Have a giveaway addition to be able to compete in your races. Freedom 500, indy etc. 1 or 2 normal everyday people are able to race alongside you and the other celebs.
You need to get multiple concerts a year at events. Ryan Upchuch would be good. He publishes his own music he doesn’t go to the big music labels. Or get a comedian like Zach Rushing to come in and do stuff between races
Sell it like Monster Jam use to be (not sure if it’s still this way), but every ticket was $10.00 regardless of the seat. So your advantage was buying as early as possible.
Brother if I wasn’t on the opposite side of the country 3100 miles away and struggling to afford to live I’d be at every damn event. Feeling lucky you guys put in the work so we can watch and support from anywhere with a WiFi signal. Good to see what you’re doing for the sport
My girl and i drove from north of toronto ontario. We are now fonna come back every year for the freedom 500...... we had the most amazing time meeting everyone and watching the magic unfold
Cleetus, I'm retired living on a fixed income. I'm 1200 miles away from just about all of your events, so I spend my money every year to watch the live show on my laptop. I'm very glad to see your shows get better event by event and some day I'd love to be there in person. As a former shop owner and event organizer myself, trust me I understand. You ain't losing me online, but with just the cost of living right now, I may never see a show from the stands. You brought racing back to what it was 50 years ago, not 15 years! Thanks!
God bless. I'm putting in 50 plus hours at work and working side jobs on the weekend and struggling to make ends meet. Racing is expensive I get it but when that entrance fee doubles just to have a hotdog and soda it pushes alot of people out
This is exactly my point. Being 1200 miles doesn't make it viable for you to come to every event, but your ability to continually have access enable your interest and is what keeps you supporting, with whatever medium is available, until you're able to be present.
Why not apply to help to organise some stuff? Maybe you can hit 2 birds with one stone? Travel by camper van if you renovaste an old one you could break even on that or even make some money... maybe start by dreaming a little about all the possibillitys...
It’s the cost of the trip, the tickets and food and drinks. $11.75 for a mixed drink, $8 for a beer and food prices are based per person and seem exorbitant and they wonder why people don’t go to car races anymore? Not you Cleetus but I looked at the food and drinks menu at Bristol and my jaw hit the damn ground. Concessions need to make a buck, but those prices are just gouging.
I live on the other side of the planet in New Zealand we are doing it hard here to. I’d give my left nut to be able to come to one of your events! But reality is it probably won’t happen. As far as spicing it up I’d love to watch a race were the drivers have to bolt heads onto a short block put the engine in the car and race say 50 laps as a timed event from start to finish that would be awesome to watch the pit action and the racing!
Brother... I flew myself my wife and our 2 friends out to FF from Vegas for your bday... It was bar none the BEST show we ever saw! We all loved it, and we will be back!
Nice if you can afford to do that but if you are scrimping and saving as much as you can to live day to day your not going to splash out on an expensive one off event!
@@mikehippersonand your point being….? If you can’t afford to go it’s no one’s problem but your own 😂 I saved up for that trip because I wanted to go and see it for myself. Work harder.
Cleet, there are many of us who would gladly donate a dollar or two an event just to see you keep it going. What you're doing is tremendous to the sport. You and Kyle(1320) have changed how people watch drag racing forever.
You spent year #1 innovating. Your ideas and medium were brand new. Years 2 and 3 were dialing in your show, production workflows, and team. Now you know what you're doing and what you need, so you can spend that extra mental energy on pivoting back to innovating again. It took the sport of racing decades to hit that dead end and they may close tracks before they figure it out and change approach. It took you 3 years. You're good.
This is why I fu**** love this guy. He puts the FAN first, not financial interest. He truly cares about fan engagement. He’s a visionary. A game changer!!
Visionary is a bit much, it's common sense if there is such a thing... Bottom line is you want every seat sold out you need to add extreme carnage, potential death sells go with it
@@andrewstamant5877 I agree with jeff, I have personally noticed that Cleetus goes out of his way A LOT of the time to do the right thing or make the fan experience better when he really didn't have to for a similar financial outcome. Guaranteed that Cleetus would make WAYYY more money by just making CZcams Videos than holding all these events that cost way more time and money to organize. You can be a smart businessman while also being ethical and caring about your fans.
Instead of a drone show, That pro guy that flys R/C planes... Now that was a show. Making a race into a whole day out for the whole family is a great take on racing.. like racing meets carnival / county fair. Great to see you thinking about how to make a race event into a more attractive and better value event for people, especially for families.
@@BDJones055 I have been to Flitefest many times. Cleeter pulls about the same if not more people to his events. You have to be there to see how insane it actually is. Flite Fest is super fun. It's like one big family. I hope to be able to catch everyone until I can no longer make it there physically. Cleeter should invite Peter Sripol and all those other backyard scientists to put on a crazy show with RC and DIY flying suits and battle bots. lol.
My wife and I always make sure to clear our schedules for your event every year. It's honestly our one thing we both thoroughly enjoy and never miss. I work at a garage and she gets shop time by proxy in many ways but it's one time we both just sit back and enjoy the cars for a day and not worry about any of them breaking 😂 We will always support any event you bring to town and we greatly appreciate how much you've put into the sport these past few years. I remember Lucas oil being a quarter full for most events growing up, going with my Grandpa. The first time you came to town it was an energy surrounding something I loved that I hadn't ever seen. Brought a tear to my eye and even made my Grandpa google you out of curiosity and respect. Keep it up and safe to say we will continue to support you in whatever ways we can. If Zach needs help in the mechanic/electrical department I'd join the team in a heartbeat 🤙
We need a desperado ranch cleetus event. mud pit, side by sides, everyone bring their campers and make it a weekend. Like the blue holler event in southern Kentucky every year
This is why this man has the best automotive channel on CZcams. He just doesn't stop with things being good enough. He always wants things to be above and beyond people's expectations. That is why I have been a loyal subscriber since Leroy hit the drag strip. I'll see everyone at Indy!
He's also trying to cement his lifestyle forever. Once you have things, see things, feel things....its hard to go back. Cleet just on a personal mission but also a friends/family mission to see success and happiness👋💯🤟🏻 Plus he's gotta pay for his new new hanger/house combo build 😂 You know damn well he picked up one of those Patey Aviation Park hangers as well lol. I'm excited for the further improving of events!
