Founder
Ed Inclan explains the concept behind his organization
Interview
By: L.A. Pierre
LP:
What is “Back to the Tracks”?
EI:
“Back to the Tracks” is a community awareness program we
started back in 1993. This
program focuses on promoting auto racing as a sport while also educating
people of the dangers associated with illegal street racing.
We provide information and services to racing enthusiasts looking
to participate in organized racing events.
These organized events are held in a safe and controlled
environment. The ultimate
goal is to get people to stop racing on the street and bring it “Back to
the Tracks”, where it belongs.
LP:
How does your organization go about educating people about the
dangers of illegal street racing?
EI:
We work in partnership with other diverse organizations, sponsors,
community leaders and law enforcement agencies.
With the help of these partners, we reach out to our local
communities by setting up events, shows and presentations.
We structure these activities with 3 goals in mind.
First and foremost, we want to inform the general public of the
dangers of illegal street racing. Second,
we want to educate them to the advantages of participating in the actual
sport of auto racing. Last but not least, we want everyone involved in these
activities to have a great time and enjoy themselves.
Fun is an integral part of any “Back to the Tracks” event.
LP:
Can you be more specific about the actual events, shows and
presentations?
EI:
Sure, we organize everything from actual race track events, to car
shows and community orientated speaking presentations.
For example, we frequently set up race track events so people can
experience first hand the sport of auto racing in a safe and controlled
environment. Another
excellent way to bring exposure to our cause is to host car shows and
other car related functions. In
fact, our last two “Back to the Tracks” car shows held in Torrance, CA
were extremely successful, prompting local television coverage, thousands
of attendees and hundreds of car show participants.
We also provide speaking presentations at schools, churches and
other community based organizations, encouraging people of all ages to say
“NO” to street racing and participate in safe driving practices.
LP:
How do you get younger children and teens excited about safe
driving practices?
EI:
Are you kidding? (Ed laughs out loud)
Just show up with a race car and you get their attention.
Let them sit in that race car and I guarantee they’ll get
excited. The key is to get
them involved through audience participation.
Children are very resilient and actually absorb much more than we
give them credit for. They are eager to learn but we must be willing to teach.
Let’s face it, we teach our children so many survival skills from
an early age but we wait to train them about actual driving safety until
they are well into their teens. They
get their driving permits and we throw them behind the wheel of a
potentially dangerous motor vehicle with little to no practical knowledge.
Children love cars and are excited about cars but we neglect to
properly educate them about those cars at an early age.
This is a disservice to the ones we love.
When you think about it, this is a disservice to our entire
community. We are putting
inexperienced drivers out there on the dangerous streets and highways of
our nation without the proper training. In my opinion, that’s unacceptable.
LP:
How does this all relate to “Back to the Tracks”?
EI:
When you participate in the sport of auto racing through a program
like “Back to the Tracks”, you are learning and practicing the skills
that make you a more efficient driver.
After all, while racing, you have to get from point A to point B as
efficiently as possible. Through expert instruction and real on hands experience,
you learn the actual driving techniques and science behind the sport. This
is similar to practicing on the street but at a much higher level of
intensity. Not only are you
learning advanced driving techniques, you’re also learning the actual
physics behind the race car to help you become a better driver. I
strongly believe in the saying “practice makes perfect”. The driving skills learned and practiced at the track, will
only benefit you on the street.
LP:
You’ve mentioned educating children and teens to make them better
drivers but how about the other age groups?
EI:
“Back to the Tracks” is for drivers of all ages and walks of
life, whether you are an accomplished driver, just licensed teen or that
young child that dreams of being a famous race car driver.
This program is a great way for all ages to learn about the sport,
hone in on their driving skills or just quench that inner “need for
speed” we sometimes feel.
LP:
Speaking of quenching the “need for speed”, how can “street
racers” benefit from this program?
EI:
First off, according to studies, many “street racers” involved
in illegal street racing are not aware of the local race tracks,
organizations and programs that are available to them.
Most of the others feel intimidated by the formality of organized
racing or simply believe they can not afford to participate.
There is a misconception that the sport of auto racing is a rich
man’s sport. Our hope is that “street racers” attend our community
events and leave with a better understanding of the sport of auto racing.
With this understanding, maybe they’ll channel their “need for
speed” in a more constructive manner? Instead
of racing illegally on the streets of our communities, maybe they’ll
start attending organized racing events where racing your car is
completely legal and safe?
LP:
What types of racing organizations are available for younger
children who are not “licensed” to drive on the street?
EI:
There are plenty of racing organizations that offer instructions
and programs geared towards younger children.
From go-carts and sprint cars to drag racing, there really is
something for everyone. These programs are very similar to the programs offered to
older drivers. The most
common difference is the race cars are scaled down in size, which allows
younger drivers to easily manage and control the vehicle while racing.
LP:
The sport of auto racing for younger children?
Is that really safe?
EI:
Yes, safety is always a priority in any organized racing program. All
participants must follow strict rules and regulations in order to
participate. This may include
wearing the appropriate safety clothing such as gloves, helmets and racing
suits. Events are usually
held at controlled facilities or race tracks where the officials stress
the importance of safety. Depending
on the particular organization, most events include emergency response
personnel with the appropriate first aid equipment should an emergency
arise. In fact, when compared
to other popular youth contact sports, the sport of auto racing is
extremely safe.
LP:
How does someone contact you or get additional information
regarding the “Back to the Tracks” organization?
EI:
You can e-mail or contact us directly through the web site:
WWW.ONLINE-RACER.COM
LP:
Well
Ed, it looks like we now have a much better understanding of the “Back
to the Tracks” organization. Is
there anything else you want to mention before we close out the interview?
EI:
I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of the “Back
to the Tracks” program throughout the years.
Through your continued involvement and support, our organization
will not only spread the word about the dangers of illegal street racing
but also promote the wonderful sport of auto racing.
Please visit us at www.online-racer.com
should you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Thank you!
THE
FINISH LINE
