We set off for Phoenix, Arizona, and attended the penultimate round of the 1994 Series. Mike Raymond, who owned Parramatta Speedway at the time, arranged for us to attend the Corporate Suite at the event. It was like a dream, meeting people who I had read about, meeting drivers. We were able to walk through the garage area getting close to the cars, drivers and team trucks. What we did find was that the NASCAR personnel were not as pretentious as Australia’s leading drivers. They generously welcomed us into their garages and team trucks, asking us questions about what to expect in Australia.
We watched the race from the grandstand where the spotters were located. The spotters have contact with the drivers and warn them of any incidents that may have occurred, who may be trying to draft a driver making ready to pass him. When a car retired from the race the spotter left their seat, the spotters’ area gradually getting smaller as the race proceeded. They also helped each other out, giving information to a rival team to thwart incidents. I was so lucky to see this side of the sport.
There were 450,000 spectators at this event, yet it only took us half an hour to leave the circuit and get back to our accommodation. The NASCAR traffic management was excellent. Drivers patiently waited for their time to get onto the main thorough fare, with policemen sitting on their car bonnets, perfectly relaxed, talking to each other and smoking jerky. So different to what happens in Australia.
Following the Arizona event, we went to Las Vegas for the final round. It was the first time this facility had been used. It was amazing walking under the circuit to our seats. There were posters everywhere – thanking sponsors for the toilet seats, the lights around the arena, the flagpole suppliers, the toilet seat providers. When walking around the facility we noticed a large truck with green painted chaff inside the barrel. It turned out that the centre of the circuit, made of sand, was covered with the green painted chaff, to look like a grassed area.
Once again, we were treated to NASCAR Hospitality prior to the race. Whilst dining it was pointed out that Nellis Air Force Base was just down the road. During the afternoon we watched Jets and Helicopters go through their practice drills and at 4.00pm we were treated to a show of these aircraft returning to the Airforce Base in waves. Not only was the racing exciting, the air show was also enjoyable. It was fabulous day.
What we learned from our trip was valuable when the NASCAR circus came to Calder Park, an event I was fortunate to work as one of the 10 Technical Commissioners at the Melbourne event. Another dream come true!
Heather Wallace
April 2024