We are all vulnerable to something bad happening to us while on vacation, even the most seasoned vacationers. The problem is most of us think that because we are on vacation, there is an invisible bubble surrounding us, protecting us from harm.
For instance, many race fans camp in the same camping spot(s) every race and see the same campers each time. They do not think that they are at risk, when in fact it may be the opposite. That sense of knowing everyone causes you to let your guard down and may leave you vulnerable.
Another thing that no one thinks of is bullying. It happens at the track more often than you think. It could be triggered by the T-shirt you are wearing or the one your son is wearing. Perhaps it’s because someone has had way too much to drink.
I am not writing this so that you will change your mind about attending races or change your attire. I don’t want you to look at every fan as an escaped convict looking to mug you. I am just sharing some examples of experiences that have happened to some people I know. Some happened to those I don’t know but who wanted their story told.
A little track etiquette can go a long way as well. First of all, we have all had the jumpers. Yes, we all know the ones that you swear are sitting on a spring, and are up and down like a Jack-in-the-Box. There are times, of course, when everyone will jump up, such as the start of the race or for a caution, etc. and that is to be expected. We all do it but do we need to be standing the whole race? No, we don’t.
When you are a yo-yo, people can’t see through you. Be aware of your surroundings. Look around you at who is sitting behind you and realize that if they are elderly they may not be able to match you jump for jump. Also, no one wants to pay money for a seat and instead of the race they get to see your butt the whole race. Sit down and be courteous.
For the men who do this, remember that your wallet is in your back pocket. I have sat through many races watching wallets go to the ground because of the man constantly jumping up and down. I tell men when this is about to happen but many others don’t, and by the time you realize it’s gone, it may be too late. I have seen wallets drop at races and people eyeballing them. Do the right thing if you see a wallet fall and let them know. If you find one, again, do the right thing. Find someone with security and let them take it from there. Men, keep an eye on your wallet,
Also be careful when visiting the souvenir trailers. If you are pulling out your wallet to buy something it is very easy to have credit cards, ID’s, etc. slide out. The main thing is to keep checking and make sure it’s still in your pocket. There is no worse feeling than losing your wallet. Ladies you have purses and the same thing can happen to you. Leave your suitcase bag at home and get one of those small purses you can wear that hangs in front of you.
Bullying, the reason that triggered this article, is nothing to laugh about. It once happened in front of a friend of mine at Daytona. A young boy about the age of seven was at the race with an older gentleman, who we believe was the child’s grandfather. My friend and his fiancée came up and witnessed four men, around the ages of 30-40 years-old, all wearing Dale Earnhardt Jr. shirts, harassing and making fun of this child because he was wearing a Kyle Busch shirt. You may ask why my friend didn’t intervene. Well, he was one man against four that, no doubt, had a little too much to drink. I have learned to not wear my driver’s shirts because of being harassed.
I also go to souvenir row early, buy my things and get them back into my car, because I was also told by another fan that she had her bag of goodies with her and when she picked them up from under her seat someone had poured a beer and thrown nachos in the bag.
I am putting these things out there because I want you to have a good time. Most of it is common sense. If someone is harassing you or if someone seems to be drinking too much, find security, it is what they are there for. The chances are low that you will have anything happen to you but it’s the same as going to a concert, amusement park, anything of this order, use your head. If you are one of those that stand throughout the whole race, look behind you to see whose view you are blocking.
The most important thing is to enjoy the race! Hope that your driver wins but enjoy the experience, bring a tent, chairs, food, and a grill and do some tailgating. When you are at the race, close your eyes, feel the vibration, hear the power of the engines as they roar by, because once you go and experience it in person, you will be hooked and that’s a great feeling.
