Just a few thoughts on the situation. I do think there are reasons why some racers don't attend big shows like the Smackdown. Here are a few that come to mind.

1)Most all racers have other jobs and many of them don't race but one night a week. Since we have 3 tracks in Indiana that run traditional sprints on Saturday night, did any of you think that maybe they can only afford to run one night and also it has to be Saturday since they have to work Monday through Friday. Something to think about maybe-maybe not.

2)Being it starts on Thursday and continues on Friday, that might also be a factor in some racers not even attempting to go to Kokomo. Maybe they don't feel they can make enough money to offset being away from their normal job. Something to think about maybe-maybe not.

3)The Smackdown is run under USAC rules. Many budget racers don't race with USAC for a variety of reasons so they also don't plan on attending. Something to think about maybe-maybe not.

4)To run the Smackdown there is a $35.00 entry fee for non members both Thursday & Friday night and also $40.00 for Saturday. That is $110.00 before pit passes which are the same price. Also if you are a non member and make the feature, they will subtract $100.00 from your check. Something to think about maybe-maybe not.

4)USAC's format is for 2 laps of qualifying and 4 heat races only with 4 transfering to the feature. Everyone else transfers to an alphabet or hooligan race. If you run the alphabet of mains without making the feature, a lot of wear and tear on the car, tires, etc.....without a lot of green ($$$$$$) to show for it. Something to think about maybe-maybe not.

5)If no other track runs Friday or Saturday night, do you really think that every traditional sprint car racer in Indiana would attend the Smackdown or would many just say no way and plan on staying at home. Everyone (car owners, drivers and fans) has a budget and only they know how much they can spend.

So I would recommend that before we throw anyone under the bus we might all look at this in a different light. Maybe they would like to be there for the Smackdown but that the budget just won't allow that to happen. Be thankful if you can make it and enjoy the experience.