Orange County Convention Center racing on Track

According to Ken Schrader, 20 years ago a driver could compete with a car and new tires for $3000. Today, racers need about 15 million from sponsors in order to be viable. Some economist believe that the economy may have a negative affect on the 21st century Performance Racing Industry trade show at the Orange County Convention Center.

Years ago, Indianapolis was the center of the Performance Racing Trade Show but now it's hosted in Orlando until the contract runs out in 2016. As the center of the racing universe, every person who has an investment in this industry will be allowed to attend.

Showing of attendance right through Saturday will be an indicator of how the economy is affecting the motor sports industry. Obviously, the Performance Racing Industry trade show does not have an actual manufactured product that must be sold on Saturday but is more of an exhibition of the latest technology.

But there is no question that the big 3, Ford, General Motors and Chrystler are nearing bankruptcy due to decling sales of their motor products.

Regardless, more than 170 different firms will be represented at the auto show this December. Attendance which was estimated at 45,000 last year is expected decline this year said Pete Evanow. Many believe the racing industry is in good shape.

Florida is home to various motor sports including 30 area drag strips , Nascar, Indy Racing League, National Hotrod association, American Le Mans series, Grand Am series, Daytona International Speedway, Gainesville Raceway, Sebring International Raceway and Sports Club of America.