As somebody who works in the corporate events industry, I whole heartedly agree with everything you said here. "REMARKABLE" If you use that as your standard, you will do great things. If it's not "REMARKABLE", DON'T DO IT. If it's not 'remarkable', nobody will spread the word, nobody will build buzz, nobody will do anything other than passively buy a ticket (maybe) and as you said, you'll just keep doing the same thing you've been doing for years, and you'll continue to get what you got, until eventually it dwindles into nothing.
I'm driving 14 hours from CT to come see you at Indy I have been doing it for the past 4 years and will every year that you hold the event love it brother!!!!
This isn’t nascar people aren’t bringing families to cleetus events 😂 20-30 year olds go to his events not once have there been more than like 10 kids at any event
I didn't find out about your race til Robby Layton mentioned it a few days ago ... I'm bummed to be missing it but have already marked my calendar for next year. Keep up the good work, love your channel!
Love the content at the track at Indy, just remember Friday is hard to get off for families with kids (Indy area has lots of families that are dual income w/children), we can’t come on Friday. Put the shows in venues like Indy for Sat/Sun, load them up like you’ve been doing but lower the expectations for a weekdays.
The fact you are empathetic to the average American consumer and how they are spending money and what they expect per dollar spent will be a key factor to your continued success. You the man cleet. Best content on the planet.
Hey cleetus, no one will see this. But coming from blue collar who wants to get my son to your events, just keep making it accessible. Eventually someday we'll make it to the FF. I can't make the numbers work right now, but someday we'll be at your track. Inflation sucks, but I've got your play mat in my house and my son will meet you when we get there. Just hold on for a few more years. The next generation is coming!
We see you bud! Maybe if enough people see and like it we can get your boy a ticket in.. heck, set up a go fund me..I will throw down. More kids need to be into cars instead of online gaming with God knows who...
@joshabbott2186 thanks brother! That means a lot! I'm sure we could find a family who needs it more than we do though. Career change coming up for me (actually going back to helicopters), so a couple years back in that and we should be set... oh yeah, I completely agree about the next generation has to get into cars and the culture. Need a lot less gaming and a lot more garage time! Thanks again man!
Cleetus I think you and your guys alone have helped local tracks in general. I'm a motorcycle guy, never really thought twice about drag racing until watching your channel. Last summer I went to my first drag race event at Lebonon Valley all because I was curious and wanted to see cars go fast in person because of your channel!
I think essentially what your looking for is making these races into a mini county fair. I love the direction your going. Just don’t burn yourself out.
You should do a 'Cleeter on the Road Tour' or something along those lines. Go to like 10-15 tracks around the U.S. over the course of a year. That way people don't have to get on a plane to see the show their first time. Once people see how great the show is they may be more inclined to put up the money for hotels, event tickets, rental cars, and plane tickets to come spend a whole weekend at the Freedom Factory, Indy, or Bristol. You could also do events at places like MIR. You could put on an event the weekend before World Cup and then stay through race weekend, that specifically would be a long week and half but you would definitely fill up the stands.
Just rotate to a few different tracks. Indy and Bristol one year, Kansas City and someplace else the next. Then back to Indy and Bristol again. When it's there every year it's easy to say, "ah I'll go next year" every year and never go.
Nailed a good point! One of the worst times to come into a farming community for a car show. Lots of farmers are car guys but it's time for work right now.
Cleetus will get those Florida butts in those seats 100. For the rest of the majority, that live all over the country. Flying in for a event, hotel and all. Gets up there in cost pretty quick. Having a place to bring a camper and dry camp at the event would be epic for alot of families. Love all what y'all do. Being able to stream the events is awesome! Will support y'all no matter. Hell Yeah Brother!
Yep I'd love to got to the FF for a race event. But like you said travel cost plus lodging makes it impossible in this economy they could do a weekend event one day amd night at FF than drag races at the track. I'm sure they could make a group event
@@ihax4uv179 Oh, I'm there with you. It's literally because of them that I have turned my Outlaw 10.5 car into a drag and drive car. They have completely revitalized the sport.
Yes. I live near Akron and have been there many times. Always a great show. Remember burn down the backstop with the jet truck.... you had to be there.
Wishing you and your team nothing but the best Cleet. The things you have done for the car world, uniting and entertaining, reviving racetracks, etcetc, you deserve every bit of success and I hope you (and your team) get it all. Keep up the great work brother.
You are the modern showmanship entertainer of the 21st century. As inflation reduces the families spending power it will reflect in the seats being filled. Keep up the great work.
Hey Cleetus I’m Ryan from Michigan, I’m a long watcher/subscriber. I brought 2 of my buddies non car guys to the Street cat takeover thunder valley and next day Danger Ranger 9000. We had an absolute Blast!! Hands down the best auto sport race in history! We then attended the Bristol 1000 and didn’t disappoint! We are now attending every event we can! You’re the man of the people! Thank you for what you do!
@@channing8129 Exactly. This man is nonstop trying to go above and beyond for his crew and fans. His events are insane in person. The whole Freedom Factory crew treats you like family while you are there.
Cleetus is changing everything for the better. He is going to single handedly save race tracks just by doing this and people will follow suit. Well done, Garrett. 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Sorry, wish that was true, but that will never happen. The only reason this is happening for him is because of YT. Not a lot of small racetracks have a YT audience and are just scraping by to pay the bills.
@@larrytheableguy3441 The real difference with Garret is his youthful enthusiasm and big picture thinking. Most race track owners/clubs are old racing purists who are pretty boring when it comes to just having fun in cars. They literally don't want to change anything and wont try anything new until it's too late. Yes Cleet gets exposure. But it's the willingness to invest that has built his brand.
@@larrytheableguy3441 The reason for your skepticism is met from your past experience; Changing peoples perspective in NOT YT. People have to want to leave their home to be present. Garrett is improving his area of the world, would do that with or without this media. His iteration of entertainment is so peoples expectation are exceeded when attending events, he delegates this well. What a world we live in for ole Cleeter to put thoughts out such as this, but also try to raise the bar.
Watch Garret buy up all of the tracks he leaves in his wake and make this multi state business. He knows what he is doing YT is one of many of his revenue streams, world domination is next.
@@larrytheableguy3441 I’m trying to be positive about it. Maybe more people can use their platform(s) to help their local tracks. CZcamsrs being part of that. “I’ll be at ‘X’ racetrack today, come say hi!” Would go a long way. And costs them nothing.
