Going to hell in a hand basket

[BobOrme]

Originally Posted by Ed Fernandez

Checking out Comp.Plus the last few days has turned up the lastest gems in NHRA's "formula for
success".
The Top Fuel and Funny Car Shootout sponsors are gone for 2009.They are ripping off the nitro cars on fuel supply and prices.Now they are putting restrictions on the non sponsoring energy drinks who ride on the side of some of the cars.I really dont feel too sorry as these guys can always come up with a sponsor if they perform well enough,but NHRA is showing their leadership skills for what they are.In the soccer world the word would be NIL.Not to mention the way they are handling the rules and enforcement in the sportsman classes.

Ed F.

Member: Travis fan club.

Technicoat didn't renew after fall Vegas last year for the Top Fuel cars. Understandable because their sponsorship was more of a gift than an expected return on an investment. Skoal not renewing for next year for the Funny Car shootout is different, but it will have the same effect if no other sponsor steps up to sponsor the shootouts in either class. I think there are a few ways to view this. The most obvious to me would be to compare it to contingency sponsors. Some stick around because they find it to be beneficial. Others don't and they leave.

The energy drink sponsors who are covered under the grandfather clause of those products can and will still be able to provide full Pro car racing sponsorships. The "restrictions" being placed on them at Indy this year aren't unusual. Keep your scantily clad women promoting your product(s) in the general vicinity of your sponsored car. Handing out product or discount coupons in front of your business competitors' sponsored car pit areas should not be allowed in my opinion, and I hold the same opinion for every type of racing sponsor. They should all have the ability to promote themselves, but not to the direct detriment of other sponsors.