A couple years back they were having too many crashes, because the motors had outgrown the brakes on all but purpose built race cars. Knowing many strips have a tenuous relationship with the local governments, and most strips would have a tough time acquiring more property and/or zoning permission for more shutdown, they voted to shorten the competition surface.
I understand, but I don't approve.
Garlits? He's always had the touch and still does, although he's a bit of a dick. A lot of the pros I've met, and watched work, were a bit of a dick... sometimes more than a bit.
I suppose Garlits had to be to get where he did, as those west coast boys weren't cutting him any slack.