RaceBud

Jeanette, my wife, peeked into my office while I was setting it up for the RaceBud adventure. I was hanging a framed piece Jack Roush had signed. “You sure have a lot of autographs in here,” she observed.

Well, yes, there’s a few – and it took quite a bit of time to come by them.

Among NASCAR’s many claims is that its fans have better access to its stars (drivers, owners, crew chiefs and the like) than any other sport. While that’s probably true, the average fan should not expect to see drivers and owners roaming the stands looking for something to sign. But, there are ways to get that treasured autograph, if that’s the goal.

Just how easy, or difficult, is it to get the autographs you want? Here are eight ways:

1. Hospitality tents at the racetrack. By far, the most exciting way is in person, eye-to-eye with the star. Attending these gives up-close contact, but normally involves a sponsor’s invitation or a paid ticket.
2. Signing events at track merchandise trailers. Most every driver is represented at the races by one or more trailers selling their merchandise – t-shirts, caps, die-cast cars and other collectibles – and they will periodically attend a signing session for the fans. Notices are typically posted at the trailer as much as a day in advance. Just buy something for the driver to sign and stand in line.
3. Events at sponsor locations. Frequently at car dealerships during the few days before a race, drivers (and others) are scheduled for appearances to attract a crowd. You don’t have to be in the market to buy a car in order to show up and ask for an autograph. But you will probably have to exercise a good deal of patience while you stand in line with other autograph seekers.
4. Mail something to be signed. I once mailed a team brochure to Robert Yates Racing requesting the signatures of Yates, Dale Jarrett and crew chief Todd Parrott. It was several months later, but one day the package showed up in my mailbox, signed as requested. Be sure to make it easy for them by including adequate return postage and pre-addressed packaging. Without it, your request probably won’t be honored.
5. Purchase signed merchandise. Reliable sources make it easy to purchase signed collectibles, both online and in traditional stores. By reliable, I mean team, driver, sponsor or merchandiser Web sites.
6. e-Bay, Craig’s List and other online sources. But, beware. There are frauds out there more than willing to take advantage of your enthusiasm for a great deal. Check these out carefully before making a bid or purchase. If in doubt, just don’t do it.
7. Ask a friend. You may know someone going to Charlotte for a shop tour. Ask them to be on the lookout for your. Friends have brought me several items in my collection, all personalized – and I treasure these for their thoughtfulness as much as the autograph.
8. Keep your eyes open for an opportunity. If you’re at a race track, there’s a chance you’ll encounter a driver, team owner or other person whose autograph you would like to have. I always carry a Sharpie, the official pen of autographs, and something to be signed, even if it’s the cap or shirt I’m wearing.

Some other things to consider about autographs that will enhance the experience:

1. Be very polite – ask, don’t demand. No one owes you their autograph. When you encounter a star and want their signature, don’t blow your chance by demanding they sign something for you. Ask – politely – make eye contact – and say thank you.
2. Do it for your personal pleasure, not for profit. It will be much more rewarding in the long run.
3. Put it on display. Have your item framed and hang it on a wall, or buy an acrylic box for a die-cast. Hang caps on your wall, or wear them proudly. Autographs are not so meaningful at the bottom of the sock drawer.

Enjoy your autographs. Make them a part of your enjoyment of the sport and they will remain as meaningful memories. And be sure to tell the story of how you got the autograph.

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