The rotator cuff is getting a little sore, but I can't resist patting myself on the back again.
It really wasn't that tough of a call, but I was right about the "Fan Fest" at Daytona International Speedway this past weekend. Not a Sprint Cup race car in sight, and fans still flocked to the track, then plunked down $15 per ticket, just to get a glimpse of their favorite driver(s) -- and, of course, maybe the all-important autograph and photo.
Firmly pulling my "Man of the People" cap down low over my chilly ears, I waded into the sea of civilians and asked why it was so important to visit the track for such a non-event.
Basic question for local race fan Carla Williams: Why are you here?
"All of this. This works for me. Actually, I'd rather be here when they're running around the track, but I'll take what I can get, because I can't afford the tickets."
Deltona fan Charles Webb, same question: "Get autographs. See the drivers."
His wife Kristen: "Any event they have here, we're here. Any time the boys are here testing or practicing or whatever, we're here, most of the time."
And finally, vacationing Scott Brandes of Ashburnham, Mass.: "Tony Stewart -- to get his autograph. Come on, get in line with us."
Whoah there, hoss. Waiting in line for a hot-rodder's signature is one of many places where I draw the line and remove the "Man of the People" cap.
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