I Feel Guilty.

Let me start out by saying that I’m not the biggest NASCAR fanatic there is, but when the season starts, I always love to take in the action at Daytona. Yesterday was the Daytona 500. And it seems that more often than not, weather delays have become a big part of America’s race. I’m probably completely wrong by saying this, but it seems like there is a delay almost every year! Perhaps those weather delays and the build-up to the race just make us more anxious to actually watch the race. My two favorite parts are…..the beginning, when TV viewers are allowed to hear the engines roar around the track for the first time, and the final lap of the race when we are waiting to see who is going to win. And I will be completely honest when I say, and I feel guilty for this, I almost always anticipate seeing the crashes! Obviously the concern is for the drivers safety, and everyone in the area. But do we or do we not look forward to seeing a car wreck on a race track much like we look forward to seeing a fist fight on a hockey rink? The wrecks have become just as much tradition in Nascar as two hockey players, pulling off the gloves and duking it out.
I think the safety factor in Nascar has come a long way. The cars are built lighter and stronger, much safer with modern day roll cages and restraints, fire protection, etc. Still an extremely dangerous sport though. And after a wreck, after we’ve watched the replay from 20 different angles and onboard cameras, it’s always a relief when the driver hops out of the car and waves to everyone, signaling they are ok.
Now that the Daytona 500 is over, I won’t pay much attention to Nascar. Except for in November when I realize that the season is over. Then I ask, “When’s Daytona?”