I love the build-up to a
race. Not just the 24 Hours of Daytona or St. Pete's amazing Grand Prix...or even the Lemans
24 Hours. It can be any race. But in seeing fans showing less and less focus on
many of NASCAR's 'Cluttered affairs’, I often think many are looking for a
breath of fresh air.
They still may love the
race itself and the door-to-door battle put on by their Hero's. I know I can
never get enough.
But for me, in my opinion,
many fans are wanting for the years gone by. When sponsorships were new and
announcements were amazing.
In today's motorsports world, I feel most companies
are being over bearing. Sit with a group of fans at any race, or at a party to
watch one on television; you'll hear the comments.
There is nothing real or
personal in many of the drivers’ responses. The same is being said for the race
event announcers. Many times the thoughts come to mind that these people are no
different than the 'old used car salesman.’
And for me, that is very wrong.
When any person witnesses
the same, or can even guess what’s next, enthusiasm fades.
We need to remind
ourselves of the fun. The reason why we get so excited before a race. Let's all
try to wonder away from the clutter. Spread ourselves out on the lawn a bit (or
a lot) to bring back the enthusiasm.
Create marketing that is enjoyable for attendee's...adds to the events, instead of adding 'cement shoes'.
Sponsorships can only
work...events can only excite...when we enjoy ourselves and fans are having fun.