[Myron Piatek]

I am more than happy to explain what I do to anyone when the opportunity arises, talk about the products I use and look forward to pics and/or articles appearing in magazines and on the internet. Unfortunately, other "obvious" methods, like trailer advertising, selling shirts, products, etc. causes other problems. Sanctionng bodies have rules/fees if you want to sell anything at their races. The best I can do is display banners, have a catalog/brochure rack in the pits and answer any questions. On the road, the "rolling billboards" attract the DOT and their rules, fees, etc. Arriving early and make arrangements to display the car at stores, malls, etc. is great idea too. Under IHRA, Norwalk had their main street closed off for a big display before their national events. Cars, bands, food vendors, etc. But that too is not practical for everybody because of extra time off from work and an extra day at the motel. I do try to attend a local cars show or two.

For the average racer, all of these good efforts to promote drag racing also costs time and money. So it can be difficult to invest more of it, especially these days, when there is barely enough to make it to the races to begin with. It's usually the bigger companies and sponsored cars that have the resources to promote themselves and the sport more obviously. As you pointed out, it's usually the "Pros" with the most elaborate promotion. I do what I can, just can't get too elaborate as things stand. But any good PR work anyone can do can only help. It is important to maintain a good "image" for the public to relate to. As a racer, leave a bad impression on the general public who may not know much about our sport will only reflect badly on you as well as the sport. They may be the first people voting for new noise ordinances around their local track!