In a message dated 12/31/2006 10:06:51 A.M. Mountain Standard Time,
speedtimer@charter.net writes:
OTTO
You need to make a trip to El Mirage before assuming everything you have
written. SCTA has been around going on 70 years and has never folded even
during WW-ll. It was put on hold only to return and grow into what it is
today.
The many returning GI's had the need for speed and SCTA provided the venue
to make it happen. Many of the early lakes racers started speed shops and
other related bussiness and some became very wealthy.
The people who have volunteered over the years, many still avtive since the
late 40s make this the Mecca of speed.
I think if you did come to the lakes and see what it takes to put on one
meet you might be shocked into reality. SCTA has large turn outs and it's
free for anyone who wants to watch. We have crowd control that Maxton and
the Texas mile don't. With both sides of the course lined with spectators it
take 11 patropl stations on each side and two roving patrols to chased down
people.
The set up for a one day meet starts early Saturday morning, late it the day
a course walk is donw and each club must have members on it. Sunday morning
we start at 7:00 am with the patrol and drivers meetings. The timing people
have set up and checked out the clocks, the emergency people are in place
and we start running by 8:00am.
We also have to contend with wind and dust that cause delays. If it's a two
day meet it all starts on Friday usually with a lot less help as many have
to work that day. A two day meet requires a moving of the course for Sundays
event and another course walk to assure there is no debris for the racers to
cut tires on etc.
Otto, give it a shot sometime and you will have a change of mind. The clubs
make it happen.
Glen
Hi Glen
Actually, I wouldn't be able to afford to run regularly and that's the way
EM's racing format is set up. I'm not one to just "try something once" to say I
did it. EM is for the CA boys and I respect that. I'll leave it that way.
Have a great New Year
Don't drink too much and be safe!
Otto
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