Once people figure out what I do for a living (you know, changing tires in big time auto racing), there are always the same usual questions. One that I get asked on a fairly regular basis by friends, acquaintances, and family members is if and when I ever did or will take a shot at being a driver. My answer is always the same; never. Since I really decided that I wanted to make racing my career, I’ve maybe thought about being a driver for about three seconds. It was just something that I was never really interested in doing.
From the outside, it would seem that the life of a race car driver at the highest levels is fun, heck even easy. But those that think this have no idea what it’s really like. Just ask Dale Jr.
While it would be fun to be a driver while you were actually racing (and let’s not forget the money), the rest of the demands and responsibilities are what turn me off. The pressure to perform is immense, and the constant slew of appearances, meetings, travel, and overall craziness doesn’t appeal to me.
On top of the life itself, the chances of actually making it big in racing as a driver are extremely slim. I’ve watched a couple friends who have real talent get an opportunity here and there, only to see things fall through and money run out. And it really is a shame that some very talented drivers never even get a chance because it has become so much about the funding. Many eventually turn to wrenching to make ends meet, hoping they get another shot down the road. The number of ex-drivers now working for teams is staggering. I saved myself a step, and just became a tire changer first.
And that is probably where I’m somewhat unique. I wasn’t drawn to, nor did I get into racing, because I wanted to drive. I love racing; always have and always will. And I really, really enjoy changing tires. I get to satisfy that part of me that is at least somewhat of an athlete, and I get to be apart of the competition every week. But once the race is over, I head home like everyone else and have a completely normal life.
So if you were hoping to see T.C. above the driver’s side window on a race car anytime soon, I wouldn’t hold my breath.
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on Aug 28th, 2009 at 8:07 am
On top of that, you’d have to change your name from “T.C.” to “R.X.” (Racer “X” ala Speed Racer).
TC -any chance on secrectly recruiting a driver from Cup, NW or Trucks to be the third wheel in your TNI crew? Yea it would be difficult to maintain anonymous amongst a less populated focus group, but sure would offer an intriguingly insider perspective for your readers! Kind of “The Stig” of motorsports for those that follow BBC.
on Aug 28th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Hey TC – you ever get to take the car out on the track?!
That is always my favorite. Over the years, I have started messing with people.
“Oh yeah, running flat footed in turn 1 at IMS is the best.”