How To Attend A Race On A Poor Man’s Budget

Over the past few years I got used to my family’s annual routine of going to
Michigan twice a year. Over the off season, I was a real life "How bad have
you got it" NASCAR commercial.

When the season finally started back up, I wasn’t sure I could hold out until
June when it was time for the trip to MIS. I was right; I can’t make it that
long.

I have family members that went to Martinsville and Richmond while I got to
occupy the couch and watch the races on TV. The word jealousy would be an
understatement.

I want to go to a race. I can’t stand it. I’m going to the track this weekend
if I have to walk.

Problem is, this trip wasn’t planned. Booking a hotel less than a week before
a race isn’t exactly an easy thing to do. Especially when money is involved. The
closer to the track you get the higher the rates. What about last minute tickets
to the race? Also, a money issue. We could either buy what is available or, hunt
down one of those streetwalkers holding a can of beer and a piece of cardboard.
Nahhh.

Next option? Improvise. Qualifying, practice, race cars going fast on a track
and I get to see it. In person. No complaints from this end.

We’re planning on just attending Cup qualifying. That will cost me roughly
$15.00. If my itch for racing still isn’t scratched I might hang around and grab
some grandstand seats to the Busch race. Roughly, $20.00. It’s strange to think
$35.00 will save my sanity for the next month until my trek to Michigan.

Race fans, I can assure you, there is a way to quench your thirst for NASCAR
even if you can’t afford a three-day visit to a track. A tank of gas, one night
in a hotel and a $15.00 ticket will get you a lot farther than you think.

The roar of the engines. The smell of rubber. The thrill of a lifetime. After
this weekend, less than a month until Michigan. I hope I can make it.