Okay, before the naysayers have their way with me, I just want to remind everyone I'm only the messenger. And, I am seeing more on the side of optimism at our local track.
First, George Alan Case and I have been playing phone tag the last couple days but finally spoke yesterday morning. Yes, he's the new track manager. And to uproot from Maple Grove and move his family down is a big commitment so yes he plans to stick it out. Second, he's FULLY aware of the facility reputation, the last 2 Citrus Nats class car fiascos, poor track surface, and the challenges stemmin from the former staff. Bear in mind the only two remaining personnel is Sue Moroso herself, and Julie Korkowski (who is a customer service dynamo!!).
Now, the good stuff. May 19 the track closes and the full 1/4 mile will be completely dug up. A new track surface with a 1 ft increase in elevation, 600 ft concrete pad, new finish line safety vehicle chute, full modern Compulink fiber-optic timing system with LED boards, new track prep vehicles and equipment, training (and additional track workers, but don't quote me... see above) has all been comfirmed. NHRA national event specs is the order from George and Co. For a bit of boost in excitement, George spoke with Max Naylor who is interested in winter testing, since Valdosta has been too cold the last couple years and said plan on at least himself, Kenny Koretsky, Larry Morgan, WJ and KJ for pre '09 testing this winter!!!
Here's what really got my attention: some may recall George and Tommy Ciccarone partnered on a SS/TB S-10, remember? He is very passionate of S/SS/Comp and knows first hand many of the challenges in class racing. Besides Marc Wessler (hats off to him in the little time he had) George is the first since Bob Moles who knows the difference between Super Stock and Super Gas. The 18 years between, well, we know the story
. Going forward though, I expect things to be different, very different. Oh, the subject of our "caring" division director was brought up. The response, let's just say, went like this: "that's okay, everyone has their way of doing things, and so do I (George)." "Div 1 success didn't happen by accident. Track operators play a big role in it that will work in any division". He eluded he has a plan for dealing with Mr. Holt.
Stay tuned. A press release is due out in the next few days which I'll post here.