NASCAR - The Backwoods Roots

NASCAR stands for the National Stock Car Auto Racing Association. The organization itself is a conduit for many companies to market their products while giving fans of auto racing a thrilling experience. The roots of NASCAR go back to the very thing that spawned the American Revolution: a disdain for excessive taxation. Yes, NASCAR roots actually begin around the year 1794 and at the heart of the Whiskey Rebellion.

The Whiskey Rebellion was spawned because the new United States Federal Government imposed a tax on farmers who distilled their extra grain so as to bring it to market as well. Back in those days, there were not sophisticated highways and rail systems to get grain to market and farmers did the best they could to deliver it. Any grain left over would be distilled into spirits rather than let it go bad. The spirits of course would be imported to the markets and sold in that form. It was this that Alexander Hamilton wanted to tax. Of course the farmers rebelled because this was part of their very livelihood.

Some farmers secretly distilled the spirits and transported the end product in secret and under cover of darkness to their end markets. Thus the seeds of NASCAR were planted although at this time there was no such thing as cars. Thus the spirit of NASCAR came to pass.

In the 1920s and early 1930s, the Federal government would again try to control the production and transportation of spirits through an amendment to the U.S. Constitution known as Prohibition. It was one thing that the farmers would manufacture the spirits in secret for personal use but that of course was unprofitable. So the "bootlegger" was born. Bootleggers were those who would run illegal spirits (also known as moonshine) to secret markets in high-speed cars under cover of darkness. The activity was characterized by Federal agents chasing and hunting them down. It was risky business and sometimes even mortal.

Bootlegging began to create competition among the drivers of the moonshine cars and it was sport to see who had the fastest car. Over time, they would even collectively get together and have races on Sunday afternoons. All the local people would come out and spend a Sunday afternoon watching the races and that night, the drivers would turn their sport into work and run the illegal moonshine to secret buyers.

In 1938, Daytona Beach Florida would become the place of the first NASCAR race. Daytona Beach was a good place for racing because the beach sands were firm and the beach area was wide. The prizes for the winners were simple and could be things like a case of motor oil, a bottle of spirits, or a box of cigars. The organizer and promoter of this event was a man named Bill France. Bill France would go on to build the organization we known as NASCAR today.

In the 1950s, the business model of NASCAR began to form and it continues today. Many promoters of products will pay drivers and car teams to carry their logo on their car and on driver suits. If the team is a winner it is a great position for a promoter to be in. Plus, many companies enjoy having the NASCAR logo associated with their businesses and products.

And for the fans of NASCAR, it is great fun and excitement.

Chris DiCicco is owner, senior editor and website developer for NASCARsupershop.com, a NASCAR Apparel and Memorabilia Store for every NASCAR Fan.
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What Does NASCAR Really Stand For?

Many people outside the sport of NASCAR have no idea of what it really means. They just do not understand the excitement of a bunch of people driving really fast only taking left turns. They just don't get it. So, in essence, they really do not know what the acronym NASCAR means, and they do not know what the sport is really about. I will try to help figure out what does NASCAR really stand for.

First, let's start with the abbreviation.

National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing. This is the actually meaning of each letter. So for those of you who were just interested in this little tid bit of information, there it is. But this is not the real meaning of NASCAR.

This sport has developed into one of the most popular sporting, and spectator sports on the market today. It is the only sport that still gives you last minute access to all of the athletes, also known as drivers. You have a full range of infield access, where you can talk to the drivers, and get autographs. There is no other sport like that. This is why the fans are much closer to this sport and its drivers than other sports.

NASCAR is also big, and I mean big, business for corporations and their sponsors. Since these sports fans are so loyal, you will find that they will associate themselves with driver's products. People wear Wranglers because Dale Jr. advertises for them. People drive Budweiser because Kasey Kahne is their pitch man. And, as much as people do not like Jeff Gordon, there is an avid following of people drinking Pepsi products and not Coke just because they are a fan of his.

And, if you look at the advertising even more closely, these corporations get to slap their logos on a drivers car and make you watch it for 3-4 hours on TV. I mean, after a while, I might just go and buy the Amp energy drink from Mountain Dew.

The technology is far superior to the other sports. The cameras are better, and even the announcers are pretty good. So, there is a bunch of other stuff going on behind the scenes than a bunch of guys going 180 MPH and only making a left hand turn. NASCAR is big business.

Find out more information about NASCAR, the schedules, the drivers, and the owners at http://nascar.tips-and-guides.com/

A Fan's Checklist Of What To Bring To A NASCAR Race

If you're planning to attend a NASCAR race, then you can probably expect to spend a day at the track. There's nothing worse than being unprepared for any outing, so consider a small checklist to make the day a fun-filled event.

