Racing is dangerous. The faster you go, the harder you crash. HANS devices, crush zones, and the SAFER barrier make things better, but there's no stopping physics. Eric Medlen, a funny car driver was killed by his encounter with the guardwall during on-track testing in Flroida. I've never understood the appeal of Funny Car racing, but people love it. Eric Medlen sure seemed to be having fun.
(That NHRA photo is huge. Don't click on it unless you're really interested.)
you should be a writer for a gardening column or something. You are brain dead when it comes to motorsports
Posted by: dave buutles | March 27, 2007 at 10:13 AM
CP I usually find your blog entertaining, and even if I disagree I respect your writing, but I'm just confused as to the point that you're trying to make. Racing is dangerous, so is football, so is boxing, so is sailing. Most sports or hobbies have some risk to them. But professional racers like this one get paid a lot of money and are very qualified. Their risk is less than most Law Enforcement Officers, who get paid a lot less.
I don't agree with the commentor above, I don't think you're clueless or brain dead. I like your articles. I just don't get the post. But then again, I'm a fan of drag racing, and in my younger days would race my own cars during the summer. I hate NASCAR, but I don't point out when one of their drivers is hurt or killed.
Funny Cars used to be cool, back in the 70's, big crowd pleasers. I guess they still are.
Posted by: MyFordDreams | March 29, 2007 at 07:20 PM
Two points:
1. We have here the archetypes of comment extremes. MyFordDreams knows how to comment. You add something, you ask something, you express your opinion in a thoughtful way. Dave, on the hand, doesn't get the medium. Or maybe he's just a jerk.
2. Sorry not to be clear with this post. I just meant that drag racing seems exceptionally dangerous and not that interesting. If I had the skill to be a racer of some kind (ha!), I sure wouldn't pick that. The danger:fun ratio is too high. But I know I'm not speaking for everyone, hence my point about how much fun the late Eric Medlen seemed to be having.
Posted by: carpundit | March 31, 2007 at 07:24 PM
Looks wonderful. Great reading your post as well. Thanks
Posted by: Sealant - Nulte | July 12, 2010 at 06:25 AM
The topic is interesting, yes. Some people are searching for the truth and they are blind to see that's right in front of 'em.
Posted by: Crystal Clear Headlights | February 01, 2012 at 10:15 PM