Memorial Weekend Marred by System

Sand Man

New Member
By Nick Harris

BONNE TERRE -- The first test of a revitalized Big River Sand Drags came on Memorial Day weekend with the officially scheduled opening event, the SEMO Sand Invitational. The results were, admittedly, mixed. While a handful of racers old and new attended to 'kick the tires' and make some passes, a surge of spectators flowed through the gates, finding the 23 year-old facility almost completely renovated: from the bleachers to the restrooms -- even the concession stand looked like a million bucks. Every overhead track light was checked, and every bulb on the "christmas tree" was brand new. "The track looks great, the best it has looked since it opened!" exclaimed a local resident and longtime race fan.

Registration began as usual, but as the day progressed track officials were busy trying to modify the resolution settings within the new Port-a-tree competition box and updated software. Then the ticket printer malfunctioned, leaving one official to hand-write all times for both racers: racing number, reaction time, 60' time, elapsed time (300') and miles per hour. As time trials began, 10 pairs of passes were made, and then the communication between the second set of photo-electric cells (staging cameras) and the system stopped, bringing the night to an immediate halt.

Two electricians and numerous track officials worked to remedy the problem for hours, but were only able to fix one of the lanes before deciding to cancel competition for the night. Instead, the racers were eventually allowed to make exhibition passes in the one lane that was operational. During the delay, BRSD gave out attendance prizes, Dreher Racing merchandise for answering trivia questions, and had two foot races open to the kids in attendance.

"I was really upset when I saw a couple trucks head for the gate -- because they didn't get to see us make a pass, and there were so many spectators over there," said long-time sand racing fixture, John "the Legend" Dreher, "Hopefully they come back on June 8th, because I'm bringing my F-2."

Due to the circumstances, Executive Director of Operations Jason Harris has offered free admission to the June 8th race for any spectator who was present and keeps (and presents) their admission ticket, and to any racer who did not make an exhibition pass. Racers who registered will receive show-up points, and their entry fees will be held for the next event they attend.

"We've tried so hard to get the track presentable and operational for this season," stated Harris. "It's disappointing not to complete the first points event, or any event for that matter, due to uncontrollable circumstances, especially system issues. We will address and resolve these issues immediately." Racing will resume on June 8th with points competition. Gates will open at 3PM, Racer Registration closes at 6PM. The Wall of Fame induction ceremony will begin at 7, and competition will follow shortly after. All information regarding BRSD can be found on their website, www.BigRiverSandDrags.com.
 




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