Have no fear. Your brand has brought me back full swing into racing. It’s been a wild ride to watch all of this unfold. And you are following a successful formula- you never plateau or reach the pinnacle of your passion. You keep pushing, keep improving, keep reinventing yourself and looking for the next level. When you get there- you’re looking for the next level. Celebrate your success with adding wings to your vision. Keep it up. You got this👌🏾👌🏾
I love how you see what it takes for us to bring are family to these events. May God bless you sir! And you have multiple of my family witch all Has kids coming to Bristol!! Let’s goooo🇺🇸
How can I love this even more than a like..?? This guy gets it, he gets the people and responds to what they want. He’s keeping racing alive for the current generations. Respect.
No they are not we want real tacing not what you call favorite youtuber because i have yet to see any of my favorite youtubers the last 2 years. Where whistline diesel or 187 customs or anyone from actual drag racing? Nope we get lame drivers
@@jodyallenbaugh9427 Whistling Diesel was just at the Freedom 500 - These youtubers are making racing events like drag and drive popular. I don’t care about fireworks or having a monster truck at the event, although it’s cool. I’ll go because of Cletus, ViceGrip or Matt from Demolition Ranch just to name a few. It’s fun. These guys are great and are working hard doing videos.
That fact you throw all that in and not cranking the price up and EVERYTHING you do for the automotive and the CZcams industry in general is just incredible brother, you're an amazing guy and we're all so glad to have you around bro 🤘 such a nice family to he a part of
Totally agree with you 💯 I'm from 3 hours away and I'm stoked already had my tickets for the whole family so glad you're going to do van races my kid's are going to have a great time🎉
Right on brother!!! A business or outfit that stalls, or stops and rests will stay in that spot until they're out of business. Keep moving forward NEVER stand still!!
I'm glad you are thinking like this. It requires a theme park mindset to make these events bigger and better. I remember the same thing with the NOPI car shows in Georgia at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. They just had to make them bigger and bigger every year to keep people coming. Not only would you have the car show but you would have the burnout competition, driving on the track with your car, bikini contests, TONS of food vendors and merch vendors, swap meet vendors, tires, parts, fuel, EVERYTHING. You'll probably need a marketing and brainstorming team to work on new ideas and content for up coming shows.
You have to move around to different venues around the US brother. You have donut media on the west coast. You can do a west coast event (California and Nevada). You can east coast. Do a Texas event. Move them around. Keep the crowds new and fresh. Alternate venues like you are with Bristol. Do them once every 2 or 3 years. If you over saturate the same places the crowds will get tired of going back.
@@Axial32 that's why he hooks up with other content creators from their perspective areas and figures out the logistics. Cleet could single handly save racing tracks arcoss America with his shows.
@@saulGjr I don't think you understood what I meant. Some tracks don't have the accommodations for their events. Parking. Space for burnout rivals. Space for extra stuff like circle track events.
@@Axial32dude.. like you just said some tracks can't accommodate them. That's why I said he can work with locals and figure what tracks can. How is that hard to understand?
told yah years ago to always stay ahead of yourself. so kudos. imo and experience, u cant beat offering ppl thing for free. ik its difficult, but ppl do sure love things that are free.
The Freedom 500 was my first time at the Factory. I was blown away. I will be back every year you have it. Stayed in the camp ground and met so many great people. Keep doing what you’re doing!!!
Dude, you lit 2 jet cars off as you started Toast’s burnout, and fireworks. You do enough for us buddy! Don’t burn yourself out. But still. Bring it on!
Nothing wrong with him wanting to push himself. He said on a podcast he wanted the freedom factory to be the Disney world of racing, so I’m sure he’s had a lot of plans to amp it up into more of an experience.
The Freedom 500 definitely opened my eyes to a whole new perspective for the Cleetus brand. It was so much more of a complete show, not just a cool race, but an action packed event with a ton of full throttle entertainment. There’s so much more you guys can add too! Some motocross freestyle shows, jet packs, more car stunts and jumps, it’s endless brother! Gonna be the best shows on the planet 😎
I definitely hear you . Been racing for 34 years and it's always been people racing and family at the track . What you're doing is bring new blood to the racing with the full spectrum of a good time
Yeah! I love it! I’m coming from Maine 1300 miles 18 hours. I’ve had this planned for a couple months thanks for adding the extras! Can’t wait to meet u brother!
Very thoughtful and accurate assessment. Having something new and exciting added on to the existing production will invigorate people to come and see it live. Keep up the great work !
Listening to your consumer is this single best way to grow your brand.. thank you for noticing not everyone’s the same. Different personality types different strokes for different folks, make it fun for everyone, come on helll yea brother fire me up let’s go cleet!
Joey Chitwood and Evel Knievel knew decades ago it takes something special to get asses in seats. Looks like Ol Cleeter has figured out the recipe. Good on you bro for putting fans first and making events exciting.
I'm not even a race fan, but I've been watching every one of Cleetus' videos for the last couple years. And I'm currently in the process of watching all of his videos from the very beginning. Cleetus & his team make it so fun to watch that even this non-race fan can't get enough. I hope to make it to a live event someday. Indy is the closest he's ever been to me (good ole Midwestern country boy here), but I can't afford it right now. Someday though. Keep it up, Garrett.
I went to a F1 race in Bhrain in 2017 and still remember the events outside of the race more than the race itself. You will always get people into racing but need something to bring those that aren't into racing as much. You're on the right path.
Me and a buddy of mine drove out last April for the freedom 500, from the Niagara region, Ontario, Canada . Best god damn show I’ve ever seen. Such a badass event. What you’re doing for racing and automotive CZcams in general, is so amazing to watch! Keep being you Cleet!
Cleeter, good on you for identifying your need to modify what your shows look like, you’re 100% correct about making a reason for someone to want to be there in person vs. Stay home and see the event on tv or internet, etc. This separates those that are successful and those that fade away and are forgotten
This is what makes Garrett that much greater!! He puts the fans first! Yes obviously if he doesn't make the fans happy they won't want to come back but ole Cleeter here ALWAYS goes over the top for his fans!! Much respect!!
