"Delaware. . .We're in Delaware. . .Delaware." As Mike Myers spoke these words in the film "Wayne's World", millions doubled over in laughter while delighting in that which they knew nothing about, the state of Delaware. I was one of the few that did not delight in the jab at my home state. My birthplace was being mocked. My home being embarrassed in front of what had become the global following of the iconic Saturday Night Live character. Was I being a little to sensitive? Yes. Should I have lightened up? Yes, but I still didn't like it.
When it comes to sports, Delaware folks have two passions. We have some of the best baseball in the country historically. We've turned out many NBA players. But the passion in my state runs deep for football and NASCAR. Everybody loves football, so that doesn't make us special. However, NASCAR does.
Our capital, Dover, has hosted Nextel Cup events every year since July 6, 1969. On that day, the King, Richard Petty, cut the proverbial ribbon and made the inaugural trip to victory lane. Unfortunately, I was still 9 years in the making. Since then, names like Harry Gant, Kyle Petty, Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon, David Person, Dale Earnhardt, Rusty Wallace and others have won at the infamous "Monster Mile".
What's special about this track and our two races is that it, for two days of the year, makes our state significant. Maybe it is only to fans of motorsports, but we aren't a punchline anymore. We aren't one of those New England states (a mistake many people make who aren't from our area). We mean something. We matter. We belong on the national sports platform, if only for two days.
As wonderful an event as this is for our local economy and psychology, I have never been able to attend a race at Dover in the past. I choose to attend my local church on Sunday and do not let other things come before that. However, this year, God smiled on me, and sent rain on our one mile concrete playground. So, for the first time, this Delaware boy gets to attend the most significant thing that happens in our state since Caesar Rodney rode his pony up to Philadelphia to sign the Declaration of Independence. To borrow the words from the great Darrell Waltrip. . .
BOOGITY BOOGITY BOOGITY. I'M GOING RACING TOMORROW BOYS!!!
Not only that, but the last race I attended was at Pocono in 1998, one year before my favorite driver, Tony Stewart, became a Cup regular. So, I'm seeing my favorite driver for the first time, on my home track, for the first time. Life is good!
Hey Xea....
I went to a race there in Dover back in the late 80's.... I'd like to say I had a good time, but.... I don't really recall..... it was one of those "You Had to Be There" weekends....
I travel from my home in Va. Beach, to points north frequently.... and I sometimes make a "Base Camp" in the Wilmington / New Castle area.... close enough to get into Philly or NYC easily, but far away enough... that I stay out of trouble!!!
Enjoy the race tomorrow!!!
Thanks Chux. Most people that have been to DE have just clipped it on I-95. Glad you've supported the local economy. You're welcome here anytime.
Mean - Thanks for the support bro. Had to get a substitute teacher for tomorrow, but its worth it. Those 6th graders don't want to be there at this point in the year anyway. I'm yelling for Tony every time he crosses in front of me. You can set your watch on that!
I attended the race at Sears Point in Northern CA in 2002 and that was exciting. I'm glad that God smiled on you and you are able to go to the race. Hope you have a blast!! GO #29!! If RCR doesn't do well, go #20!
Thank you all for your comments. I'd planned on sleeping longer, but I'm too jacked up to sleep. I've got everything Orange I can find layed out and ready to go. Thanks again for your letting me share this with you guys!
Good, quick race today. I wish Tony could've done better. I haven't seen whose fault the wreck was, but it was a great day. Great weather. Great friends. Wonderful experience. I'm complete wiped out though! That's a good thing I think.
Proud NGS II finalist. My run to the sweet 16 was short but. . . (from the department of redundancy department) sweet.
I love all sports. The Seattle Seahawks are my main passion. I've loved them since I can remember. My teams of choice in other sports are the New York Yankees and Rangers, and the Arkansas Razorbacks. As far as the NBA, I'm just a drifter. However, I do love this game!
