That goal proved impossible, but they actually got a better track. Many racers consider Pocono the toughest track in the country to successfully negotiate. Racers at Pocono are the best the world of motor sports has to offer. Drivers such as Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Bill Elliott and Ernie Irvan have hundreds of thousands of fans across the country. The main difference between auto racing and many other professional sports is that participants risk their lives every time they suit up.
Mistakes are potentially deadly, and constant, quick thinking is essential.
And although the drivers take the risks and receive the recognition, racing is a team sport that includes pit crews, car owners and families. Stock-car racers, as much as any other professional athletes, inspire groups of loyal followers. Because the drivers are racing at speeds approaching 200 mph in cars that are actually modified versions of everyday street vehicles, fans often choose a favorite driver based on the model of his car. Most drivers are ordinary guys without inflated egos, and many stop to pose for pictures and spend time with their admirers. To encourage the relationship between the fans and the drivers, Pocono Raceway created Autograph Alley, near the pits, where people go to get autographs, swap stories and ask questions.