In an effort to move drag racing from the streets to the racetrack, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the Street Performance Council (SPC) have launched an all-new "Racers Against Street Racing" (RASR) website, located at www.rasr.org, that makes it easier for visitors to find a nationwide listing of sanctioned racetracks.
"The message is clear and simple: If you want to race, go to a racetrack," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "There are fun, legal ways for drivers to enjoy racing, and taking it to a track will ultimately save lives."
The goal of RASR is to educate drivers about the dangers of street racing and aggressive driving stunts that put them -- and others -- at risk of serious injury and death. The new site features tools that evoke engagement from site visitors. It also provides individuals with a resource to locate professionally controlled environments in which today's performance and speed enthusiasts can participate in automotive-related events throughout the United States.
Adopted by SEMA in 2001 to spread the message about the dangers of street racing, RASR is comprised of a coalition of auto manufacturers, aftermarket parts companies, retailers, distributors, professional drag racers, sanctioning bodies, race tracks and automotive magazines devoted to promoting legal alternatives to illegal street racing on a national level. RASR is administered through a task force within the SPC and action is driven entirely via a team of volunteers.
"The Street Performance Council is once again excited to be aligned with RASR and feel that with the new direction we can truly make an impact on the street racing," said Tracie Nunez, SPC Chairman.
RASR and industry professionals are constantly working to spread the word and make it "cool" to get off the streets and onto the track. Local police agencies and racers often partner with RASR to bring better involvement and understanding from both sides. To learn more about the program, visit www.RASR.org.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $31.85 billion specialty automotive industry of 7,144 member-companies. It is the authoritative source for research, data, trends and market growth information for the specialty auto parts industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. For more information, contact SEMA at 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765, tel: 909/396-0289, or visit www.sema.org orwww.enjoythedrive.com.