I've been reading this for a couple of days now, and must admit that it really pisses me off. All the misinformation about midget racing and it's current state. It must make some feel better about themselves to spout off higher numbers like its the norm. Yes, there are new motors on the market for $22,000. But, there are also plenty of motors on the market for $9-$12k. As far as rebuilds go, I myself have heard about the pricetag that comes from shipping a motor back out west, Cant deny it. But, in the same breath I can say that the average rebuild for a National Midget Motor is gonna cost around $3-$5k. This would be from a reputable engine builder such as Dave Conn, "JD Performance."
Spec racing is not the answer, if it were the Focus series and the latest gimmick with the Ecotec motors would be sweeping the nation. In my opinion, watching one of those races is like watching paint dry. Just not enough speed there.
Pointing out the motor cost as a reason that is keeping someone from owning a car, or racing one is just a scapegoat. Plenty of competitive power plants available reasonably priced on the market. The MAJOR item keeping racers away from certain shows is most likely fuel costs. Travel expenses have tripled in the recent years. Our team did not travel to Lasalle simply because it didnt makes sense on paper. Spend $400-$600 dollars on diesel fuel plus a hotel room, or stay closer to home and choose to do something else. Not trying to single you out Don, but notice you were not there either. What would be you're truthfull number one reason?
In closing, my main complaints are tire rules and travel costs. Usac or anyother organization can get tire rules opened up a bit for other manufacturers to sell tires of equal compounds and size. I'm almost positive that Kenny Brown or Kevin Miller can't do anything about the fuel costs though. It's basically up to the racers, they control the fate, and most choose not to travel anymore. You figure out how to make that happen and fields will flourish. I seem to remember Lawrenceburg having a low sprint count sometime this year and nobody jumped on the soapbox to declare the death of sprintcars. What gives? Just some comments from an average racer.......

Kent Schmidt