|
For want of anything better, the initial rules of the points system were framed on a bar room napkin. The original concept for NASCAR was racing in three separate divisions: Modified, Roadster and Strictly Stock.
Bootlegging, in the days of prohibition, was the prime mover of stock car racing. Bootleg whiskey had to be transported to outlets from the highly secretive places where it was distilled. The drivers needed small, fast vehicles to elude the police who were constantly on the alert to bust liquor rackets. Cars were modified to hold more whiskey and engines were souped up for faster acceleration and top speeds. To negotiate the twisty mountain roads, the suspensions were modified for better and safer handling. The thrill of the chase became a narcotic to several drivers who welcomed an adrenalin high from out-driving the police.
Though prohibition was repealed in 1933, illicit liquor continued to flourish. Running moonshine became a way of life in the southern states. Cars continued to improve to outrun the ‘revenuers’ who sought to collect a tax on illicitly-brewed moonshine.
Towards the late 1940s, these cars were used at weekend fairs to race. Such races soon became a popular sport in the rural part of the southern US. The cars used in those early days were standard cars suitably modified for speed.
Today NASCAR is the largest governing body of stock car racing in the US. It remains a family owned and operated business venture. NASCAR is one of the most viewed television sports in the country.
More Articles :
|
