"Live" from US Nationals 2018

[MFR440]

Thanks for all of the photos and reports, and especially the awesome on track action! You all put on a great show.

I am curious if NHRA has a policy of a "sealed" teardown barn?

Just like Larry or Patsy and the other folks, I took a few photos at the teardown barn; but as I walked through, I was accosted by an NHRA official who first told me "no pictures", then asked if I was with a crew and working directly on a car. I said no, and he said "You can't be here. This is not a spectator area!"

Huh? I didn't see a rope, gate, door, sign, or any other barrier, and have walked through there taking photos in past years. I did get some strange looks from some of the crew guys, but nobody working or "supervising" near the cars said "boo". As a matter of fact, a couple said hi to me....Anyway, as I left the area, the tech official declared loudly enough for me and everyone to hear "If any of you see someone who is not on your crew, tell them to get out of here!"

I understand that theft and even sabotage could be a concern, but I was trying not to get too close to the cars and to stay out of everyone's way. So if anyone else was told to leave the teardown area today after me, I am sorry!