On March 29th I was invited to the NASCAR Hall of Fame by the good people of Racers Reunion for what has become our annual gathering. Some people, none from this group, have voiced their opinion that the NHOF was a letdown or not what they expected. I somewhat shared that opinion after my first visit but that has changed and now I look forward to each trip. Let me share the secret of experiencing all the Hall has to offer and returning home with a greater appreciation for this Gem, it is simply the people you share the day with. The members of Racers Reunion are a diverse group, all are huge fans of the sport of NASCAR racing, and many have grown up in the sport and many with insight of the inner workings and behind the scenes knowledge of the deals and relationships that the average fans are unaware of.This year we had a slightly larger number of members from Racers Reunion but missed others that were unable to come. We were blessed to share the day with Mrs. Francis Flock, the wife of recent NHOF inductee and pioneer Tim Flock and we were all touched by her gratitude of seeing Tims car sitting in the Hall of Honor. She smiled as she shared stories of Tim and the early days of NASCAR. Others had knowledge that shined light of some of the inner deals of sponsorship, driver/team combinations and many, many stories that never made it beyond the doors of the team shops that illuminated some of the greatest moments in the sports history. The displays sparked conversations and brought out long forgotten tales that made this race fan smile and long for more. Each trip we notice items that are either new or previously overlooked and with each display we grow more attracted to the sport and to each other.This year the cars displayed on Glory Road have been changed, but like before it starts with cars from the very early days and progress to cars from today. This visual helps to guide each visitor and explain the ties that link fans, both young and old, from all eras of the sport. As for the NHOF, the phrase You can find it all at the Hall is very true. I have found memories buried for years. I have found a great appreciation of the racing and the effect it had on a 12 year old kid sitting in a room full of family members bench racing after an afternoon of listening to that days race. I have found knowledge through stories told by the ones that witnessed some of the little known events that made the growth of the sport possible. More important I have found many new friends that share my love of the sport of NASCAR racing and the desire to see the racing that made us each fans preserved and appreciated and long remembered. If you havent made a trip to the NHOF yet I urge you to make time to visit, and if you have been before but didnt walk away impressed, simply keep watching for the dates of our next visit. Come tour the NHOF with great people and soak up the information graciously shared by all members of Racers Reunion. You will walk away with a greater appreciation of the experience and share a new affection for all the Hall has to offer.Thanks for another great day and for the warm welcome by all. I cant wait for our next visit.Bumpertag (aka Darren Grigsby)
updated by @bumpertag: 12/05/16 04:02:07PM
