The NASCAR world suffered a terrible loss on May 12th. One of the racing world's brightest stars was killed while practicing in Loudon New Hampshire. Adam Petty, coming out of turn three hit the wall hard and later died of head trauma sustained in the accident. This loss becomes the second tragedy or the Petty family in recent weeks. Lee Petty died just a few short weeks ago. Now the first fouth generation athlete in any professional sport has been taken from us at the age of 19. I know that if you have been watching TV the last few days, you have heard everyone say something in memory of Adam. I wanted to come out and wish my condolenses as well. I met Adam the night before his high school graduation. He was practicing for an ASA race here, at Orange County Speedway. We all got a kick out of the chance to meet him. Not to take anything away from Gary St. Amant, Mike Miller, Jimmy Johnson, or Bob Senneker of the ASA, but this was a Petty. Everyone came to see him. This was an opportunity of a lifetime even if we didn't realize it then. The ASA requires it's drivers to sign autographs for an hour prior to racing. A great rule, it allows the fans a chance to meet all the drivers and have a special memory from the race they might not otherwise have. I had the honor to meet Adam Petty, and get his autograpgh before the race. I stood patiently in line, watching him to see how he acted. I was amazed that he was so friendly to everyone. He acted very mature for his age and was humble. I don't know that I would be that humble given my last name and I knew I had the car, equipment, and money that Adam did in that racing team. I don't know of anyone who wouldn't be cocky in that situation. However, in typical Petty fashion, this down home skinny 17 year old with his grandfather's smile greeted me with a handshake, called me sir, and thanked me for coming out. He really impressed me. That's why it hurt when it was announced that he died. I'll never forget his smile and attitude. I offer my sincerest sympathy to his whole family, and the rest of the racing world. We have all suffered a tremendous loss. We will all miss Adam Petty. It pains me to know end that tragedy befalls NASCAR on an annual basis. It seems every year, something tragic happens to someone in the sport of auto racing. Talking about it with you all is the way I can get my feelings out and help cope with the loss. Thank you for listening...
