John Force Haters Enter:

[Marvin Robinson]

Originally Posted by 427_ED

Which pro drivers would have won championships if there were no "Countdown" or "points take-away system" ?

I haven't done the math on it, but remember, the countdown was put in place to keep from having a runaway season for a driver wrapping up the Championship during the Western swing as has happened in the past. It was to create World Finals "drama" by keeping the race close and the possibility of the Crown being on the line at the last race(s). (Have you forgotten how "ho, hum" some of the World Finals have been when the Champ was crowned weeks in advance?)

Like it or lump it, the Countdown has achieved it's purpose, in spades, and probably increased spectator and sponsorship participation. Some who would have been winners under the old system have lost, and some have been granted a new chance to win in a season with trouble spots, but the true cream still rises to the top, all season consistency is still the biggest factor.... and the World finals have been nail biters for sure.

I wasn't the biggest fan of the Countdown in the beginning, but from a marketing standpoint, I gotta admit it really has achieved it's purpose, and the excitement in the last 4 races is infectious.

[Ron Ortiz]

He earned it all. From nothing to one of the most succesful motorsports team ever. I believe he had 8 runner ups before he scored. Then he surrounded himself with top notch crews. Coil, Fedderly, Beard, Neff, etc. Built his racing empire within the family. Markets himself, his daughters, and sponsors. Taped into the media market via print, visual, and a show. Created an in house program long before others. Spends time with fans and creates memories for thousands. Brought safety to the forefront and incorporated major car manufacturers into research. Established a relationship with AAA that spread into the community. And, he wins quite often. Not bad. I'm sure there are plenty of you that do not like him for some of the things that he says or does, but bottom line, you wish that you could be in his position.

The Countdown. You do not like it if your favorite ran good all year and then got beat in the playoffs. But you say the system is great if your favorite comes from the bottom and wins it. It is just like your favorite NFL team, MLB, NHL, or NBA. It is the playoffs. Time to rock and roll. First you have to make the playoffs.

Ron Ortiz
U/SA a drag racing fan and participant.

[BobOrme]

Originally Posted by Ron Ortiz

The Countdown. You do not like it if your favorite ran good all year and then got beat in the playoffs. But you say the system is great if your favorite comes from the bottom and wins it. It is just like your favorite NFL team, MLB, NHL, or NBA. It is the playoffs. Time to rock and roll. First you have to make the playoffs.

In the NFL, MLB, NHL and NBA, you can't be knocked out during the playoffs by someone who isn't in the playoffs. In The Countdown, you can. That's why it isn't analogous to other sports.

[jmcarter]

Originally Posted by 427_ED

Which pro drivers would have won championships if there were no "Countdown" or "points take-away system" ?

Mike Edwards this year! And I think John is great for reasons Ron and others have outlined....some people don't remember when he was always "second best"....he has so much determination!

[Bill Koski]

Rod Fuller and Doug Kalitta for two!