I used to be a huge NASCAR and NFL fan, but I am starting to lose interest. I went to my first, and only, Daytona 500 for the 51st running of the "great american race" and had the worst race fan experience I have ever had. I am no rookie to live racing either. I lived in Charlotte, NC for several years and went to dozens of races. I have been to Richmond, Darlington, and even went to North Wilkesboro before they dropped it from the schedule. I have been to Watkins Glen, which is a better race on TV and a better party at the track. My experience in Daytona is best described like this: If you had a bunch of money, you were catered to. If you were just an average fan, you were only there to make the stands look full for the TV cameras. A far cry from the race my father went to several times in the 70's and 80's. My parents had the good fortune to meet "Big Bill" France and spend time with him. He was a man who understood that NASCAR was built buy the common man, and that the races were supported by the common man. With time, came popularity, came money, and now it is just a heavier version of open wheel racing. When have you ever seen a rear wheel drive impala, with a hand built 343 ci naturally aspirated hemi under the hood, sitting on a showroom floor?
Don't even get me started on the NFL. I have been losing interest in that for the last 2 years or so. Maybe I am just crazy, but I am finding that it is getting harder and harder to support people who make these wild salaries to play games. I also find that I would much rather DVR these games/races, and go do something with the family, and or my toys. Most times I do not end up watching the events I DVR, and they just end up getting deleted.
Is there something wrong with me? I am 33 years old and I no longer enjoy watching sports.
I think I have a plan though. Maybe I should start taking these Sundays and turning them into RTEs. Then my wife and I can take a day to get away, and do what we love; Ryde the spyder, and spend time with friends. And on the Sundays we cannot ryde, I should plan a dinner for my family and friends. I have a lot of empty space on my DVR, maybe it is time to start using it.
And Bob, don't get me wrong. I am not saying you should give up on sports. I make no judgements. Just know that on this most awful weekend of the year, there is a pot of coffee on at my house just waiting to be drank, and a conversation waiting to be had.