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 CLEARING
THE NOTEBOOK: RECURRING THEMES
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Ever notice the recurrence of this theme when a new
Dirt Late Model series is announced? "We wanted
to give drivers that want to travel an option to travel
without the big expense"
Matt's
take: It just doesn't add up. Even with good intentions,
too often, the so-called series for the little guy ends
up raising purses, which in turn raises the cost to
track promoters, which in turn raises the cost for fans.
Promoters are finding out that those shows are more
cost effective to do in-house--sans a series name and
the extra expense.
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In another recurring line, I've heard the optimism that
the worsening economy could help attendance at local
dirt tracks as race fans bail out on financially hefty
trips to NASCAR destinations and/or lengthy vacations.
Matt's
take: In some instances, yes. Across the board, no.
The state of the economy could have less to do with
attendance than security measures, which are expected
to await--and ultimately hassle--race fans at airports
and at the track. As far as I'm aware, Int'l Speedway
Corp. will have a ban on coolers at its tracks, a move
expected to draw ire.
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The Portland (OR) Speedway will close in 2002 reported
The Oregonian on Jan. 17. The 77-year-old track had
returned to clay from asphalt two years ago and was
expected to host the World of Outlaws.
Matt's
take: Apparently, it's the same old story: not enough
customers.
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Keep an eye on 72-year-old Sharon Speedway in Hartford,
Ohio where the Blaney's--Winston Cup driver, Dave and
his father, Lou--are leading new ownership. The World
of Outlaws are expected to appear twice in 2002 and
numerous track improvements are in the making.
Matt's
take: Hopefully, a Late Model race will be in the future
plans.
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