Freedom 500 was my first time at the freedom factory, and the concerts are an absolute must!! Both nights were amazing, I wasn't expecting a full ~1hr 45min private concert. The fireworks were also top notch, best I've ever seen. And the price to entertainment value is through the moon. Cleet your killing it brother
I think you are spot on in your analysis. I saw a Canadian track nearby that was taken over by management which was involved in the hockey world. They changed how the cars came out on the track for introductions; driving them between the front stretch wall and where the grandstands were. At that time came the "warmup" music, the fireworks, etc. It changed the whole appeal to the show and took a track that was struggling to a whole different level. Now add in t-shirt cannons, children's tire races at intermission, driver wheelbarrow racing (driver pushing a driver/crew member in the wheelbarrow), lawn mower racing, fire department demonstrations, etc. There is so much more that can be added to shows that appeal to the fans.
Freedom 500 was the most fun I've had with my pants on in a long time! The entire weekend was epic! Long time fans, first time to an event. I felt I was in Hollywood. Seeing and meeting some of the youtubers was awesome! The cars. The smell of exhaust and burnin rubber. Back to back concerts. The absolute baddest firework show I've ever seen. And the comforts of my camper 30' from FF gates. It was nothing short of spectacular! We will be locking in this trip every year! Thank you for all that you do cleetus and crew
You are definitely onto something. Also keep in mind by adding different events within the big event you pull in people that go for that but then get to learn and experience other stuff. Your event mixes people with different interests which we so badly need!!! We need people coming together not separating out 👍. Plus the potential for fun creative mini events and local clubs and people to be involved just makes it so much better!!! Keep going Cleetus!!!
Very neat to her cleetus think out loud. He’s onto something. Smart guy. We were at the freedom factory and it was absolutely incredible. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.
I’ve never been to an event as top notch and with as much “bang for the buck” as this last Freedom 500. Keep the pedal down brother! All gas no brakes! 🇺🇸
Great ideas and good points. I hope the tracks around the country follow suit and start investing in themselves before its too late for them financially. Draw the crowds back in! Looking forward to the next event near me and speaking of that CLEETUS MCFARLAND how about something here in North Carolina! 🎉🎉🎉 lots of fans around here brother!
When I was 13 my dad and I went to streetcar takeover at Texas motorplex just to see you and that’s what got me into going to all kinds of races. You’ve gotten a ton of people into racing and now that you have your own races and shows it takes thing to a different level
Hell yeah brother keep on moving up when some people make it to what they think is the top the only other way is down so keep on moving up and doing your thing
Grab tickets for this weekend here: raceirp.com/cleetus
Alright bought went to the 1st one and going to the 3rd one had a wedding to plan and what not caused the miss of the 2nd
Check weather for Friday @ Indy
Youre willing to lose profit to put on a better show. Thank you!
Have a giveaway addition to be able to compete in your races. Freedom 500, indy etc. 1 or 2 normal everyday people are able to race alongside you and the other celebs.
You need to get multiple concerts a year at events. Ryan Upchuch would be good. He publishes his own music he doesn’t go to the big music labels. Or get a comedian like Zach Rushing to come in and do stuff between races
Remember Cleetus most of America is struggling. Don’t beat yourself up over ticket numbers, it will get better.
Thankyou!! 💯
I love Cleeter but he missed the most important factor of the current times and that's the cost of living.
Sell it like Monster Jam use to be (not sure if it’s still this way), but every ticket was $10.00 regardless of the seat. So your advantage was buying as early as possible.
That’s why I don’t go that often. I don’t care what’s going on I’m not spending 80 just to get in the door
Fjb
@@MikeFL2TXit’s no longer that way unfortunately
Should get Travis to get the Nitro Circus on board!!!! Adds a whole new element!
This is one of the best ideas yet. I’m sure Travis would be down
+1
A Nitro crossover would be crazy!
This would be so wild!
That would be a sell out every show!!
Brother if I wasn’t on the opposite side of the country 3100 miles away and struggling to afford to live I’d be at every damn event. Feeling lucky you guys put in the work so we can watch and support from anywhere with a WiFi signal. Good to see what you’re doing for the sport
that's why i just watch the paper view. I wish i could go in person.
@@nathanwarner6577 Paper view lol
I feel this; I'm in the middle of the U.S far from each coast.
My girl and i drove from north of toronto ontario. We are now fonna come back every year for the freedom 500...... we had the most amazing time meeting everyone and watching the magic unfold
I'm in peterborough and I seriously considered making the drive to flordia haha
i flew from barrie to go to the cars and copters event he just had. i met cleetus. hes super rad in person too.
Cleetus, I'm retired living on a fixed income. I'm 1200 miles away from just about all of your events, so I spend my money every year to watch the live show on my laptop. I'm very glad to see your shows get better event by event and some day I'd love to be there in person. As a former shop owner and event organizer myself, trust me I understand. You ain't losing me online, but with just the cost of living right now, I may never see a show from the stands. You brought racing back to what it was 50 years ago, not 15 years! Thanks!
God bless. I'm putting in 50 plus hours at work and working side jobs on the weekend and struggling to make ends meet. Racing is expensive I get it but when that entrance fee doubles just to have a hotdog and soda it pushes alot of people out
This is exactly my point. Being 1200 miles doesn't make it viable for you to come to every event, but your ability to continually have access enable your interest and is what keeps you supporting, with whatever medium is available, until you're able to be present.
Why not apply to help to organise some stuff? Maybe you can hit 2 birds with one stone? Travel by camper van if you renovaste an old one you could break even on that or even make some money... maybe start by dreaming a little about all the possibillitys...
It’s the cost of the trip, the tickets and food and drinks. $11.75 for a mixed drink, $8 for a beer and food prices are based per person and seem exorbitant and they wonder why people don’t go to car races anymore? Not you Cleetus but I looked at the food and drinks menu at Bristol and my jaw hit the damn ground. Concessions need to make a buck, but those prices are just gouging.
I live on the other side of the planet in New Zealand we are doing it hard here to. I’d give my left nut to be able to come to one of your events! But reality is it probably won’t happen. As far as spicing it up I’d love to watch a race were the drivers have to bolt heads onto a short block put the engine in the car and race say 50 laps as a timed event from start to finish that would be awesome to watch the pit action and the racing!
Brother... I flew myself my wife and our 2 friends out to FF from Vegas for your bday... It was bar none the BEST show we ever saw! We all loved it, and we will be back!
Did you go to Ls fest west?
