I would love to see a more condensed version of the Pro races… But I don’t think it would take a rocket science producer that knew anything about drag racing to make a great production out of some of the Sportsman classes. Even the .90 classes. With a bit of slow motion, and highlighting the track position, closing speed, the drivers looking back and forth at each other, then the double break out at the big end, or the dump, or the spot on run. I could make a great 20 to 30 second exciting segment out of an 8.90 race.

Wouldn’t highlighting all the classes through at least the semi finals and the finals showcase the sport and what really goes on at the track better that what we get now? If a casual auto enthusiasts tuned in to today’s broadcast, they would have no idea that there was a really kool Hemi ‘Cuda, or a bitchin’ ‘62 409 Chevy in the pits. How about that Austin with the big block? It’s a really big show; show it so people will want to come see it. Damn, they are missing 95% of the race in my view.

Earl Helm
Salt Lake City, Utah

Yup, TV sucks at conveying the drag racing experience

Burk, you’re so right about drag racing on TV. For many, that's the only choice or chance to see the sport. But to truly feel, as you say, drag racing, you have to be there. Part of this sport for a tad over 50 years, I can speak from experience.

Many years ago I did some photography for various rags. Yes they were loud, but we're only talking under 2000 hp. A couple of years ago I worked tech for IHRA, part of our duties when we weren't checking cars was to work the track. Standing at the eighth mile as a safety/check for oil guy, even with headphones on, the sound can't be described to the regular in the stands fan. Your whole body would feel like it was hit with a hammer, fantastic.

My favorite class is the Pro Mods, simply because you never knew what they were going to do or go. You can't see or feel that on TV. But here's one turnoff I heard from a lot of fans who were there or who have seen the delay box cars. They didn't understand why a pair of cars would leave the line and then go to idle for a while, then go back to speed. They don't understand all the electronics involved. Many still thought you mashed the gas, and the first to the finish won. I keep saying that's the way it still is, but once the driver leaves the line, the electronics take over. I personally, as an old timer, have no use for that type of racing. It's the same in NASCAR. The old timers hate today's brand of alleged racing. It's who won't run out of gas, wins.

For the third time in a handful of years, the cars will be changed. But the story will be the same, you can't buy what's seen on the track. Example: A rear drive V8 Toyota. The rest of the cars, take the decals off and play name that car. Guys like Tasca, for example, will brag about his Mustang. Hey Bob, they don't buy it. The same with your Ford engine, it's a Chrysler based Hemi. It ain't no Ford.

Until racing re-looks at what got the sport was, NHRA & NASCAR will be nothing but a shadow of their former selves. I almost drove up the road this morning to watch Cup practice at Charlotte, but then decided to reload some ammo and have some real fun shooting.  

Stu Lord
York, South Carolina