Top Row Seat - California
Dateline: 06/24/97On friday the U.S Government announced that it had reached a deal with the tobacco industry which includes the companies' agreement to halt all sponsorship of sporting events. Obviously this decision has significant consequences for NASCAR Winston Cup racing.
Although I'm sure that this might come as a shock to some, I tend to agree with this decision. Tobacco companies have manipulated the nicotine content in cigarettes for years in order to addict smokers and ensure that there would be a market for their product. We have also seen tobacco companies create irresponsible advertising campaigns aimed directly at young people. I mean let's get real, who do you think Joe Camel's target audience is? I seem to remember a few years ago a study that announced that Joe Camel was more recognizable to children than Mickey Mouse.
Let me clarify one thing, I have nothing against smokers. Current smokers are more than welcome to continue to smoke as long as they wish. I choose not to smoke but I respect your right to choose to continue to smoke and no one should infringe upon that right. What I am against is the tobacco companies' attempt to attract new smokers (which they must do in order to replace the people who die of lung cancer and other smoking related diseases each year.)
Replacement Sponsors
There seem to be two leading contenders to replace Winston as the title sponsor of NASCAR's premier series. I would have to believe that the leading contender to replace RJR is Budweiser. Someone commented to me in a chat room that alcohol kills nearly as many people as tobacco each year. This is not fair because it is the abuse of alcohol that kills. Tobacco used properly kills, alcohol used properly does not.
According to Jayski's Silly Season page the other leading company is Walt Disney Co. This would be a nice direction for NASCAR to go considering the image of a "family sport" that they are trying to promote. Although the idea of calling it the Disney Cup just doesn't have quite the same ring to it. :)
Naturally this is pure speculation since congress and the president both have to agree to this judgement. And if they do approve, the changes do not go into effect until 1999 which allows plenty of time for the rumors to spread wildly. How about the Pepsi Cup, Coke Cup, Napa Cup, Goodyear Cup, RCA Cup....
Go Fast, Turn Left, Stay Safe!
Send your tips, rumors and comments to me at nascar.guide@miningco.com.
