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I like the ideas to improve the branding of the driver. However that's done: announcers, name on car, or a lineup sheet I think it's a step in the right direction. I think branding and debunking the sport as being for "hobbyist" is key. Co-vocational does NOT mean hobbyist!
My thought is more towards what can I do to make any new fans around me have a better experience. Try to have small talk and find out what else they're involved in. Kid wearing a baseball jersey, tell him about KT Jr. and point out that helmet. (Branding 101) Dad wearing an HD shirt, tell him about Steve Butlers flat track days... Anything to bridge what they know to what they're seeing. Open myself to any questions they may have while humbly stressing to them i'm not an expert but I'm glad to help if I can. Point out the greats and up and comers. Who's hot, who to watch especially if they're starting in the back. Find out what racing background they already know. Love it when NASCAR comes up so I can contrast Bristol times. Now Chris Bell from Eldora last week is another tool we can use! Highlight non wing and wing characteristics and stress the risk these drivers are taking in open wheel cars.
I disagree that price is a deterrent for most new fans. We're talking about a demographic of adults that drink $5 coffee and pay for $200 little league bats and $125 basketball shoes. Not even going there on travel ball expenses. Friend posted his Brickyard ticket clipped the $100 mark this year.
When I'm not at the track, I wear my T-shirts out as often as I can. I buy a new track shirt every year so that even if the #15 on the nose seems arbitrary, the crispness should at least imply that particular track is open. I can always expand upon the great tracks of Indiana during conversation. I look for signs that someone might have a need for speed or appreciate motorsports in general. A quick casual conversation can be sparked by some guy wearing a Badlands or SuperCross shirt, or a couple putting golf clubs in their suv that has an HD decal on the back window. The best part about trying to make others aware that there's another event going on they might love if they'd try it is that its not a sales job. Sprint car racing really is awesome!
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~Heath Moreland
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