The best place to people watch? Hanging out with track security
It was hot and I parked my tired self outside the Talladega media center, waiting for someone I was supposed to meet. I sat on the ground, leaned against the building, trying to grab a little shade, and commenced with one of my favorite track pasttimes: people watching.
And man, were there some interesting fans to watch. You see, I was inside the fence … but not on the coveted side. Rather, it was the side for people who didn’t have garage passes. But as I rested with my ankles crossed, sipping on some water, I quickly appreciated the drama on this side of the fence.
The thresholds of the garage and media center, where hired security enforce credential checks, were clearly magnets for amusement. Camped out on the ground next to the media center door, I witnessed two young guys nonchalantly whip out identification. They confidently flashed it to the security guard with their other hands on the door ready to proceed in. After the guard denied them entrance, they feigned surprise and went on their way, laughing about the unsuccessful attempt at sneaking into the garage.
Candis Kirkpatrick was the security guard. She and her husband (who was working security on pit road) are from Phil Campbell, Ala., and have worked races at Talladega for the past three years. Even though there is a very clear sign stating that credentials are required to enter, Candis said fans request entry for various reasons.
Sometimes, it is because they are searching for drivers or think the drivers meeting takes place inside the building. But most often, the seasoned track security guard says it’s simply because fans are curious.
Isn’t that the truth?
I’m sure Candis and her husband have seen all sorts of things. They get paid to deal with the shenanigans of curious fans and she loves it. Why? Because she is a NASCAR fan herself – a Dale Earnhardt Jr. fan, to be specific.
It’s an amazing opportunity for fans who love the sport to get the chance to be on the inside by working at the track. And I’m sure none of them get to do more people-watching than track security personnel.
After I finished talking with Candis, I sat back down in my little patch of shade and waited for my phone to ring. Sure, I wasn’t being paid to hang out by the door and check credentials, but I was entertained by watching security do it. That trip has made security checkpoints one of my favorite places to people watch. NS
