[Mike Carr]

Jeff, I agree with most of what you said. The Divisional races near us are not that great. Pittsburgh is 85 miles for me. Every other race in Division 1 or 3 are 300+ miles away. In 2003, when I started racing IHRA, I had four (yes, 4) races within a hundred miles [two at Pitt, one at Quaker (25) and Dragway 42 (100)]. Since then, we have lost Quaker, 42, Beaver Springs, Hamilton, and other tracks that were as close, or closer, than almost all the current NHRA/IHRA tracks. And yet, we still have it better than many others. A Nostalgia-type Class for somewhat stock-appearing cars (period correct scoops, no Pro Stock style scoops, etc) might not be a bad idea, but make it 1975 and older, and allow pony cars (Camaro, Nova, Mustang, etc.). Maybe a Quick-8 shootout for Top classes (would have to be Friday night at Double races, or have a seperate 32 car dial-in field and Q-8 no breakout show. Maybe some money (even $100) and points again, for records in S/SS. Just some small things that may help.


An increased payout might help some (currently, other than Pitt, I have to win one day, or R/U both days, to break even or make a small sum). Yes, we don't do this for the money (most of us), but would be nice to know we could get SOME money if we do well. A runner-up at Maple Grove, with some sticker money, I *might* break even (R/U pays $400). Every NHRA/IHRA weekend will cost me close to a thousand dollars in entry, gas, tolls, motel, foods and any extras. The exceptions would be Pittsburgh, Norwalk and Columbus. For these reasons alone, one would THINK that more racers would support their local .90, S/SS, etc Associations. Alas, many do not see it that way.

I wish the new owners in IHRA well, and hope they can change/ improve upon a few things.