http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/ozarks-pulic-television-presents-local-documentary_38673.mp3
(Racing Sounds)
That’s the sound of auto racing in the Ozarks. For some, racing is a sport. In this region, many consider it to be a way of life. The documentary highlights the competitive aspects of racing, it’s connections to the Ozarks, and the element of community embedded within the Ozark’s heritage.
“Racing in the Ozarks has a rich long history, and the roots of racing run deep in this area.”
That’s Brent Slane with Production and Programming at Ozarks Public Television. He says they’ve done extensive research into the local racing scene, and even spoke with racers that many fans will certainly recognize in the documentary.
“You know we’ve had some great support to get this show done, and we’ve been able to go out and speak to a lot of individuals locally and nationally, the Roper family [and] the Essary Family, they’ve all had generations of racers out there, as well as Carl Edwards, that a lot of folks will recognize, the Wallace Family, Mike and Kenny and Chrissy Wallace.”
The documentary is unscripted and has no narration. It is simply a collection of stories told from the perspective of locals who have lived this experience.
“If you’re amongst the hundreds that go out and partake of races each weekend at their local track, then you’re going to get the opportunity to see some great racing and great stories presented by the folks who run those races every week, through this documentary, and really gain a new perspective of the sport of racing as well as the roots of racing and where they came from here in the Ozarks.”
Not only can you gain a new perspective on the sport of racing, but also you will get a taste of the deeply engrained culture of family and community in the Ozarks.
“Racing really is a family sport, from the immediate family all the way to the camaraderie of folks in the pits, other racers, they all consider themselves one big family. You see that come through with competitive racers helping one another in the pits with each other’s cars. It provides a competitive spirit, but at the dame time, a family atmosphere.”
According to Slane, there are elements of this documentary that appeal to everyone in the region. He says if you’re from this area, you may be excited to see your own local track featured, or to learn about the Ozarks contribution to the national sport of racing. If you’re not from the area originally, Slane says it’s always good to know the history of the region; the history that built the foundation of the Ozarks today.
On the Fast Track: Racing in the Ozarks will premier June 7th at 7pm, without commercial interruption, and will be shown again on June 11th at 7pm on Ozarks Public Television. For KSMU, I’m Shane Franklin.