Drag Racing News Daily

IHRA Poised for Growth; National Sports Marketing Publication Recognizes International Hot Rod Association’s Potential

Norwalk, Ohio (Dec. 5, 2008) – Street & Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal has released the results of its annual SBJ/SBD Reader Survey, and the results of one question in particular tell the story of IHRA’s future prospects.

In the category “Motorsports property best positioned for growth,” the International Hot Rod Association finished a strong fourth in the balloting. This question took into consideration all motor sports sanctioning bodies in all forms of racing across the globe. IHRA finished ahead of NASCAR, World of Outlaws, SCCA, Grand Am Series and Formula 1 to name a few.

“SportsBusiness Journal is the Bible when it comes to sports marketing, sponsorship, research and media,” IHRA director of communications Michael Perry said. “Their poll reinforces what we at the IHRA World Headquarters have known for some time…that we are in a very unique, very beneficial position to really build something special. While it’s nice to be recognized for our potential, we’re looking forward to being recognized for our results as well. That day is coming very soon.”

According to the publication’s mission statement, “Street & Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal is a weekly publication that provides the critical news and information sports industry leaders need to compete, negotiate and succeed. Every issue features coverage of the deals, trades, contracts and boardroom power plays that shape the rapidly-changing sports industry.”

“The business is changing and we are in a great position,” IHRA president Aaron Polburn said. “We have many flexible sponsorship opportunities available for corporations to take advantage of, and I expect IHRA to have non-traditional companies get involved as well as traditional racing-related manufacturers. We have a number of unannounced deals already in place and are looking to build on what we feel is a very strong roster of sponsors and marketing partners. This is a very exciting time to be involved with IHRA Drag Racing.”