Usages and meanings associated with three key cultural metaphors, "outlaw," "family," and "community" are examined in order to determine the limits of their applicability within American sprint car racing, and to provide a clearer understanding of the cultural significance of sprint car racing in America. These three metaphors have multiple functions. They are used to structure relationships, communicate codes of conduct, express attitudes, and enculturate participants.The sprint car racing "community" is outside the mainstream of sport culture in America, and it is at once metaphoric, ideal, and real. Culture provides participants with a range of possible mechanisms for structuring, organizing, and communicating the value system(s) and symbolic system(s) involved in the construction and racing of sprint cars. Sprint car racing in America provides an outlet for a preferred way of life in which competitive behavior is a major aspect. Cooperation with those whom you are competing against functions to reinforce the values of the "community." / Department of Anthropology