[Mark Yacavone]

Originally Posted by VE6DRW

The demise of NHRA, along with Stock and Super Stock, has been predicted for decades. Yet, spectator attendance at NHRA National events continues to increase. Fans go to see the PROs and a big show; only a few dedicated fans appreciate the sportsman classes.


However, I think a lot of the problem is self-generated by "class racers"; in that the rise of high-tech fast cars by well financed teams is driving "hobbyist" participants out of active racing. Escalating travel costs are also contributing to the issue.

I think NHRA are exacerbating the problem with an outdated format at regional and divisional events, especially when it comes to payouts and the manufacturer contingency program.

I might suggest the following for discussion:

1. Lower all Stock and SS indexes by at least 4 tenths.
2. Eliminate heads-up no-breakout racing at all but a few select national events (ie: where classes are run).
3. Eliminate the AHFS – move to an annual review based on yearly stats.
4. Loosen fuel regulations at divisional and regional events.
5. Double up all divisional and regional events on extended weekends (to reduce travel costs)
6. Increase prize money at regional and divisional races by at least 50% (minimum $3,000 – ideally $5,000 - to win)
7. Eliminate the grade-point system for national event entry. Maximum 64 cars in each class – 1st come 1st served - entry criteria.
8. Reduce the number of national events for Stock and SS – perhaps 6 maximum (based on geographic regions). Alternate with other sportsman classes at national events to keep overall car counts manageable.
9. Restructure the divisional and national title system for sportsman racers to promote easy participation and reduce travel costs.
10. Eliminate the manufacturer contingency program. NHRA can adopt a fee-based manufacturers certification/participation program and channel fees into the sportsman prize money.
11. Coordinate the individual class-racer associations (12 – at last count) under an umbrella organization to influence event sponsorship from manufacturers and increase payouts.

These are simply brainstorming ideas to provoke discussion. Please, no need for trolls or flame-throwers …

Thanks for the post... You forgot, Class winners first at Indy.
That will liven things up even more.