I suppose it is only fitting since I recently wrote about an athlete passing that another one with great meaning to me passed. I just hope the “happens in threes” mantra does not come true.
A week ago today John Blewett III died during a freak accident, involving his brother, in a NASCAR Modified tour race. As a student of the sport, I am well aware of the inherent risks and acknowledge them. It does not make the loss any less difficult.
Of the racers who have lost their life racing during my years as a race fan, John is the one that I have the most familiarity with. I have watched him from the start of his career, and followed his progress up through the ranks. His family is one with maybe the most history at my hometrack, Wall Stadium. Heck, his family sits just across the aisle from where I usually sit. I grew up playing football behind the stands with his brother.
I didn’t know John personally, but the loss hit me hard regardless. I offer nothing but my utmost sympathy for the family and friends. I didn’t always agree with his tactics on the track, but I always respected his ferocity as a racer and how much of his life he dedicated to it. I just wish I got to see him race some more. Race on, up above.
-Michael