Jeg Coughlin impresses media at EMPA convention

Jeg Coughlin showed the same form that has made him a three-time NHRA champion at last weekend’s Eastern Motorsports Press Association convention in Philadelphia. Coughlin was a keynote speaker to a group of more than 200 media members, who represent newspapers, magazines, and periodicals, as well as television and radio stations in the Eastern United States.

“What a great representative for NHRA,” EMPA founder Ernie Saxton said. “Jeg spoke to the group and gave an excellent presentation on drag racing in general. He brought everyone up to date on what is happening in all parts of NHRA and took the time to answer questions. He was a true professional and went above and beyond the call of duty. He created some new drag racing fans and certainly a lot of media will be paying attention to Jeg Coughlin and the Schumacher race teams this season.”

Coughlin’s speech included some basic information on NHRA drag racing, statistics on the current growth of the sport, and the importance of NHRA’s television deal with ESPN. He also stressed how vital it was for the journalists in attendance and around the country to recognize professional drag racing and cover it on a regular basis.

“We definitely won some people over,” Coughlin said. “In many areas, drag racing is still evolving into a mainstream sport. We need the help of media professionals like these fine folks to help us spread the word. When they began to realize what a big deal drag racing has become, how much money it takes to run a team like Schumacher Racing, the preparation involved, the big sponsors in the sport, I think that got their attention.

“I also devoted some time to explaining sportsman racing and the Lucas Oil Series, plus the two SPORTSNationals events we now have on the schedule. I even touched on the Jr. Dragster program. My point was that NHRA drag racing has something for everyone. We’re fan friendly, every ticket is a pit pass, fans can meet all the drivers and talk with them, there are so many positives we offer. Everyone seemed really impressed.”

After his speech and question and answer session, Coughlin was swarmed by reporters. He conducted numerous one-on-one interviews, reiterating many of the points he had made in his speech.

Coughlin also presented an autographed and framed crew shirt from the Jeg’s Mail Order race team, which was auctioned off for charity.