TAPE DELAY OR ERASED TAPE?

The Agent was watching the NHRA broadcast from Maple Grove when the make-up winners circle for U.S. Nationals Pro Stock Motorcycle winner Steve Johnson came up on the screen. The Agent watched as Steve thanked everyone and he even heard the words "drag racing" come out of Steve's mouth followed by something garbled that sounded a little like the word "Online." Fortunately the tape was running so the Agent played it back about a dozen times without any satisfaction. Then the Agent called Steve Johnson and asked if he had uttered "Drag Racing Online" on the podium to which he replied, "Absolutely!"

Seems like the powers that be didn't want DRO to be mentioned. The Agent also hears that a tire manufacturer other than the official tire of NHRA was mentioned and that was also deleted. Oh well, it's their ball and their field. (Todd Dziadosz photo) [9-19-2005]

DRAGSTRIP ON THE BUBBLE?

The Agent has heard from a number of sources that the newly installed management of California Speedway doesn't feel a dragstrip is the first thing that NASCAR visitors should see when they enter the immense facility. Apparently the rumor going around is that the multi-use facility may lose the California Dragway quarter mile if the board of directors votes in an upcoming meeting.

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A call to California Speedway president Gillian Zucker was referred to their media department, but everybody was in meetings. However, SoCal sports editor Louis Brewster spoke with Zucker and found there are "enhancements planned" for the speedway that would involve the property where the Dragway currently sits. No 2006 schedule for the dragstrip will be announced until the decision is made about those enhancements.

Speculation is for a museum and gift shop to replace the quarter-mile facility or a multi-level parking structure. Since this is still in the planning stages, this would be a good time for NHRA management to step forward to explain the importance of the dragstrip to the local community. [9-19-2005]