NHRA New England Nationals Update
March 26, 2020
To Our Loyal New England Dragway Fans:
All of us at New England Dragway understand the COVID-19 outbreak is currently disrupting your lives. We are sensitive to the concerns and uncertainty felt by individuals and businesses as our nation combats what we all hope to be a short-term outbreak. We are closely monitoring the situation, as well as guidance available from state and local officials. We remain confident life will return to normal and we remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for racers and race fans alike.
We recognize NHRA’s decision to cancel the 2020 New England Nationals is a huge disappointment to our loyal fans. It's a significant disappointment for New England Dragway as well. We were initially approached by NHRA to consider the possibility of postponing the event. During a special meeting of the Board of Directors, representatives of the NHRA outlined their concerns and expressed that the issue was a time sensitive matter. With the event being five months away, the Board intended to gather more information, allow the situation to develop, and make an informed decision closer to the time of the event. The Board felt a decision to postpone was premature and notified NHRA that it wished to hold off on making a decision for 30 days. Obviously, that did not happen. We want to stress the decision to cancel the event was made entirely by NHRA and against the wishes of New England Dragway.
Even though this was not a New England Dragway decision, we apologize to those who have supported us over the years. We put significant effort into our events to provide an unmatched experience. Your passion and loyalty have helped us provide the best motor sports entertainment possible. You can be assured we will continue to work hard to ensure that tradition continues here at New England Dragway.
We also want to thank our brave first responders, exceptional medical professionals, and the resolve of each and every one of you as we overcome this challenge and work to restore normalcy to our lives.
Sincerely,
Joe Lombardo
General Manager,
New England Dragway, Inc.
Tech Inspector: Inspects the race vehicle to ensure it is following all rules and regulations set forth in the latest issue of the NHRA rulebook. Automotive knowledge is required.
Staging Lane Official: Organizes classes in the lanes. Must be able to tell the differences between classes and direct racers to their appropriate lanes. Works closely with both racers and race starters.
Tower Stage: This position is responsible in communicating the car numbers and dial-in’s to race control, specifically the clock operator, during the elimination rounds. Employee must be able to think on their feet and maintain consistent accuracy. A mistake at this position can have a drastic effect on the outcome of the racer’s experience.
Time Slips: Enters every car number and dial-in for each race. You will be taught the computer program; therefore, no previous time slip experience is necessary.
Water Box Official: Prepares the water box for burnouts by managing how much water is applied to the area, and keeping the area clear of excess rubber, debris, etc.
Starter: Starts the races and makes occasional judgement calls. Assists with track prep and ensures the track is clear of debris and fluid. Must be constantly aware of surroundings.
Maintenance: Works to ensure track safety and professionalism. In charge of garbage disposal, mowing the lawn, performing maintenance and checks on all track equipment. This position is extremely important to the track and the health and safety of those who come here.
Gas Shack Attendant: Works closely with racers to enable the purchase of fuel. Keeps an accurate log of fuel inventory, handles money, and pumps fuel. No knowledge of fuel types is necessary.
Pit Gate: The first impression of New England Dragway to our racers! You must be willing to learn, as this position requires handling money and ticketing based on car classes.
Main Gate: Welcomes our race fans through the gate during our major events! Responsibilities include selling spectator tickets, scanning pre-purchased tickets, and giving out wristbands.
Credentials: Creates tech cards for racers, making sure that racers and crew fill out their paperwork, gives out proper credentials to racers and crew, and sells additional racing items such as aux pit vehicle stickers, helmets, and so on.
Starter Assistant: Works closely with the starter. Assist in track prep; maintain the starting line area by keeping the area clean of debris and fluids; and is a second set of eyes to witness the outcome of a race.
Security: Assists track officials and police details in maintaining order at the dragway. This position is responsible for checking wristbands, guarding the gates, and generally providing a pleasant experience for those attending the races. Must be able to successfully diffuse a situation and know when to get property authorities / track officials involved.