[openwheelfan1]

The post by Ron Mill reminded me that 10/16 was the anniversary of another loss to the open wheel ranks from many years ago. On October 16, 1977 we lost James McElreath at Winchester. James was one of the brightest young stars of that era and we lost him WAY too soon. RIP James.

[ronmil]

Originally Posted by openwheelfan1 The post by Ron Mill reminded me that 10/16 was the anniversary of another loss to the open wheel ranks from many years ago. On October 16, 1977 we lost James McElreath at Winchester. James was one of the brightest young stars of that era and we lost him WAY too soon. RIP James.

Yes, don't know how I overlooked that. I was at Winchester that day; tragic end to a promising future.

[openwheelfan1]

Ron, we were too. Originally my wife and I were not going to attend, but we got up and decided to go to the races. Usually I was in the pits and she was in the infield, but this day we sat in the stands. We sat right behind James sister and his girlfriend. I can still hear their screams as he cleared the turn 1 wall.

James was a fantastic talent and a genuinely nice guy. IMO he was destined for greatness. A sad loss. RIP.

[Leohr46]

My Step Mother was good friends of the family. She was there also that day. Its was a sad day and a great loss. That is why to her last and final day on earth she hated to see me in a sprint car.

[Checker'd Past]

My dad and I were there also on that tragic day. RIP James.

[SCOTT M]

Remember watchin him run at THAT....One of my dad's favorites...
God speed.

[ASPHALT24]

Found this photo and decided to share it. Father & son on those same Winchester hills in June of 1976.

[smith19]

was also there. still can't believe they pushed the car back to the infield...

[Terry Porter]

Went to the James McElreath memorial this past weekend at Devils Bowl. Living in Arlington, Tx......I watched Jim and his son race quite a bit at the Bowl even though I was very young. Don't remember James that much but I do remember Jim racing a fair amount.

Jim looked very frail and his wife has unfortunately suffered a couple of strokes, so my guess is times are fairly tough for them right now. It would be nice if everyone could keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

[racing2bwithu2]

Our Thoughts and Prayers are sent. Lloyd & Gail