Given the access of what I write over here to those who live outside any performance interests, I want to document that Chris Karamesines accepted the help of a gaggle of mechanics who 'did it for love' in preparing his dragster for the finals of the major event held at New England Dragway. The mid-70's-yr.-old living godhead took his reassembled motor and made a valient attempt at defeating Bobby Lagana Jr. (another hero of mine for his low-budget ways..). A loose fuel fitting ended the attempt shortly off the starting line, but you non-racers who are reading this need to understand the tears that were shed weren't just from nitromethane fumes. The obvious respect and awe of Karamesines were transperant and a huge leap from the early '60's attitude which dis'd anyone over 30 still in the sport. This riff is about respect for the abilities of people who may be in the last pages of their story. For many, this event put another nail in the coffin of senior discrimination.

I expect fallout over Dave Wallace Jr.'s "I'm Done" remark re: NHRA national tour corporate whoring will continue through the winter 'silly season'. This season will be one of grasping at straws by the suits and a continuation of searching for more alternatives (ala the aformentioned New England meet) for racing in the light of day. I prefer racing safely in the light of day. Emotionally and counting round wins, It works better for me. There continues to be the last and ultimate solution out there..if sancioning bodies won't prioritize the needs of the working grass roots.