Group,
When this issue first hit the network, I was deeply disturbed that Hot
Rod's editor could be so harsh to one of ours. But, I had some time to
think about this controversy of Walkey and Hot Rod's editor, while I was
out of town, visiting my daughter and her children in Bend Oregon. When
I arrived back at the shop this afternoon, I reviewed the article in
question and Ken's response.
With all due respect to both Walkey and McGonegal, both acted like
children in their responses. In the article, it was very plain that this
was 1/4 mile territory and should not have caused any feelings of
disrespect from our corner. As someone pointed out, "we need to make
friends with the Media if we want coverage." This episode has not helped
our cause, possibly has done us harm.
Ken's response was unnecessarily harsh. Pointing out that Nish's car has
a faster time could have been done without raising the hackles of
McGonegal. The editor's response was not as kind as it could have been,
being brought on by Ken's remarks, I believe. (I'm not defending
McGonegal here, but, just look at the responses his remarks got from
us.)
We need to recognize that Hot Rod Magazine has readership with a broad
Automotive interest. Unfortunately, Land Speed Racing isn't what most of
their advertisers are involved in. I know we all love to see our events
covered by the major magazines, with pictures of our cars displayed, and
good coverage of the proceedings, but we are an amateur sport, and as
such, don't gather that much attention in today's society. Times are
changing though, on the positive side, we are getting much more TV
exposure. It also needs to be understood that Petersen no longer owns
Petersen Publications, it was sold a few years ago to, no doubt,
non-racers. One thing that gave us the coverage we have received was the
fact that Petersen Publications grew out of our roots.
Be it known that I am not condemning anyone for responding as they did
to Hot Rod Magazine. As I have said, my first inclination was to do the
same. I guess that sometimes, when angry, it is better to count to 10
before speaking.
I plan to respond to McGonegal, hopefully, in a way that will put us in
a better light.
Tom, Redding CA 5:30PM PST
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