I’ve got one of my TV weaknesses on right now. It’s “Pinks – All Out” on Speed. It’s the best reality show on television!
Shot cinéma vérité style this is a drag racing competition, but not with pros. These are ‘just folks’ who’ve invested heavily in their cars and are asked to put their money where their mouth is with large cash bets against each other.
The drivers are there with friends and family. Often they’ve driven hundreds of miles to get to the track. This is a big deal. They are psyched. Emotion oozes from them like sweat on a hot day.
The host/producer/Svengali is Rich Christensen. He is a cross between the guy who played Billy Jack and a young Sylvester Stallone.
Instead of using lights the races are started as Christensen drops his hands. Hold your calls. This is about the most macho thing ever done on camera.
The amazing thing is after the race the winner and loser are always in good spirits. These are gladiators. The loser respects the victor and vice versa.
I’m not a car guy. I did not grow up in rural Texas as many of tonight’s participants have. I am still drawn in and cannot look away.
If they ever come back to shoot at Lebanon Valley Dragway again, you should check it out in person! The dragway is 20 miles east of Albany.
Mike – I need to find someone at Stafford or Waterford who can give me access so I can bring “Clicky” and go nuts taking photos.
After reading your blog for the last 6 or so years….this is not a post I was expecting.
Why? It’s real drama. It’s the most real show on TV starring people unaffected by the cameras.