Indeed.
I like Stockers and Super Stockers regardless of transmission--even Comp cars--but I must admit, those high-rpm, stick cars are my favorite to watch since day one except not as much as it used to be thanks to the two-step rev limiters that most guys use nowadays.
What I view as not "real" drag racing is bracket racing with its plethora of electronics, virtually all-automatic transmission field, the "let's overbuild it, short-shift it so we can get 1000 runs out of the engine" mentality; driving games and sandbagging of every sort; and in more than a few cases, less than professional appearing/built cars.
And don't get me started on all the front wheel drive imports and the baggy pants-wearing, "yo-yo-yo, wazzup" crowd associated with them which now infest drag strips.
Believe me, I have no contempt or disrespect for people involved with bracket racing. I can fully understand the reasons from a cost and maintenance perspective. But it's just not my "cup of tea," and like you said: "to each his own."
Unfortunately, you are 100% correct.
Regards,
M68