Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Burk, you have me wondering again. You made the statement a few posts ago that you were incorrect with you prognostication regarding the downfall of T/F & the Fuel Coups due the abundance of rich guys willing to play the game even during hard times. On a local level, I have been amazed that the fallout of weekend warriors has not been greater. I think that speaks volumes about the love of the sport.

Innovation, desire, and homegrown ingenuity, coupled with the lack of inexhaustible funds have provided a foundation for motivated people to accomplish some amazing things over the years in drag racing -- most often with nothing more than an idea and hard work. It was the platform for the little guy to have his day in the sunshine. In my mind, that grassroots sprit is the foundation of drag racing. That sprit was highly contagious, not only for the racers, but with the fans. That infectious sprit was a big contributor in building the fan base. Perhaps some type of increased identity will assist the pro classes with renewed fan interest, but let’s face it, the influx of Corporate money, manufacturers, and the big players themselves, has moved that show past center never to return to the days of backyard players.

But that does not mean the dream is lost. It needs to be rekindled in the sportsman ranks. Drag racing needs to keep butts in the seats when the Fuel Coups finish running. Nobody left the stands in Bakersfield when the nostalgia fuel rounds were over. Why? Because the lanes were filled with a variety of really cool cars yet to run.

I don’t know if we need a front wheel drive import dragster/altered class or what, but the reintroduction of innovation needs to start with the sportsmen. Cookie cutter cars are for gingerbread houses. Creative craftsmanship is for drag racing.

Trust me, water this plant and it will grow.

Earl Helm
Salt Lake City, Utah