Nice if you can afford to do that but if you are scrimping and saving as much as you can to live day to day your not going to splash out on an expensive one off event!
@@mikehipperson Yes, that is how economics works.
@@mikehippersonand your point being….? If you can’t afford to go it’s no one’s problem but your own 😂 I saved up for that trip because I wanted to go and see it for myself. Work harder.
@@throwaway2082no I didn’t, my brother went, LS fest is cool but it’s no freedom 500 show
Cleet, there are many of us who would gladly donate a dollar or two an event just to see you keep it going. What you're doing is tremendous to the sport. You and Kyle(1320) have changed how people watch drag racing forever.
You spent year #1 innovating. Your ideas and medium were brand new. Years 2 and 3 were dialing in your show, production workflows, and team. Now you know what you're doing and what you need, so you can spend that extra mental energy on pivoting back to innovating again. It took the sport of racing decades to hit that dead end and they may close tracks before they figure it out and change approach. It took you 3 years. You're good.
This is why I fu**** love this guy. He puts the FAN first, not financial interest. He truly cares about fan engagement. He’s a visionary. A game changer!!
He mentioned Taytays billions
Putting his fans first is in his financial interest. So he's really just a smart businessman more than a caring one.😂
Visionary is a bit much, it's common sense if there is such a thing... Bottom line is you want every seat sold out you need to add extreme carnage, potential death sells go with it
Pushing a company like Pds debt shows his greed, he doesn't care about you.
@@andrewstamant5877 I agree with jeff, I have personally noticed that Cleetus goes out of his way A LOT of the time to do the right thing or make the fan experience better when he really didn't have to for a similar financial outcome. Guaranteed that Cleetus would make WAYYY more money by just making CZcams Videos than holding all these events that cost way more time and money to organize. You can be a smart businessman while also being ethical and caring about your fans.
Instead of a drone show, That pro guy that flys R/C planes... Now that was a show.
Making a race into a whole day out for the whole family is a great take on racing.. like racing meets carnival / county fair.
Great to see you thinking about how to make a race event into a more attractive and better value event for people, especially for families.
Garrett should look at how big Flitefest is nowadays. I can only imagine Garrett would pull a comparable size crowd, absolutely massive.
That r/c plane guy was unreal, that would be wild to see in person
@@BDJones055 I have been to Flitefest many times. Cleeter pulls about the same if not more people to his events. You have to be there to see how insane it actually is. Flite Fest is super fun. It's like one big family. I hope to be able to catch everyone until I can no longer make it there physically. Cleeter should invite Peter Sripol and all those other backyard scientists to put on a crazy show with RC and DIY flying suits and battle bots. lol.
Life size RC plane!!!!
You could have all kinds of different shows at the freedom factory cleeter !! The possibilities are endless !
My wife and I always make sure to clear our schedules for your event every year. It's honestly our one thing we both thoroughly enjoy and never miss. I work at a garage and she gets shop time by proxy in many ways but it's one time we both just sit back and enjoy the cars for a day and not worry about any of them breaking 😂 We will always support any event you bring to town and we greatly appreciate how much you've put into the sport these past few years. I remember Lucas oil being a quarter full for most events growing up, going with my Grandpa. The first time you came to town it was an energy surrounding something I loved that I hadn't ever seen. Brought a tear to my eye and even made my Grandpa google you out of curiosity and respect. Keep it up and safe to say we will continue to support you in whatever ways we can. If Zach needs help in the mechanic/electrical department I'd join the team in a heartbeat 🤙
All great thoughts. I’m excited for the show next weekend!!!!
Matts been playin nice all this time, hes about to take first place this time around
We need a desperado ranch cleetus event. mud pit, side by sides, everyone bring their campers and make it a weekend. Like the blue holler event in southern Kentucky every year
Under promises over deliver.
@@Best_in_show98With added bounty hole!
@@gary66669 well said brother
This is why this man has the best automotive channel on CZcams. He just doesn't stop with things being good enough. He always wants things to be above and beyond people's expectations. That is why I have been a loyal subscriber since Leroy hit the drag strip. I'll see everyone at Indy!
He's also trying to cement his lifestyle forever. Once you have things, see things, feel things....its hard to go back. Cleet just on a personal mission but also a friends/family mission to see success and happiness👋💯🤟🏻
Plus he's gotta pay for his new new hanger/house combo build 😂
You know damn well he picked up one of those Patey Aviation Park hangers as well lol.
I'm excited for the further improving of events!
I would, but I have to work or I'd be there, I live right arounf the corner in the country in Pendleton...Such a shame... maybe next year.
Amen Brother!!!
As somebody who works in the corporate events industry, I whole heartedly agree with everything you said here.
"REMARKABLE"
If you use that as your standard, you will do great things.
If it's not "REMARKABLE", DON'T DO IT. If it's not 'remarkable', nobody will spread the word, nobody will build buzz, nobody will do anything other than passively buy a ticket (maybe) and as you said, you'll just keep doing the same thing you've been doing for years, and you'll continue to get what you got, until eventually it dwindles into nothing.
I'm driving 14 hours from CT to come see you at Indy I have been doing it for the past 4 years and will every year that you hold the event love it brother!!!!
Hope you got tickets to stafford too
You're comeing to see them in CT too right?
Swing by Philly and scoop me up! I pee every hour, I fall asleep on car rides and snore at an ear drum shattering level. Lol
Hay buddy. He is coming to limerock in Ct I believe June or July this year. Unless he changed it
Cool!!
Add a kids race, 50 power wheels and a little circle out in the grass somewhere letm have fun
make the drivers use them. the mini indy for the pole.
The legal problems with putting Karen's lil so and so on a PW50 seem risky in the US these days
@@yeahitskimmel That's what waivers are for
This isn’t nascar people aren’t bringing families to cleetus events 😂 20-30 year olds go to his events not once have there been more than like 10 kids at any event
How about pre-teen go kart race, instead? There's a thousand dads (and moms) that will build a go kart. I'd adopt a kid right now just to do it.
I didn't find out about your race til Robby Layton mentioned it a few days ago ... I'm bummed to be missing it but have already marked my calendar for next year. Keep up the good work, love your channel!
Love the content at the track at Indy, just remember Friday is hard to get off for families with kids (Indy area has lots of families that are dual income w/children), we can’t come on Friday. Put the shows in venues like Indy for Sat/Sun, load them up like you’ve been doing but lower the expectations for a weekdays.
