This is a story that involves an American sporting legend. Most of you that weren't born upon American soil have never heard of him. He wasn't an athlete in the traditional sense. He didn't become famous for his athletic efforts on a soccer field, baseball diamond, or American Football Field.
His name was Dale Earnhardt.
He grew up in the American Southeast. Kannapolis, North Carolina was his hometown.
His routes were forged through hard work, honesty, and a fantastic sense of humor. After a great deal of effort, he earned a seat in an American Stock Car.
"Old #3" drove his way to success. Nothing was given to him for free.
His fans referred to him as "The Intimidator". He was one of the most skilled and wily drivers that the sport ever knew. Dale had the ability to drive an injured racecar into "victory lane". During a typical race weekend, there were only two fenders left on the equipment he drove. Still, that old "Cheshire Cat" kept on grinning.
Most of you may ask, "why am I writing this story"? Sincerely, there's two reasons for doing so. The first reason is this. I met the him briefly upon two occasions. When the Nascar Circuit visited Northern California, I was lucky enough shake his hand while exchanging a few words with the man. What he said to me was rather sarcastic, yet very encouraging in 1993. The following year, I showed up to the same race track after becoming a fan of his. When we met again, he remembered my name. He jokingly referred to me as "Alfonso". (look up the meaning of the name on Wikipedia).
Reason # 2
February 18th marks the 13th anniversary of his passing. Dale died in a very misfortunate accident while doing what he loved. On the final lap of The 2001 Daytona 500, he was running third. The old man was busy guarding the rear bumpers of two cars that he cared most about. One of those cars contained his son. Dale Jr. finished 2nd that day. The car that he owned took the checkered flag. #15 finished first. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj2jEuWmnBk
As a fan of American Auto Racing with very large memory and sense of humanity, this story just needed to be told. #3 would have done so if he was alive today.
Comments
He is such a unforgetable and respectful athlete. He died but with his passion for career and indulgence
Eric, thanks for sharing us about a very good story like this. :)
May Allah bless his soul. Ameen
Thanks for sharing with us.
Alphons is a male given name, originally from a Germanic Adalfuns, composed of the elements adal "noble" and funs "eager, brave, ready".
Anyone who ever loves motor/car racing will surely know his name.