There was a disturbing scene around the Bristol area Friday morning. In fact, it was embarrassing.
Around 40,000 fans and national television cameras will visit Bristol Dragway this weekend for the O’Reilly National Hot Rod Association Thunder Valley Nationals.
Sadly, many folks failed to get the memo.
This longtime motorsports fan noticed just one sign welcoming the drag racing community to town.
That is a stark contrast to the two NASCAR weekends at Bristol Motor Speedway when merchants, civic leaders and media types go bonkers milking and riding the NASCAR cow.
Whether or not you appreciate the spectacle of drag racing, you have to respect this event. The NHRA Powerade Series includes 24 nationally televised events at major markets such as Las Vegas, Dallas and Indianapolis.
In addition to 330-mile per hour speeds, the NHRA offers a $3 million purse, crossover stars such as John Force, unmatched diversity and international sponsors such as Coca Cola, UPS and Pontiac.
Can you say big-time? Apparently not.
Here’s a quick history lesson. Bristol Dragway is one of the most scenic and storied facilities in motorsports. All the top stars and cars have raced here, and fans throughout the world have made the trek to this little speed palace carved between the mountains.
During the heyday of the International Hot Rod Association, alert business types and promoters capitalized on Bristol Dragway’s fame with banners, promotions and driver appearances. Needless to say, the stands were packed for events.
Perhaps so-called racing fans in the Bristol area are just blinded by flashy images and dashing stars of NASCAR.
Here’s another secret. Compared to NASCAR, tickets for NHRA events cost half as much and the action is non-stop and compelling.
And get this. Every fan, not just VIP types, can actually walk into the pits at drag races and meet their favorite drivers. How’s that for access? Want an autograph. No problem and no charge.
Crowds for the O’Reilly Thunder Valley Nationals have grown each of the past seven years, and for good reason. However, this weekend at Bristol Dragway can and should be much bigger.
The blame for the lack of local promotion and buzz can be placed in many areas. The NHRA stars should have been on TV, in the headlines and on marquees.
There should be a street festival heralding the drag races, much like the Food City Family Race Night on State Street during NASCAR events at BMS.
Country music concerts, high school ball games, golf tournaments and chili cookoffs are fun, but do they attract 40,000 fans and a national television audience?
We can do better than this, Bristol. Much better.
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