Aretha Franklin’s classic should be our theme song here at the World Center of Racing’s Road Racing and Motorcycle Department.

Grand-Am certainly deserves respect, but they just can’t get it.  Other than us very knowledgeable Daytona and Charlotte-based experts, other motor racing journalists around the world regard Grand-Am as a rather pathetic, contrived and NASCARized. series. Some say Daytona’s 24-hour race has lost all its significance.

Grand-Am just held a highly successful Winter Test, showcasing the 30 cars that will start the 2009 Rolex 24 (plus 18 Porsche GT3 Cup cars). Why doesn’t the motor racing fraternity recognize Grand-Am’s stunning success over the past five years?  Wayne Taylor is every bit the driver Tom Kristensen is, and a Riley could certainly hold its own against an Audi or Peugeot.

So what is the real reason Grand-Am gets no respect (other than from the News-Journal)?

Well, I’m not going to get into all that name calling, “ALMS sucks because…” nonsense, but I will say that Dr. P has successfully implanted this arrogant, elitist, ‘Le Mans is superior’ mentality throughout the motor racing media.  These journalists probably drink wine, watch A&E, and have a country club membership.  Not me, my friend.  I am not falling into that trap.  Ole’ A.C. ain’t subscribing to GQ, nor is he going to shop at Nordstrom. I am a journalist of the people, damn it. I respect Grand-Am.

GRAND-AM ECONOMICS 101

The economy may be tanking everywhere, but not at 1801 International Speedway Boulvevard. In fact, they are down right bullish. Jim F. continues to fund the Jacksonvillle team, among others, and he will subsidize the whole field if he has to! 

The furry one emailed me an article on his friend’s website about the cost of racing. As any DP competitor can tell you, having Ganassi and Penske in the series will drastically reduce the cost of racing in the series. In fact, most teams will show a significant profit. Racing a DP doesn’t cost- it pays! My good friend Bernie Madoff is currently writing an article on how that is possible, and you should see that on the internet soon. 

FAN FRIENDLY

In preparation for the Daytona 24 Hours, the ever-friendly Daytona International Speedway Security Department staff has undergone a massive sensitivity program.  Beginning January 23, all gate guards will wear a “smiley face” button and say “please” and “thank you” before and after insulting you, threatening to kick you out, and making you park two miles further away than you need to. In addition, the phrase “Hell no, you can come in this way” will be replaced by “What do you think this is, Sebring?”

THEY ARE JUST JEALOUS

The Daytona 24 attracts a stellar lineup of drivers from all types of racing. But get this: I read where one of the elitist journalists referred to above said all the guest drivers are a feeble effort to dress-up a lame race. Do I detect a hint of jealousy?

Grand-Am and NASCAR are working to make the entry list even more spectacular. I know for a fact some others soon to appear on the Daytona 24 entry list include Terrell Owens, Lance Armstrong, Usain Bolt, Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey, Charlie Chan, Nelson Mandela, Cloris Leachman and Stevie Wonder.

A.C.