• Be sure to wear comfortable shoes because you will be doing a lot of walking. On a normal day, fans can expect to be at the track for a minimum of five to six hours and, depending on your seat location, there are stairs to climb and you will definitely want to have a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
  
• Always bring a small umbrella or rain poncho - just incase those storm clouds decide to roll in during race time. If this should happen, the race will likely be stopped until the rain passes over and the track is dried. You'll want to be dry while you wait for the race to resume. Purchase the smallest umbrella possible and tuck it in a purse or a pocket. There's no need to carry a large, bulky umbrella around all day - especially if it ultimately isn't needed. As a race fan, you're always hoping for a sunny day, but it's good to be prepared. If there's a chill in the air, bring a light jacket.
  
• Remember to bring plenty of drinking water. Bottled water is ideal, convenient and really hits the spot on a hot summer day. Keep in mind that racetracks are large and, as mentioned previously, there is a lot of walking involved. From the time that you arrive, climb the stands and find your seat, fans are looking at a potential 30 minute walk or more. Avoid the temptation to poor the water over your head and save it for drinking.
  
• A snack is always a good thing to have on hand during raceday. Who wants to leave their seat when a hunger pain hits? Save yourself the time and pack a sandwich or candy bar from home. Don't forget the hand sanitizer or soap, too!
  
• Keeping in mind that attending a live event is different than a televised event is essential. Many of the luxuries of watching at home, on television, are absent at a live event. Sitting in the stands will leave you without the commentary, so consider a scanner and headphones. A list of driver frequencies are available at most tracks, which will enable you to hear the spotter and driver communicate with one another during the race.
  
• Be sure to bring a camera and several rolls of film. If you're using a digital camera, be sure that you have several brand new back-up batteries incase yours runs down through the course of the day.

Before you close that suitcase, there's just a few more small items to remember. If you have a pit pass, bring along a small notebook for autographs. Consider bringing some cash, but not too much, for a visit to the many souvenir trailers lined outside the track. A final check should reveal that you've packed a pair of sunglasses and, if you're seated high in the stands, grab a pair of binoculars and bring the action up close. After all, if a race isn't close - what's the point? Have fun.

Bob is with EZ Ticket Search - providing premium seating in the secondary market to NASCAR, sports, concerts and broadway events. Visit my blog [http://www.eventoutlet.com] to read more NASCAR articles.

Shopping For Authentic NASCAR Memorabilia

The rush of seeing those cars go round and round at almost 200 MPH...the excitement of engines roaring and cars pulling into pitstops, vying for the front spot...it must be NASCAR! There's good news for all you die-hard NASCAR fans. If you want to get your hands on some great memorabilia, you don't have to go very far. You can find terrific mementos all over the place. Autographs, clothing, decals - whatever your heart's desire, it's out there. You just have to know where to look.

My first suggestion is to search the World Wide Web. With over 30 billion web pages available, many of them are just for NASCAR admirers like yourself. Auction sites like eBay or Yahoo Auctions are a good place to start. eBay, for example, had 329 items found for NASCAR collectibles (in April 2008). Bear in mind that when searching for anything on eBay, you may have to try various search phrases to maximize results. You'll want to search for the words "NASCAR", "racing" and "auto racing" to describe the sport. For the collectibles, try words like "memorabilia", "antiques", "collectibles", "old", or "historic". It takes some time, but it's worth it. And of course, don't just limit yourself to eBay and Yahoo. There are plenty of online sites (including NASCAR.com) who sell items you'd be interested in. Try Googling the same search words if eBay doesn't turn up anything you'd be attracted to.

Next, try searching trading posts, newspapers, and garage sales. They might seem like a long shot, but folks still use these outlets to sell NASCAR memorabilia. Then consider shopping at local antique stores and/or memorabilia shops. They display all kinds of collectibles--some brand new, and some used.

A good way to get NASCAR memorabilia is by going to an actual race. Granted, when you think of memorabilia, you think of something nostalgic. Most people don't think of items you buy at a race as a collector's item. But think of this--the merchandise of today is the memorabilia of tomorrow. So the next time you go to the race, be sure to purchase something. Ten or twenty years down the road, you may have a very valuable item, especially if it's a memorable race!

There's one thing to be aware of when buying collectibles (whether it's NASCAR or anything else). Anybody can claim that an item is a collectible. That, of course, doesn't necessarily make it so. Be sure your item has a certificate of authenticity and a return policy that's acceptable to you. With online purchases, you also have to worry about websites wanting to infect your computer with spyware or fake sites stealing your identity. So go out and have fun searching for cool stuff...just be smart about it.

Matt D Murren owns and operates http://www.nascar-racing-fan.com
Nascar Memorabilia

NASCAR Memorabilia Going Neon?

There's a whole lot of unique NASCAR memorabilia out there that will gratify true, diehard and committed stock car racing fans. Stuff like apparel, die-cast cars, authentic race memorabilia, blankets, hats and a multitude of other traditional items are available for fans of all ages whether guy or gal. But is there a unique type of merchandise that should also be considered?

Absolutely! Did you know that there is now available for fans of Jeff Gordon, Dale Jr, Tony Stewart, and Jimmie Johnson neon clocks with their respective pictures and cars on them? Each one is something very striking and impressive that would be the envy of any fan of these drivers. What are the specifications of these neon clocks?

