Drag Racing Online- "Dead-On" Vol. III No. 1

Super Classes (and IHRA Rod Classes) will no doubt grow in leaps and bounds again in 2001. Several local "association races" let these racers run more pro-light events than in the past. A lot of these guys are pro-light racers only, but a bunch of them also run bracket races, local, and big buck events. This 8.90, 9.90 and 10.90 index racing has gotten so competitive that it is almost impossible to have a legitimate favorite car, but some guys still win more often. They are exceptional finish line racers and come with superbly prepared cars.

The biggest news in my opinion is the unprecedented growth of big bucks bracket racing. George Howard has expanded his B&M Racers Appreciation Series to include regional point funds and nearly 20 events. He has stepped up and FINALLY offered bracket racers the respect they deserve. He features two brackets and treats them both to excellent prize money. All events are 1/8 mile, which enhances close racing and safety. When a racer can go to one of Howard's events and race for $10,000 to win Friday, Saturday and Sunday for a $300 entry fee for the weekend, I feel racers will abandon the expensive, poor paying NHRA/IHRA regional points races. My official "atta boy" goes to George Howard and crew for his foresight and belief that bracket racers really are the backbone of our sport.

Local drag strips will have to do their homework to stay profitable. A lot of track owners have found street racers to be their newest crowd and moneymaker. Special events are filling track schedules. Events like Ford Weekends and rock concerts are taking the place of regular bracket races because they are more profitable. What can we bracket racers do? In one sentence I can give you my opinion of what we can do: "Support your local track!" It is that simple. If you don't race there, why not go out and help a beginning racer or just hang out. You might actually enjoy it after putting up with NHRA/IHRA point's races and National events. I guarantee you the small tracks are important to our sport and they will appreciate your support.

That about sizes up what I think will be going on in 2001. Got an opinion on what you think will happen? Let us know, email me at jok@racingnetsource.com and I will answer all your letters.

God Bless and Race Safe!

Good Luck in 2000
and BE SAFE!!!!!
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