Originally Posted by HARFprez:
A simple gesture from a driver, a swipe of the pen to autograph a hat or shirt, a gift of a hot wheel or a free hat has a long lasting effect on a child (of any age). Last night, the generosity of the drivers coming to the front of the grandstands for autographs, can offer huge rewards in the future. A child grows up, and has a thousand different directions to go, many lose interest in racing, many gain the love for the sport that we all have, and a few strap on the helmet, you never know. So next time, even when you're getting your game face on, take a moment for that kid with the sharpie, you'll gain a fan for life. bob.
So, so true - my son was lucky to have some very positive experiences with drivers when he was growing up. And to be honest, he still doesn't like one big name driver who was rude to him oh so many years ago at IRP...those encounters go a long way in the making of fans.