Checkered Flag Victory Lap

Racing today has changed.
Traditions have been givin' a slap.
The most important missing of all,
the Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

Past racers were a special breed.
Clinching black steering wheel wrap.
The only goal they had in mind.
Taking that Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

A large purse did not exist.
Give up everything and just eat scraps.
Would do what ever it takes.
To earn that Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

There were no TV interviews.
Smiling while listening to fans clap.
No one wore their helmets,
on their Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

No matter how hard the day was.
Or how bad life had unsnapped.
A dirt stained face always wore a smile,
while taking that Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

Tracks today just don't get it.
Only care about social media apps.
They don't even schedule time for it.
The sacred Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

Kids of today like to do burnouts.
Destroying parts while some people clap.
Those that are older and know better.
Wishes for a Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

Nascar drivers today with their jets.
Big mansions and running their flaps. 
Don’t understand real men drove for, 
was the Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

The prize was not about money.
Not the trophy or bathing suit queen. 
Drivers forever remember the pride 
the Checkered Flag Victory Lap brings.

The sport is different today, 
I wish we could sometimes boycott. 
You think drivers in the '50's, 
cared about stats and TV spots?

A lot of racers today don't get it.
Traditions put racing on the map. 
A true racer knows why they do it. 
For That Checkered Flag Victory Lap.

R. S. Morris