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Looking At Sprint Car Dirt Track Racing

By Patty Goff


Attending or participating in a race of any kind holds a special attraction for millions of people worldwide. The competitive spirit of people has been apparent since history was first recorded by man. Roman chariot races and numerous types of horse races have been tracked through time by historians throughout the world. Sprint car dirt track racing provides the perfect addition to history's high speed and risky racing record.

These are high speed races that allow fans to experience some of the excitement felt by drivers while on the tracks. The vehicles can obtain speeds up to one hundred forty MPH or more on these short tracks. The oval tracks range from as large as a mile to as small as an eighth of a mile and the high speed that the racers can generate a lot of intense excitement for fans and drivers alike.

Drivers and cars are considered a team and there can be no substitutions of either once the registration for the race has been completed. Should a driver become injured or unable to participate for any reason the team is disqualified from the competition. The same rules apply should the vehicle develop mechanical issues or not conform to specifications required to compete.

The concept of winged cars was developed in 1958 by Jim Cushman. These additions to the front and tops of the vehicles helps to generate a down force that keeps the wheels from leaving the ground. Air born vehicles can flip during the race and injure drivers, Side wings help to stabilize the cars while executing turns on the race tracks. The drivers started using the wings in earnest during the early 1970s. Wings located on the top of the vehicle have the added advantage of providing extra safety for the driver by cushioning the impact should the vehicle flip during the race.

Many other safety measures have been adopted in the past few years to prevent injuries. The industry has implemented roll cages inside the cars along with six or seven point seat belt harnesses that must be less than two years old. Other improvements that are required include double layered driving suits and driving gloves that are fire proof and designed to protect hands and fingers during any collision. Neck braces and head rests as well as metal netting to cover roll cage openings have also become mandatory equipment for the cars.

Many top notch NASCAR drivers started their careers in this type of competition. After a few years they make the transition by obtaining sponsors and up grading the type of vehicle they use. Some maintain their licenses and race in both arenas. The initial draw becomes an intricate part of their beings.

There are several sanctioning bodies for this type of race car. Most require drivers to purchase cards to drive in their races and each race requires a sign up fee to be paid. Drivers compete for cash winnings as well as points for the season that accumulate with each race.

Over the years coverage on television has been on and off but they can be found on sports channels occasionally as delayed tape replays for those fans who truly love the sport.




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