You understand one aspect why the NSRA is moving in this direction-expand business opportunities. The magazine as well as the NSRA (and I should add Goodguys and other organizations and associations) have noted a drop in participants resulting from the "graying" of our industry. Through the inclusion of later-model cars (and trucks) there is the immediate benefit as well as the long-range gains to be realized from younger participants becoming involved now and in the future. We won't be the ones driving this industry in a few years and as such we should leave a legacy of something that is worth pursuing for those coming behind us.
While I understand individuals with similar feelings would like to see the Nats retain its pre-'49 status it clearly is the NSRA's decision and it wasn't made "lightly." I believe Vernon when he tells me "we thought long and hard about this decision." It is our intention to support the NSRA (as we have done for the Goodguys and other associations that function under this format) in their decision as we believe it is in the best interests of the hobby/industry.
I also believe the NSRA and rodders everywhere understand the contribution volunteers have made to our hobby's success with the Nationals being one such event. Our research tells us that the majority of vendors are in favor of this transition. It has been mentioned that manufacturers of pre-'48 product may benefit in the future by having their goods exposed to potential hot rodders who in the future may try their hand at building a pre-'48.
The staff of SR has covered enough events to realize that rodders, regardless of the year of vehicle they drive, like cars and are fun to be around. We don't see an inherent problem with allowing post-'48 cars and trucks into NSRA (or Goodguys, etc...).
I will say that I am aware of your heartfelt enthusiasm for our hobby but all aspects of life evolve and life's thrill is in enjoying what the future brings.
Respectfully,
Brian Brennan
Editorial Director/Editor
Street Rodder
NSRA Member #2769 (5-72)
NSRA Lifetime Member #624 (5-76)
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Brian, it seems you magazine guys all think the same way, that our hobby is going to go down the tubes if we don't bring in the newer cars. I disagree, we who currently own these jewels will pass them on to our sons/daughters/grandkids or sell them to someone who will care for them and preserve our hobby. Just look at how many deuce roadsters there are just in California alone. There are more in this state than were ever produced by ole Henry. Also look at the growing number of rod shops and after market businesses and check out the age of a growing number of the owners. Young guys who think like the old legends of our industry. This hobby is a long way from dead or dying. We the traditional hot rodders say, "bring back the past to live in the future"!!
Joe,
Would like to use you letter in a forthcoming issue of SR to present this viewpoint. All are entitled to his (or her) position and I certainly can understand your viewpoint. On the other hand I look at our hobby as something fluid and not stagnant. Very little in life progresses if it stands still and I believe the same holds true for street rodding. To expect our hobby to stay healthy and grow in the future all aspects must grow and that includes years of coverage. Realistically a great number of the younger car guys may not care as deeply for the years of cars that we do, as such how do we meet their needs and by extension our own future needs? You do it by being supportive of a hobby that evolves to meet the new needs and future goals.