STEWART SHOULD TRY HARDER
There is plenty of blame to go around regarding the Schumacher incident. But, I think the majority of the blame lies with Rick Stewart.
I saw Stewart give his kill sign, but it appeared Alan Johnson had his back to Stewart. Then, Stewart walked within a foot of Johnson and never tried to get his attention. Buster
would have stood directly in front of the car so that there would be no misunderstanding that Schumacher was to immediately shut off.
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As you said, Stewart should have thrown a redlight in Schumacher's lane. Why didn't Stewart grab Johnson's arm to get his attention? Stewart needs to be privately punished for his failing to maintain control of the starting line area.
Ted Kuburich
Arkansas
AND ANOTHER THING
Why wasn't there a points deduction for oil on the track?
Dave Allison
Spokane
SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE
Very good column, Jeff. I was unaware of the situation, and your column not only informed me but reinforced my opinions about officials' decisions.
As an oval track starter for more than 30 years, I enjoyed the support of my sanctioning bodies, and can never remember being over ruled. I was ignored by a competitor once or twice, but the penalties were always, as you said, "swift and brutal." I tried to never let the status of the competitor affect my decision. Just ask Rusty Wallace about an ASA race at Milwaukee. I think I had the respect of the competitors, even Rusty, as I'm sure Rick does of his. Too bad Alan Johnson isn't among the majority.
I stay in touch with drag racing now through your website. The lack of sugarcoating is refreshing. Keep it up.
John Potts
London, KY 
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