The fact you are empathetic to the average American consumer and how they are spending money and what they expect per dollar spent will be a key factor to your continued success.
You the man cleet. Best content on the planet.
Hey cleetus, no one will see this. But coming from blue collar who wants to get my son to your events, just keep making it accessible. Eventually someday we'll make it to the FF. I can't make the numbers work right now, but someday we'll be at your track. Inflation sucks, but I've got your play mat in my house and my son will meet you when we get there. Just hold on for a few more years. The next generation is coming!
We see you bud! Maybe if enough people see and like it we can get your boy a ticket in.. heck, set up a go fund me..I will throw down. More kids need to be into cars instead of online gaming with God knows who...
@joshabbott2186 thanks brother! That means a lot! I'm sure we could find a family who needs it more than we do though. Career change coming up for me (actually going back to helicopters), so a couple years back in that and we should be set... oh yeah, I completely agree about the next generation has to get into cars and the culture. Need a lot less gaming and a lot more garage time! Thanks again man!
Cleetus I think you and your guys alone have helped local tracks in general. I'm a motorcycle guy, never really thought twice about drag racing until watching your channel. Last summer I went to my first drag race event at Lebonon Valley all because I was curious and wanted to see cars go fast in person because of your channel!
... Smoke! He will be back to win. Awesome event. Go brother
I think essentially what your looking for is making these races into a mini county fair. I love the direction your going. Just don’t burn yourself out.
*you're
You should do a 'Cleeter on the Road Tour' or something along those lines. Go to like 10-15 tracks around the U.S. over the course of a year. That way people don't have to get on a plane to see the show their first time. Once people see how great the show is they may be more inclined to put up the money for hotels, event tickets, rental cars, and plane tickets to come spend a whole weekend at the Freedom Factory, Indy, or Bristol. You could also do events at places like MIR. You could put on an event the weekend before World Cup and then stay through race weekend, that specifically would be a long week and half but you would definitely fill up the stands.
Just rotate to a few different tracks. Indy and Bristol one year, Kansas City and someplace else the next. Then back to Indy and Bristol again. When it's there every year it's easy to say, "ah I'll go next year" every year and never go.
This is so nice to hear. Keep the bar moving 👆👆 upward. Love me some Freedom Factory Family. Rock 🤘🤘 on everyone 🎉🎉🎉🎉
You are Spot on !
We all know fireworks only hit the soul in person.
Plus the ppl recording that useless footage diminish it for others around them
Those drone shots in the fireworks were something new for me they added in the past. Just needs more powerloops.
Pretty cool in a good set of headphones to makes the video that much better
Drone shows are way more rad and don't do damage or kill the local wildlife and pets.
@@whskytngo Alot less damage than a flock of birds in a windmill farm..🤣🤣
I can’t speak for everyone but indy is in ag country and your event is in the heart of planting season and on a Friday makes it tough
Nailed a good point! One of the worst times to come into a farming community for a car show. Lots of farmers are car guys but it's time for work right now.
Appreciate you and all you do brother! Take Care
Sincerely, Thank you.
Cleetus will get those Florida butts in those seats 100. For the rest of the majority, that live all over the country. Flying in for a event, hotel and all. Gets up there in cost pretty quick. Having a place to bring a camper and dry camp at the event would be epic for alot of families. Love all what y'all do. Being able to stream the events is awesome! Will support y'all no matter. Hell Yeah Brother!
Yep I'd love to got to the FF for a race event. But like you said travel cost plus lodging makes it impossible in this economy they could do a weekend event one day amd night at FF than drag races at the track. I'm sure they could make a group event
Holy smokes, perfect.
They literally have camping at the freedom factory.
@@enigma9789 honest didn't know. Bucket list to go for sure!
@@kalyntaylor11 Its primitive, no hookups. but $100 for the weekend is worth it. Just scroll down when looking at tickets.
The cleetus brand is the best thing to happen to motorsports in a 100yrs.
i think you should of said best thing to happen to motorsports since dale Earnhardt
@@brookechandler6265 Earnhardt spoke to a select group, Cleet is loved by all disciplines/backgrounds…. Long live 3 though.
That and Kyle with 1320. Those two have changed how drag racing is watched and enjoyed forever.
@@BeardMan01seriously they are kinda THE racing channels, you got street racing channel now as well they’re doing pretty good
@@ihax4uv179 Oh, I'm there with you. It's literally because of them that I have turned my Outlaw 10.5 car into a drag and drive car. They have completely revitalized the sport.
You're a real one taking the time to share this thought with others out there who may be struggling. Good job Cleet.
Amen Brother.
So basically your trying to make your events not just a racing event but an experience. I dig it
Life's a garden dig it
*you're
@@djb5320GET OVER "YOUR" SELF. WHO CARES. NOBODY.
@@thirdeyenotblind007 Don't get angry, he's just helping buddy out... 🤷♂ (take a breath)
@@thirdeyenotblind007- You Obviously Cared Enough To “YELL” At Him For Grammatically Helping The Guy.
Why Did It Bother You So…? 🙄
You basically described "The night Under Fire" at Norwalk drag raceway every year. The track owner maxes out the entertainment factor every year.
Miss those. They used to have them at LaRue also. Now MCIR is closed and that's bullshit
The fireworks at Norwalk for the Halloween event were better than my towns 4th of July.
The Bader family are great people, they put on excellent events for spectators
We have a similar event in Wisconsin
Yes. I live near Akron and have been there many times. Always a great show. Remember burn down the backstop with the jet truck.... you had to be there.
Wishing you and your team nothing but the best Cleet. The things you have done for the car world, uniting and entertaining, reviving racetracks, etcetc, you deserve every bit of success and I hope you (and your team) get it all. Keep up the great work brother.
You are the modern showmanship entertainer of the 21st century. As inflation reduces the families spending power it will reflect in the seats being filled. Keep up the great work.
Hey Cleetus I’m Ryan from Michigan, I’m a long watcher/subscriber. I brought 2 of my buddies non car guys to the Street cat takeover thunder valley and next day Danger Ranger 9000. We had an absolute Blast!! Hands down the best auto sport race in history! We then attended the Bristol 1000 and didn’t disappoint! We are now attending every event we can! You’re the man of the people! Thank you for what you do!
