Helton: NASCAR must remain focused
By Marty Smith, Turner Sports Interactive
January 16, 2002
5:36 PM EST (2236 GMT)
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Had NASCAR president Mike Helton opted to use today’s jargon when addressing the media Wednesday morning, he’d have simply said NASCAR must keep it real in order to continue prospering.
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Mike Helton
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Helton’s brief comments stressed that NASCAR must maintain the same focus it's used for the past 53 years, all the while continuing to utilize an innovative approach that will help grow the sport and its partners.
“As we begin our 54th season, our hope is that we operate this year with great respect for the core values and principles that got us to where we are, but at the same time mindful of today’s issues and today’s standards,” Helton said.
He continued on, explaining that NASCAR has a seven-point goal sheet that includes key issues such as safety, close on-track competition, maximizing exposure for the sport and raising its value, watching the costs to teams, being a good partner in business relationships and being good stewards of the sport.
“Our goal is not simply to continue working on those issues, and others, but to turn the wick up,” Helton said. “We’re very proud of our product, proud of our heritage, proud of our organization. Our intent is to stay out in front of these issues.”
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Kevin Triplett
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To do so, NASCAR has completely reconfigured its leadership ladder and begun hiring individuals to oversee the safety program. Prior to last season, a five-member board of directors was implemented consisting of Helton, Bill France Jr., Jim France, Brian France and Lesa France Kennedy.
Former Winston Cup director Gary Nelson enters 2002 as the managing director of competition, and appeared quite elated in that role Wednesday. John Darby, formerly the Busch Series director, was promoted to fill Nelson’s slot as Winston Cup director, where he will oversee all aspects of competition.
Brian DeHart, formerly a Winston Cup and Busch Series technical inspector, was promoted to Busch Series director.
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Gary Nelson
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Three individuals, one for each of NASCAR’s major touring series, have been hired as medical liaisons. When asked about them Wednesday, NASCAR senior vice president George Pyne would not name them, but did say they are veteran experts in the medical field.
They will be responsible for working with the medical staff provided at the track. A crash investigator has also been hired.
“In order to do that it takes a lot of effort from your personnel,” Helton said. “One of your greatest resources are your people, and that’s why at NASCAR we feel like we have the talent to be prepared for the future of our sport.
“As a matter of fact, I think it’s safe to say that the depth of experience, knowledge, passion and energy has never been any greater than it is today. We’re very proud of that.”
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