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Champ brakes over cost: Monaghan won't defend Delaware Speedway titleDate: Thursday 10 November 2005 All race car drivers like to go out on top, but not when they're being pushed by their accountants. Citing the escalating costs of competing with virtually no sponsorship backing, veteran race car driver Dan Monaghan has opted not to defend the season's point championship he won at London's Delaware Speedway this season. Instead, the local driver has sold his car and much of his equipment.  "I just couldn't justify spending so much of my own money anymore," Monaghan said. "It's strictly a financial decision. I still love to race." Instead, Monaghan will help his pal Ray Morneau race next season. Morneau won the Delaware season's points title a year ago and is facing some of the same financial pressures.
Monaghan estimates it cost him $9,000 to compete in 14 races last summer, not including the cost of purchasing a car. A new car would add $14,000-$15,000.
"It's hard getting sponsors when we have to go to London to race," said Monaghan, who praised the support he got from his lone sponsor Sun Parlor Trailer. "It's just very frustrating for guys down here. "We can only hope those plans to build a track near Comber are still on."
Monaghan, the nephew of local racing legend Jack Monaghan, can only hope the frustration doesn't turn to bitterness next spring. Monaghan sold off all his equipment to make it harder to change his mind.
"Being at the track when all those engines roar to life and having to sit in the infield, that's when I'll really feel it," he said.
The admitted racing addict will try to get his fix by working on Morneau's car and dabbling in some kart racing. He may also run a race or two in Morneau's car if his friend isn't planning on running a full season because of a lack of sponsorship money. "I don't think it will fill the need entirely, but it'll keep me involved," Monaghan said. "I couldn't stay away from the track. I'd miss the atmosphere and the good people that are there."
This article was originally published in The Windsor Star and on The Windsor Star web site (www.canada.com/windsor/windsorstar/index.html). The Windsor Star took the article down so a link to it no longer worked. This is my personal, non-commercial use copy, if you want this article please follow the Windsor Star Copyright terms.
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