I've seen some positive and negative posts today in regards to fans seeking autographs. John Force was at a Busch race at Richmond in the early 90's. I got his autograph on whatever card he was signing and it looked like the Nike swoosh. I'm not a huge fan of his but really appreciate what he has done in the sport. I've heard some great testimonies of people that have interacted with him in the pits, and some less than favorable meetings.
Name any drag racing icon and I'm sure there are fans that have had less-than-ideal meetings with them. These racing heroes are human, for crying out loud! Did you ever have a bad day at your job and snap at somebody? And to think the worst thing that may happen to most of us on the 9 to 5 is a paper cut, a slight bruise, a sunburn, or a sweaty uniform. Not sure what you do to make a buck and pay the rent, but would you want a clamoring audience looking over your shoulder and demanding your time while you performed it? All things considered, we should be grateful for the vast majority of drag racing stars and competitors that share their time in front of and behind the ropes with those that root for and idolize them. When they are less than accommodating, try and cut them some slack.
I've personally never experienced a negative experience with any racer or tuner. That is not to say that some were not available or accessible. The more "savvy" pro racers are certainly more fan accessible; they get it. But if you really want to spend meaningful time in actual meaningful dialogue, wander past the pro pits into the sportsman digs. While still accomplished, talented, and hardcore racers, most will actually stop what they are doing (if they are not too busy) and converse with fans, answering questions. I can't recall a single contact with a sportsman racer that wasn't anything less than enjoyable. I'll single out Chris Demke because [friend and WWSODR member] Eric Allen and I spoke to him at Gainesville after his massive breakage. He could not have been any more engaged in our conversation, sharing as much time as we wanted, in spite of a disappointing and expensive race day. Fans, do yourselves a favor. Don't deny the opportunities to meet and get autographs from pros but don't negate the hard-working sportsman racers. You'll not only expand your love and appreciation for the sport but you'll also encourage and bless a racer that may need it.
Chris Demke and Eric Allen with Allen's rendition of the
Peen Rite dragster at the 2014 Gatornationals
Doug Bonnette is a longtime fan of drag racing, especially enjoying Top Alcohol and Pro Mod racing. Bonnette gets his annual dose of nitro and alcohol at the Gatornationals, making the trip from his home in Winter Springs, Fla. A letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, Bonnette is also a founding moderator of WORLDWIDE SPORT OF DRAG RACING, a Facebook group of fans, drivers, and drag racing insiders from around the world.
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