Travel: Long Days, Small Seats

Being that NASCAR is a sport that takes place at venues all over the country, we spend a lot of time traveling.  Our team flies to most races except for the tracks within about a 3 hour driving radius.  We will drive to Bristol, Martinsville, Charlotte, Atlanta, and usually Talladega.  Its really nice racing out at Lowes Motor Speedway too.  Being able to leave home, drive to the race track, and then drive straight home when the race is finished is definitely a positive.

Most race days for me start at about 4 or 5 in the morning, depending on what time our plane is leaving.  Those early morning flights are the worst, because I’ve got to get up early, pack a bag, and get to the airport in time to check in.  Flying in and out race day usually makes for 12+ hour days by the time we get the race in, get back to the plane and fly home.  

The traveling is one of my favorite things about working in the sport.  We get to see a different city every week, and I love meeting all the new people you encounter along the way.  But I’ve got to tell you, the long days really take it out of you.  I usually need a whole day to recover after being at the track. 

Is it just me, or are planes getting smaller these days?  I feel like every time I sit down in an airplane seat, they have shrunk.  I’m pretty tall (over six feet) and there just isn’t enough leg room anymore.  I guess they are just trying to fit as many people on those planes as possible.

What mode of air travel the teams use depends on the team.  Some  bigger teams have their own planes for the crew, while others still fly commercial.  I’ve done both, and let me tell you, flying private is so much nicer.  There are less security hassles, there is usually more room on the plane, and the food is better! 

If you are ever in the garage area after a race, look around you.  Its mad chaos.  The crew members are trying to get the haulers packed up as fast as possible so they can get home.  I love what I do, I love being at the track, but when its time to go home I’m ready to stuff my tall self into a plane seat and get going.  

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