The insurance excuse just doesn't wash. The added "expense" of having races listed as spectator vs. non-spectator is so small most regions just decided to have them sanctioned as spectator events to make things easier on everyone.

I did like the event when it was also a restricted regional, as it took off about $50 bucks from the entry fee. Seems like that would be enough to calm down any National driver who was "upset" about the Regional race being included.