Hello,
For those who don't know me, I'm a long time (but young!) FV driver who had a brief stint in FF2000's in the late 90's. I have become more and more frustrated with several things occuring in SCCA, and the growing sense that member opinions don't count for much. I have decided to write a letter address a few of my biggest complaints. Below is a copy of what I am mailing in. I understand not everyone may agree, but my hope is I will be supported in this.
My letter:
Attn: Jim Julow
As a 14-year member of the SCCA, I am writing in regards to three events that have occurred over the past year. I would like to address each event separately, and a response for each issue would be greatly appreciated. Each of these illustrates SCCA’s disregard for current member’s desires, and in my opinion shows how the current Board of Directors is not acting in our best interest
1)Addition of five new national classes. I recall during the lunch time competition board meetings at each of the past several Runoffs drivers being very outspoken and indicating the strong desire and need to eliminate classes. It was, and still is a very strong and almost unanimous opinion that there are too many classes competing on a national race weekend. So how was it in our best interest, if the majority of drivers want fewer classes, to have five more added? Why were these classes allowed to go directly to national status before a regional trial period? Many drivers are disappointed enough with this change to start looking for alternative racing organizations. When I sought answers from stewards during race weekends the common response was they were just as unhappy about it as the drivers
2) Changes to the configuration of Heartland Park Topeka. While I understand drivers were surveyed after the runoffs for opinions on the track, I don’t think it was a surprise to anyone that it was not well liked. But where was is determined the negative responses to the survey were due to specific corners and not the general feeling Heartland Park will never be as nice as Mid-Ohio or Road Atlanta? Pay attention to the Internet forums – there has been an overwhelmingly negative attitude toward the proposed changes. If SCCA is acting in our interest, how about opening up to another vote as to whether we want the proposed changes? I’m willing to bet the answer would be no.
3) The split of Central Division. Most people in the old Central Division never even were aware this was proposed. How could such a major change occur without member input? I have yet to find a single person – driver, steward, worker, ect., that feels this was a good decision. Judging by the car counts of the first few Great Lakes Division nationals, I believe we are all right in questioning this.
These three issues are all very serious and important. As a driver, I feel helpless and confused as to how each of them were approved. After talking with fellow racers in the paddock, this feeling is shared by all. I am eager to hear a response
Michael Varacins
Member No. 223366