The North American Whippet Racing Association was founded in 1988 and has been sponsoring whippet racing longer than any other organization in North America. In 2001, there are 54 whippet racing events scheduled to be offered by thirteen different racing clubs.

NAWRA is organized for the purpose of encouraging and promoting the Whippet in its historic role as a well trained racer competing against other Whippets in organized straight racing events over uniform distance, held on a flat, natural surface; to improve the Whippet breed by encouraging and promoting Whippet racing in the United States and Canada; to issue rules, maintain records, and award Championship certificates to outstanding racing Whippets; and to promote friendship and understanding between Whippet owners and Whippet racing clubs.