by Steve Mackey

There have been many changes in the short track world over the off season. Several new racing series have appeared essentially overnight while some old familiar ones have changed their name and ownership. Even now, with the season about to start, many series have only released tentative schedules. With an atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding many racing series, how can short track fans get their racing "fix" this season?

Well, race fans, the answer is right in your own back yard. There is probably a speedway within a half-hour's drive of your home presenting a regular weekly show. If you haven't been to a regular show at yourlocal speedway lately, you should check it out.

We all like to see the superstars in action and big events will always have their place, but watching your local heroes race at your home track can be very satisfying. In fact, the more regular shows you attend, the more compelling they become.

Why? Because track championships are often hard fought. If you miss a week, you may miss a lot. Morethan once, I've passed up a chance to go to a big track because I didn't want to miss a "double points night" at my local speedway. As the season progresses, it's almost impossible not develop a rooting interest for several drivers. It doesn't take long to become more interested in the drivers you see every week than drivers you see a few times a year or see on TV. Once the regular show gets its hooks into you, it doesn't let go.

Most of you probably know some new race fans who like to watch racing on TV. Why not bring them to your local speedway? A regular show is an excellent way to get TV race fans off the couch and into thegrandstand. If they like the racing action on TV, they'll love the action at your local speedway. I guarantee it!

The weekly show is the backbone of a track promoter's business. Rarely is a speedway with a thriving weekly show forced to close. Once a speedway is gone, it's usually gone for good. Soon, your local speedway will open its season. (If it hasn't already.) Remember race fans, support your local speedway by attending the regular show.





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