He's learning the hard way why other veterans, including his famous father, don't hang around the garage area. A sport that gained popularity by making its drivers accessible is suddenly running for cover. And unlike other pro athletes, Winston Cup Series drivers don't sell their autographs. Autographs are more than a personalized souvenir, they are racing's trademark. Richard Petty's swirling autograph is as famous as his sunglasses and cowboy hat.
Drivers are never without autograph pens, especially in public.
They walk through the garage area ready to sign postcards, hats, shirts and toys. More often that not, they sign as they make an escape. And yet, hundreds find their way in with bags of goodies to be signed. These people wouldn't walk into a boardroom during a meeting and ask for an autograph. The way I look at it, you might as well have a good time doing it.