Re: no spectators for sportsman racers?
I think, but am not absolutely certain, that a lot of free tickets were given out for the May VMP div 1 points race this year, and the place was nearly packed like a Nat'l event. Sounds like a good idea to me to get people in the gate. And, like was previously suggested, up the price on food and souvenirs to compensate.
PINKS is big because local people will come out to support something that is 'on TV'. For whatever reason our culture thinks if something is on TV then it must be the cool thing for the day. (shrugs). I don't know how much tickets are for the spectators at one of their events, but it probably isn't more than 15 bucks to get in the gate. A screaming deal for enertainment.
Just think if you had 16 SS/AH cars on Pinks All Out? Arrange PINKS episodes with Christensen for class cars and or .90 cars and use that venue to create interest in the local public for divisional races.
To get people interested in sportsman racing it will take a grass roots advertising/education effort. A traveling road show with people on the payroll to put their cars in high traffic areas (like malls for ex) that can communicate well with others to generate interest. Pay newspapers and other local periodicals to put your product on their pages. Buy radio time.
It's just hard to believe even the most lackadaisical race fan/car enthusiast won't go to a local track for a divisional race that features 270 MPH alcohol cars. The problem isn't with the fans, it is with the promotion of the event.
If all else, follow the NASCAR model. Only 20 years ago NASCAR was smalltime and 'redneck', at least that was the perception by 99% of the public back then. Copy what NASCAR did, and the people will come.
And don't discount the effect of enclosed trailers. Hey, I am all for having nice stuff and security and all that, but let's face it, when people-especially young kids-see race cars on open trailers riding through town it DOES generate interest.
My .02 for what it's worth, for better or worse.
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