[Chad Rhodes]

Originally Posted by Evan Smith

I am naturally not happy about paying more to race, and I feel it is wrong to drop such a huge increase on us in one hit. But while it is unjust, no one really knows the financial state of NHRA. It is so easy to criticize, but this may be a necessary move for NHRA to survive. I'd rather pay an extra $200 bucks, if the alternative is to have two drag cars, a trailer and truck that is totally worthless because I have no place to race.

In my industry, which is magazine publishing, my company has had to absorb astronomical operating cost increases, well into the millions, over the last few years (well over a million in paper cost alone) and make some drastic moves similar to this one by NHRA. To survive we've had to trim staff, cut print runs, work smarter, travel less, relocate people, raise advertising rates, etc. The fact is, these are times that no one was prepared for.

All Kenny is saying is that there is probably a reason for the increase, other than for executives to pad their pockets. He does a great job with this website and I, for one, see his point. On that note, I will be writing a letter to express my displeasure with the huge increase.

You make an excellent point Evan. If NHRA had said "guys, we're hurting. we are two national event rainouts away from bankruptcy. We unfortunately have to raise fees for xyz, on xx/xx date. We are working within the organization to adjust to the current economic situation, we appreciate your understanding and continued support." they may have got a much different reaction. however they decided to piss down our leg and tell us its raining, that is the big issue to me