Amen brother
Indy car for the prize
Ole cleeter. A legend and he dont even know it.
@@channing8129 Exactly. This man is nonstop trying to go above and beyond for his crew and fans. His events are insane in person. The whole Freedom Factory crew treats you like family while you are there.
Thanks 🙏🏻
Cleetus is changing everything for the better. He is going to single handedly save race tracks just by doing this and people will follow suit.
Well done, Garrett. 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Sorry, wish that was true, but that will never happen. The only reason this is happening for him is because of YT. Not a lot of small racetracks have a YT audience and are just scraping by to pay the bills.
@@larrytheableguy3441 The real difference with Garret is his youthful enthusiasm and big picture thinking. Most race track owners/clubs are old racing purists who are pretty boring when it comes to just having fun in cars. They literally don't want to change anything and wont try anything new until it's too late. Yes Cleet gets exposure. But it's the willingness to invest that has built his brand.
@@larrytheableguy3441 The reason for your skepticism is met from your past experience; Changing peoples perspective in NOT YT. People have to want to leave their home to be present. Garrett is improving his area of the world, would do that with or without this media. His iteration of entertainment is so peoples expectation are exceeded when attending events, he delegates this well. What a world we live in for ole Cleeter to put thoughts out such as this, but also try to raise the bar.
Watch Garret buy up all of the tracks he leaves in his wake and make this multi state business. He knows what he is doing YT is one of many of his revenue streams, world domination is next.
@@larrytheableguy3441 I’m trying to be positive about it. Maybe more people can use their platform(s) to help their local tracks.
CZcamsrs being part of that.
“I’ll be at ‘X’ racetrack today, come say hi!” Would go a long way.
And costs them nothing.
Have no fear. Your brand has brought me back full swing into racing. It’s been a wild ride to watch all of this unfold. And you are following a successful formula- you never plateau or reach the pinnacle of your passion. You keep pushing, keep improving, keep reinventing yourself and looking for the next level. When you get there- you’re looking for the next level. Celebrate your success with adding wings to your vision. Keep it up. You got this👌🏾👌🏾
I love how you see what it takes for us to bring are family to these events. May God bless you sir! And you have multiple of my family witch all
Has kids coming to Bristol!! Let’s goooo🇺🇸
How can I love this even more than a like..?? This guy gets it, he gets the people and responds to what they want. He’s keeping racing alive for the current generations. Respect.
People are coming out to see you and their favourite youtubers.
They watch you and feel a connection and want to support you.
No they are not we want real tacing not what you call favorite youtuber because i have yet to see any of my favorite youtubers the last 2 years. Where whistline diesel or 187 customs or anyone from actual drag racing? Nope we get lame drivers
@@jodyallenbaugh9427
Whistling Diesel was just at the Freedom 500 - These youtubers are making racing events like drag and drive popular. I don’t care about fireworks or having a monster truck at the event, although it’s cool. I’ll go because of Cletus, ViceGrip or Matt from Demolition Ranch just to name a few. It’s fun. These guys are great and are working hard doing videos.
Love it bro! HELL YEA BROTHER!
You've been doing this since you were a teenager. I hope your success is an inspiration to young people all over the world. Great job.
You need to add that big RC demo guy who does the demos with the planes I'm not really big into that but that was extremely entertaining to watch
Agree he is mind blowing
This guy gets it. Cleet you deserve all the success that comes your way for all the work you put in for your fans 🙌
Great thinking!
That's awesome keep raising the bar
I love it that you put Jimmy's world in! That's classy!
That fact you throw all that in and not cranking the price up and EVERYTHING you do for the automotive and the CZcams industry in general is just incredible brother, you're an amazing guy and we're all so glad to have you around bro 🤘 such a nice family to he a part of
Totally agree with you 💯 I'm from 3 hours away and I'm stoked already had my tickets for the whole family so glad you're going to do van races my kid's are going to have a great time🎉
Cleetus has always been about breaking barriers and doing what hasn't been done!!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Cleetus, you are awesome. Trust your own judgement, it hasn't let you (or us) down yet.
Right on brother!!! A business or outfit that stalls, or stops and rests will stay in that spot until they're out of business. Keep moving forward NEVER stand still!!
I'm glad you are thinking like this. It requires a theme park mindset to make these events bigger and better. I remember the same thing with the NOPI car shows in Georgia at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. They just had to make them bigger and bigger every year to keep people coming. Not only would you have the car show but you would have the burnout competition, driving on the track with your car, bikini contests, TONS of food vendors and merch vendors, swap meet vendors, tires, parts, fuel, EVERYTHING. You'll probably need a marketing and brainstorming team to work on new ideas and content for up coming shows.
You have to move around to different venues around the US brother. You have donut media on the west coast. You can do a west coast event (California and Nevada). You can east coast. Do a Texas event. Move them around. Keep the crowds new and fresh. Alternate venues like you are with Bristol. Do them once every 2 or 3 years. If you over saturate the same places the crowds will get tired of going back.
The problem is the tracks not having the venue opportunities for the show.
@@Axial32 that's why he hooks up with other content creators from their perspective areas and figures out the logistics. Cleet could single handly save racing tracks arcoss America with his shows.
@@saulGjr I don't think you understood what I meant. Some tracks don't have the accommodations for their events. Parking. Space for burnout rivals. Space for extra stuff like circle track events.
@@Axial32dude.. like you just said some tracks can't accommodate them. That's why I said he can work with locals and figure what tracks can. How is that hard to understand?
@saulGjr that's not what you said at all. You might have been thinking it. It's definitely not written anywhere in your comments.
told yah years ago to always stay ahead of yourself. so kudos. imo and experience, u cant beat offering ppl thing for free. ik its difficult, but ppl do sure love things that are free.
The Freedom 500 was my first time at the Factory. I was blown away. I will be back every year you have it. Stayed in the camp ground and met so many great people. Keep doing what you’re doing!!!
Dude, you lit 2 jet cars off as you started Toast’s burnout, and fireworks. You do enough for us buddy! Don’t burn yourself out. But still. Bring it on!
Nothing wrong with him wanting to push himself. He said on a podcast he wanted the freedom factory to be the Disney world of racing, so I’m sure he’s had a lot of plans to amp it up into more of an experience.
@@wcovey25He needs to build a go cart track in the front field. Put something for people to actually do not just watch.
