Quote Originally Posted by simontibbett
That's not entirely true. There just aren't the people to notice you at club races. Guys that win every single race don't go pro, I've known guys who would DOMINATE. It's pure luck to go from club racing and be noticed by a pro team.

Like I said, I've had offers to race with bigger teams, but that takes money, if that's what you mean sure, but to just get in and be paid, def. not. I am a big fan of Randy Pobst and know his history as I look up to him for that, I'm not rich, and have no backing other then some local help and my own wallet. It takes more then talent to be big in the racing world.
It's no different than high school sports. You can be the best player on your team, have stats that dominate all the opponents on other teams in the region, yet still never get a chance to go further. I had the most goals scored on my team the last year I was able to play soccer, without my coach calling up the Clemson scouts do you actually think they would have noticed me or came down to see me play and make me an offer? Having weekly articles describing game results in the local newspaper(s), even with a circulation of 26,000 daily, is still not going to get you noticed by top universities in neighboring states. You have to inform them of your abilities, forcing them to recognize you. Same goes with driving.

If you want to pursue a professional driving career money is definitely a factor, the more money you have the more events and experience you're able to get. Unfortunantely that experience doesn't always get you noticed unless you make them aware of you. It's ALL about networking, who you know, and how well you can sell yourself. You can be a great driver but if a team owner doesn't like your character then there is no chance they are going to hire you to drive, simple as that. The same can go the other way as well, you may not be the best driver but if they see potential and like your attitude and motivation then they may work with you and assist in honing your skills. Again, it's all about who you know.

Then of course you have the teams that sell seat time because they couldn't do it otherwise. I personally know people that have spent up to $250k for their share of the contract for a 24 hr Rolex team...