I was on the fence of whether or not I should write a column about it. But after going back and forth and trying to figure out a way to write it, I decided that I will throw in my two cents.

One of the biggest super late model events is the Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, FL. Over the past few years, it can be said that it has become somewhat of a controversial race. Not from what happens on the track, but basically behind the scenes with tech inspections.

First, I wasn’t personally at the event, which is why I was hesitant in writing something about it. But there was one quote from disqualified winner Brian Ickler made to speed51.com after the dust settled.

With the talk of the economy and the forecasts of what it will do in the world of racing, I think we need to sit down and reflect on the positives that each of us has found in racing. And when you think about it, most of your great memories are from your local short track.

Short track racing memories being shared among family and friends is in the same realm as sharing your favorite baseball or football memory. Every story is unique and it reminds us of this unique pastime. Three personal favorite memories come to my mind.

My interest in racing started when my parents took me to Jefferson (WI) Speedway in 1981. During that off-season, I was at a department store and my mom let me pick a toy. I saw a plastic version of Darrell Waltrip’s Mountain Dew Buick Regal and I got it. From that point on, Darrell Waltrip became my favorite NASCAR driver.

I think there is a law somewhere that during this time of the year I am required to write a column about what I am thankful for. So, in order for me to continue writing columns, I should.

First, I am thankful for the many opportunities that I have had in auto racing so far. I am working with great people in this sport and hopefully making a long lasting positive impact.

I am thankful for the websites, newspapers, and magazines that have given me a place to share my thoughts.

I am thankful for the friends who have helped me get to where I am today like my webmaster to my website, the crew at racingone.com, and others.

I am thankful for those who understand that Midwest is one word and not two words. (Midwest, noun, the north central region of the United States sometimes called the heartland or the breadbasket of America. I looked in a dictionary!!!)

Kenseth takes Lead: Matt Kenseth goes on the inside of Dean Cornelius to take the lead at Wisconsin All-Star 50 with Matt Kenseth at The Milwaukee Mile. (Ron Erstad photo)

So NASCAR announces that due to the economy, they will not allow its teams to test at tracks that host a race in their top-three series and Camping World East and West Series. When I read this, a few things came to my mind that could possibly be a good thing for short tracks.

The first thing was pretty automatic; some local short tracks may become a testing facility for NASCAR teams. But as many have already said, they may stick to tracks that formally hosted a race like Rockingham, Pikes Peak, etc. Or if they agree with Jack Roush, not test at all.

I think this was taken in February, 2004. Closest thing I had to me giving a speech.
I always get a chuckle when I read stories and look at photos from end of season banquets for the local short tracks. I think I chuckle because of the variety of things you read and see.

First, let’s talk about attire. All year long when we are in the pits, we see individuals in their driving suit, pit crew or official uniforms. Some wearing t-shirts with some rock band logo on it or something when your child reads and asks what it means; your only response is “I will explain when you are a little older.”