NASCAR & Community: A Beautiful Thing.

I recently mentioned that I am a radio guy; a guy who likes radios. But, I'm also a racing fan; a guy who likes race cars, and cars in general... This Fourth of July Weekend in Chicago presented a wonderful opportunity to explore and enjoy both of those passions!  

I had the very unique opportunity to attend the the very first NASCAR Street Race on the iconic city streets surrounding Grant Park in Chicago. It was AWESOME!. 

However, I wanted to spend a little bit of time explaining how my experience was enhanced by my little radio.. 

My Little Radio

With my little, pocket-sized, Uniden BC125AT radio I was able to tune-in every team and driver on the course: Their communications, warnings about blind turns, water on the track, engine problems etc. The thing about auto racing is that you can't see all the cars, all the time. So, you must rely on technology like radios, cameras, and sensors to know how well your favorite car is performing against other drivers. 

Listening to the radio was excellent, and kind of fun! We watched the Grant Park 220, the very first stock-car street race in the United States. However, even with premium passes, we could only see the cars when they roared through the strait-away. Once they turned, and passed onto Roosevelt, Michigan and Dusable Lakeshore Drive, they were out of view. This, is when the radio was helpful. 

Not only could I hear the team speaking to their drivers, I could hear the NBC broadcast crew -even during commercial breaks; "3-2-1... and, Kim you're on...". You could see NBC's professionals in action, really working beautifully to make sure everyone enjoys this crazy stock-car race in the middle of Chicago!

Enjoying myself, but listening in...

Speaking of professionalism, the teams' and divers' radio frequencies were very impressive as well. These drivers, and men and women in the pits, really do a great job maintaining their $100,000 (USD) and up Super Cars, and supporting their brave drivers. Everything I heard was a very short and informative tidbit; something like: "Watch out on turn 4 for water," or "Let's check the car on the next safety lap." For a race that has everything to do with speed, patience and professionalism seemed to win the day! 

So, I'll close by saying that Car Racing is one of the coolest things us humans will get to experience in this world; fast, loud machines, and the technicians who help those cars go! If you're interested in this sport, check it out. It's a great way to meet new people, see (and hear!) some awesome cars and have a wonderful time! 

And, if you're a Super-Nerd (like me), think about getting a radio to listen in on the action.