Pete,

You don't have to win the lottery to go to the convention! I went for the last day two years ago with the intention of not buying any chips, I just wanted to spend a little time with friends. I did end up buying a few plaques for my collection, but being able to see just a few of the people that I can only see once a year, all in the same place made the trip worthwhile.

...as to being at a race instead of the convention, I have missed the Pikes Peak Hill Climb twice since 1971. I've attended that annual event as a spectator or crew member almost religiously for two thirds of my life. The first time I missed it was 9 years ago when I was working a drag race in Topeka on the same weekend. The second time I missed it was last year when I was working a drag race in Indianapolis. This year I'll miss it again, but this time it's because I'll be at the convention! The race is this Saturday. As much as I love fast cars, trucks and motorcycles up on the hill, after missing last year's convention, I wasn't gonna be a no show two years in a row.

Bob