[PJ Wright]

I can't help wanting to share this story: I' ve got a friend(Gary) who raced streetstocks many years ago, before his son(Barry) climbed behind the wheel. About 4 or 5 years back, Gary's grandaughter (Lindsey) decided she wanted to race so Barry, her dad, handed the reins over to her. She absolutley loved racing and showed some talent behind the wheel. Then 2 years ago at the age of 18 she lost her life in a highway accident caused by a drunk driver.
I feel that there can be no worse human experience than losing a child or grandchild and I grieved watching my friends suffer this unimaginable tragedy.
After a couple of months, Barry decided to get back behind the wheel of Lindsey's car and race in her memory. Some friends put together a graphics package for the car which featured almost 100 pictures of Lindsey and on the roof where the drivers name would usually go were the words; "One mad dad" and on the other side: "One sad dad".
Last night I went with Gary to the races (Travelers Rest Speedway in SC) and got to witness Barry win his first race since the tragedy. I'm sure you can imagine the unbridled joy and emotion I saw as they celebrated this win in Lindsey's honor. I've had lot's of great times at the races through the years, but I don't think I've EVER left a track any happier than I did last night.

Thats so cool stuff. Racing is what keeps us close as a family.

[IndyBound]

P. J. thanks for sharing your friends story, hope Barry wins many more races in Lindsey's honor.

This Mothers Day a central N. Y. family is experiencing the pain your friends have lived thru, their daughters on again-off again boyfriend was driving the car she was riding in drunk this past week. He crashed the car killing his girlfriend and the unborn child she was expecting. A seventeen month old son was also in the car and survived the crash.

Seeing this story replayed on the news since I arrived in central N. Y. last night has been painful and I don't even know the family, I can only imagine what your friends went through when they lost Lindsey. Both stories are a reminder to be thankful for what you have and never take those you love for granted. Remind them everyday how much you love them.

It is great to see Lindsey's family honoring her memory in such a positive way!

Patti

[wvwildthg]