First off, they are manufactured by Jebco Products which makes these items and other high quality officially licensed NASCAR memorabilia as well. They are within either a 16" chrome or 22" black molded round case with a glass or bezel glass lens, respectively. They have electric illumination with battery powered movement. These are simply the features that the fans should know about before they buy one. But much more importantly, what are their benefits?

They are bold. They are magnets for the eyes to admire. They create a picture in the viewer's mind of competition and a desire in his soul to be a part of it. There's an invisible quality within each one that can't be adequately described in human terms. Something is there but can't be put into words to explain. There's a feeling that one should belong to you for reasons that only you can possibly know about. It's all about the NASCAR magic that is deeply within each devoted fan.

The fact that they would be an attractive edition to any home, office, or work area should also be mentioned. Just imagine the perfect spot where the neon clock would be most revered. A side wall in the bedroom? Perhaps at a bare spot down in the finished basement? How about the workshop in either your garage or company location? The hallway...or bathroom...den or kitchen? These are just my guesses and only you can know the best place where one would have the most emotional impact.

Take the advice of StockCarUSA.com and get familiar with the NASCAR memorabilia of neon clocks. They would add a new dimension to your love of racing and tell everyone who sees it that you are dead serious about your loyalty. The clocks would not only tell the time but tell others what you are all about in no uncertain terms.
Brian is the owner of Stock Car USA Collectibles and invites all to visit his website at http://www.StockCarUSA.com where the neon clocks are prominently displayed. Feel free to browse his website that's packed with great ideas regarding NASCAR memorabilia, merchandise and collectibles.

Where to Buy NASCAR Collectibles

Many NASCAR fans collect NASCAR memorabilia. If you want to start collecting such items, there are several benefits that you could have, such as: the feeling that you are showing support for the sport and the potential of making a profit. There are a lot of variations in NASCAR collectibles but there is a big difference between the NASCAR merchandise and the NASCAR memorabilia. NASCAR merchandise are those items that fans use and wear, like clothing, and home decorations. On the other hand, NASCAR memorabilia is used to refer to the objects that have some deeper value and often times expensive. There are a lot of professional NASCAR collectors and dealers that consider limited edition car models, die cast cars and others to be memorabilia. If you are new in collecting NASCAR memorabilia and have a friend who is a total hardcore fan of the sport, you may want to seek his advice on how to start your very own collections. There are also several Web sites that can help you get started and NASCAR fan clubs that sell memorabilia.

Now that you have the idea between a memorabilia and merchandise, the next thing you need to think about is how you can start to collect such items. There are a number of options you could choose from. There might even be local shops near you that sell NASCAR collectibles. Most of these items can be found in specialty sports and racing stores and try to find those that have a collectables theme. To find local shops that cater your desire to collect NASCAR memorabilia, try searching for them on the Internet or a local phone book.

Using the Internet can also help you in finding the information you need about several other collectors out there. Some of these collectors might even sell NASCAR memorabilia. Additionally, most shops that specialize in the sports of racing also operate online. If you want to use the Internet as a way of getting started or finding the collectable you need, a simple search using phrases such as "NASCAR collectibles" would suffice. However, if you want to search for something particular, you may choose for something like "Dale Earnhardt die cast car". These are just alternatives and examples you can apply in your searches and they mostly depend on how patient you are in looking for the right memorabilia you want.

Another great way to help you find a NASCAR memorabilia for sale, are the races. However, most of the items you might find in racetracks are considered to be merchandise, there are other items that can be categorized as a memorabilia. A lot of NASCAR racetracks have shops in them and some of them even allow other NASCAR dealers to set up shops. Third-party dealers are a great way in finding collectibles.

There are also garage or yard sales, thrift stores, flea markets and online auction Web sites that can help you in finding a NASCAR memorabilia. These sites typically specialize in selling used items but most of them are still in great conditions. You might be surprised to find memorabilia from retired drivers and other collectibles when you check the mentioned locations out.

NASCAR memorabilia that are ideal to collect are autographed NASCAR photos and helmets that are also autographed by your favorite driver. There is a Web site, namely http://www.redline-7000.com that contains a number of memorabilia depending on who your favorite drivers are. This is just one Web site example that you can visit to help you get started in collecting NASCAR memorabilia.

Those mentioned methods on how and where to buy NASCAR memorabilia are just a few of the many ways that you can apply. There are fans out there that create their own methods through the use of their own creativity and patience. These traits are important for a collector. You should also know the reason why you want to start collecting NASCAR items. If you are collecting for the sole reason of enjoyment, you may have more freedom in buying the items you want. Others who collect to make a profit should try to buy a NASCAR memorabilia using a business standpoint; purchases must be made wisely. Additionally, you should have experience in researching as this can help you in determining the estimated value of rare or limited edition collectibles. This will prevent you from being ripped off from the original price.

Miodrag Trajkovic is an accomplished writer who specializes in car sports and recreations. For more information on NASCAR, just visit us at About Nascar.

NASCAR: The Game 2011 - Trailer

For your viewing pleasure we found a clip called NASCAR: The Game 2011 - Trailer . Enjoy!