However, Indy Car racing is at a crucial point, even more crucial than the CART/IRL split. Their drivers are putting on great shows and show driving skills which are the envy of every level of racing. The stands are starkly empty.
Growing up in Indiana, the track became the central focus in the month of May. I remember friends bringing home movie reels of a day, a Tuesday, spent at the Speedway. The stands were full for practice. Yesterday, for what should be the drama of Bump Day, very few humans were in the stands. Since pigeons don't pay to get in, it had to be a financial loss.
Drama was a far fetched word yesterday. Only 34 cars entered, and one couldn't even make a qualifying attempt. Twenty miles per hour would be a lot to make up in one day. Are the days where the car on track at 6:00 pm would get their last gasp effort to make a month of work pay off gone? Don't even get me started on the three week schedule.
I'm aware how the economics of the sport have changed. I'm aware how the demographics of the sport have changed: so few Americans that an accent seems mandatory to drive. I'm aware of the cutting edge the drivers live on technically. It's a fascinating story...if you're willing to read it.
Danica Patrick was not all Indy Car Racing had to offer. The money couldn't keep her because it wasn't there. The drivers deserve better for what they put on the line. The fans are getting a great show, but there need to be more of them. Growing the fan base is critical, and a lack of one could spell doom for open wheel racing.
Saturday night sprint cars need a comeback to help...but people will be at home watching NASCAR.
So...am I off base?
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