Maratta, founder of Connecticut Dragway, with a 1320 Club Plaque at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. I grew up in East Hartford, Connecticut, and have great memories of Connecticut Dragway from as far back as the early '60s.
Having spent many years as a body shop owner, Maratta was influential in the Northeastern custom car scene, and spearheaded the development and successful operation of Connecticut Dragway, which was located in East Haddam. Actually, I fell in love with this exciting sport the first time I went to Connecticut Dragway, and to me, Frank Maratta was bigger than Walt Disney. Maratta's plaque will be on permanent display among drag racing's greats, along with my other honorees, which include the late Dennis Kutsavage of Enfield, the late "Big" Jim Roberts, and respected journalist John Raffa. I'm proud to recognize some special people who have inspired me throughout my life. Frank Maratta certainly deserves to be honored for his many accomplishments in building and promoting Connecticut Dragway.
Aside from being a successful restauranteur, Frank Maratta Jr. carries on his father's legacy each winter by promoting the annual Frank Maratta's Auto Show in Hartford. When I first attended, it was held in the Connecticut State Armory Building. The entryway always featured a wild custom car on a glittering turn table. And upon entering the show hall, gearheads were greeted with the aroma of fresh popcorn and the sounds of Super-8 drag racing movies being shown in a special viewing area. Some things stick with you for life! Hey Frankie - thanks for being a faithful DRAG RACER subscriber.
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