Amen been saying this to my board of directors. Every track in the country needs to see this
The Freedom 500 definitely opened my eyes to a whole new perspective for the Cleetus brand. It was so much more of a complete show, not just a cool race, but an action packed event with a ton of full throttle entertainment. There’s so much more you guys can add too! Some motocross freestyle shows, jet packs, more car stunts and jumps, it’s endless brother! Gonna be the best shows on the planet 😎
I definitely hear you . Been racing for 34 years and it's always been people racing and family at the track . What you're doing is bring new blood to the racing with the full spectrum of a good time
Yeah! I love it! I’m coming from Maine 1300 miles 18 hours. I’ve had this planned for a couple months thanks for adding the extras! Can’t wait to meet u brother!
Very thoughtful and accurate assessment. Having something new and exciting added on to the existing production will invigorate people to come and see it live. Keep up the great work !
Listening to your consumer is this single best way to grow your brand.. thank you for noticing not everyone’s the same. Different personality types different strokes for different folks, make it fun for everyone, come on helll yea brother fire me up let’s go cleet!
You’re telling the story of the racetrack you revived. Keep innovating. 💪
Joey Chitwood and Evel Knievel knew decades ago it takes something special to get asses in seats. Looks like Ol Cleeter has figured out the recipe. Good on you bro for putting fans first and making events exciting.
Good for you! Good for thinking. As long as it doesn't get too expensive!
I'm not even a race fan, but I've been watching every one of Cleetus' videos for the last couple years. And I'm currently in the process of watching all of his videos from the very beginning. Cleetus & his team make it so fun to watch that even this non-race fan can't get enough. I hope to make it to a live event someday. Indy is the closest he's ever been to me (good ole Midwestern country boy here), but I can't afford it right now. Someday though. Keep it up, Garrett.
I went to a F1 race in Bhrain in 2017 and still remember the events outside of the race more than the race itself. You will always get people into racing but need something to bring those that aren't into racing as much. You're on the right path.
You are ahead of the curve. Hopefully the others will see your success and follow your example to help keep the tracks alive.
Me and a buddy of mine drove out last April for the freedom 500, from the Niagara region, Ontario, Canada . Best god damn show I’ve ever seen. Such a badass event.
What you’re doing for racing and automotive CZcams in general, is so amazing to watch!
Keep being you Cleet!
Cleeter, good on you for identifying your need to modify what your shows look like, you’re 100% correct about making a reason for someone to want to be there in person vs. Stay home and see the event on tv or internet, etc.
This separates those that are successful and those that fade away and are forgotten
I absolutely loved the fireworks on the livestream of the freedom 500. That drone footage was wild. Glad you realize we’re evolving in content
You hit the nail on the head. Kudos for raising the bar brother
So true brother, so true 👍
This is what makes Garrett that much greater!! He puts the fans first! Yes obviously if he doesn't make the fans happy they won't want to come back but ole Cleeter here ALWAYS goes over the top for his fans!! Much respect!!
Freedom 500 was my first time at the freedom factory, and the concerts are an absolute must!! Both nights were amazing, I wasn't expecting a full ~1hr 45min private concert. The fireworks were also top notch, best I've ever seen. And the price to entertainment value is through the moon. Cleet your killing it brother
I think you are spot on in your analysis. I saw a Canadian track nearby that was taken over by management which was involved in the hockey world. They changed how the cars came out on the track for introductions; driving them between the front stretch wall and where the grandstands were. At that time came the "warmup" music, the fireworks, etc. It changed the whole appeal to the show and took a track that was struggling to a whole different level. Now add in t-shirt cannons, children's tire races at intermission, driver wheelbarrow racing (driver pushing a driver/crew member in the wheelbarrow), lawn mower racing, fire department demonstrations, etc. There is so much more that can be added to shows that appeal to the fans.
And this is why you are at the forefront of what’s cool in the automotive entertainment industry bro. God bless you bro
YES!! Brother I’ve been to Cleetus and cars Texas, I’ve been to Bristol.. and now 2 freedom 500s. EVERY EVENT is better than the last. KEEP IT UP 👏🏼
Freedom 500 was the most fun I've had with my pants on in a long time! The entire weekend was epic! Long time fans, first time to an event. I felt I was in Hollywood. Seeing and meeting some of the youtubers was awesome! The cars. The smell of exhaust and burnin rubber. Back to back concerts. The absolute baddest firework show I've ever seen. And the comforts of my camper 30' from FF gates. It was nothing short of spectacular! We will be locking in this trip every year! Thank you for all that you do cleetus and crew
You are definitely onto something. Also keep in mind by adding different events within the big event you pull in people that go for that but then get to learn and experience other stuff. Your event mixes people with different interests which we so badly need!!! We need people coming together not separating out 👍.
Plus the potential for fun creative mini events and local clubs and people to be involved just makes it so much better!!!
Keep going Cleetus!!!
I’ll be there the whole weekend brother! Bringing the camper and gonna have a blast!! Glad you added stuff can’t wait!
Very neat to her cleetus think out loud. He’s onto something. Smart guy. We were at the freedom factory and it was absolutely incredible. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.
I’ve never been to an event as top notch and with as much “bang for the buck” as this last Freedom 500. Keep the pedal down brother! All gas no brakes! 🇺🇸
Great ideas and good points. I hope the tracks around the country follow suit and start investing in themselves before its too late for them financially. Draw the crowds back in! Looking forward to the next event near me and speaking of that CLEETUS MCFARLAND how about something here in North Carolina! 🎉🎉🎉 lots of fans around here brother!
Yesss thank you bro I’ll go to Indy every freaking year!!!!
Always gonna support you brother!!! Keep up the great work!! Your doing your best
Happy belated Birthday Garrett! 🎉🎂🎈
Gotta tell ya, you are an excellent promoter and are doing great things for fans of motor sports. Keep going down your own path!!!
Keep doing what you’re doing. You’ve successfully come this far, you’ll go farther
When I was 13 my dad and I went to streetcar takeover at Texas motorplex just to see you and that’s what got me into going to all kinds of races. You’ve gotten a ton of people into racing and now that you have your own races and shows it takes thing to a different level
Hell yeah brother!! Dew it for Dale!!!
Hell yeah brother keep on moving up when some people make it to what they think is the top the only other way is down so keep on moving up and doing your thing