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April 14, 1999
Pray for Rain
One thing that can ruin a good night of racing is rain. Who hasn't spent a
rainy Saturday day hoping the rain would stop in time for the track to dry
and for racing to be possible. Or even worse, who hasn't taken the drive to
their favorite speedway only to have rain begin falling as they pull into
the parking lot. Rain turns greasy asphalt tracks slick as ice. It makes
dirt bullrings into sloppy mud holes. Rain is a nemesis of racing.
But water is crucial for life. Without it, life cannot exist. Normally,
Florida gets a sufficient amount of rain on a yearly basis. Much like last
year, we are not. Orlando has received five inches less rain than normal.
Melbourne and Daytona are also below normal. This has caused vegetation to
dry out and create the perfect fuel for forest fires.
A repeat of last year's devastating wild fires is developing. Today, parts
of Florida were under a red flag fire warning, the result of the combination
of dry fuel, high winds, and low humidity. Orange, Brevard, Volusia, and
Dade Counties are just some of the counties that have had brush fires this
year. At first they were small, but they have been getting larger.
Climatologically, April is part of Florida's dry season. Little rain is
forecast in the near future. However, Florida cannot wait for rain for
long. Many of us look at racing as a part of life. Rain is also a part of
life. So tonight, please say a prayer for rain. Even if it means missing a
week of racing. Life depnds on it.
John Matthews
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