1/24/08
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WHAT A STRANGE SEASON THIS WILL BE
Jeff, that is a really well written assessment of the Torco Evan Knoll black Monday scenario. I have always mused that if I hit the Power Ball for $X millions of dollars, I probably would have done the same thing. Look at who really could use some financial assistance and be the big guy who could provide it to the Gary Denshams, JR Todds, and so forth. I for some time was concerned that there were tooooooo many Torco Skull cars out there and "what if" the resources were to get shut off? What would the impact be to the points series? When Revel left drag racing, it was a hit for so many of the funny car teams but they DID have match racing and had developed a reputation. When English Leather left, same thing. Same with Lee Eliminators. But this Knoll thing is on a whole different scale.
Do you really think that IHRA will be able to have their nitro funny car class much longer? How about their pro stock class? Between this stupid countdown for the title, new NHRA owners in the Pro classes, and now Knoll, this is the strangest season and it has not even begun.
Unrelated, I’ve not heard boo about Shirley's TF team since that earlier announcement. What gives?
Peter Kumble
Amherst, Maryland
Chi Town Hustler heard from
Burkster, a very insightful editorial.
Ron Colson
Who or what is sick at Torco?
Hi Jeff, I just read your piece on the Torco explosion. As a guy who has been in the performance industry for 45 years, I totally agree with your position.
My problem is the Torco statement was only about Evan's health issues NOT the company’s questionable business decisions over the last 4 years. My first thoughts were why can't the company’s management team continue the program while the chief takes some time to get well?
I believe the drag racing world would have had more respect for Mr. Knoll if he had just told it like it is, no matter how ugly it was. But to hide behind his health, which very well be an issue, well, is just a bush league cop out.
It's been decades since our paths crossed, but being addicted to everything drag racing, I've followed your career as both a fan and businessman. Keep up the fine job. I love having your independent opinion put out for the world to appreciate.
Best regards,
Richard Venza
Rod'n Race Fiberglass (the old Ai Fiberglass)
Suwanee, Georgia