May 7th, 2010 by T.C.
Why yes, yes we do.
Once the race is over, crew guys and race fans have one thing in common: we both want to get the hell out of the track as fast as possible. Horrid parking, bad traffic direction, and not enough escape routes are all obstacles we face on the way out. And since we don’t get helicopter rides to the airport like the drivers, sometimes we have to get creative.
At some tracks we go to, crew guys will actually park away from the track and walk in like the fans. In doing so, it allows us to walk past all the traffic around the track and get out more quickly so we can catch our flights or get on the road. Besides the obvious benefit of getting out faster, this parking situation also offers some unforeseen entertainment.
Parking away from the track means we have two long walks to make; one into the track and one out of the track. And in many situations, these walks are done through the same areas the fans inhabit. Here is where the fun ensues.
First, when walking through a crowded area at a race track, why is it that some race fans look at us like we are aliens? If there is one place you’d think we’d fit in wearing apparel that is emblazoned with company logos it would be at a race track. That’s not necessarily the case though. Maybe they are just shocked that we show up wearing long black work pants on days when it’s a bazillion degrees outside. Either way, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched people notice a group of us, completely stop what they are doing, and stare at us with puzzled looks on their faces as we walk by. Psst, you over there, yeah the one staring, we are supposed to be here…
One of the cooler experiences that happens during these strolls, is all the fans that want to meet us. There is never a shortage of folks who want to shake our hands, get a picture, or have us autograph their t-shirt. Even though we are all just normal Joes like the fans, it’s still fun to feel like a celebrity for a little bit.
And then there are the hecklers. These folks love to talk a little trash as we walk by, if we don’t happen to be wearing the uniform of their favorite driver. It’s alright though, we can take it. If we are getting heckled, that means we probably kicked their favorite driver’s butt. It’s definitely worse for some more then others though. Think about who the most hated drivers in NASCAR are, and you can imagine how bad those guys get it.
To all of you who choose to enjoy a few (or many) cold, adult beverages while at the race, do me a favor please? Either stay in your motorhome, or get somebody else to drive you home. I’m all for having a good time, and would probably be doing the same if I were at the race to watch, but watching you stumble out of the stands while yelling “Jimmie Sucks!” makes me a little nervous. Especially because you were wearing a Jimmie Johnson hat…
So the next time you are at the track doing a little tailgating, and a stream of crew guys comes walking by, don’t be skerred. We’re just here to do a little work. Oh, and to all of you who have offered me a beer, I’d love one, but let me get a rain check. I don’t think the boss would think too highly of me drinking on the job.
TheNASCARInsiders.com
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