Posted by GEORGE October 8, 2009 10:28:41 AM
One of the most interesting parts about being a true NASCAR fan and writing a NASCAR blog is enjoying other NASCAR fans who I get to communicate with. My buddies at the coffee shop are a fine example, even if they don't always know what they're talking about. I don't get there as often as I used to, but the boys still get their opinions and digs in by way of phone calls and e-mails. They especially enjoy contacting me when Jimmie Johnson finishes poorly, or when their drivers do better than Johnson. Fortunately that hasn't happened much this year.
Guests who accompany us on our NASCAR tours are usually vocal and from diverse backgrounds. Taking someone to their first NASCAR race is a pleasure for our team and the new guest. I always like the kids who were decked-out in their favorite NASCAR drivers' gear. Seeing their NASCAR driver race is a huge thrill for them, whether he wins or not. If they happen to be lucky enough to see their driver up close, and possibly even get a NASCAR driver's autograph, it's something they carry with them for the rest of their life. I've seen this happen many times as I accompanied our NASCAR tour groups, and I never get tired of it. And of course, we always like to talk a little NASCAR with the old pros who join us at the race track. A burger, a beer, and some NASCAR talk is pretty hard to beat.
I've said many times that NASCAR fans are the best fans of any sport today, and NASCAR fans at the track have never disappointed me. They celebrate well, and for the most part, absorb defeat well. I think their general attitude is that there is always another NASCAR race next week. I've watched these fans shout out to a driver for his bad driving, and holler encouragement at their driver as he goes by, knowing that none of their words actually have a chance to be heard. Come to think of it, I've done both of those things myself.
Some NASCAR fans are born that way, and some are not. I started enjoying stock car racing at about the age of 10 right here in Iowa, but my next door neighbors got the NASCAR bug from me during our backyard conversations. I know a couple of them who now watch every race. Attending a NASCAR race will make you an instant NASCAR fan. Or you can move into my neighborhood, and I'll make a NASCAR fan out of you in short order!
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