In Honor of Valentine's Day-Why I Love This Crazy Sport

Talking about love and passion is fitting on this Valentine's Day. I think today would be a perfect day to talk about why I love racing. After all, some of the happiest times in my life have come at a race track. I can think of those summer nights even on the coldest winter days and almost feel the warm sun on my back. Now if that ain't love then I don't know what is! For your reading pleasure I give you a few of my reasons for loving this crazy sport of racing...

I love racing because it brings me closer to my dad. Even if I'm at an event that he isn't, I still kind of feel like he's there with me. I have some great childhood memories of my dad taking me on race trips. The times that he can't make a race, I always make sure to call him up and tell him the results and any good gossip that was passed along that night. Racing will always remind me of my dad and my grandpa. And for that I love it.

I love racing because of those hot summer nights, watching the sun set over a beautifully prepared clay surface, and the way the shadows extend off the cars while they're parked in the pits.

I love it for the amazing people I've met from my involvement in this sport. I'm blessed that I've made some great friendships over the years with people who share in my passion for racing. There are few things better than going to a show with people you care about.

I love it because of what the drivers are able to do. There aren't many people out there who can drive an 800 horsepower sprinter around Knoxville, or pitch a midget on the High Banks at Belleville, or manhandle a silver crown on the Indiana Fairgrounds, or drive for 500 miles at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I'm always blown away at how freakin' talented drivers are.

I love the smells, the colors, and the tastes and the sounds at an event. That first whiff of the sweet perfume of burning methanol during the first race of the season...Smelling hot motor oil...The bright numbers and colors of the cars, and the way the lights dance off them at night under the lights...The unmistakable roar of a sprint car at speed. And all those traditional race track meals of hot dogs, hamburgers, and of course cold beer.

I love going to new tracks. Each track has its own personality and flavor. There's nothing quite like experiencing those for the first time.

I love racing because of the history and traditions. Racing's past shapes its future. Remembering cars and drivers from the past and talking about them is always something I enjoy doing. And all those traditions! From the bottle of milk in victory lane at Indy, to the Outlaws 4-abreast parade lap, traditions and history is what makes this sport great.

I love the cars. I can think of few vehicles in the world that look and sound more badass than a sprint car.

I love being involved in a sport that’s not mainstream. Hey, it's an open wheel thing. If I had to explain it you wouldn't understand.

Honestly I could go on for hours about why I love racing so much. At the same time it's important to remember that it is only a sport after all. For all you guys, remember to tell your long suffering wife or girlfriend that you love 'em too and get them something nice on this Valentine's Day. Maybe they'll remember it the next time you drag them on a dirt track date to watch this crazy sport.

P.S. Happy Valentine's Day Erin. I love you!