While I’m on that subject, I want to call the drivers out on this one. Over the year, we have had the Propane Plus Power five events for the Late Models, Everett’s Auto Parts sponsoring the Late Model division, Helger’s South Coast Power Equipment sponsoring the Sportsman, AND the Sportsman Power Five events, Phil’s Propane sponsoring the Triple Crown for ALL NINE of our divisions, weekly sponsors and more. Lou and I go down on Saturdays to talk to the drivers, the TOP THREE each week, and Kyle and Paul do the same on Fridays, but the winners only. I can count on ONE HAND the times a driver took the time to thank the division sponsor, the Triple Crown Sponsor, the nightly sponsor, the track, or any of the other companies that don’t sit on their race car or truck, yet still help to put the winners purse n their pocket or the trophy they are holding in their hand.
I have personally gone to the drivers meeting at the beginning of the season, a few times, and mentioned to the drivers that it is the right thing to do. Why do these companies put up the money to do this?
A couple of reasons. One is, they love the sport, and they want to give back. Another is that this in an advertising opportunity to get their name out to thousands of fans each week, hoping that their name may spark a mention when talking about that particular product. Need propane for your house or business? Call Phil’s Propane or Propane Plus. Need a used part for your car? Call Everett’s Auto Parts. Need some outdoor equipment for your company or yard? Call Helger’s South Coast Power Equipment. I can mention it all night long, which I do. But they are also giving back to the sport, and they want to hear it from the competitors that they are helping out also. It takes a minute for a driver to see who is sponsoring a night or an event. A simple thanks is what they are looking for. 99% of the time, it goes by without mention. That’s not fair to them, and that is all on the drivers. When the sponsor goes away because it is perceived (there’s that word again) that they don’t care, they go away and the drivers won’t have to worry about someone to remember to thank.
Let’s end this on a positive note. We have some great racing left over the next few weeks as we close out the championship points battles, and the one that is the hottest is the Sport Trucks. With just three races left, Barry Shaw Jr has caught Chase Belcher in the standings, and they are tied. What is impressive about that is that Barry missed one week early, and has been playing catch up all season long. And don’t count out Mike Duarte. He’s not far behind in third.
The D.A.V. Fall Classic is approaching soon as well, not to mention the Haunted 100 for the Tri Track Open Modifieds, with the Late Models and the Legend Cars. It’s not over yet ladies and gentlemen, but it will be soon. Don’t miss a lap of action.