[KRatcliff]

RJ, I am calling you out you big chicken.

RJ and I had a long discussion about the weakening of the fan base for the sportsman racers over the years. My experience is more from growing up around drag racing and only a participant for the last 4 years. RJ's is from the beginning of the reciprocating engine.

It is just my opinion, but I think what has killed the interest from our fan base is the sanitization of our racing. Translation: Enclosed trailers. Not that we are about to go back to open trailers, but when is the last time you were pulling up for fuel and someone went on and on about how cool that big white trailer looks?

The sanitization has removed the casual fan from being able to relate to what we do. They no longer see that car on the trailer and day dream about what it would be like to drive it, be pushed back in the seat, and have the thrill of people cheering their victories. We all have done that at one point in our lives or we wouldn't be doing this, but we are a shrinking minority.

I do all I can to transmit this disease to the fans that come by my pits by putting them in the car to get the feel of the seat and take their camera to take pictures. This seems to have a positive impact, but I don't think it goes far enough. These people are already at the tracks. New blood would be even better.

RJ and I had discussed coordinating a Sportsman Car Show at a local mall the day before the qualifying. This could be done a couple times a year. It would require the racers that participate (in the show) to come in a day early, but I think it would be enjoyable for all involved. Many people would form their own opinions as to what cars they like and which ones "look" the fastest. The only way to find out is to see it at the track.

It would be nice if our new division director could help coordinate this with a local mall, the track, and minimal presence by the NHRA at the event. What say you?